Discover the Heart of Nature and Tradition at Yoshinoji Kurotsuzumi
Nestled along National Route 309 in the serene village of Kurotaki, Yoshinoji Kurotsuzumi stands as a welcoming gateway to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Nara Prefecture’s Yoshino District. Inspired by Nordic architecture, the roadside station blends charm with functionality, offering travelers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forests and pristine rivers.
More than just a stopover, it’s a vibrant community hub featuring a local produce shop, a convenience store with a unique seating area crafted from Kurotaki’s famed Yoshino cedar, and a lively food stall serving regional favorites like grilled skewers and the beloved konnyaku skewers. With its commitment to sustainability and local pride, this roadside station shines as a model of rural revitalization.
Why Visit
Yoshinoji Kurotsuzumi stands out as the only roadside station in Blacktaki Village to offer authentic grilled ayu tempura, made from fish caught in the crystal-clear, shallow streams of the Yoshino River. Home to the region’s only artisanal konnyaku skewers—crafted from locally grown konjac and grilled to perfection—this station is a culinary destination in itself. The unique seating area featuring furniture made from Blacktaki’s famed Yoshino cedar adds a distinctive local touch.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Yoshinoji Kurotsuzumi roadside station.
Food Stall
屋台
Specialty
Local street food with regional specialties
A vibrant food stall offering a variety of local snacks and traditional dishes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. The atmosphere is casual and lively, ideal for travelers seeking authentic roadside cuisine.
Shopping Highlights
Discover authentic regional goods and handmade treasures here.
Local Products Store
特産品販売所
A retail shop specializing in locally produced goods, including fresh vegetables, processed foods, and regional souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Konnyaku (Shirataki Noodles)
Convenience Store
コンビニ
A convenience store offering everyday essentials, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. Features an eat-in corner with furniture made from local Yoshino cedar.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yoshino Cedar Furniture Corner
Featured Products
Try signature items like skewered konjac and fresh mountain produce.
Konnyaku (Shirataki Noodles)
串こんにゃく
A popular regional specialty made from konjac root, known for its unique texture and low-calorie content. Often enjoyed as a snack or in savory dishes.
Yoshino Cedar Furniture
吉野杉
Handcrafted furniture made from sustainably harvested Yoshino cedar wood, known for its durability and natural aroma.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including free Wi-Fi and 24-hour restrooms.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 51 spaces, including 5 for large vehicles and 46 for ordinary vehicles.
Located at the roadside station premises
EV Charging Station
EV charging facilities are available for electric vehicles.
Located at the roadside station premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN service named 'Kurotaki Free Wi-Fi' is available.
Located at the roadside station premises
Restroom
There are 9 male toilets and 7 female toilets available. Additionally, there is 1 multi-purpose toilet for people with disabilities.
Located at the roadside station premises
Information Center
The roadside station serves as a regional information hub, offering information on local attractions, transportation, and services.
Located at the roadside station premises
Play Area
The station is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, with nearby attractions such as the Black Taki Forest Story Village and the Black Taki Onsen, providing recreational opportunities.
Nearby attractions include Black Taki Forest Story Village and Black Taki Onsen
Onsen (Hot Spring)
The Black Taki Onsen is an artificial hot spring located at the Black Taki Village Comprehensive Resort, offering relaxation and wellness experiences.
Black Taki Village Comprehensive Resort, about 3 minutes by car
Specialty Products Store
Sells locally produced vegetables, processed goods, souvenirs, and regional specialties such as 'Kushi Konjac' (grilled konjac skewers), a popular local dish.
Inside the roadside station
Convenience Store
The only convenience store in the village, open from 7:00 to 20:00. Features an eat-in area with furniture made from locally sourced Yoshino cedar.
Inside the roadside station
Food Stall
Offers a variety of local street food including rice balls, yakitori, tempura made from local ayu fish, and wild boar croquettes.
Inside the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit early to enjoy quiet mornings and explore nearby attractions.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the fresh batch of grilled skewered konnyaku, which is only available until 11:00 AM and often sells out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Ask at the special products counter for the limited-edition "Yoshino cedar" wooden utensil set, available only during seasonal promotions and not displayed on regular shelves.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the mobile food truck serving grilled ayu tempura and wild boar croquettes arrives at 11:30 AM and operates only until 2:00 PM—plan your visit accordingly.
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Use the "Kurotaki Free Wi-Fi" network, which requires no password and connects automatically upon arrival; it is especially reliable for downloading maps or checking real-time bus schedules from the local transit hub.
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the small wooden bridge just past the roadside station entrance, located on the path leading toward the Black Rapids River—this scenic view is ideal for photos and is frequently used by local photographers.
- Eating Area Tip: Sit at the "Yoshino cedar" furniture table inside the convenience store’s eat-in corner, where you can enjoy your meal while reading the free local community newsletter displayed on a wooden rack.
- Nearby Hidden Attraction: Take the 3-minute drive to Black Rapids Forest Story Village and visit the old Meiji-era administrative building, which is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and features free guided tours every 30 minutes on the hour.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with peak season for local produce from April.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for river swimming and barbecues, with clear shallow waters perfect for children.
Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, shallow rivers for safe swimming, and kid-friendly food like yakitori and tempura. Stroller-accessible paths and multiple restrooms enhance accessibility. Educational value from local nature and farming activities.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local dishes including popular yakitori, tempura, and the signature skewered konjac. Offers fresh local produce and artisanal goods. The convenience store includes a dedicated eating area with locally made furniture.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour restroom and parking access with EV charging. Quiet surroundings and ample space allow for comfortable overnight stays. No official overnight parking policy is stated, limiting full suitability.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a pristine natural setting with clear rivers and forested views. Offers scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities near the river and surrounding mountains. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by lush greenery and clear water.