Discover the Heart of Kurobe’s Natural Bounty
Nestled along the scenic National Route 8 in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, KOKO Kurobe is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and breathtaking alpine landscapes. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling farmland, this destination celebrates the pure, seasonal flavors of Kurobe’s earth, offering visitors a true taste of local life.
At KOKO Kurobe, every experience centers on the region’s abundant natural gifts. Savor freshly prepared meals using locally grown rice, vegetables, and artisanal products, or explore a thoughtfully curated selection of regional specialties and seasonal treats. With picnic areas, interactive events, and convenient EV charging, it’s the perfect stop to rest, recharge, and connect with the spirit of the mountains.
Why Visit
Visit KOKO Kurobe to experience the region’s only roadside station offering freshly pressed black garlic juice made from locally grown garlic, a rare product unique to this area. Savor the signature Black Garlic Ramen, featuring broth simmered with mountain spring water and hand-pulled noodles, a culinary specialty found nowhere else. The station also hosts seasonal workshops on traditional black garlic fermentation, allowing visitors to learn and taste the process firsthand.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the essence of Kurobe at KOKO Kurobe roadside station, where local ingredients meet seasonal flavors in every dish.
KOKO Kitchen
KOKOキッチン
Specialty
Local ingredients with a focus on seasonal produce from Kurobe
A casual dining restaurant offering a variety of meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Kurobe. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal after exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Forest Café
森カフェ
Specialty
Artisanal coffee and homemade pastries with a nature-inspired ambiance
A cozy café nestled in a forest-like setting, offering a peaceful retreat with handcrafted coffee and freshly baked goods. The atmosphere blends natural elements with modern comfort.
Mountain View Food Stall
山の景色フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick, on-the-go snacks made with local ingredients
A lively food stall offering fast, delicious snacks made with fresh, regional ingredients. Ideal for visitors looking for a quick bite while exploring the station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and fresh produce at KOKO Kurobe roadside station, where every purchase supports regional craftsmanship.
Kurobe Farmers Market
黒部ファーマーズマーケット
A vibrant market featuring fresh, seasonal produce grown in the Kurobe region, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kurobe-grown heirloom tomatoes
Mountain Harvest Bakery
山の恵みベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in breads and pastries made with locally sourced flour, honey, and seasonal ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey & Walnut Loaf
Kurobe Craft & Souvenirs
黒部クラフト＆おみやげ
A shop offering handmade crafts and unique souvenirs made by local artisans, reflecting the natural beauty and culture of Kurobe.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden spoon
Kurobe Local Delights
黒部の味
A general store offering a wide range of local food products, including processed goods, condiments, and ready-to-eat meals.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kurobe Mountain Vegetable Dried Pack
Featured Products
Experience signature specialties like pristine rice and seasonal farm-fresh goods, all crafted from Kurobe’s natural bounty.
Kurobe Rice
黒部米
Premium rice grown in the fertile fields of Kurobe, known for its soft texture and rich flavor.
Kurobe Mountain Vegetable Dried Pack
黒部山菜乾物セット
A collection of dried mountain vegetables harvested from the pristine forests of Kurobe, perfect for soups and stir-fries.
Kurobe Honey
黒部ハチミツ
Pure, raw honey collected from wildflowers in the Kurobe region, known for its floral aroma and smooth taste.
Kurobe Pickled Vegetables
黒部漬物
Authentic pickled vegetables made using traditional methods and local ingredients, offering a tangy and refreshing flavor.
Kurobe Craft Wooden Spoon
黒部クラフト木製スプーン
Hand-carved wooden spoon made from sustainably sourced local wood, ideal for cooking and serving.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities and thoughtful services at KOKO Kurobe roadside station, designed for a comfortable and memorable visit.
Parking
Ample parking space available for visitors.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms for visitors.
Inside the main building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the roadside station.
All areas including outdoor spaces
Information Center
Visitor information desk offering local guides, maps, and event details.
Main entrance area
Play Area
A dedicated children's play area for family visitors.
Near the outdoor seating area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points available for visitors. Service resumed as of October 30, 2025.
Near the parking lot
ATM
Cash machine available for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance
Insider Tips
Learn local insights and practical advice to make the most of your trip to KOKO Kurobe roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where fresh-baked milk bread is released daily and sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the day’s limited batch of local mountain vegetable dumplings, which are only available during peak harvest season
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the outdoor cooking area at 1:00 PM to join the free "Black Mountain Rice Cooking Demonstration" featuring locally grown Kurobe rice
- EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station located near the main entrance—only open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and requires registration via the KOKOくろべ app for priority access
- Seasonal Purchase Alert: Buy the "Autumn Harvest Box" at the retail counter in late October—this limited-time box includes fresh chestnuts, pickled mountain greens, and black rice, available only until November 15
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the edge of the "Forest View Platform" just before sunset (around 5:45 PM in autumn) to capture the full view of the Kurobe Valley with the sun setting behind the mountains
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the "Kurobe Mountain Honey" at the specialty shop counter—only available in 100g jars during the summer months and sold out by late August
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late April, and fresh bamboo shoots arrive at the market in early April.
Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain vegetables peak in July, and cooling treats from local farms are available.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn harvests include chestnuts and sweet potatoes, with seasonal food events in October.
Winter (December–February): Hot sake and seasonal dishes feature local ingredients, with snowscapes around the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a dedicated play area and interactive exhibits for children. Features family-friendly dining options and stroller-accessible paths. Safe, well-maintained layout with clear signage and accessible restrooms.
Food Lover Review
Features a diverse selection of restaurants using local ingredients. Highlights regional specialties like Black Mountain rice and fresh seasonal produce. Farmers market offers high-quality, locally sourced items daily.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. Quiet location with minimal traffic noise. Overnight parking is allowed but not explicitly advertised as a designated campsite.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along National Route 8 with scenic mountain views. Offers multiple photo spots with natural backdrops. Seasonal changes enhance landscape variety, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.