Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Rural Heritage
Nestled along National Route 502 in the serene village of Kiyokawa, located in the heart of Ōita Prefecture’s Higo region, this roadside station is a vibrant gateway to local culture and craftsmanship. More than a pit stop, Kiyokawa serves as a cultural crossroads where tradition meets modernity, offering travelers a rich tapestry of experiences rooted in the land.
Home to the nationally recognized Okutama Kagura—a living intangible folk cultural treasure—this station celebrates centuries of heritage. Visitors can enjoy fresh, locally grown produce, including the famed Clean Peach, known for its intense sweetness and 70% juice content, transformed into beloved treats like peach soft serve, peach bread, and refreshing peach juice. With a bustling market, diverse dining options, and scenic surroundings, Kiyokawa invites travelers to pause, savor, and connect with the spirit of rural Japan.
Why Visit
At Kiyokawa roadside station, discover the region’s only clean peach—a uniquely cultivated, high-sugar variety grown through grafting techniques that yield a juice-rich, 70% fruit content peach juice. This rare fruit is the heart of signature treats like peach soft cream and peach bûche, available nowhere else. Beyond food, experience the living tradition of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage Miyake Kagura, performed at the nearby shrine, offering a rare glimpse into centuries-old ritual dance.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally crafted meals at roadside station Kiyokawa, where farm-to-table flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sakura Dining
さくら食堂
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic Japanese meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of travel.
Kiyokawa Kitchen
きよかわキッチン
Specialty
Modern Japanese fusion cuisine
A contemporary eatery serving innovative dishes that blend traditional Japanese flavors with modern techniques. The ambiance is bright and modern, ideal for a casual yet refined dining experience.
Yamato Soba
やまとのそば
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles
A dedicated soba shop offering freshly made buckwheat noodles served in a variety of styles. The shop emphasizes traditional craftsmanship and the natural flavor of the noodles.
Kiyokawa Ramen
きよかわラーメン
Specialty
Local-style ramen with rich broth
A casual food stall serving hearty ramen with a deep, savory broth made from local ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Kiyokawa Curry
きよかわカレー
Specialty
Homemade curry with local spices
A small food stall specializing in homemade curry with a unique blend of local spices. The atmosphere is friendly and casual, offering a comforting meal for travelers.
Sakura Cafe
さくらカフェ
Specialty
Light meals and pastries
A charming café offering light meals, fresh pastries, and specialty drinks. The interior is cozy and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing break.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and artisanal treasures at roadside station Kiyokawa’s vibrant market stalls.
Dream Market
夢市場
A bustling farmers market offering fresh local produce, handmade goods, and seasonal specialties. The market is a hub for regional products and supports local farmers and artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Clean Peach Juice
Kiyokawa Souvenir Shop
きよかわおみやげ店
A dedicated souvenir shop offering a wide range of local products, including branded items and traditional crafts. Ideal for visitors looking for unique gifts and mementos.
Products
Must-Try Item
Clean Peach Products
Kiyokawa Craft Store
きよかわ工芸店
A specialty store showcasing handmade crafts and artisanal goods from local artisans. The shop features unique, high-quality items made with traditional techniques.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handwoven Basket
Kiyokawa Dairy Shop
きよかわ乳製品店
A shop specializing in fresh dairy products made from local milk. The shop offers a variety of cheeses, yogurts, and milk-based drinks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Cheese
Kiyokawa Meat Market
きよかわ肉市場
A market offering high-quality, locally sourced meat products. The shop emphasizes freshness and traditional butchery methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Beef
Kiyokawa Alcohol Shop
きよかわ酒類店
A shop specializing in local alcoholic beverages, including sake, fruit wines, and traditional spirits. The shop offers a curated selection of regional drinks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Peach Wine
Featured Products
Experience signature treats like the acclaimed Clean Peach juice and desserts, made from regionally grown, high-sugar fruits.
Clean Peach Juice
クリーンピーチジュース
A refreshing juice made from the highly sweet and juicy Clean Peach, known for its high sugar content and 70% juice content. Perfect for enjoying on the go.
Peach Soft Cream
桃のソフトクリーム
A creamy and sweet soft serve made with fresh Clean Peach puree. The smooth texture and natural peach flavor make it a popular treat.
Peach Bread
桃のブッセ
A sweet bread filled with fresh peach puree and topped with a light glaze. The combination of soft bread and juicy peach is a favorite among visitors.
Peach Jam
桃ジャム
A rich and flavorful jam made from locally grown Clean Peaches. Ideal for spreading on toast or using in desserts.
