Discover the Heart of Miyagi’s Agricultural Legacy
Osaki is a roadside station nestled along National Route 108 in the historic town of Furukawa, within the UNESCO-recognized Oshiro Kōdo region of Miyagi Prefecture. This vibrant hub celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of the area, renowned as the birthplace of iconic rice varieties like Sasaniishiki and Hitomebore, and now home to innovative new cultivars such as Sasa Kizuna. Visitors can savor the freshest seasonal produce, handcrafted sake, and traditional miso—all rooted in generations of farming wisdom.
Beyond its exceptional food offerings, Osaki offers a dynamic cultural experience with seasonal events like the New Rice Festival and Harvest Festival, along with a bike rental service for exploring the surrounding countryside. The station also features a community café and a bustling farmers’ market, making it a true gathering place where local traditions meet modern hospitality.
Why Visit
Visit Osaki roadside station to experience the heart of Japan’s famed rice heritage, home to the only on-site tasting and sale of SasaniShiki and Himebore rice—the original varieties that define the nation’s premium short-grain rice. Here, you’ll find the exclusive Sasane rice ice cream, made with locally grown, freshly milled rice and aged in traditional clay pots. The station also hosts the annual New Rice Festival, where visitors can sample rice dishes from the year’s first harvest, a seasonal event only held here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the flavors of the land at Osaki roadside station, where fresh, local ingredients meet traditional craftsmanship.
Community Cafe
コミュニティカフェ
Specialty
Local community-focused café offering a warm atmosphere and regional specialties
A cozy community café located within the roadside station, providing a welcoming space for visitors to relax and enjoy locally sourced treats. The café emphasizes connection and sustainability, featuring seasonal ingredients and handmade goods.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and seasonal goods at Osaki roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Direct Farm Corner
産直コーナー
A fresh produce market featuring seasonal vegetables, rice, and other locally grown agricultural products from the Osaki Koudo region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Newly harvested rice
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like Sasanishiki rice, new variety Sasa-Ketsu, and artisanal sake and miso from the region.
Sasa Nishiki Rice
ササニシキ米
A premium rice variety originating from the Osaki Koudo region, known for its excellent texture and flavor. It is one of the most famous rice types in Japan.
Hito Mebore Rice
ひとめぼれ米
A popular Japanese rice variety known for its soft texture and slightly sweet taste, cultivated in the Osaki Koudo area.
Sasa Kizuku Rice
ささ結米
A newly developed rice variety from the Osaki Koudo region, combining high yield with excellent taste and aroma.
Osaki Traditional Sake
大崎伝統日本酒
Handcrafted sake made using traditional fermentation techniques from the Osaki region, known for its clean and balanced flavor profile.
Osaki Traditional Miso
大崎伝統味噌
Authentic miso paste made using age-old fermentation methods in the Osaki region, offering a rich umami flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and a community café at Osaki roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with space for 101 regular vehicles and large vehicles.
Located along National Route 108 in the Furukawa district, near the center of the Oshaki Kondo area.
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Located within the main facility of the roadside station.
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility, including the information center and common areas.
Information Center
The information center provides visitors with tourist information, event details, and local guides.
Located at the main entrance area of the roadside station.
Play Area
A designated play area is available for children to enjoy.
Located within the outdoor or adjacent grounds of the roadside station.
Bike Rental
Bike rental service is available for visitors who wish to explore the surrounding area.
Located at the roadside station's entrance or near the parking area.
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Located within the restroom or near the main visitor area.
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Located in the parking area near the main entrance.
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Located within the roadside station premises, near the entrance or information center.
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for visitors to keep their animals safe and comfortable.
Located in the outdoor area or near the parking lot.
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on workshops and seasonal events celebrating agriculture, culture, and local heritage.
New Rice Festival 2025
新米まつり2025
Participants can enjoy fresh harvested rice and related local products during the festival celebration.
Duration
180 min
Michi-no-Eki Osaki Harvest Festival
道の駅おおさき収穫祭
Attendees can experience seasonal harvest activities and enjoy locally grown produce from the Oshaki Koudo rice fields.
Duration
240 min
Rental Bicycle Service
レンタサイクルのご案内
Rent bicycles to explore the surrounding area, including the historic Oshaki Koudo rice fields and nearby attractions.
Duration
60 min
Please bring appropriate clothing and rain gear for outdoor cycling.
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest festivals for the best local produce and insider access to seasonal offerings.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the community café before it fills up, as the café opens at 10:00 AM and often reaches capacity by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the produce counter during the New Rice Festival on October 12 from 10:00 to 13:00 to sample freshly harvested rice and purchase limited-edition rice bundles directly from local farmers.
- Weekend Special: On October 18–19, visit the event plaza to explore the Harvest Festival stalls and taste seasonal specialties like "Sasakizuki" rice wine and fermented miso made from locally grown ingredients.
- Best Food Purchase: Buy the "Sasakizuki" rice bread at the deli counter before 11:00 AM on weekdays, as it is baked fresh daily and sells out by midday.
- Tourist Info Tip: Use the nearby tourist information map to locate the "Oshimae Farm" walking trail, which starts just 200 meters north of the roadside station and offers guided views of the UNESCO-recognized Oshimae Rice Terraces.
- Unique Experience: Participate in the "Sasakizuki" rice tasting session held every Saturday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the community café, where staff explain the history and cultivation of this signature rice variety.
- Event Participation: Contact the station manager at 0229-25-7381 to apply for a vendor spot at the upcoming Harvest Festival on October 18–19, with priority given to local producers and artisans.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from early April; canola flowers bloom in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September–November): New rice festival on October 12; harvest festival on October 18–19.
Winter (December–February): No seasonal events or products specified in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area and child-friendly activities, including seasonal events like the New Rice Festival. The community café and fresh produce market are accessible and stroller-friendly with ample parking for families.
Food Lover Review
Features high-quality local specialties such as fresh rice varieties like Sasanishiki and Hitomebore, artisanal miso, and sake. The farm stand offers excellent seasonal produce and unique regional foods.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines, suitable for short stops. Parking is available for 101 regular vehicles, though overnight stays are not explicitly permitted or supported.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in the World Agricultural Heritage site of Osaki Koudo, the roadside station offers scenic views of rice fields and surrounding farmland. Seasonal beauty and well-maintained landscapes enhance the overall atmosphere.