Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Culinary and Natural Spirit
Yu-paru Nojiri is a vibrant roadside station nestled along the scenic Kachinokō Road in the heart of Kobayashi City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it offers travelers a unique blend of local culture, fresh regional flavors, and authentic relaxation. More than just a stopover, this destination brings together the essence of Miyazaki’s agricultural heritage and warm hospitality.
At Yu-paru Nojiri, visitors can savor seasonal specialties at Kobayashi Misa, including their renowned chestnut rice and handcrafted kiwi desserts. The on-site bathhouse, Kobayashi Nojiri no Yu, provides a rejuvenating retreat with views of nature, while the fresh produce market showcases locally grown vegetables and artisanal goods. With events ranging from live music to seasonal food festivals, every visit feels like a celebration of community and tradition.
Why Visit
Visit Yu-paru Nojiri for the region’s only on-site production of artisanal milk ice cream made from Jersey cow milk, available only here. Savor seasonal specialties like the signature chestnut rice, served fresh from the kitchen at Ko-bayashi Mi-sai, and enjoy the unique blend of local flavors in their limited-edition yuzu-lemon bundt cake. This roadside station is the only place where you can experience small-town charm, authentic regional cuisine, and a historic bathhouse—all in one destination.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Yu-paru Nojiri's restaurant, where seasonal ingredients meet regional charm.
Kobayashi Mi-sai
こばやし 味彩
Specialty
Local cuisine from Kobayashi City and Miyazaki Prefecture
A restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a focus on traditional flavors from Kobayashi City and Miyazaki Prefecture. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying regional dishes in a relaxed setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh produce and handmade goods at Yu-paru Nojiri’s market, a true taste of the region.
Farm Direct & Retail Store
産直・物販店
A retail shop offering fresh local produce and processed goods from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kiwi
Nojiri Onsen
こばやしのじりの湯
A bathhouse facility with a focus on relaxation and wellness, also offering local beverages and snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Lemongrass Tea
Featured Products
Try signature items like chestnut rice and lemon boudin, crafted with local pride.
Kiwi
キウイ
Fresh, locally grown kiwis known for their sweetness and juiciness.
Lemongrass Tea
ハーブティー（レモングラス）
A refreshing herbal tea made from locally harvested lemongrass, known for its citrusy aroma and calming properties.
Green Lemon Boudin Cake
青レモンのバウンドケーキ
A unique cake made with green lemon, offering a tangy and sweet flavor profile.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax in the soothing baths or enjoy convenient amenities at Yu-paru Nojiri’s roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station provides information and assistance to visitors, including details on facilities, events, and local attractions.
Office area
Parking
The roadside station has a large parking area with space for 75 vehicles.
Front of the station
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors, with a dedicated nursing room also provided.
Near the entrance and bathing facility
Nursing Room
A private and comfortable space for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants, located within the bathhouse area.
Within the bathhouse facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available, with an announcement indicating ongoing construction work.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance
Play Area
A designated play area is available for children, located within the station grounds.
Near the parking and main building
Onsen (Hot Spring)
A bathhouse facility named 'Kobayashi Nojiri no Yu' offering hot spring baths open from 11:00 to 20:30 with final entry at 20:00.
Main building
Restaurant
The restaurant 'Kobayashi Misa' offers local cuisine featuring ingredients from Koyu City and Miyazaki Prefecture, open for lunch (11:00–15:00) and dinner by reservation (17:00–21:00).
Main building
Farmers Market & Gift Shop
A direct sales and retail shop offering fresh local vegetables, processed goods, and regional souvenirs, open from 08:00 to 18:00.
Main building
Insider Tips
Visit on non-peak days and check the calendar for special events and limited-time treats.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the produce and merchandise shop by 8:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s fresh kiwi fruit, which are sold in limited quantities and often sell out by mid-morning.
- Hidden Gems: Stop at the deli counter in the produce and merchandise shop between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to grab the day’s fresh batch of青レモンのバウンドケーキ (lemon boudin cake), which is baked daily and often sells out by 11:30 AM.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the restaurant "Kobayashi Mi-sai" between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM to get the seasonal chestnut rice, which is only available from October 26th through late November and sells out quickly.
- Bakery Timing: Arrive at the bakery counter by 9:00 AM on weekdays to get the day’s fresh milk bread, which is baked daily and typically sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Bathhouse Entry: Enter the bathhouse "Kobayashi Nojiri no Yu" before 12:00 PM on weekends to avoid the late afternoon rush, as the bathhouse sees heavy foot traffic after 1:00 PM and the final entry is at 8:00 PM.
- Specialty Item: Purchase the limited-run lemon grass herbal tea at the office counter during morning hours (8:00–10:00 AM), as it is only stocked in small batches and not restocked after 11:00 AM.
- Event Planning: Check the staff blog for updates on the "Ocarina & Guitar Mini Concert" or other live events, which are held at irregular intervals and announced only via the blog—don’t miss them by checking the site weekly.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flowers bloom in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): Mini concert events feature live music at the roadside station in August.
Autumn (September-November): Local kiwi harvest begins in October; seasonal chestnut rice served from mid-October.
Winter (December-February): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a baby-changing room and a bathing facility with a child-friendly atmosphere. Playful elements like seasonal events and local food experiences enhance family appeal. Stroller access and parking are convenient.
Food Lover Review
Features a restaurant serving regional dishes like chestnut rice and local specialties. Fresh produce and artisanal goods are available at the farmers market. Quality and variety of food options are strong.
Car Camping Review
Has restrooms and vending machines, suitable for short stops. Quiet during daytime but lacks dedicated overnight camping zones. No clear overnight parking policy is listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a scenic route with natural surroundings and seasonal landscapes. Offers photo spots near the bathhouse and nearby greenery. Overall aesthetic is pleasant and inviting.