Station Kaze no Ie

Discover the Heartbeat of Rural Japan

Kaze no Ie is a roadside station nestled in the serene landscapes of Minamiboso, where rolling farmland meets whispering forests. More than a mere pit stop, it stands as a vibrant cultural crossroads, celebrating local heritage through seasonal markets, artisanal crafts, and authentic regional cuisine. Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality and a deep connection to the land.

What sets Kaze no Ie apart is its dynamic calendar of events, including rotating photo exhibitions from the Dream Road Renaissance Contest, showcasing the beauty and spirit of Japan’s countryside. With thoughtfully curated spaces, farm-to-table dining, and panoramic views of the surrounding nature, it offers a true taste of rural life—refreshing, rooted, and unforgettable.

Kaze no Ie stands out as the only roadside station in the region featuring a rotating exhibition of award-winning photography from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest, showcasing the work of local artists in an immersive, gallery-style setting. Visitors can also sample the station’s exclusive handmade cheese, crafted from milk of local heritage breeds and aged in traditional wooden barrels—a flavor profile found nowhere else. Nestled beside a rare, century-old pine forest, the station offers panoramic views of the valley only visible from this elevated vantage point.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the fresh-baked milk bread available at the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the limited-edition "White Rabbit Heritage" seasonal jam, available only during spring months and sold in small batches
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the local craft stall near the information desk features handmade ceramic mugs from the nearby artisan village, often available only during the morning hours
• Photography Tip: Visit the indoor exhibition space between 1:00 and 3:00 PM to view the rotating display of award-winning photos from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest, which changes weekly
• Local Product Highlight: Purchase the exclusive "Kaze no Ie" blend of roasted green tea at the shop counter—only available in the station’s original paper bag with a hand-stamped label
• Parking Strategy: Use the newly expanded parking area behind the main building during peak hours, as the front lot fills quickly and access to the main entrance is restricted when full
• Cultural Insight: Stop by the information desk between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM on weekdays to view a short film about the region’s history, shown daily at that time and narrated in English and Japanese

Spring (March–May): Late March to April brings peak canola flower viewing and bamboo shoot harvesting, with fresh shoots available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June–August): July and August feature outdoor events and local produce like fresh tomatoes and cucumbers at roadside station stalls.

Autumn (September–November): October offers chestnut harvests and seasonal tea tastings from regional farms.

Winter (December–February): December through February highlights winter vegetable markets and hot sake tastings at the roadside station.