Discover the Serenity of Nature and Tradition at Yamakuni
Nestled along National Route 212 in the heart of Chuo City, Yamakuni roadside station is a tranquil gateway to the lush landscapes and cultural heritage of Oita Prefecture. Designed around the themes of clear streams, vibrant greenery, and the magical glow of fireflies, the station features firefly-inspired streetlamps and elegant stained glass that capture the essence of the region’s natural beauty.
More than a rest stop, Yamakuni offers a true local experience. Explore the well-curated shop featuring regional specialties like black pork and amazake, and savor signature dishes such as the savory Tare Chicken Set or the beloved Genryu Fried Chicken Set—both served with half-udon or half-soba and two side dishes. With seasonal events like the Firefly Festival in early June and the Genryu Summer Festival, Yamakuni invites travelers to connect with nature, taste authentic flavors, and embrace the rhythm of rural life.
Why Visit
Yamakuni roadside station stands out for its unique celebration of the region’s famed fireflies, with illuminated lanterns and stained glass shaped like glowing insects lining the path. More than just ambiance, it’s home to the only local shop offering kome no tane—a rare, locally crafted rice syrup made from heirloom rice varieties. Visitors can also savor the signature Tare Tsuki Chicken Donburi, a tender, house-marinated chicken dish with a sweet-savory glaze, served with half-udon or half-soba—only available here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Yamakuni roadside station, where fresh, regional dishes are crafted with care.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Local specialty chicken dishes with a sweet and savory sauce
A cozy dining spot offering traditional Japanese-style meals with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, particularly premium domestic herb chickens. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, ideal for a relaxed meal during a road trip.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal goods at the roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Local Products Store
物産売店
A retail shop offering a wide range of locally produced goods from Yamakuni, including regional specialties and agricultural products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Black pork
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like black pork and sweet sake, crafted from Yamakuni’s rich agricultural heritage.
Sweet Rice Wine
甘酒
A traditional Japanese fermented rice drink known for its mild sweetness and health benefits. Made from locally sourced rice and popular as a nutritious beverage.
Black Pork
黒豚
Premium quality black pork raised in the region, known for its rich flavor and tender texture. A flagship product of Yamakuni's agricultural industry.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and information kiosks for a smooth journey.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area available for visitors.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
An information corner provides road conditions, nearby roadside station details, disaster information, tourism information, medical information, and other related updates. Information is available from 10:00 to 17:30.
Inside the交流 center (Exchange Center)
Restaurant
A restaurant is available, open from 11:00 to 14:30 with a last order at 14:00. It offers popular dishes such as 'Tare-chicken set' and 'Genryu Karaage set' using locally sourced herbs chicken.
On-site
Local Products Store
A store sells local specialty products, including amazake, black pork, and other 'Nakatsu 6th Industry Recommended Products'.
On-site
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available in the information center area, open from 10:00 to 17:30.
Inside the exchange center
Insider Tips
Visit during the summer festival to witness glowing fireflies and enjoy special local treats.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM to access the information corner in the交流センター (exchange center) before it closes at 5:30 PM, as this is the only place to get real-time updates on road conditions, nearby road stations, and disaster alerts
- Hidden Gems: Visit the gift shop between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the limited-time "nakatsu 6th Industry Recommended Products" including locally made sweet rice wine (amazake) and black pork items, which often sell out by midday
- Weekend Special: On weekends, head to the restaurant between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to order the "Tare-tsuki Chicken Set" or "Genryu Karaage Set" before the last order at 2:00 PM, as these are the most popular items and frequently run out by 1:30 PM
- Best Time to Visit the Information Corner: Go to the information corner between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to speak directly with staff who can provide printed maps and event flyers for the upcoming Hata-ru Matsuri (Firefly Festival) in early June
- Nearby Hidden Attraction: Walk 1 minute from the roadside station to the Nakamo Hot Spring, a local bathing facility not listed on the main website but frequently promoted through the station’s bulletin board
- Avoid Crowds at the Restaurant: Order your meal at the restaurant counter by 11:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat, as the dining area fills up quickly after lunch rush begins at 11:00 AM
- Plan for Events: Check the bulletin board for updates on the "Yamakuni Genryu Summer Festival" at Kōya Yamakuni (4 minutes by car), which takes place in mid-August and features local food stalls and live music, and plan your visit accordingly to experience the full event atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late April to early May offers peak viewing of fireflies during the early summer festival.
Summer (June-August): Firefly viewing begins in early June, with the summer festival held mid-August at Coa Yamakuni.
Autumn (September-November): The Kappa Festival takes place in mid-September at Kameoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Winter (December-February): No specific seasonal events mentioned; visit during quiet months for peaceful access.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Yamakuni roadside station offers a clean, stroller-friendly layout and accessible restrooms. While no dedicated play area or baby facilities are listed, the scenic setting and seasonal events like the firefly festival enhance family appeal.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features quality local cuisine including grilled chicken with sweet sauce and specialty dishes using regional ingredients like black pork and miso. Fresh produce and artisanal goods are available in the shop.
Car Camping Review
Parking is available with restrooms and vending machines, but no designated overnight camping area or camping facilities are provided. The site lacks quiet zones suitable for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Set along a clear stream with lush greenery and fireflies in summer, Yamakuni offers serene natural beauty. The firefly-themed lighting and seasonal events enhance the scenic atmosphere and photo opportunities.