Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kunma Suisha no Sato
Nestled along the pristine banks of the Adogawa River in the serene mountains of Minamiboso, Kunma Suisha no Sato is a roadside station that celebrates the timeless charm of traditional Japan. Located just a 30-minute drive from the heart of Tatsuruda City, this vibrant hub blends natural beauty with authentic local culture, offering visitors a rare glimpse into rural life.
What sets Kunma Suisha no Sato apart is its living heritage—the historic waterwheel, still turning with the rhythm of the river, symbolizing the region’s enduring connection to nature. Guests can savor handcrafted soba at "Mother’s Kitchen," explore the craft-filled "Buraatto" market, or participate in hands-on experiences like soba-making and traditional food preparation. With its warm community spirit, scenic views, and deep-rooted traditions, this roadside station offers more than a stop—it delivers a journey into the soul of Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Kunma Suisha no Sato to experience the only roadside station in the region where you can watch a working waterwheel while tasting handmade soba made from locally milled flour at "Kaa-san's Shop." The on-site "Experience Workshop" offers rare hands-on sessions in crafting traditional five-spice rice cakes and konjac, using methods passed down through generations. Surrounded by the pristine waters of the Adogawa River, this mountain retreat is the only place where you can enjoy these authentic, region-specific traditions in such a setting.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kunma Suisha no Sato, where homemade soba and traditional treats await.
Mother's Noodle Shop
かあさんの店
Specialty
Traditional soba noodles made with care by local mothers
A cozy, welcoming restaurant where visitors can enjoy authentic handmade soba noodles in a rustic, homely atmosphere. The shop is known for its warm hospitality and traditional Japanese charm.
Soba Experience Workshop
体験工房 水車の里
Specialty
Hands-on traditional soba making and local food crafting
A hands-on experience space where guests can participate in traditional food preparation such as soba making, gomadare (sesame paste) production, and konjac crafting, all in a scenic waterwheel setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handmade crafts and regional specialties at the roadside station’s vibrant market.
Boutique Market Buraatto
物産館 ぶらっと
A local specialty store offering handmade food products and wooden crafts from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Gomadare (Sesame Paste)
Featured Products
Taste signature items like five-spice pancakes, pickled vegetables, and chewy konjac, crafted with local pride.
Gomadare (Sesame Paste)
五平餅
A traditional local condiment made from roasted sesame and rice flour, known for its rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture.
Pickled Vegetables
お漬物
Locally made pickled vegetables using seasonal produce and traditional fermentation methods.
Konjac Snacks
こんにゃく
Light, chewy konjac snacks made from natural konjac root, available in various flavors.
Wooden Craft Set
木製品
Handcrafted wooden items made from local timber, including utensils and decorative pieces.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy clean restrooms, parking, EV charging, and family-friendly spaces throughout the roadside station.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 3 large vehicles and 50 regular vehicles.
On-site
Restroom
The station has 10 male toilets and 6 female toilets, with a ramp available.
On-site
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
On-site
Information Center
An information corner is available for visitors to get local information and assistance.
On-site
Children's Playground
A children's play area is available on-site, including a park and children's field.
On-site
Nursing Room
A facility for nursing mothers is available, suitable for infants and young children.
On-site
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors.
On-site
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences like soba making and traditional food crafting.
Soba Making Workshop
そば打ち体験
Participants will learn how to make traditional Japanese soba noodles from scratch using local ingredients and traditional techniques.
Duration
60 min
Gohan Mochi Making Workshop
五平餅作り体験
Participants will experience making Gohan Mochi, a traditional rice cake with a savory flavor, using local ingredients and traditional methods.
Duration
60 min
Konjac Making Workshop
こんにゃく作り体験
Participants will learn how to make konjac from scratch, including the process of extracting and shaping the root into edible forms.
Duration
60 min
River Play Experience
川遊び体験
Participants can enjoy playing in the clear waters of the Adogawa River, surrounded by natural scenery and the sound of flowing water.
Duration
120 min
Activity may be canceled during heavy rain or high water levels.
Waterwheel Park Tour
水車の里見学
Participants can walk through the scenic area featuring a traditional waterwheel and enjoy views of the natural landscape and local heritage.
Duration
30 min
Insider Tips
Visit midweek to avoid crowds and enjoy the seasonal charm of the waterwheel and surrounding nature.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at "Kaa-san no Mise" before the lunch rush, as the soba counter closes at 3:30 PM with limited seating and no reservations.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "Buraatto" gift shop between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to find the day’s fresh batch of handmade five-spice rice cakes (gohan no kara) and pickled vegetables, which often sell out by early afternoon.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, attend the 11:00 AM soba-making demonstration at the "Experience Workshop: Watermill Village" to receive a free sample of freshly made soba noodles with dipping sauce.
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the upper lookout platform just after 4:00 PM on weekdays to catch the golden-hour light reflecting off the waterwheel and the surrounding forest without crowds.
- Must-Try Food: Order the "Kaa-san's Soba with Local Dashi" at the food stall between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM when it is freshly served—this is the only time of day the special broth is available.
- Eco-Friendly Tip: Use the EV charging station located near the main parking area between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, as it is only active during operational hours and not accessible after closing.
- Family Experience: Bring children to the "Watermill Village Experience Workshop" at 1:00 PM on weekdays to participate in a hands-on five-spice rice cake (gohan no kara) making session, which runs only during the summer months (April to September).
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Cool mountain air and shaded streams make it ideal for river play and outdoor relaxation.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage peaks in October, and local chestnuts are harvested and sold.
Winter (December–February): Quiet mountain serenity and hot soba at "kaa-san no ten" offer cozy seasonal charm.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
A dedicated children's playground, interactive体验 activities like soba making, and ample restrooms with baby facilities make it highly family-friendly. Stroller access and safe, open spaces enhance accessibility for young families.
Food Lover Review
Features a dedicated soba shop and a well-stocked gift shop offering local specialties like gohei mochi, pickled vegetables, and konjac. Fresh, handcrafted products and seasonal ingredients elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Offers basic facilities including restrooms and vending machines. While parking is available for 50 regular vehicles, there is no official overnight camping policy. The area is quiet but not designated for overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the clear Adago River with a traditional waterwheel, the site offers serene natural views and a picturesque mountain setting. Seasonal changes and scenic viewpoints enhance its visual appeal.