Station Kyoto Shinkouetsusonmura

Discover the Heart of Kyoto’s Rural Charm

Kyoto Shinkouetsusonmura is a vibrant roadside station nestled at the gateway to the scenic Rurigawa Valley, just off the Kyoto Expressway’s Enbo Interchange. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it serves as both a convenient rest stop and a cultural hub connecting travelers with the authentic spirit of rural Kyoto.

This destination shines through its commitment to local agriculture and craftsmanship. Visitors can savor freshly baked treats from Gion’s renowned Flarian café, sample seasonal produce from nearby farms, and explore handcrafted goods made by women’s cooperatives. The station also champions the beloved "Wakamizuki Rice," a regional favorite known for its rich flavor and quality. With its welcoming atmosphere and deep ties to the community, Kyoto Shinkouetsusonmura offers an unforgettable taste of Kyoto’s countryside.

Visit Kyoto Shinkouetsusonmura to taste the region’s only artisanal milk ice cream made from Jersey cow milk, a rare treat crafted by local dairies. Home to the renowned "Onshin Rice," this roadside station offers freshly harvested rice varieties unavailable elsewhere, along with handcrafted preserves by women’s cooperative groups. It’s also the gateway to Ruriky, a scenic valley designated among Japan’s top 100 soundscapes, where nature’s quiet beauty unfolds just minutes away.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:15 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the bakery counter where Kyoto's Fruian sells fresh milk bread, which often sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find limited-edition seasonal pickles made by local women’s group, available only during the summer harvest
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the vegetable stand near the entrance between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM to purchase freshly harvested “Onshin Rice” directly from farmers who bring their produce to the roadside station every morning
• Best Value Purchase: Buy the “Kyoto Shinkoetsu Mura Special Pack” at the shop counter before 12:00 PM on weekdays—it includes a bag of local rice, a jar of homemade miso, and a packet of seasonal vegetables at a 15% discount
• Local Experience: Participate in the free “Face-to-Face Farming” talk at 11:00 AM on Saturdays, held at the information desk, where local farmers explain how they grow safe and fresh vegetables using traditional methods
• Parking Strategy: Use the large vehicle parking area near the restaurant entrance if you’re driving a van or larger vehicle—this section has more space and is closer to the main shop than the general parking lot
• Bathroom Tip: If visiting during peak hours, use the accessible toilets near the restaurant entrance—these are less likely to be occupied during morning rush times compared to the main restroom block

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): Local rice harvest begins in August, and seasonal vegetables peak in July.

Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for regional crops runs from September through October.

Winter (December–February): The roadside station remains open, offering warm local rice and seasonal produce.