Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Rural Charm
Sekikawa roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the quiet beauty of Chiba Prefecture’s countryside, nestled along the scenic route between the Kanto region’s bustling cities and the serene coastal landscapes of Minamiboso. Surrounded by lush rice fields, rolling hills, and ancient forests, this roadside station offers travelers a peaceful retreat rich in local flavor and authenticity.
More than just a place to refuel, Sekikawa is a celebration of regional heritage, showcasing fresh, seasonal produce from nearby farms and artisanal crafts made by local artisans. Visitors can savor handcrafted dairy products, traditional pickles, and seasonal fruits, all sourced within a 50-kilometer radius. With its warm hospitality, thoughtfully designed gardens, and interactive farm experiences, Sekikawa invites travelers to slow down, connect with nature, and taste the true essence of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Sekikawa roadside station is home to the region’s only on-site cheese cellar, where visitors can sample aged Gouda made from local Jersey cow milk. Just steps away, the seasonal wild mushroom market offers hand-picked matsutake and shiitake, available only during the autumn harvest. These unique, hyper-local specialties—found nowhere else—define the station’s authentic mountain food experience.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Sekikawa roadside station.
Sekikawa Local Cuisine Restaurant
関川郷土料理
Specialty
Traditional regional dishes from Sekikawa
A cozy dining space serving authentic local cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, perfect for experiencing the true taste of the region.
Sekikawa Farmhouse Café
関川農家カフェ
Specialty
Homemade pastries and coffee using local ingredients
A charming, rustic café offering a relaxed atmosphere with handmade treats and locally roasted coffee. Ideal for a peaceful break with a view of the surrounding farmland.
Sekikawa Seasonal Food Stall
関川旬の屋台
Specialty
Fresh seasonal snacks and street food
A lively food stall offering quick, flavorful bites made with seasonal produce. The vibrant atmosphere and casual setup make it a favorite among visitors looking for a quick, tasty snack.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional treasures at Sekikawa roadside station.
Sekikawa Farmers Market
関川農産物直売所
A marketplace featuring fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, and herbs directly from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Mountain Greens
Sekikawa Bakery
関川ベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using traditional methods and local flour.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sekikawa Rustic Loaf
Sekikawa Craft Store
関川工芸品店
A shop offering handmade crafts and artisanal goods made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-thrown Ceramic Mug
Sekikawa Meat & Poultry Market
関川肉・鶏肉販売所
A dedicated meat shop offering high-quality locally raised beef, pork, and chicken.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sekikawa Grass-fed Beef
Sekikawa Dairy & Cheese Shop
関川乳製品・チーズ販売所
A shop specializing in fresh milk, yogurt, and handmade cheeses produced from local dairy farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sekikawa Fresh Cheese
Sekikawa Souvenir Shop
関川お土産屋
A gift shop offering a variety of regional souvenirs, including local food items and crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sekikawa Regional Gift Box
Sekikawa Alcohol Store
関川酒販売所
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages, including sake, plum wine, and regional spirits.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sekikawa Plum Wine
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with Sekikawa's signature specialties.
Sekikawa Mountain Vegetable Mix
関川山菜ミックス
A blend of fresh, foraged mountain vegetables preserved in natural brine for long shelf life.
Sekikawa Dried Persimmon
関川干し柿
Sun-dried persimmons made from locally grown fruit, naturally sweet and chewy.
Sekikawa Wild Herb Tea
関川山草茶
A refreshing herbal tea made from wild herbs collected from the surrounding mountains.
Sekikawa Honey
関川はちみつ
Pure, raw honey harvested from local beekeepers using sustainable practices.
Sekikawa Rice Cake
関川餅
Traditional rice cake made with locally milled rice and natural sweeteners.
Insider Tips
Unlock local secrets and make the most of your visit to Sekikawa roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the bakery counter for fresh-baked milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables made from local cucumber and radish
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, the farmers’ market features a live cooking demo at 11:00 AM showcasing how to prepare the day’s featured ingredient, usually local sweet potatoes
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the "Sekikawa Mountain Herb Tea" at the gift shop—it’s only available during the spring and summer months and comes in a reusable ceramic bottle
- Parking Tip: Use the large parking area behind the main building, as the front lot fills quickly during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April)
- Best Photo Spot: Take a picture at the wooden lookout platform near the entrance path, especially during sunrise when the morning mist rises over the rice fields visible from the platform
- Local Event Alert: Check the bulletin board near the restrooms every Friday afternoon for announcements about the upcoming "Sekikawa Harvest Night" dinner, which includes a surprise guest chef and limited seating
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Canola flowers bloom in full display from late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market in early April.
Summer (June-August): The roadside station hosts a summer festival in mid-July, featuring local grilled fish and fresh watermelon.
Autumn (September-November): Chestnuts are harvested in October and sold at the roadside station, with peak availability in late October.
Winter (December-February): Hot roasted sweet potatoes are available from December to February, especially popular during the winter festival in early January.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Sekikawa roadside station features a dedicated children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Interactive farming displays and seasonal events offer educational value. Limited kid-friendly dining options reduce score slightly.
Food Lover Review
The station offers diverse local cuisine, including fresh regional specialties like mountain vegetable dishes. A well-maintained farmers market provides high-quality produce. Artisanal food products enhance the overall culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, supporting basic overnight needs. The site is relatively quiet at night, though limited shade and seating reduce comfort. Overnight parking is permitted but not explicitly marked.
Scenic Beauty Review
Sekikawa offers panoramic views of surrounding mountains and forests. Scenic viewpoints along the access road provide excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal changes enhance landscape variety, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful and visually appealing.