Peach Wine
桃ワイン
A unique fruit wine made from the sweet Clean Peach. The wine has a delicate aroma and a refreshing taste, perfect for pairing with light meals.
Local Cheese
地元チーズ
Handcrafted cheese made from fresh local milk. The cheese has a rich, creamy texture and a subtle, natural flavor.
Handwoven Basket
手編みかご
A beautifully crafted basket made using traditional weaving techniques. Each basket is unique and showcases the skill of local artisans.
Local Beef
地元ビーフ
High-quality beef raised in the local region, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Perfect for grilling or cooking at home.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with clean restrooms, a welcoming café, and a spacious rest area at roadside station Kiyokawa.
Parking
A parking area is available at the roadside station.
Located at the roadside station premises
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors.
Located at the roadside station premises
Information Center
An information corner provides road information, nearby 'Michi no Eki' details, and local tourism information via maps and flyers. Weather information is also provided on TV.
Located at the roadside station premises
Play Area
A play area called 'Fureai Plaza' is available for visitors.
Located at the roadside station premises
Nursing Room
A baby care facility is available for infants and young children.
Located at the roadside station premises
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi service is available at the roadside station.
Located at the roadside station premises
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors.
Located at the roadside station premises
EV Charging
Electric vehicle charging facilities are not available at this roadside station.
Not available
Onsen
Hot spring facilities are not available at this roadside station.
Not available
Bike Rental
Bike rental service is not available at this roadside station.
Not available
Pet Area
A pet-friendly area is not mentioned at this roadside station.
Not available
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal events and hands-on workshops, from fruit harvesting to traditional dance performances.
Autumn Harvest Festival
秋の大収穫祭
Participants can enjoy seasonal harvest celebrations featuring local produce, traditional performances, and regional food tastings.
Duration
120 min
Osettai田园 Walk
おせったい田園ウォーク
Join a scenic walking tour through the rural landscapes of Kiyokawa, experiencing local agriculture and nature.
Duration
90 min
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for outdoor walking.
Yamato Kagura Performance
御嶽流神楽大会
Witness a traditional performance of Yamato Kagura, a designated intangible folk cultural property, showcasing ancient rituals and dances.
Duration
60 min
Indoor venue; weather not a factor.
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest season for the best produce and check local event schedules for special cultural performances.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the Dream Market between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM on weekdays to get the freshest selection of local produce, including the highly sought-after Clean Peach juice, which often sells out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter inside the Dream Market for the seasonal "Peach Bread" made with fresh Clean Peach puree—available only during the summer months and typically sold out by 2 PM.
- Weekend Special: On the last Sunday of October, attend the "Oyakata Ryū Kagura Festival" at the nearby Oyakata Shrine, which is only held once a year and features the National Intangible Folk Cultural Property performance of Oyakata Kagura.
- Must-Try Menu Item: Order the "Peach Soft Cream" at the food stall inside the station’s restaurant area—this signature item is made with 100% Clean Peach juice and is only available from late June through mid-September.
- Off-Peak Shopping: Avoid the peak lunch rush at the food stalls by visiting the restaurant area between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM, when the staff are less busy and you can easily sample multiple items from the "Clean Peach" product line.
- Local Insight: Use the information corner to pick up the printed guide to nearby sites, including the historic Nari-Taki Bridge and the Oyakata Shrine—both are only a 20-minute walk from the roadside station and are not widely advertised.
- Best Time for Fresh Baked Goods: Arrive at the Dream Market by 8:30 AM on weekends to purchase the day’s fresh batch of "Peach Buns" (Peach Bussa), which are baked daily and sold out by 11:00 AM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from early spring; cherry blossoms bloom in late March.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for 'Clean Peach' harvest and peach-themed treats; summer festivals feature local music and food.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn harvest festival held on the final Sunday of October; ripe peaches and fresh vegetables at the market.
Winter (December-February): Limited hours during winter; visit for quiet relaxation and seasonal snacks like peach jam.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area, stroller-friendly paths, and baby facilities. Includes kid-friendly food like peach soft cream. Educational elements include local cultural exhibits and seasonal events.
Food Lover Review
Features six dining options and a fresh market with high-quality local produce. Highlights include the popular 'Clean Peach' juice, soft cream, and other artisanal products made from regional specialties.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and parking but lacks designated overnight camping areas. No clear overnight parking policy. Quiet during off-hours but not designed for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers scenic views of rural landscapes and nearby natural sites like the Yagidaki Bridge. Features pleasant surroundings with seasonal appeal and well-maintained green spaces for relaxation.