Discover the Essence of Nature at Rinrinkan
Nestled in the serene heart of Minamiboso, Rinrinkan is a roadside station where the rhythm of rural life meets the warmth of local hospitality. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it offers travelers a peaceful retreat rich in natural beauty and authentic regional charm.
What sets Rinrinkan apart is its seasonal celebration of wild mushrooms, with fresh shiitake and a variety of foraged fungi available at the Forest Tea House Shop. Visitors can savor the earthy flavors of the season while exploring locally crafted goods, enjoying panoramic views, and connecting with the land. More than just a stopover, Rinrinkan is a gateway to the soul of the countryside.
Why Visit
Rinrinkan is the only roadside station in the region where you can taste fresh wild mushrooms, including rare matsutake and shiitake, harvested daily from nearby forests and sold at the Forest Tea House stall. Its signature product is the handcrafted mushroom miso soup, made with local koji and seasonal foraged fungi—available only here. Visitors also enjoy guided forest walks to learn about edible mushroom foraging, a unique experience not offered at other roadside stations.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor seasonal flavors at Rinrinkan roadside station, where forest-fresh mushrooms and local dishes delight the palate.
Forest Tea House
森の茶屋
Specialty
Fresh mushrooms and seasonal forest ingredients
A cozy food stall offering simple, rustic meals made with fresh, locally foraged mushrooms and seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and natural, perfect for enjoying the flavors of the forest.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handcrafted goods and regional treasures at Rinrinkan roadside station, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Forest Tea Shop
森の茶屋売店
A general shop selling fresh mushrooms, forest products, and seasonal goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh mushrooms
Featured Products
Experience signature local specialties, including freshly harvested mushrooms and artisanal forest-inspired products.
Dried Forest Mushrooms
乾燥きのこ
Carefully dried forest mushrooms harvested from local woods, perfect for soups and rice dishes.
Forest Honey
森のハチミツ
Pure, natural honey collected from wildflowers in the surrounding forest.
Seasonal Preserves
季節の preserves
Handcrafted fruit and vegetable preserves made from seasonal harvests.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with clean restrooms, seating areas, and convenient parking at Rinrinkan roadside station.
Information Center
Provides information and assistance to visitors about the surrounding area, local attractions, and events.
Main building
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms for visitors, including facilities for people with disabilities.
Near the main entrance
Parking Area
Spacious parking lot available for cars and buses, located near the main building.
Front of the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
All areas
Children's Play Area
A safe and fun play area for children with various toys and equipment.
Near the outdoor seating area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points available for visitors using electric cars.
Parking area near the main entrance
ATM
Cash withdrawal machine available for visitors to access cash.
Near the information center
Nursing Room
Private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care, located for privacy and comfort.
Near the restroom
Pet Area
Designated space for pets to rest and relieve themselves, with waste disposal facilities.
Outdoor area near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal workshops and nature-inspired experiences that connect you with the local landscape.
Mushroom Season Experience
きのこがおいしい季節になりました！
Explore the seasonal mushroom harvest and enjoy fresh mushrooms available at the forest tea shop. Learn about different types of mushrooms and their seasonal availability.
Duration
60 min
Best enjoyed on clear, dry days; avoid rainy weather for optimal mushroom foraging experience.
Insider Tips
Visit early in the day for the freshest mushrooms and best selection at Rinrinkan roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day’s fresh batch of mushroom toast from the Forest Tea House stall, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance to find the seasonal wild mushroom miso soup, available only from October to December
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the Forest Tea House offers a free sample of roasted chestnut tea with any purchase of a hot drink
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the wild mushroom and yuzu-flavored rice crackers at the Forest Tea House—only available during the autumn mushroom season (October to December)
- Parking Tip: Use the designated parking space labeled “Mushroom Season Access” near the main entrance to avoid walking past the crowded main path
- Bathroom Access: The accessible restroom is located directly behind the Forest Tea House stall—look for the blue sign with a wheelchair symbol
- Seasonal Event: Join the free mushroom identification walk held every Sunday at 10:30 AM at the Forest Tea House tent, led by a local mycologist
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flower picking peaks in late March to April; fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Wild mushrooms like shiitake begin arriving in early July.
Autumn (September–November): Peak mushroom season runs from September to November; forest tea shop features seasonal varieties.
Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal offerings; focus on preserved foods and warm drinks.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Rinrinkan offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented restrooms. Interactive forest-themed displays and nearby nature trails enhance educational value. Kid-friendly snacks are available, though dining options are limited.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features a variety of local restaurants and a well-stocked market with fresh mushrooms, seasonal produce, and artisanal goods. Local specialties like shiitake and mountain vegetables stand out in quality and authenticity.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, and the site is quiet with moderate lighting. Overnight parking is permitted, though no designated camping zones or specific rules are listed. Comfort for extended stays is limited.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by forest and mountain views, Rinrinkan offers serene natural scenery with well-maintained pathways. Seasonal highlights include autumn foliage and fresh mushroom harvests. Scenic viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities.