Savor the Essence of Rural Japan at Yamato Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 263 and bordered by the serene Kase River, Yamato Roadside Station lies at the heart of Saga Prefecture, where lush greenery, flowing water, and time-honored traditions converge. More than a mere rest stop, this vibrant hub offers travelers a true taste of local life, blending natural beauty with authentic regional flavors.
At the heart of the experience is Yamato’s celebrated dried persimmons, a specialty of the historic Matsubae district known for its ideal climate for cultivation. Visitors can enjoy fresh, frozen, and creatively crafted treats like persimmon soft serve and a bold rum-infused persimmon ice cream. The on-site bakery, Persimmon Pashimon, crafts unique pastries using local produce, while the adjacent auto-camping site invites guests to unwind under the stars. With free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and a range of local information services, Yamato is the perfect destination for discovery and relaxation.
Why Visit
Visit Yamato roadside station to experience the only place in the region where you can taste authentic persimmon ice cream made from locally dried persimmons, including the unique rum-dipped persimmon soft serve crafted from fruit sourced exclusively from the historic Matsubae district. Here, you’ll also find the only commercially available dried persimmon vinegar, aged for 180 days in the same area known for its ideal climate for persimmon cultivation. These are not just products—they’re edible heritage, available nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Yamato roadside station, where seasonal specialties and handmade treats await.
Persimmon Soft Cream Shop
ぱーしもん
Specialty
Specialty soft cream made with dried persimmons from the Matsubae region
A unique soft cream shop offering innovative treats featuring locally sourced dried persimmons, including signature flavors like persimmon and rum-infused soft cream. Located within the Soyo Kazekan facility, it provides a delightful, refreshing experience with a focus on seasonal and regional ingredients.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional crafts and fresh produce at Yamato's vibrant marketplace.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A direct sales market offering fresh local produce from the Matsubae region and surrounding areas.
Products
Must-Try Item
Matsubae Rice
Bakery
パン工房
A dedicated bakery specializing in handmade breads using locally grown vegetable purees and regional ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Vegetable Puree Bread
Featured Products
Experience signature items like dried persimmons, persimmon vinegar, and creative treats crafted from local harvests.
Sticks of Dried Persimmon
スティックほし柿
Conveniently cut dried persimmons from the Matsubae region, designed for easy snacking and ideal for tea time.
Persimmon Vinegar
柿酢
A premium vinegar made from astringent persimmons fermented and aged for 180 days in the Matsubae region.
Matsubae Rice
松梅米
High-quality rice cultivated in the pristine natural environment of the Matsubae area in Saga Prefecture.
Frozen Dried Persimmon
冷凍ほし柿
Dried persimmons preserved through freezing, allowing year-round enjoyment of this seasonal delicacy.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with clean restrooms, free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and a convenient parking area.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area available for visitors.
Adjacent to the main facility
Restroom
Public restrooms are available at the roadside station.
Inside the main facility
Information Center
An information corner provides road information, nearby roadside stations, tourism information, medical facility details, and traffic regulations for nearby tunnels and passes.
Inside the soyo-kaze hall
Public Wi-Fi
Free public wireless LAN is available in the soyo-kaze hall.
Inside the soyo-kaze hall
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the roadside station.
Adjacent to the main facility
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for visitors.
Near the main facility
Play Area
A play area is available for children, located near the main facility.
Near the main facility
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the main facility
Insider Tips
Plan visits during off-peak hours and check seasonal offerings for the best local experiences.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to secure the last of the day’s fresh “ベジタブルぱーしもん” bread, which is baked daily and often sells out by 11:30 AM at the bakery counter
- Hidden Gems: Look for the “ラムほし柿ソフト” (Lam Persimmon Soft Cream) at the soft cream shop—this exclusive flavor is only available during the winter months and is made with persimmons soaked in rum, a seasonal specialty not found elsewhere
- Seasonal Special: Visit during the April 16–23 period to see the azaleas in full bloom near the roadside station’s entrance; the flowers are highlighted in the official news updates and are visible from the parking area
- Information Hub: Check the “そよかぜ館” information board daily between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM for real-time updates on the traffic conditions at the Mise Tunnel and Mise Pass, which are frequently updated based on road closures
- Camping Access: Book the auto-camping site online in advance—check-in is only accepted between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, so arrive by 4:00 PM to avoid missing the cutoff time
- Unique Product: Purchase the “スティックほし柿” (Sticks of Dried Persimmon) from the shop counter—they are cut into bite-sized pieces and sold in packs of 10, ideal for sampling or gifting
- Local Specialty: Try the “柿酢” (Persimmon Vinegar) in the shop—this product is made from astringent persimmons fermented for 180 days in the Matsue area, and it’s available year-round in small bottles with detailed origin labeling
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Wild azaleas bloom from late April to early May, coinciding with the Kawa-kami Gorge Spring Festival. Fresh bamboo shoots are available at the farm stand in early spring.
Summer (June-August): The roadside station offers cooling treats like persimmon and rum persimmon soft cream, ideal for hot weather.
Autumn (September-November): The peak season for drying persimmons begins in October, with fresh and frozen persimmon products available.
Winter (December-February): Enjoy frozen persimmon and special winter treats, including rum persimmon ice cream, during the cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly paths, a dedicated baby care room, and a peaceful natural setting. While no play areas are mentioned, the scenic surroundings and soft-serve options with unique local treats provide enjoyable experiences for children.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local specialties including dried persimmon products, unique soft-serve ice creams, and a well-regarded bakery. Fresh local produce and premium items like aged persimmon vinegar enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides a well-maintained auto-campsite with restrooms and vending machines. Overnight parking is allowed with advance reservation, though the site lacks quietness due to nearby road traffic and limited natural isolation.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located beside the scenic Kase River with lush greenery, seasonal flowers like azaleas, and open views of surrounding hills. The natural setting and well-kept grounds offer strong visual appeal and excellent photo opportunities.