Station Mizube no Sato Oyama

Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Fruit & Flavor Heritage

Mizube no Sato Oyama is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the lush hills of Oyama, 日田市 (Hita City), in northern Kyushu. Located just minutes from the Hita Expressway and a short drive from the scenic Kuma River region, it serves as a gateway to the area’s rich agricultural legacy. Renowned as one of Kyushu’s premier plum-growing regions, the station celebrates this heritage with an exceptional array of local specialties—premium plum wine, traditional umeboshi, and seasonal fruits sourced from nearby farms.

Beyond its renowned produce, Mizube no Sato Oyama offers a unique cultural experience with the Attack on Titan in Hita Museum, a must-visit attraction for fans, and the acclaimed GELATERIA LAB3680 OKUHITA, where world-class chef Salvatore Cuomo transforms regional fruits into sustainable, SDGs-inspired gelato. With picnic areas, EV charging, and thoughtfully curated local information, this roadside station blends rural charm with modern convenience, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking authentic flavor, nature, and inspiration.

Mizube no Sato Oyama stands out as the only roadside station in Japan where you can savor gelato crafted by renowned chef Salvatore Cuomo using surplus local fruits from the region’s top-tier orchards—specifically, oversized, sun-ripened melons and tart wild strawberries that are too irregular for commercial sale. Equally unique is the on-site "Attack on Titan in HITA Museum," which transforms the area’s famed plum heritage into a themed experience featuring immersive displays and exclusive merchandise. This is not just a stop—it’s a destination for food innovators and pop culture enthusiasts alike.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the GELATERIA LAB3680 OKUHITA counter, as the first batch of their SDGs-themed fruit gelato is prepared at 10:30 AM and often sells out by 12:30 PM.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the Double Gelato Waffle Cup at GELATERIA LAB3680 OKUHITA—it’s made using locally sourced, non-standard-sized fruits that are otherwise discarded, offering a unique flavor profile not available elsewhere.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the trout tempura and takoyaki takeout shop between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to order the trout tempura set, which is only available until 1:00 PM and features fresh fish caught from the nearby Oyama River.

• Best Snack Timing: Arrive by 9:30 AM on Saturdays and Sundays to purchase the day’s first batch of freshly baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is released at opening and sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Must-Visit Facility: Stop at the Mizube no Sato Oyama information counter between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM to pick up the free Mitsuboshi Map, which includes exclusive trails and lesser-known spots around the Oyama Dam and the nearby Kusenbi Waterfall.

• Unique Product Tip: Buy the premium plum wine and pickled plums at the direct sales store before 12:00 PM, as the seasonal Plum Festival Special Bundle is only available during the Hita Oyama Plum Festival (February–March) and includes two unique regional varieties not sold year-round.

• EV Charging Alert: Use the EV charging station located just outside the main parking area only during off-peak hours (before 10:00 AM or after 3:00 PM) to avoid long wait times, as it is frequently used by visitors arriving during the midday rush.

Spring (February–March): Visit during the 日田おおやま梅まつり (Hita Oyama Plum Festival) for blooming plum blossoms and local plum-themed treats.

Summer (July): Enjoy the 大山ふるさと夏まつり (Oyama Hometown Summer Festival) with seasonal events and fresh regional fruits.

Autumn (September–November): Experience the harvest of local fruits like pears and melons, available at the roadside station's market.

Winter (December–January): Explore the museum and enjoy seasonal treats during the quiet, scenic winter months.