Station Chakura Station

Savor the Essence of Mie’s Countryside at Chakura Station

Nestled along the serene banks of the Kusumi River in the heart of Matsusaka City’s Iinan Town, Chakura Station is more than a roadside stop—it’s a celebration of local flavor, tradition, and natural beauty. Surrounded by rolling tea fields and lush greenery, this vibrant roadside station offers a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking authentic experiences in a peaceful setting.

The station shines with its seasonal menus, from the refreshing summer cold tea udon to the hearty winter beef stew, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted noodles, farm-fresh produce, and sweet treats like cheesecake and soft-serve, while soaking in panoramic river views from the second-floor riverside café. With community events like the morning market and seasonal campaigns, Chakura Station is a living hub where culture, cuisine, and community come together.

Chakura Station stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can savor cold tea udon made with locally grown Ise tea, a seasonal specialty available only from June to September. Perched along the scenic Kusunoki River, the station’s second-floor riverside cafe offers a rare panoramic view of the winding river and surrounding tea fields, perfect for relaxing with a handmade cheese cake or a scoop of soft-serve made from regional milk.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the river-view café on the second floor before the lunch rush begins, as seating fills quickly after 10:30 AM
• Hidden Gems: Request the daily special "Chakura Set" at the restaurant counter—this rotating menu includes locally sourced vegetables and seasonal ingredients not listed on the main menu
• Weekend Special: Attend the Chakura Morning Market on October 4th, where students from Hanamachi Junior High School operate food stalls featuring handmade rice balls and local fruit jams
• Seasonal Must-Try: Order the winter-only Beef Stew Set between November 1st and January 31st, as it features slow-cooked local beef and root vegetables sourced from nearby farms
• Best View Spot: Sit in the second-floor café’s corner window seats to enjoy the full river view while sipping coffee—these spots are reserved for guests who purchase a drink from the first-floor counter
• Local Product Tip: Purchase the "Ise Tea Set" from the on-site store, which includes a small bag of locally grown Ise tea and a ceramic cup—available only during the "Drink It, Eat It, More Ise Tea!" campaign
• Avoid Waiting: Skip the lunch line by ordering the "Kakiage Soba" (tempura buckwheat noodles) at the restaurant counter before 11:00 AM, as it is only served until 12:30 PM and often sells out by noon

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features the peak of canola flower blooms, with seasonal tea tasting events and fresh mountain vegetables available at the roadside station.

Summer (June–August): June through August offers cold tea udon and shaved ice, with the river-view café ideal for enjoying cool summer days.

Autumn (September–November): October brings the Tea Town Morning Market and the start of the Matsusaka Meat Travel Campaign, highlighting local beef and seasonal produce.

Winter (December–February): December through February features the return of the winter-exclusive beef stew, perfect for warming up in the cooler months.