Discover the Heart of the Japanese Countryside
Kajyu Koen Ashigakubo is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene hills of Yokoze Town, Saitama Prefecture, serving as a welcoming gateway to the scenic beauty of the Kiso Mountains and the famed historic region of Kiso. Surrounded by lush forests and bordered by a clear, flowing river, this destination offers a rare blend of natural tranquility and authentic rural charm.
Visitors are invited to savor seasonal produce at the fresh farmers’ market, sample regional specialties like hearty Kiso-style ramen, and enjoy handmade treats at the on-site café. The station’s riverside barbecue area invites families and friends to gather, while the nearby riverbank provides a peaceful retreat for relaxation and quiet reflection. With accessible facilities, eco-friendly amenities, and a strong connection to local culture, Kajyu Koen Ashigakubo is more than a stop—it’s an experience rooted in the rhythm of the land.
Why Visit
Kajyu Koen Ashigakubo stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can enjoy freshly harvested chestnuts roasted on-site using traditional methods, a rare treat available only during the autumn harvest season. Home to the only on-site chestnut ice cream made from local, hand-picked chestnuts, it offers a flavor experience unique to this location. With direct access to a clear, flowing stream ideal for river play, it’s a rare spot where visitors can combine rural food culture with natural immersion—all within easy reach of the famed Takayama Pass.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the rich flavors of the region at Kajyu Koen Ashigakubo roadside station, where local specialties and hearty meals await.
Canteen
食堂
Specialty
Traditional Saitama-style cuisine with hearty portions
A cozy dining spot offering generous servings of local specialties, perfect for a satisfying meal after exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Waterfront Cafe
水辺のカフェ
Specialty
Popular soft cream and coffee with scenic river views
A relaxed café located by the clear stream, offering a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can enjoy refreshing drinks and light snacks while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh, seasonal produce and unique local crafts at the roadside station’s vibrant shops and markets.
Farmers Market
直売所
Daily fresh produce and seasonal fruits delivered directly from local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested strawberries
Iwazakura Hall
いわざくら館
Selling self-made processed products made with care and local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Strawberry jam
BBQ Area
手ぶらでバーベキュー
A BBQ area located beside the clear stream, where visitors can enjoy grilling with local vegetables and meat.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local meat and vegetable BBQ set
Featured Products
Explore signature goods like handmade preserves and regional fruits, all made with care from the mountains’ bounty.
Strawberry Jam
いちごジャム
Made from locally grown strawberries, this jam captures the sweet, fresh flavor of summer harvests.
Dried Fruit Snack Mix
ドライフルーツミックス
A blend of sun-dried local fruits, perfect as a healthy and tasty snack.
Herbal Tea Blend
ハーブティー
A soothing blend of locally sourced herbs, ideal for relaxation and wellness.
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Pure honey harvested from bees in the surrounding mountainous region, with a rich, natural flavor.
Fresh Strawberries
新鮮いちご
Vibrant, ripe strawberries harvested daily from nearby farms, known for their sweetness and juiciness.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, EV charging, and accessible spaces for a comfortable visit.
Parking Lot
Two parking areas are available: Parking Lot 1 has 83 standard spaces (3 for disabled users), 5 large vehicle spaces, and space for about 30 motorcycles. Parking Lot 2 has 50 standard spaces and space for about 30 motorcycles.
Near the roadside station
Toilet
Available for men and women, with accessible toilets and diaper changing tables.
Inside the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Located near the nearby tourist information center.
Near the tourist information center
Riverbank
A clear stream is located right beside the roadside station, ideal for river activities.
Right beside the roadside station
Rental Wheelchair
One wheelchair is available for rent.
Inside the roadside station
Tourist Information Center
Located near the EV charging station, providing local tourism information.
Near the EV charging station
Free Wi-Fi
Available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station
ATM
Available at the nearby tourist information center.
Near the tourist information center
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local festivals and check opening times for special workshops and seasonal offerings.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to catch the daily fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery, which is sold out by 11:00 AM and not restocked
- Hidden Gems: At the iwaZakura hall, look for the limited-edition seasonal jam made from locally grown blackberries, available only during the summer months and sold exclusively at the counter near the entrance
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the outdoor food truck area near the riverbank between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, where the "Soba Festival Special" stall offers handmade soba noodles with local miso broth
- Best River Access: Go to the riverbank just south of the main parking lot after 10:00 AM to avoid midday sun and use the shaded benches and picnic tables, which are not available near the main entrance
- Cashless Convenience: Use PayPay at the direct sales stand to receive a 5% discount on all fresh produce, including the seasonal strawberries and peaches sold during summer
- Bike-Friendly Tip: If arriving by bicycle, use the bike parking area near the water's edge—this spot provides direct access to the river for wading and is closer to the river-side café than the main parking areas
- Quiet Escape: For a peaceful break away from crowds, head to the small forested area behind the restroom building, where there are quiet wooden benches and a clear view of the flowing stream
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with peak season for local produce from April.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for river-side BBQ at the clear stream, with summer vegetables featured in the cafeteria.
Autumn (September–November): Soba harvest and the annual Soba Festival held in October.
Winter (December–February): Cozy indoor dining with seasonal root vegetables and warming local dishes.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly food options. Features a riverside playground, restrooms with changing tables, and engaging natural surroundings for kids.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse local cuisine including regional specialties, fresh produce from local farmers, and high-quality artisanal products. Features multiple dining options including a dedicated restaurant and café.
Car Camping Review
Has ample parking, clean restrooms, and vending machines. Offers a quiet riverside location ideal for overnight stays, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views of a flowing stream and lush mountainous landscapes. Offers beautiful photo opportunities and a serene, natural atmosphere year-round.