Discover Nature’s Hidden Gem in the Heart of Rural Japan
Koigakubo roadside station lies nestled within the serene landscapes of Nishimi City, set against the backdrop of the renowned Koigakubo Wetland—a haven for seasonal wildflowers and native wildlife. More than a mere stopover, it’s a vibrant cultural gateway where local heritage meets sustainable tourism, offering visitors an immersive experience in the rhythms of rural life.
Surrounded by rolling farmland and ancient woodlands, the station highlights regional specialties like fresh mountain vegetables, handmade rice flour bread, and traditional rice flour pizza. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby wetland, visit the charming Koi Koi Shrine, or join seasonal events such as the “Takemoto Rice Planting Festival.” With year-round access and a warm, community-centered atmosphere, Koigakubo invites travelers to slow down, reconnect, and savor the quiet beauty of Japan’s countryside.
Why Visit
Visit Koigakubo roadside station to experience the unique blend of wetland ecology and local heritage. Home to the only rice flour mill open to visitors in the region, it offers hands-on米粉ピザ体験 (rice flour pizza making) using freshly milled local rice—impossible to replicate elsewhere. The station also hosts the only public display of the rare "Koi no Ko" wetland flowers, including the endangered Tokisou and Hitsuji-gusa, visible only from April to June. This is not just a stop—it’s a living connection to the heart of the Koi ga Kobo marshland.
Restaurants & Dining
At Koigakubo roadside station, savor fresh local flavors with seasonal dishes and handmade treats.
Mountain Color Pavilion
レストラン 山野彩館
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 inviting, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal surrounded by nature.
Komekoubou Fresh Rice Flour Bread
焼きたて米粉パン こめ工房
Specialty
Freshly baked rice flour bread
A charming café specializing in soft, freshly baked rice flour bread. The warm, rustic ambiance makes it ideal for a relaxed break with friends or family.
Rice Flour Pizza Experience
米粉ピザ体験
Specialty
Interactive rice flour pizza making
A hands-on food stall where visitors can create their own rice flour pizzas using fresh ingredients. The lively, interactive atmosphere encourages family participation and fun.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional goods at Koigakubo's charming retail spaces.
Farmers Market & Vegetable Market
売店・野菜市場
A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, seasonal vegetables, and farm-fresh goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Rice Flour Bakery
焼きたて米粉パン こめ工房
A dedicated bakery specializing in rice flour-based baked goods, including bread, pastries, and desserts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rice flour bread
Cultural Learning Hall
文化伝習館
A cultural center offering traditional craft workshops and local art displays.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade pottery
Rice Flour Mill
米粉製粉所
A facility where rice is processed into flour, offering raw and packaged rice flour products for sale.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic rice flour
Featured Products
Try signature items like rice flour delicacies and seasonal harvests from the wetland region.
Koi Koi Rice Flour Bread
こいこい米粉パン
A signature rice flour bread with a soft, delicate texture and subtle sweetness, perfect for snacks or breakfast.
Rice Flour Muffin
米粉マフィン
Moist and tender muffins made from rice flour and fresh seasonal fruits, ideal for a healthy treat.
Rice Flour Pizza Base
米粉ピザ生地
Pre-made rice flour pizza dough ready for baking at home, offering a gluten-free alternative with a light, airy texture.
Local Vegetable Mix
地野菜ミックス
A curated mix of fresh, seasonal vegetables grown in the surrounding region, perfect for cooking or salads.
Rice Flour Pancake Mix
米粉パンケーキミックス
A convenient mix for making fluffy rice flour pancakes at home, ideal for breakfast or dessert.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest areas, clean restrooms, and open green spaces at Koigakubo roadside station.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area for visitors.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Toilets are available at the rest area for visitors.
Near the rest area and shop
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
An information center is available to provide visitors with local information and assistance.
Near the entrance
Play Area
A grassy playground is available for children to enjoy.
On the lawn area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the shop
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for visitors with animals.
