Station Kumano Kinokuni

Discover the Essence of Kumanokuni at the Heart of Nature

Nestled along National Route 42 just minutes from the Kumanokuni Oiyo Interchange on the Kii Peninsula, the roadside station Kumano Kinokuni offers a refreshing retreat for travelers exploring the spiritual and natural wonders of southern Mie Prefecture. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, this charming stop is more than a pit stop—it’s a celebration of local heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainable living.

At Kumano Kinokuni, visitors encounter the region’s signature treasures: the vibrant, healthful citrus fruit known as “Shin-hime,” and the renowned “Kumano chili pepper,” famed for its bold flavor and rich tradition. The station also showcases handcrafted wooden goods from local artisans, including benches, mats, and decorative items made from high-quality cypress and cedar. With seasonal produce, unique condiments like Shin-hime ponzu, and a cozy book corner, it’s a true community hub where culture and comfort meet.

Visit Kumano Kinokuni to experience the only roadside station in the region dedicated to the unique "Shinyo" citrus, a rare, tangy-sweet fruit cultivated exclusively in the fertile soils of Kumano. Here, you’ll find the only place selling Shinyo soda, Shinyo water, and Shinyo ponzu—crafted from fruit grown by local farmers using traditional methods. Equally distinctive is the station’s authentic bear-shaped black stone figurines, hand-carved from Nachi black stone, a material found only in this area. These one-of-a-kind souvenirs, along with the region’s signature dried plums and handmade wooden goods made from local hinoki and sugi, make Kumano Kinokuni a destination unlike any other.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only available during the morning hours.

• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for limited-edition "New Hime" seasonal products, including New Hime salad dressing and New Hime juice, which are only restocked weekly on Mondays and often sell out by midday.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the wooden crafts section between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to view the handcrafted "Nachi Black Stone" figurines—mini cats, owls, and turtles—displayed in rotating seasonal sets not shown online.

• Local Product Timing: Purchase the "Kumano Tōgarashi" spice blends at the main counter before 1:00 PM, as the spicy "Habanero" and "Prickly" varieties are restocked only once per week and often sell out by early afternoon.

• Free Access Tip: The roadside station stamp is located outside on the left-hand path, behind the building, and is available for stamping even on days when the main shop is closed—no need to wait for opening hours.

• Best Purchase for Health: Buy a pack of "Kiwa Umeboshi" (sun-dried plum pickles) at the counter before 12:30 PM, as they are only available in limited batches each week and are known for their traditional, preservative-free taste and health benefits.

• DIY Resource: Visit the "Sugi & Hinoki" wood section between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to pick up affordable, locally sourced cedar and cypress planks for DIY projects—these are only offered on weekends and are not available for online ordering.

Spring (March-May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing and harvesting, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.

Summer (June-August): The Kumano Fireworks Festival on August 17 draws crowds, prompting temporary closure; fresh "Shin-Hime" citrus products are in peak season.

Autumn (September-November): Harvest season for "Shin-Hime" citrus and traditional miso, with handmade wooden crafts and seasonal vegetables on offer.

Winter (December-February): Limited access due to closure from December 29 to January 3; seasonal products like dried plum and local sake available during winter months.