Discover the Rich Heritage of Black Rice and Craft in the Heart of Nature
Nestled along National Route 35 in the scenic town of Yamauchi, this roadside station lies at the gateway to the majestic Kurokami Mountain Prefectural Natural Park—known locally as Hizen Yamasaki—where legends of dragon slaying echo through ancient forests and rolling hills. More than a rest stop, Yamauchi serves as a vibrant cultural crossroads, celebrating the region’s deep connection to nature, tradition, and local craftsmanship.
Visitors are drawn to its standout offerings, most notably the famed black rice—a heritage grain rich in anthocyanin, prized for its health benefits and earthy flavor. Enjoy it in unique forms like black rice bread, noodles, and even seasonal soft serve. The station also features a hands-on pottery experience, a cozy café serving fresh egg sandwiches and picnic-style meals, and a well-stocked market showcasing regional produce, tea, and handmade ceramics. With easy access from the Takeo North IC on the Nagasaki Expressway, it’s the perfect stop for travelers seeking authentic flavor, natural beauty, and cultural discovery.
Why Visit
Visit Yamauchi roadside station to experience the only place in the region where you can sample authentic black rice products made from ancient heirloom varieties grown in the fertile soil of the Kurokami Mountain area. Try the signature black rice soft cream or the savory black rice ramen, both unique to this location. The station also offers hands-on pottery experiences using local clay, connecting visitors directly to the town’s centuries-old ceramic heritage.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Yamauchi roadside station, where fresh, seasonal dishes and unique black rice treats await.
Black Rice Soft Cream
黒米ソフトクリーム
Specialty
Traditional Japanese soft cream made with black rice and ginger
A unique dessert featuring the rich, earthy flavor of black rice combined with a hint of ginger, offering a refreshing and healthy treat.
Shopping Highlights
Discover authentic regional crafts and farm-fresh goods at Yamauchi roadside station’s vibrant market.
Egg Sandwich and Bento 'Picnic'
たまごサンドとお弁当「picnic」
A casual food stall offering freshly made egg sandwiches and bento boxes with local ingredients
Products
Must-Try Item
Egg Sandwich
Featured Products
Explore signature products like black rice, ancient grain snacks, and handcrafted pottery from local artisans.
Black Rice Bread
黒米パン
Artisan bread made from ancient black rice, rich in natural anthocyanins and known for its health benefits
Black Rice Noodles
黒米めん
Noodles crafted from black rice flour, offering a unique texture and deep flavor with natural antioxidants
Black Rice Rice Balls
黒米おはぎ
Traditional Japanese rice balls made with nutritious black rice, sweet and naturally colored
Ancient Rice
古代米
An heirloom variety of rice known as 'black rice,' rich in anthocyanins and believed to promote skin health and vitality
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and a visitor information center at Yamauchi roadside station.
Parking
Parking area available for visitors.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Restroom
Public toilets available for visitors.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Information Center
Provides road information, nearby 'Michi no Eki' details, tourism information, medical information, and weather updates. Information is provided via maps, flyers, bulletin boards, and TV.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Craft Experience Corner
Offers a pottery experience where visitors can try traditional local crafts.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Baby Care Facility
Facility designed for infants and young children, including baby care amenities.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi service available for visitors.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
ATM
Automated teller machine available for visitors.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Pet Area
Designated area for pets, though specific details are not provided.
Inside the 'Kurokami no Sato' area
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on experiences such as pottery workshops and seasonal events throughout the year.
Pottery Experience
楽焼体験コーナー
Participants will get hands-on experience in traditional pottery making using local clay, shaping and crafting their own ceramic pieces.
Duration
60 min
Autumn Harvest Festival
道の駅秋の収穫祭
Join the autumn harvest festival featuring local produce, traditional food stalls, and cultural performances celebrating the season's bounty.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; check weather conditions before attending
Black Rice Kiln Opening
黒髪山秋の窯開き
Experience the traditional opening of the kiln during autumn, where local artisans showcase fired ceramics and share the history of the craft.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest season to enjoy fresh local produce and special events at Yamauchi roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the full range of black rice products at the shop, as popular items like black rice bread and black rice ramen are often sold out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the pottery experience corner between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM on weekends to participate in a hands-on ceramic workshop using locally fired clay from the town’s kilns.
- Weekend Special: On the first Saturday of November, join the autumn harvest festival at Yamauchi, where limited-edition black rice rice balls and seasonal roasted sweet potatoes are sold exclusively at the roadside station.
- Best Food Timing: Order the black rice soft serve from the café between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM on weekdays, as it is freshly made and the most consistent in quality during this window.
- Information Advantage: Use the information corner between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM to pick up the latest printed guide on the Yatsugatake Nature Park hiking trails, which includes seasonal flower and wildlife spotting tips.
- Unique Product Tip: Purchase the black rice noodles directly from the counter at the shop before 11:00 AM on weekdays, as they are prepared fresh daily and not restocked after that time.
- Event Planning: Check the event bulletin board at the information corner in early November to reserve a spot at the Black Rice Kiln Opening event, which requires advance registration and has limited seating.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May): Visit during the Spring Hono Hono Festival in April to enjoy local crafts and seasonal produce.
Summer (June-August): Experience the summer festival and scenic views at the nearby Kurokami Mountain Prefectural Natural Park.
Autumn (September-November): Attend the Autumn Harvest Festival in November and the Kurokami Mountain Kiln Opening.
Winter (December-January): Limited access due to closure from December 31 to January 3; not ideal for visiting.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area with a pottery experience, baby facilities, and stroller-friendly paths. Kid-friendly food options include black rice soft serve. Educational and interactive elements enhance the experience for children.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of local specialties, especially black rice products like bread, noodles, and mochi. Fresh vegetables, tea, and artisanal goods are available. The picnic shop offers unique, high-quality food items.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, parking, and a quiet location near nature. No designated overnight parking policy is listed. Facilities are functional but lack dedicated camping amenities or overnight comfort features.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the scenic Kurokami Mountain Prefectural Natural Park with panoramic views. Offers a scenic viewpoint and seasonal beauty. The natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.