Discover the Heart of Shiga’s Natural Heritage
Konze no Sato Rittou is a welcoming roadside station nestled in the serene embrace of the Kinsho Mountain forest in Ritto City, Shiga Prefecture. Set along the main route of the Kurotō Shikagawa Line, it serves as a vibrant gateway to the region’s lush landscapes, rich history, and authentic local culture. More than just a pit stop, this roadside station is a celebration of nature, community, and tradition.
Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities—enjoy a relaxing soak in the seasonal foot bath, play a round at the Japan Ground Golf Association-certified 24-hole course, or explore nearby gems like the Kinkakuji Temple and the scenic Kyuhyo Falls. The on-site restaurant offers hearty local favorites like shishi don and konchan korokke, while the shop features artisanal fig jam and refreshing fig soft-serve—perfect souvenirs of your journey.
Why Visit
Konze no Sato Rittou stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering authentic dried fig jam and fig soft cream, made exclusively from locally grown, sun-ripened figs. Visitors can also savor the signature shishi don, a hearty dish featuring grilled wild boar from nearby forests, available only here. Nestled in the lush Kinsaka mountain range, it serves as the gateway to the area’s only certified ground golf course, blending outdoor adventure with local flavor.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Konze no Sato Rittou roadside station, where hearty meals and sweet treats await.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine with regional specialties
A cozy dining spot located within the roadside station, offering a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy traditional local dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients. The restaurant is ideal for a quick meal or a leisurely break during a journey.
Shopping Highlights
Discover authentic regional goods and handmade crafts at Konze no Sato Rittou roadside station’s welcoming shop.
Local Products Store
物産館
A retail shop specializing in locally produced goods and regional specialties from Rittou City and surrounding areas.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fig Jam
Fig Specialty Shop
いちじくジャム
A dedicated shop offering a variety of fig-based products, including jams and frozen desserts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fig Soft Cream
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature items like fig jam and soft cream, crafted from local harvests.
Fig Jam
いちじくジャム
A rich, smooth jam made from locally grown figs, perfect for spreading on bread or using in desserts.
Fig Soft Cream
いちじくソフトクリーム
A refreshing frozen dessert made with fresh figs, offering a sweet and natural flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including parking, restrooms, and 24-hour access at Konze no Sato Rittou roadside station.
Parking Lot
33 parking spaces available, including 2 for large vehicles, 29 for regular vehicles, and 2 designated for people with disabilities.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restrooms
8 male toilets and 7 female toilets available. Includes 2 accessible toilets for people with disabilities.
Inside the roadside station
Information Center
Provides information about local tourism, routes, and nearby attractions in Ritto City and surrounding areas.
Inside the roadside station
Foot Bath
Free foot bath available for hikers to relax. Currently temporarily closed.
Near the main facility
Grass Golf Course
Officially recognized by the Japan Ground Golf Association. Features 3 courses with 24 holes, suitable for beginners to advanced players. Offers varied terrain and scenic views.
On-site
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and explore nearby hidden gems like the serene Nine-Storey Falls and forest trails.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-edition fig jam made from locally grown figs, available only during the summer harvest season (July–August)
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, the restaurant offers a special “Kon-chan Potato Croquette Set” that includes a free small cup of fig soft serve—only available between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM
- Best Dining Time: Order the shishi bowl (shishi don) at 11:30 AM on weekdays to avoid the lunch rush and ensure the dish is served with freshly grilled meat
- Unique Facility Access: Use the foot bath area at the back of the building, located near the forest trail entrance, as it is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check for seasonal closures)
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the western side of the parking lot near the large pine tree to capture the full view of the Kinko Mountain range with the sun setting behind it—ideal between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM in autumn
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the “Rittou Forest Blend” tea at the shop counter—this exclusive blend is made from wild herbs collected in the nearby Kinko Mountain forest and is only available in limited quantities each month
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and canola flower viewing (late March–April).
Summer (June–August): Ideal for hiking in the forested金勝山 area and enjoying the foot bath (when open).
Autumn (September–November): Best for exploring the nearby 森遊館 and scenic views of the changing leaves.
Winter (December–February): Quiet time with seasonal ichijiku jam and cozy dining at the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area with a foot bath (currently closed), stroller-friendly paths, and family-oriented food like kotatsu-style meals. The nearby nature center and forest trails provide educational outdoor experiences for children.
Food Lover Review
Features a restaurant with unique local dishes like shishidon and konchan croquette. The souvenir shop sells authentic regional products such as fig jam and fig soft cream, offering high-quality, locally sourced food options.
Car Camping Review
Provides 33 parking spaces, clean restrooms, and 24-hour access. While no official overnight parking policy is stated, the quiet forest setting and nearby facilities support short-term stays with basic comfort.
Scenic Beauty Review
Set in the scenic Kinsho Mountains forest with panoramic views. Offers multiple photo spots including the surrounding natural landscape, seasonal beauty, and peaceful atmosphere ideal for nature appreciation.