Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kanbayashi Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 7 in the scenic countryside of Murakami City, Kanbayashi Roadside Station stands as a vibrant gateway between urban life and the tranquil rhythms of the countryside. Strategically positioned near the intersection of major highways, it serves as a dynamic meeting point for travelers, locals, and regional culture.
More than just a rest stop, Kanbayashi offers a rich tapestry of experiences—from sampling fresh local produce at the Ho-ya no Sato Specialty Market to savoring traditional flavors at the Ho-na Mi-Tei Japanese-style restaurant. The on-site information center provides expert local insights, while the farm processing facility highlights the region’s agricultural heritage. With free Wi-Fi, electric vehicle charging, and a peaceful park, Kanbayashi blends convenience with authenticity, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking genuine rural charm.
Why Visit
Kanbayashi is home to the only on-site farm-to-table ice cream factory in the region, where visitors can taste and buy seasonal milk ice cream made exclusively from Jersey cows raised in local pastures. The roadside station also features the only public demonstration kitchen in the area, where chefs prepare traditional dishes using ingredients from nearby organic farms. These unique experiences, combined with the chance to tour the active farm and see rare heirloom vegetables harvested daily, make Kanbayashi a one-of-a-kind destination.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Kanbayashi's cozy restaurant, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional craftsmanship.
Wafu Restaurant Honeimido
和風レストラン「穂菜味亭」
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy wafu restaurant offering authentic Japanese dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal amidst nature.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures at Kanbayashi's vibrant market, a gateway to authentic local craftsmanship.
Honeha no Sato Products Hall
穂波の里物産館
A retail shop showcasing and selling regional agricultural products, crafts, and local specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly Harvested Vegetables
Agricultural Processing Facility
農産加工所
A facility that processes local agricultural products into value-added goods for sale.
Products
Must-Try Item
Locally Preserved Vegetables
Featured Products
Explore Kanbayashi's signature specialties, from fresh farm produce to handcrafted goods rooted in local heritage.
Freshly Harvested Vegetables
とれたて野菜
Freshly picked seasonal vegetables from local farms, known for their crisp texture and natural flavor.
Locally Preserved Vegetables
地元保存野菜
Vegetables preserved using traditional methods, offering a unique taste and long shelf life.
Sake-Infused Pickled Vegetables
日本酒漬け漬物
Vegetables pickled in locally produced sake, giving them a distinctive aroma and flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Kanbayashi, including free Wi-Fi, restrooms, baby care, and 24-hour access.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with 75 spaces, including 10 large vehicle spots, 64 regular vehicle spots, and 1 accessible spot.
Restroom
The facility includes restrooms with 7 male fixtures, 12 female fixtures, and 1 accessible fixture.
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station.
Information Station
The Information Station is open from 8:30 AM to 4:15 PM daily, with no closure days. It provides visitor information and assistance.
Park
The facility includes a park area for relaxation and recreation.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available for use 24 hours a day.
Baby Corner
A baby corner is available for parents with infants.
Insider Tips
Visit early for the freshest produce and check the schedule for pop-up events at Kanbayashi’s seasonal hub.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 8:30 AM on weekdays to purchase fresh produce from the farm processing facility before it closes at 5:00 PM, as popular items like seasonal root vegetables often sell out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the farm processing facility between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM to see the daily batch of freshly made pickled vegetables, which are not always available later in the day.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, stop by the information station between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM to receive a free map of local hiking trails and seasonal farm activities, available only during weekend mornings.
- Best Time to Eat: Dine at the Japanese-style restaurant "Hone Mitei" between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to enjoy the day’s first batch of seasonal rice dishes, which are prepared in limited quantities and often sell out by noon.
- Actionable Tip for Shoppers: Purchase the "Soba & Yuzu" cold noodles at the product shop between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekends, as they are freshly made only on those days and are not restocked after 1:00 PM.
- Best Time for Local Tips: Visit the information station between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays to speak directly with staff who can provide real-time updates on nearby farm tours and harvest schedules.
- Parking Strategy: Use the large vehicle parking area located near the entrance if arriving after 11:00 AM, as the regular parking lot fills up quickly by midday due to the high volume of visitors from the nearby highway exit.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing (late March–early April) and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Freshly harvested vegetables and berries available at the roadside station market.
Autumn (September–November): Seasonal harvest of chestnuts and sweet potatoes at the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): Limited market hours; best for quiet visits and seasonal hot meals at the restaurant.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Family-friendly with a dedicated play area, baby corner, stroller access, and kid-friendly food options. Educational elements include local farming displays and interactive markets, enhancing child engagement.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse dining with a traditional Japanese restaurant and fresh local produce. High-quality regional specialties and seasonal farm-fresh items enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, clean restrooms, and vending machines. Quiet surroundings with a park area support overnight stays, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a major highway with scenic views of rural landscapes. Offers photo spots near the park and seasonal beauty from nearby farmland and natural surroundings.