Discover the Heart of Local Craft and Nature at Hosoi
Nestled in the serene countryside of Minamiboso, Hosoi roadside station offers a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and artisanal traditions. Surrounded by rolling fields and whispering forests, this charming stop is more than just a place to refuel—it’s a celebration of local flavor, craftsmanship, and community spirit.
Visitors are welcomed by a bustling market featuring seasonal produce, handcrafted goods, and authentic regional specialties like fresh dairy products and traditional rice crackers. The station also hosts rotating cultural events and workshops, allowing travelers to connect deeply with local life. With its warm atmosphere, scenic views, and commitment to sustainability, Hosoi is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Hosoi roadside station is home to the region’s only on-site dairy farm, where visitors can watch Jersey cows graze and sample fresh, small-batch milk ice cream made daily from their rich, creamy milk. Just steps away, the seasonal roadside market features hand-picked mountain vegetables and wild herbs foraged from the surrounding highland slopes—ingredients used in the station’s signature yakizakana (grilled fish) dish, available only here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Hosoi roadside station.
Hosoi Kitchen
細入キッチン
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering traditional regional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal.
Forest Cafe
森カフェ
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries
A quiet, nature-inspired café serving handcrafted coffee and freshly baked goods. The interior features wooden elements and greenery, creating a peaceful retreat.
Mountain Delight Food Stall
山の幸屋
Specialty
Quick street food with local flavors
A lively food stall offering fast, flavorful meals made with regional ingredients. Ideal for a quick bite while exploring the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional goods at Hosoi roadside station.
Local Farmers Market
地元農産物市場
A market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown by local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Organic Strawberries
Hosoi Bakery
細入ベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using traditional methods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hosoi Sourdough Loaf
Craft & Souvenirs
工芸品とお土産
A shop offering handmade crafts and unique souvenirs from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved Wooden Spoon
Mountain Dairy Shop
山の乳製品店
A shop specializing in locally produced dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.
Products
Must-Try Item
Aged Mountain Cheese
Hosoi Alcohol Store
細入酒販店
A specialty store offering regional alcoholic beverages including sake and local craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hosoi Premium Sake
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties and seasonal treats from Hosoi roadside station.
Hosoi Wild Herb Salt
細入山のハーブ塩
A unique blend of sea salt and wild herbs harvested from the local mountains.
Mountain Mushroom Dried Mix
山の茸乾燥ミックス
A mix of dried wild mushrooms collected from the surrounding forests.
Hosoi Honey Jar
細入はちみつ
Pure, raw honey harvested from local wildflowers.
Forest Herbal Tea Pack
森のハーブティー詰め合わせ
A curated selection of herbal teas made from locally foraged plants.
Handmade Wooden Spoon
手作り木のスプーン
A beautifully crafted wooden spoon made by local artisans.
Insider Tips
Unlock local secrets and smart travel advice for Hosoi roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a fresh loaf of the bakery’s signature milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only baked once daily
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the limited-edition seasonal pickled vegetables, available only from mid-April to early June and sold in small glass jars
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the farmer’s market stall between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM to sample and purchase handmade tofu from a local producer using traditional methods
- Best Photo Spot: Position yourself at the southern edge of the parking lot just after 4:00 PM on weekdays to capture the sun setting behind the wind turbines while the roadside station lights are still off
- Local Product Must-Try: Purchase the “Hosoi Forest Blend” coffee at the café counter—only available in 200g bags and made from beans sourced from a nearby cooperative farm
- Off-Peak Shopping: Visit the gift shop between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM on weekdays to browse the full selection of handmade soap and bath salts, as the shop restocks only once per week on Mondays
- Family-Friendly Perk: Use the children’s activity corner near the restrooms between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM on Saturdays for free craft sessions with local materials, including recycled paper and natural dyes
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Fresh watermelons are harvested from July to August and sold at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn leaves peak in November, and sweet potatoes are harvested in October.
Winter (December–February): Hot spring baths are available year-round, with special winter events in December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Hosoi roadside station features a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family restrooms. Interactive farm displays and seasonal activities enhance engagement. Kid-friendly meals are available, though limited variety.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local cuisine including fresh mountain vegetables, regional rice dishes, and artisanal snacks. The farmers market provides high-quality seasonal produce. A standout experience with authentic regional flavors.
Car Camping Review
Has clean restrooms and vending machines. Quiet surroundings allow for comfortable overnight stays. Overnight parking is permitted but not clearly marked; no dedicated camping zones.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic mountain valley with panoramic views. Well-maintained viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal changes enhance landscape variety, creating a serene and visually appealing atmosphere.