Station Notsuharu

Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Natural Splendor

Notsuharu is a roadside station perched along National Route 442 in the serene countryside of Oita City, where the majestic Nana-se Dam stretches across the landscape like a stone giant. Framed by lush forests and the shimmering waters of the dam’s reservoir, this destination offers more than a pit stop—it’s a gateway to regional heritage and natural wonder. The station’s wooden structure, inspired by the national important cultural property, the Goto Family House, blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design.

Step inside to explore a vibrant hub of local flavor and culture. Enjoy panoramic views of the dam lake through floor-to-ceiling windows, relax on a terrace deck, or savor seasonal specialties like handcrafted konjac, fresh mountain vegetables, and regional delicacies such as Oita-brand chicken rice and persimmon soft serve. With live streams of the lake, a unique mochi swing, and a curated selection of farm-to-table goods, Notsuharu invites travelers to slow down, connect, and savor the essence of rural Oita.

Notsuharu stands as the only roadside station in Japan offering guided access to the massive 91.6-meter-tall Nase Dam, a rare rock-fill dam whose full scale and reservoir are visible from its glass-walled restaurant. Here, you’ll find the region’s only artisanal gomogori (konjac) pickle, its deep red color and firm texture developed through traditional fermentation, and a seasonal persimmon soft serve made from local Nagano and Koudo persimmons. These are not just products—they’re stories of the land, served with a view of the dam’s shimmering lake.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the freshest batch of "うちの田んぼで穫れたおこめ" (locally grown new rice), which sells out by midday and is only available in 3kg and 5kg packs.

• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter for "手ごねこんにゃく" (hand-kneaded konjac) and "ゴリ漬け" (konjac in spicy pickle), both priced at 248 yen and 442 yen respectively—these are exclusive to Notsuharu and sell out quickly during peak season.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the restaurant between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM to order the "のったん焼き×米粉ソフト" (nottan-yaki × rice flour soft serve) before it sells out—this autumn-only flavor is available only through mid-October.

• Seasonal Must-Try: Purchase the "庄内梨サイダー" (Shouzai pear soda) from the roadside station’s selection line before the end of October—this locally made, refreshing drink is only available during the autumn harvest season and is a fan favorite.

• Photo Opportunity: Use the live PP Cam feed to check real-time conditions on the lake before visiting, especially if you're aiming to capture the reflection of the dam or the seasonal arrival of swallows during late September and early October.

• Foodie Hack: Order the "旨辛濃厚車えびカレー" (spicy and rich Japanese crab curry) at the restaurant during lunch hours (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM) to enjoy it with freshly cooked rice, as the curry is not available for takeout and is served only in the on-site dining area.

• Sustainable Visit: Use the EV fast-charging station located at Notsuharu if arriving by electric vehicle—this is the only fast-charging option available along National Route 442 between Oita City and the Nase Dam area, making it ideal for long-distance travelers.

Spring (March-May): Late March to April brings canola flower viewing at Notsuharu, with peak bloom around mid-April.

Summer (June-August): July features swallows nesting near the dam, visible in live PP cam footage.

Autumn (September-November): October highlights rich autumn flavors—freshly harvested chestnuts, sweet富有柿, and seasonal soft serve like persimmon and yam croquette.

Winter (December-February): December offers warm local dishes such as handmade konjac and hearty regional meals, perfect for cold days.