Station Kakinoki Mura

Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kakinoki Mura

Nestled in the serene landscape of Minamiboso, Kakinoki Mura is a roadside station that transcends the ordinary, offering travelers a gateway to authentic local life. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, it serves as a vibrant cultural crossroads where nature, tradition, and community converge.

What sets Kakinoki Mura apart is its commitment to celebrating regional heritage through rotating art exhibitions, including the acclaimed Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest, which showcases stunning visuals of Japan’s rural beauty. Visitors can savor locally crafted goods, enjoy seasonal produce from nearby farms, and take part in hands-on experiences that reflect the spirit of the land. More than a pit stop, it’s a destination where every visit tells a story.

Kakinoki Mura stands out as the only roadside station in the region featuring a working farm where visitors can experience the rare practice of milking Jersey cows and sample fresh, small-batch milk ice cream made daily from their rich, creamy milk. Beyond the dairy, the station hosts rotating exhibitions of award-winning photography from the Dream Road Renaissance Contest, displayed in an intimate, art-inspired space that celebrates local culture and landscape.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the limited daily batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the daily special of locally made fermented soybean paste (nattō), available only during morning hours
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the cultural exchange corner between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM to view rotating exhibitions of award-winning photographs from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest
• Must-Visit Feature: Head to the west-side observation deck at 2:00 PM on weekdays to catch the best light for photography of the nearby rice terraces, which are featured in the current photo exhibition
• Local Product Tip: Purchase the seasonal mountain herb tea from the south counter before 3:00 PM, as it is only restocked once daily and often sells out by early afternoon
• Parking Strategy: Use the west-side parking lot, which is reserved for vehicles with disabled access permits and is less crowded than the main lot during peak hours
• Event Timing: Attend the 1:00 PM guided walk around the heritage garden on the second Saturday of each month, which includes a brief history talk about the site’s traditional farming practices

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing and bamboo shoot harvesting, with fresh shoots available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June–August): July and August offer peak harvests of local vegetables and fruits, with seasonal produce available at roadside station stalls.

Autumn (September–November): October brings chestnut picking and maple leaf viewing, with autumn-themed events at the roadside station.

Winter (December–February): December features seasonal holiday decorations and local craft markets, with warm regional foods available.