Discover the Heart of Nara’s Rural Heritage
Resti Karakko-Kagi, nestled along National Route 24 in Tawaramoto Town, is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant cultural crossroads where history, agriculture, and community come together. Located near the nationally designated Karakko-Kagi Archaeological Site, the station stands as a modern landmark with a striking hip-roof design, offering travelers a striking view from the highway and a gateway to ancient Japan.
This dynamic hub celebrates local life through seasonal festivals like the Autumn Thanksgiving Festival and the 7th Anniversary Celebration, featuring live music, traditional performances, and hands-on activities. Visitors can savor farm-fresh produce, enjoy artisanal bread and limited-edition egg-based desserts made with eggs from local school-raised chickens, and explore the adjacent historic park where the secrets of the Yayoi period unfold. At Resti Karakko-Kagi, every visit is a journey through flavor, tradition, and the spirit of place.
Why Visit
Visit Resti Karakko-Kagi to experience one of Nara Prefecture’s only accessible弥生時代 (Yayoi period) archaeological sites, where visitors can walk through reconstructed ancient earthworks and learn about life over 2,000 years ago. More uniquely, the roadside station hosts a limited-edition Creamy Egg Parfait made exclusively with eggs from chickens raised by students at Isonomi High School’s animal science program—available only during seasonal events and sold out quickly.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Resti Karakko-Kagi, where farm-to-table flavors shine in every bite.
Fromko Cafe
からこカフェ
Specialty
A cozy café offering homemade meals and local specialties with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients.
A charming café located on the second floor of the roadside station, known for its homemade onigiri, miso soup, and a variety of drinks and soft serve. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing break with a view of the surrounding area.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and seasonal produce at Resti Karakko-Kagi’s vibrant roadside station.
Farmers Market
直売所
A fresh produce market offering locally grown vegetables, fruits, and flowers from田原本町 and surrounding areas.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal produce
Bakery
ベーカリー
A bakery specializing in fresh-baked bread and pastries, including a signature golden bread.
Products
Must-Try Item
Golden Fresh Bread Extreme
Ice Cream Shop
ジェラート
A shop offering a variety of handmade gelato and soft serve ice cream.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal gelato
Featured Products
Sample signature treats like the rich egg-based parfait, crafted with eggs from local school-raised chickens.
Egg Custard Parfait
濃厚たまごのプリンパフェ
A rich and creamy egg custard parfait made with eggs from local chickens raised by students of Isono High School.
Golden Fresh Bread Extreme
黄金の生食パン極
A premium fresh bread made with locally sourced ingredients, known for its golden crust and soft texture.
Christmas Buffet
クリスマスオードブル
A festive Christmas buffet set, available for pre-order at the roadside station.
Roast Beef Bowl
ローストビーフ丼
A premium rice bowl featuring high-quality roast beef, available during seasonal events.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including parking, restrooms, and a welcoming space for all travelers.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with a total of 85 spaces, including 10 for large vehicles and 75 for passenger cars.
Near the roadside station entrance, along National Route 24
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility, including the main building and event areas
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center where visitors can obtain local information, event schedules, and maps.
Main entrance area of the roadside station
Play Area
A play area is available for children, located within the vicinity of the roadside station and adjacent to the historic park.
Near the historic park and roadside station complex
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Parking area near the main entrance
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use at the roadside station.
Inside the roadside station building, near the entrance
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets, located near the roadside station entrance.
Near the main entrance and parking area
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal festivals, hands-on workshops, and cultural events that bring the community to life.
Autumn Grand Thanksgiving Festival
秋の大感謝祭
Enjoy special sales of fresh vegetables, lucky draw games, classical concerts, and a flea market at the historic park.
Duration
120 min
7th Anniversary Festival
創業７周年フェスタ
Celebrate the roadside station's 7th anniversary with special sales of fresh vegetables, lucky draw games, classical concerts, and a monkey show performance.
Duration
120 min
Santa Claus Visit
サンタさんがやってくる
Meet Santa Claus for commemorative photos and enjoy handmade craft experiences.
Duration
60 min
Indoor activity, unaffected by weather
Insider Tips
Visit during event days for limited-edition treats and special deals on local goods.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit on November 8 or 9 between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to secure a spot at the special fresh produce sale during the Autumn Great Gratitude Festival, as popular items like high-quality vegetables and the limited-edition roast beef donburi sell out quickly.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the second-floor café between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM to try the fresh Egg-Only Omelette Rice Set (500 yen), which is only available as part of the morning menu and often sells out by noon.
- Event Timing: Arrive at the event plaza by 11:00 AM on December 7 or 8 to participate in the Santa Claus Photo Session and take part in the handmade craft activities before the 1:00 PM time slot fills up.
- Limited Product Strategy: Purchase the Koishi-jo High School Collaboration Thick Egg Pudding Parfait on November 15 only—this item is available exclusively from that date and sells out by midday each day.
- Food Truck Location: Visit the History Park (adjacent to the roadside station) during the Autumn Great Gratitude Festival on November 8–9 to access the free market (flea market), which features local artisans and is not located inside the main station building.
- Discount Access: Join the Gala Raffle at the main entrance on weekends during festivals—bring a reusable bag to enter and increase your chances of winning fresh produce or local snacks.
- Café Timing: Order the Egg Omelette Sandwich at the from the café counter before 11:30 AM to guarantee availability, as it is only made in small batches and is frequently sold out by midday.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April): Celebrate the 7th anniversary with the创业7周年フェスタ on April 19–20, featuring live performances and special vegetable sales.
Autumn (November): Visit during the Autumn Grand Thanksgiving Festival on November 8–9 for fresh produce, concerts, and a flea market at the historic site park.
Winter (December): Experience the festive "Hurry-Santa" event on December 7–8 with photo opportunities and handmade crafts.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features seasonal events like Santa visits and interactive activities. It offers child-friendly food options and a safe, accessible environment with ample parking and stroller access.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station provides diverse dining options including a bakery, café, and local specialties. It highlights fresh produce, unique collaborations like the egg-based dessert, and high-quality artisanal food.
Car Camping Review
The station offers restrooms and vending machines, and the parking area is spacious. However, it lacks designated overnight parking and is not optimized for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station features a striking traditional roof and is located near a historic park. The surrounding landscape, seasonal events, and cultural scenery create a visually appealing and serene atmosphere.