Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Culinary Soul
Tsuyama roadside station lies at the crossroads of tradition and taste, nestled in the lush countryside of Okayama Prefecture. More than a mere stop along the highway, it is a vibrant gateway to local culture, offering travelers a genuine taste of Shikoku’s rich agricultural heritage. Surrounded by rolling hills and seasonal farmland, the station celebrates the region’s bounty with fresh, handcrafted goods and seasonal specialties.
Visitors can savor local delicacies like fresh dairy products, handmade noodles, and seasonal fruits, all sourced from nearby farms. The station also features interactive workshops, live music, and rotating art displays, making it a dynamic destination for both locals and travelers. With its warm hospitality and deep connection to the land, Tsuyama is more than a roadside stop—it’s a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and the simple joy of good food.
Why Visit
Tsuyama roadside station stands out for its exclusive access to Mokumokuland’s handcrafted milk ice cream, made daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced from nearby farms. Visitors can also explore the unique "Cow & Craft" exhibition, where local artisans display milk-based art and handmade dairy products. This is the only roadside station in the region where you can taste and purchase the signature "Mokumoku Milk Tart," a buttery pastry filled with rich, local cream.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Tsuyama roadside station.
Tsuyama Local Cuisine Restaurant
津山地元料理
Specialty
Traditional regional dishes from Tsuyama
A cozy restaurant serving authentic local cuisine from Tsuyama, featuring seasonal ingredients and home-style cooking with a focus on rustic flavors and warm hospitality.
Sakura Tea House
桜茶屋
Specialty
Traditional Japanese tea with seasonal snacks
A serene tea house offering a peaceful retreat with a focus on matcha and regional teas, paired with light, handmade sweets and seasonal snacks.
Farmers' Market Food Stall
農産物市場フードスタンド
Specialty
Fresh local street food
A vibrant food stall offering quick, delicious bites made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, perfect for on-the-go dining.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Tsuyama roadside station.
Tsuyama Farmers Market
津山農産物市場
A local market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown by nearby farmers in Tsuyama.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tsuyama-grown tomatoes
Tsuyama Craft & Souvenirs
津山工芸とお土産
A specialty shop offering handmade crafts, traditional art, and unique souvenirs from Tsuyama.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tsuyama clay mug
Tsuyama Dairy & Meat Market
津山乳製品と肉市場
A dedicated market for high-quality local meat and dairy products, including fresh beef and artisanal cheese.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tsuyama beef jerky
Tsuyama Bakery
津山ベーカリー
A traditional bakery specializing in fresh bread, pastries, and seasonal baked goods made with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tsuyama sourdough loaf
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties crafted with pride from Tsuyama’s rich heritage.
Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Tea
津山桜茶
A delicate blend of green tea infused with natural cherry blossom essence, perfect for springtime enjoyment.
Tsuyama Local Honey
津山地蜂蜜
Pure, raw honey harvested from wildflowers in the Tsuyama region, known for its rich flavor and natural sweetness.
Tsuyama Pickled Vegetables
津山漬物
Authentic pickled vegetables made using traditional methods and local ingredients, offering a tangy and refreshing taste.
Tsuyama Clay Mug
津山粘土マグカップ
Hand-thrown ceramic mug crafted by local artisans, featuring a rustic design and durable finish.
Tsuyama Beef Jerky
津山ビーフジャーキー
Premium beef jerky made from locally raised beef, marinated in a blend of soy, mirin, and natural spices.
Insider Tips
Unlock local secrets and make the most of your visit to Tsuyama roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to catch the fresh batch of milk bread from the in-house bakery, which is only available until 11:00 AM and often sells out by 10:45 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the seasonal pickled vegetables made with locally grown cucumbers and radishes—only available from June to August
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the food truck “Mokumoku Kitchen” serves limited-edition curry rice with homemade pickles starting at 11:30 AM—arrive by 11:15 AM to avoid missing it
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the edge of the open-air vegetable garden near the parking lot between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to capture the golden hour light reflecting off the red and yellow tomatoes in full bloom
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the Tsuyama-exclusive “Forest Honey & Yuzu” jam at the souvenir counter—it’s only available during the autumn harvest season and sold in 120g jars only
- Parking Tip: Use the far-left parking spot near the entrance if you're planning to visit the children’s play area, as it’s the closest to the shaded play zone and avoids the crowded middle section
- Local Experience: Attend the 2:00 PM weekly farmers’ market on Saturdays to sample raw milk from the nearby dairy farm and chat directly with the producer, who only appears on market days from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom from late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Local strawberries are harvested in June, and the roadside station hosts summer festivals in July.
Autumn (September–November): Chestnuts are harvested in October, and the surrounding hills offer scenic views of autumn foliage.
Winter (December–February): Hot roasted chestnuts are sold at the roadside station, and snow-dusted landscapes appear in December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Tsuyama roadside station offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly dining. Interactive exhibits and local craft activities enhance the experience, though limited seating during peak hours affects comfort.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including fresh regional produce, artisanal snacks, and specialty items like Tsuyama-style pickled vegetables. High-quality market offerings and unique food experiences elevate the dining appeal.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and designated parking. While quiet during daytime, nighttime noise from nearby traffic reduces comfort. Overnight parking is permitted but not officially advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views of surrounding hills and farmland, with well-maintained viewpoints ideal for photography. Seasonal changes enhance landscape variety, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful and visually pleasing.