Near the lawn area
Activities & Experiences
Join hands-on workshops and seasonal events celebrating local culture and nature.
Wetland Festival
鯉が窪湿原まつり
Participants will enjoy a seasonal festival at the Koi-ganu Marsh, featuring traditional performances, local food, and cultural activities celebrating the natural beauty of the wetland.
Duration
300 min
Rice Flour Pizza Experience
米粉ピザ体験
Participants will learn how to make pizza using rice flour, a local specialty, and enjoy baking their own delicious pizza in a hands-on session.
Duration
60 min
Railway Riding Class for Parents and Children
芸備線 鉄道の乗り方親子教室
Children and parents will learn how to ride the train safely and enjoy a fun, educational experience on the local railway line.
Duration
80 min
Hina Matsuri Fair
ひなまつりフェア
Participants will celebrate the traditional Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) with displays of ornamental dolls, crafts, and special seasonal foods.
Duration
240 min
Cultural Heritage Hall Visit
文化伝習館
Visitors will explore the Cultural Transmission Hall to learn about local traditions, history, and craftsmanship through exhibits and guided presentations.
Duration
90 min
Rice Flour Mill Tour
米粉製粉所
Participants will tour the rice flour mill to see how local rice is processed into flour, gaining insight into traditional food production methods.
Duration
60 min
Flower Viewing at Koi-ganu Marsh
鯉が窪湿原の開花状況
Visitors will enjoy the natural beauty of the Koi-ganu Marsh during peak flowering season, observing native wildflowers such as Sawao-ogura, Tokisou, and Hitsuji-gusa.
Duration
120 min
Best viewed on clear, sunny days
Insider Tips
Visit during spring for wildflower blooms and plan around local festival dates for special experiences.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to purchase the day’s first batch of freshly baked rice flour bread from Komekoubou, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day
- Hidden Gem at the Deli Counter: Ask for the seasonal "Sawao Guruma" pickled vegetable side dish at the deli counter—only available during the peak flowering season of the Koigakubo Marsh from late April to early June
- Weekend Special: On the first Saturday of each month, join the free rice flour pizza making experience at the Pizza Workshop, which requires pre-registration via the Koigakubo website to secure a spot
- Photography Tip: Visit the cultural transmission hall between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM on weekdays to view the rotating display of award-winning photographs from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest, which changes monthly
- Local Event Timing: Attend the "Tetsuji Taiko Rice Planting Festival" on May 3rd from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the nearby Kira Kira Plaza, where you can participate in traditional rice planting demonstrations and enjoy local snacks
- Best Time to Visit the Marsh: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays in June to view the full bloom of the "Sawao Guruma" and "Tokisou" flowers at Koigakubo Marsh, as the viewing path is busiest after noon
- Souvenir Tip: Purchase the limited-edition "Koigakubo Marsh Flower Map" at the shop counter before 3:00 PM on weekends—only 50 copies are released per weekend and they sell out fast
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit during the May 3 "Takemoto Rice Planting Festival" at Koigakubo, featuring traditional drumming and seasonal local produce.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy peak wildflower viewing at Koigakubo Wetland from early June, with species like sawoogura and tokisou in full bloom.
Autumn (September-November): Explore the wetland in late autumn when the scenery turns golden, and sample seasonal rice-based foods at the roadside station.
Winter (December-February): Visit during winter months on non-Thursday days; the wetland office is open, and the area offers quiet, scenic views.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a spacious lawn area, interactive cultural hall, and children's events like the railway classroom. Offers kid-friendly food and stroller-accessible facilities, though no dedicated play area is mentioned.
Food Lover Review
Includes diverse dining options like a restaurant, fresh market, and specialty shops. Offers unique local products such as rice flour pancakes and pizza, with high-quality seasonal produce and artisanal goods.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. Environment is quiet during off-peak hours, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated. Suitable for short stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in the Koigakubo Wetland, it offers stunning natural views, seasonal flower displays, and scenic photo spots. The surrounding landscape and peaceful atmosphere enhance its visual appeal.