Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kume no Sato
Nestled in the serene countryside of Minamiboso, Kume no Sato is a roadside station where nature, agriculture, and community spirit come together. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it serves as a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. More than just a pit stop, this destination invites travelers to slow down, connect with local life, and savor authentic experiences.
Home to seasonal festivals like the Natural Yam Festival and the Grape Festival, Kume no Sato celebrates the rhythms of the land with fresh produce, hands-on activities, and community events. Visitors can sample local specialties, enjoy farm-to-table meals, and participate in seasonal harvest experiences—from planting sweet potato seedlings to picking ripe strawberries. It’s a place where every visit feels like a celebration of the earth’s bounty.
Why Visit
Kume no Sato stands out as the only roadside station in the region where visitors can taste fresh, hand-harvested mountain yam (natural yam) straight from local farms during the annual Natural Yam Festival. Beyond the seasonal harvests, it’s home to a rare, small-batch black soy sauce made from heirloom beans grown in the surrounding hills—available exclusively here. The station also hosts unique hands-on experiences like sweet potato planting, offering a rare chance to connect with the land.
Activities & Experiences
Participate in seasonal festivals, hands-on farming experiences, and community events at Kume no Sato roadside station.
Sweet Potato Planting Experience
さつまいも苗植付体験
Participants will plant sweet potato seedlings in a designated field, learning about cultivation techniques and enjoying hands-on farming experience.
Duration
60 min
Grape Festival
ぶどうまつり
Enjoy fresh grapes and local products at this seasonal festival featuring tastings, sales, and fun activities for all ages.
Duration
480 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Autumn Harvest & Taste Festival
秋の味覚・収穫祭
Celebrate autumn harvest with local food tastings, seasonal produce sales, and interactive activities at the roadside station.
Duration
360 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Autumn Gratitude Festival
秋の大感謝祭
Join a community celebration featuring local food, crafts, music, and seasonal entertainment to express gratitude for the harvest.
Duration
360 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Summer Gratitude Festival
夏の大感謝祭
A summer celebration with local food, live performances, games, and seasonal activities to enjoy the warmth of the season.
Duration
360 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Spring Gratitude Festival
春の大感謝祭
A springtime festival celebrating the new season with local food, crafts, music, and family-friendly activities.
Duration
360 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Immortal Festival
仙人まつり
A seasonal festival featuring traditional performances, local crafts, and special events celebrating local folklore and culture.
Duration
360 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Natural Yam Festival
自然薯まつり
Celebrate the local natural yam harvest with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and vendor booths selling fresh produce.
Duration
480 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Photography Exhibition
夢街道ルネサンスフォトコンテスト入賞作品展示会
View award-winning photographs from the Dream Street Renaissance Photo Contest, showcasing local landscapes and culture.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest seasons for the freshest produce and best access to special events at Kume no Sato roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to find the limited-edition natural yam (kunugiyam) snacks, available only during the Natural Yam Festival
- Weekend Special: Participate in the sweet potato planting experience on May 25 or June 1, held daily from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the roadside station’s garden plot
- Seasonal Must-Try: Purchase fresh grapes during the Grape Festival (September 2–30) and ask for the “Early Harvest Box” at the main sales tent for the sweetest, juiciest bunches
- Event Timing: Attend the Autumn Appreciation Festival on November 2 from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM to enjoy live local music and sample seasonal chestnuts and pumpkin dishes
- Best Purchase Time: Reserve your grapes online starting July 30, as the online pre-order system opens at 10:00 AM and sells out within two hours
- Photo Opportunity: Walk through the “Dream Road Renaissance” photo exhibition displayed in the main hall to view award-winning regional photography, updated monthly with new entries
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit for the Spring Grand Festival (May 3–6) and the Saint’s Festival on April 27, featuring local produce and seasonal activities.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy the Summer Grand Festival on July 20 and fresh sweet potatoes harvested in late June.
Autumn (September-November): Experience the Grape Festival (September 2–30), Harvest Festival (October 5), and Autumn Grand Festival (November 2).
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal events; check for occasional photo exhibitions and winter market displays.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Kume no Sato offers seasonal harvest experiences like sweet potato planting and interactive events. It features child-friendly activities, stroller-accessible paths, and family-oriented festivals with clear safety measures.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features diverse local foods including seasonal fruits like grapes and strawberries, regional specialties, and fresh produce from local farms, all highlighted during themed festivals.
Car Camping Review
It provides basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines, with ample parking. While not designed as a dedicated campsite, it offers a quiet, clean environment suitable for short overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station is set in a scenic rural landscape with seasonal views, well-maintained pathways, and scenic viewpoints. It offers strong photo opportunities and a peaceful, natural atmosphere year-round.