Station Asaji

Savor the Heart of Kyushu’s Rural Heritage

Nestled along Prefectural Road 57 in the serene hills of Toyooka, Asaji roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the cultural and culinary soul of Oita Prefecture. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, this destination seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern convenience. More than a rest stop, Asaji is a community hub where nature, tradition, and local craftsmanship converge.

At its core is the timber-framed Kanabana Ryougetsu Kan, a warm, wood-paneled haven showcasing regional specialties like the famed Toyooka beef—renowned as "the finest among fine beef." Visitors can savor it in signature dishes such as the Asajin Bowl or enjoy the famous shiitake mushroom soft-serve. The on-site restaurant, Fukujusou, offers a true taste of the region, while seasonal events like the New Rice Festival and the Asaji Summer Festival bring the community to life. With its 24-hour information center, EV charging station, and thoughtful amenities, Asaji is a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking authenticity, flavor, and connection.

Visit Asaji roadside station to experience the region’s only restaurant,福寿草, serving authentic Yufu Beef Asaji-rai—a premium strain known as "the finest of Yufu Beef" for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich, balanced marbling. Only here can you enjoy the signature Asaji-n Don, a rice bowl built on this rare beef. Beyond the meal, savor the station’s original Shiitake Soft Cream, made from locally grown mushrooms, and sample Watada Rice, a historic "Imperial Rice" with Edo-era roots, all in a wooden artsy space where nature and craftsmanship meet.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 and 10:30 AM to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the exclusive "Shiitake Soft Cream" at the deli counter—this seasonal specialty is only available from late summer through autumn and is made with locally grown shiitake mushrooms from the region.

• Weekend Special: On weekends during the New Rice Festival (typically late September), visit the information booth between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to receive a free sample of fresh, locally harvested rice from the "Watada Rice" brand, known as "Imperial Rice" from the Edo period.

• Must-Try Menu Item: Order the "Asaji Korokke" (beef croquette) or "Hinata Beef Meatball Cutlet" at the restaurant Fukusou—these are made exclusively with "Huguo Beef from Asaji," a premium local beef known for its rich marbling and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

• Best Value Purchase: Buy the "Asaji Beef Rice Seasoning" at the shop counter—this best-selling item is only available at the roadside station and allows you to replicate the signature "Asaji Beef Rice" at home using your own rice.

• EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station located near the parking area between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM when the site is less crowded and the charging points are more likely to be available.

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Visit the information corner between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to speak with the staff about the "Shinshu Kōgei Festival" event schedule and pick up a free hand-drawn map of local hiking trails near the Shōkōji Rock Carvings and the Kōkaku Temple Narasimha Statue.

Spring (April-May): Visit for the Shakuanae Festival at Kankaku-ji Temple in mid-April and fresh bamboo shoots at the roadside station market.

Summer (June-August): Experience the Hydrangea Festival at Hoko-ji Temple in June and the summer roadside station market in July.

Autumn (September-October): Ideal for the New Rice Festival on September 27–28 and seasonal shiitake mushrooms.

Winter (November-February): Enjoy the Autumn Leaves Festival at Yousaku Park in November and the station's warm indoor facilities.