Discover the Heart of Chiba’s Countryside at Menuma
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Minamiboso, Menuma is a roadside station where nature, agriculture, and community come together in perfect harmony. Located just off the main highway, it offers travelers a refreshing pause surrounded by rolling farmland and lush forests, making it a true gateway to rural Chiba.
What sets Menuma apart is its vibrant blend of local culture and sustainable agriculture. Visitors can enjoy fresh, seasonal produce from the on-site farm, sample regional delicacies at the gourmet restaurant, and explore a curated selection of artisanal goods. With its commitment to eco-friendly practices and community engagement, Menuma is more than a stop—it’s an experience rooted in authenticity and sustainability.
Why Visit
Menuma roadside station stands out for its exclusive artisanal milk ice cream made from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced from local farms—a rare treat found only here. Visitors can also experience the region’s only dedicated ramen museum, where traditional handmade ramen is crafted using time-honored methods and served in an immersive, heritage-inspired setting. These unique offerings, combined with scenic views of the surrounding rice fields and forested hills, create an authentic, one-of-a-kind destination.
Restaurants & Dining
At Menuma roadside station, savor authentic local flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Menuma Restaurant
めぬまレストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying authentic local flavors.
Menuma Café
めぬまカフェ
Specialty
Homemade pastries and coffee
A charming café serving freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee. The relaxed ambiance makes it ideal for a quiet break or casual meeting.
Menuma Food Stall
めぬまフードスタンド
Specialty
Quick local snacks and street food
A lively food stall offering fast, delicious snacks made with regional ingredients. Perfect for on-the-go dining with a local twist.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional goods at Menuma roadside station’s vibrant market.
Menuma Farmers Market
めぬま農産物直売所
A marketplace showcasing fresh produce and agricultural products from local farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Strawberries
Menuma Bakery
めぬまベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using traditional methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sourdough Loaf
Menuma Craft Shop
めぬまクラフトショップ
A shop offering handmade crafts and local artisan goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Clay Pot
Menuma Meat & Dairy
めぬま肉・乳製品販売所
A shop specializing in locally raised meat and fresh dairy products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local Beef Jerky
Menuma Souvenir Shop
めぬまお土産屋
A gift shop offering regional souvenirs and local specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Menuma Honey Gift Set
Menuma Alcohol Shop
めぬま酒販売所
A shop selling local alcoholic beverages including sake and fruit wine.
Products
Must-Try Item
Strawberry Sake
Featured Products
Sample signature specialties and seasonal treats crafted with local pride at Menuma.
Menuma Organic Strawberries
めぬま有機いちご
Fresh, organically grown strawberries harvested at peak ripeness.
Menuma Sourdough Loaf
めぬま自家製ライ麦パン
A dense, flavorful sourdough bread made with locally milled flour.
Menuma Local Clay Pot
めぬま地元陶器
Handcrafted clay pot made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Menuma Beef Jerky
めぬま牛せんべい
Premium dried beef made from locally raised cattle with natural seasoning.
Menuma Strawberry Sake
めぬまいちごさけ
A sweet, fruity sake infused with fresh strawberries from local farms.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and seating at Menuma roadside station.
Parking Lot
Ample parking space available for visitors and travelers.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and well-maintained restrooms available for public use.
Located near the information center and main building
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Available in the main building and common areas
Information Center
Staffed information desk providing local tourism information, maps, and assistance.
Front entrance of the roadside station
Children's Play Area
Safe and fun play area for children with various playground equipment.
Adjacent to the outdoor plaza
Hot Spring Bath
Traditional Japanese hot spring bath with relaxing soaking facilities.
Located within the wellness building
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles available for rent to explore the surrounding area.
Near the entrance of the station
Nursing Room
Private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care.
Inside the restroom building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Near the parking lot
ATM
Cash machine available for withdrawing money.
Near the entrance of the station
Pet Area
Designated space for pets with water and waste disposal facilities.
Outdoor area near the main parking lot
Activities & Experiences
Participate in hands-on workshops and seasonal events that celebrate Menuma’s culture.
Guided Nature Walk
自然観察ウォーク
Participants will take a guided walk through the natural surroundings, observing local flora and fauna with the help of knowledgeable guides.
Duration
60 min
Seasonal Harvest Experience
季節の収穫体験
Visitors can participate in seasonal harvesting activities such as picking fruits or vegetables, learning about farming practices and enjoying fresh produce.
Duration
90 min
Outdoor activity; check weather conditions before participation.
Local Craft Workshop
地元工芸体験
Attendees will learn traditional local crafts such as pottery or weaving, creating their own handmade souvenirs under expert guidance.
Duration
120 min
Seasonal Flower Viewing
季節の花見
Enjoy the beauty of seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms in spring or autumn leaves in fall, with designated viewing areas and guided commentary.
Duration
45 min
Best enjoyed on clear, sunny days.
Farm Animal Feeding
農場動物エサやり体験
Participants will feed farm animals such as goats, chickens, and rabbits, learning about their care and behavior in a hands-on setting.
Duration
30 min
Seasonal Cooking Class
季節の料理教室
Join a cooking class focused on seasonal ingredients, where participants prepare traditional local dishes using fresh, regional produce.
Duration
150 min
Birdwatching Tour
野鳥観察ツアー
Join a guided birdwatching tour in the surrounding natural areas, with binoculars provided and expert identification of local bird species.
Duration
75 min
Best conducted during early morning hours; bring warm clothing.
Nature Photography Workshop
自然写真体験
Learn photography techniques for capturing nature, including landscapes, plants, and wildlife, with on-site instruction and feedback.
Duration
120 min
Weather-dependent; best on clear days with good lighting.
Insider Tips
Learn local favorites and insider knowledge to make the most of your visit to Menuma roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to catch the fresh batch of milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is only available during this window and sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the daily special of Yamato-style pickled vegetables—these are only stocked on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and are not listed on the menu
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the outdoor food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to sample the Menuma Curry Rice Box, a limited-time offering only available during weekend afternoons
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the western side of the parking lot near the red wooden signpost between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on clear days to capture the best view of the sunset over the rice fields behind the roadside station
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the Menuma Farm Fresh Milk at the dairy counter—this is available only from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily and is not sold in the main shop
- Parking Tip: Use the rear parking area (closest to the farm field) to avoid the main entrance congestion; it provides direct access to the farm activity zone and the picnic tables by the stream
- Activity Timing: Participate in the free soil-planting workshop held every Wednesday and Sunday at 10:30 AM at the community garden plot—registration is required and spaces are limited to 15 people
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in full color from late March to early April, creating a vibrant display at Menuma roadside station.
Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal fruits are harvested and available at the roadside station market.
Autumn (September–November): The roadside station hosts seasonal harvest festivals featuring local produce and traditional crafts.
Winter (December–February): Hot spring baths and winter-themed events draw visitors to Menuma roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Menuma roadside station offers a dedicated children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly food options. Interactive farm activities and educational displays enhance the experience for kids.
Food Lover Review
The station features a variety of restaurants, local specialties like fresh mountain vegetables, and a well-stocked farmers market. Artisanal products and seasonal dishes elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Basic facilities include restrooms and vending machines. While parking is available, the site lacks designated quiet zones and clear overnight camping policies, limiting comfort for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic mountain valley, Menuma offers panoramic views, seasonal landscapes, and multiple photo spots. The natural surroundings and serene atmosphere enhance its visual appeal.