Station Inobutan Land Susami

Discover the Quirky Charm of Japan’s Pig-Hearted Haven

Inobutan Land Susami is a vibrant roadside station nestled along National Route 42 in Susami, a coastal town blessed with dramatic Pacific views and lush mountain backdrops in the southern reaches of the Kii Peninsula. More than a mere rest stop, it’s the proud home of the whimsical “Inobutan Kingdom,” a fictional nation born from a unique pig-breeding experiment at a local livestock research station. Visitors are greeted by playful memorabilia, vibrant photo panels, and the ever-present spirit of the beloved Inobuta—the pig with a father of wild boar and a mother of domestic pig.

At the heart of the station lies the Inobutan Castle Information Center, offering tourism tips, relocation support, and engaging multimedia displays that bring the kingdom’s story to life. Whether you're exploring nearby attractions like the legendary wave formations at Black Island, strolling through the Folk Song Garden, or catching the annual Inobuta Derby, Inobutan Land Susami serves as the perfect gateway to Susami’s natural beauty and inventive charm.

Visit Inobutan Land Susami to experience the only roadside station in Japan dedicated to the unique "Inobuta" — a rare crossbreed of wild boar and domestic pig. Here, you can sample the region’s signature Inobuta ramen, made with locally raised meat and served in a rich, savory broth. The station also hosts the annual Inobuta Derby, a beloved race for piglets just three months old, drawing visitors from across the country. With panoramic views of the Kumanokawa Sea and access to hidden gems like the legendary Ogishi Black Island and the serene Ko-ko-ko Song Garden, this is a destination where quirky charm meets authentic coastal culture.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekends to secure one of the limited daily servings of fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal "Black Island Special" pickled vegetables, made from locally grown produce and available only during the summer months when the Black Island fishing season is active.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the information corner between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to watch the live presentation about the Inobutan Kingdom, including rare footage of the Inobuta Derby and a preview of upcoming events.

• Best Photo Spot: Walk to the small overlook near the entrance to the parking area, located just south of the roadside station, to capture the full view of the Kumano Sea and the distant Black Island during low tide.

• Insider Food Hack: Purchase the "Inobuta Curry Set" at the food counter before 12:00 PM, as it includes a free side of pickled radish and is the only meal option that features the official Inobuta mascot design on the packaging.

• Event Timing: If you're visiting on May 3rd, arrive by 10:00 AM to join the pre-race viewing area near the roadside station, where staff provide real-time updates on the Inobuta Derby held at Susami Beach, just 10 minutes away.

• Local Insight: Use the free Wi-Fi at the information desk to access the official Susami Town Tourism website, where you can download the full "Inobutan Kingdom Trail Map" that includes hidden points of interest like the Folk Song Garden and the hidden path to the Kan-no-taki waterfall.

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): The Inobuta Derby is held annually on May 3 at Susami Beach, attracting visitors to the seaside.

Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.

Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.