Station Yanbaru Pineapple no Oka Anpo

Discover the Heart of Okinawa’s Sustainable Future

Nestled in the serene coastal village of Anbo within Kunigami District, Yanbaru Pineapple no Oka Anpo is more than a roadside station—it’s a living testament to community-driven innovation. Perched on a gentle hill overlooking the Pacific and framed by the lush expanse of Yanbaru National Park, this vibrant hub blends nature, culture, and sustainable enterprise. Visitors are welcomed into a space where every element—from the locally sourced cuisine to the eco-conscious design—reflects a deep respect for the land and its people.

At Yanbaru Pineapple no Oka Anpo, experience the harmony of tradition and modernity. Savor unique dishes like the famed pineapple pork “soboro” bento, crafted from pigs fed on surplus pineapples, or delight in handmade pineapple cakes made from fruit that might otherwise go to waste. Explore interactive spaces including a woodworking studio using native timber, a tranquil observation tower for spotting the endangered Yanbaru Kuiina, and a rooftop swing offering panoramic views of sea and forest. With a fully equipped coworking space, free Wi-Fi, and a campsite with shower facilities, it’s a destination where travelers, remote workers, and nature lovers all find their place.

Visit Yanbaru Pineapple no Oka Anpo to experience the only roadside station in Okinawa where you can savor a so-called "soboro set meal" made from the rare "pineapple-fed pig" — a locally raised pork variety known for its rich, buttery texture. This unique dish transforms what was once underutilized shoulder meat into a flavorful, sweet-tangy stew served over rice. Equally distinctive is the on-site pineapple cake, crafted exclusively from surplus and non-marketable pineapple rejected due to size or shape, turning waste into a beloved, naturally sweet dessert. These are not just menu items — they are part of a local sustainability cycle that transforms regional surplus into culinary innovation.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to secure a spot at the rooftop swing, which is most popular during the first hour of opening when the view is uncrowded and the wind is gentle.

• Hidden Gems: Check the "Island Corner" section in the gift shop, where each island has its own dedicated display table featuring unique local crafts, food, and souvenirs not found elsewhere in the shop.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the woodcraft workshop between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to observe or participate in the hands-on "Hontou Akahige Birdhouse" experience, a seasonal activity only offered during weekends.

• Food & Drink Tip: Order the pineapple cake at the café "Mira Saku" before 12:00 PM, as it is freshly baked daily and often sells out by early afternoon.

• Access Tip: Use the free Wi-Fi in the co-working space to access the official facility map PDF, which includes detailed floor plans and location markers for all facilities including the observatory, picnic area, and charging stations.

• Shower & Laundry Tip: If using the shower room, arrive before 3:00 PM to guarantee availability, as the facility closes at 3:45 PM and the last user must finish by then.

• Nature Observation Tip: Visit the observation tower between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to observe the Yanbaru Kinoa, a protected bird species, which is most active in the early morning hours near the forest edge.

Spring (March–May): Peak season for pineapple harvest preparations; enjoy fresh pineapple desserts and seasonal farm-to-table meals.

Summer (June–August): Best for pineapple picking and summer-themed events; visit the rooftop swing with ocean views.

Autumn (September–November): Ideal for exploring the observation tower and enjoying local produce; cooler weather enhances outdoor experiences.

Winter (December–February): Visit during quiet months for relaxed sightseeing; the starlit night sky offers exceptional stargazing.