Discover the Heart of Kudoyama’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Kaki-no-Sato Kudoyama stands as a vibrant roadside station nestled in the historic town of Kudoyama, located in the northeastern part of Wakayama Prefecture. Situated just minutes from the World Heritage site of the Koyasan Chōkaidō trail and near iconic landmarks like Jison-in Temple and the Sanada-an, this station serves as a gateway to the region’s rich history and pristine landscapes. Surrounded by lush forests and the scenic Tamagawa Gorge, where fireflies dance in summer and anglers pursue amago and ayu, the area pulses with natural beauty and seasonal charm.
More than a rest stop, Kaki-no-Sato Kudoyama celebrates Kudoyama’s famed “Fuyu no Hōyū Kaki” (winter-rich persimmon), Japan’s most renowned variety. Visitors can savor freshly baked persimmon bread, soft serve, and smoothies at the on-site bakery café, or shop for seasonal produce and artisanal goods at the farm-to-table market. Interactive experiences like soba-making, persimmon leaf sushi workshops, and traditional “Sanada rope” crafting offer hands-on connections to local culture. With a welcoming information center, EV charging, and a spacious play area, it’s a true destination for travelers seeking authentic, enriching experiences.
Why Visit
Visit Kaki-no-Sato Kudoyama to experience the only roadside station in Japan where you can taste authentic kaki no ha sushi—a traditional dish made with leaves from the region’s famed fuyu no hoshizaki persimmons—and participate in hands-on workshops crafting the historic Sanada string, a craft tied to the legacy of warlord Sanada Yukimura. The station also hosts the only public kaki no ha sushi demonstration, where visitors can learn the centuries-old technique from local artisans.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kaki-no-Sato Kudoyama's roadside station, where fresh produce and seasonal ingredients inspire delicious meals.
Bakery Cafe PERSIMMON
ベーカリーカフェ・パーシモン
Specialty
Freshly baked bread and desserts made with local Kudoyama persimmons
A cozy café offering a variety of freshly baked bread, seasonal fruit ice creams, fresh juices, and lunch options such as pasta and salads. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing break while exploring the region.
Shopping Highlights
Discover handpicked regional specialties and farm-fresh goods at the roadside station's vibrant market.
Farmers Market Yottette
産直市場よってって
A direct-to-consumer market selling fresh local produce, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and specialty goods from Kudoyama.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kudoyama Persimmons
Kudoyama Baum
九度山ばうむ
A specialty shop offering handmade baumkuchen made with locally sourced rice flour from Kudoyama.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kudoyama Baum
Featured Products
Explore signature items like richly sweet kudoyama persimmons and unique local crafts made with pride.
Kudoyama Persimmon Jam
九度山富有柿ジャム
Delicious jam made from the famous Kudoyama persimmons, known for their sweetness and rich flavor.
Persimmon Dried Fruit
柿干し
Naturally dried persimmons, preserving the sweet taste and chewy texture of Kudoyama's famous fruit.
Persimmon Leaf Sushi
柿の葉寿司
Traditional sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, offering a unique aroma and taste from local ingredients.
Kudoyama Rice Flour
九度山米粉
High-quality rice flour made from locally grown rice in Kudoyama, ideal for traditional and modern baking.
Kudoyama Persimmon Tea
九度山柿茶
A unique herbal tea made from dried persimmon peels, offering a naturally sweet and soothing flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, EV charging, and free Wi-Fi at the roadside station.
Parking Lot
122 parking spaces (3 large vehicles, 119 regular vehicles). Available 24 hours.
On-site
EV Charging Station
One rapid EV charger available. Located in the outdoor amusement area.
Outdoor amusement area
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN using Wakayama Free Wi-Fi.
Throughout the facility
Restroom
6 male toilets, 10 female toilets, and 1 accessible toilet for people with disabilities.
On-site
Information Center
Highly recommended for visitors interested in the World Heritage sites of Kudoyama and Mount Koya. Provides tourism information and promotes the heritage of the region.
Inside the facility
Amusement Playground
Outdoor playground with large play equipment for children. Also features an electric vehicle rapid charging station.
Outdoor area
Nursing Room
Available for mothers with infants. Located within the restroom facilities.
On-site
ATM
One ATM available on-site.
Near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on workshops and seasonal events celebrating local heritage and nature.
Soba Making Experience
そば打ち体験
Participants will learn how to make soba noodles from scratch using traditional methods, including grinding buckwheat flour and kneading the dough.
Duration
60 min
Persimmon Leaf Sushi Making Experience
柿の葉寿司づくり体験
Participants will create traditional persimmon leaf-wrapped sushi using local ingredients and learn about the cultural significance of this regional delicacy.
Duration
60 min
Sanada Rope Making Experience
真田紐づくり体験
Participants will learn the traditional craft of making Sanada rope, a historical textile technique associated with the Sanada family.
Duration
60 min
Guided Tour of World Heritage Sites
世界遺産情報センター
Participants will join a guided tour to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kudoyama, including Jison-in, Koyasan Chōshidō, and Danjo Kanshōfujinja Shrine.
Duration
90 min
Outdoor portions may be affected by rain; bring appropriate gear.
Kudoyama Town Walking Tour
九度山まちなかエリアの紹介
Participants will walk through the historic town center of Kudoyama with a local storyteller, learning about the town’s history, culture, and connection to Sanada Yukimura.
Duration
75 min
Comfortable walking shoes recommended; weather-dependent.
Summer Firefly Watching
ホタル観賞
Participants will enjoy watching fireflies in the natural environment of the Tamagawa Gorge during the summer months.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed on clear, humid nights; avoid strong moonlight.
Camping in Tamagawa Gorge
玉川峡キャンプ
Participants can rent camping spots in the scenic Tamagawa Gorge area, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Duration
1440 min
Check weather forecast before arrival; rain may affect availability.
Amago and Ayu Fishing
アマゴ釣り・鮎釣り
Participants can enjoy traditional fishing for amago and ayu in the clear streams of Tamagawa Gorge with guided instruction.
Duration
120 min
Fishing may be restricted during heavy rain or high water levels.
Persimmon Harvest Festival
大収穫祭IN九度山
Participants can join the annual festival celebrating the harvest of Kudoyama’s famous persimmons, featuring local food, crafts, and cultural performances.
Duration
180 min
Festival may be postponed in case of severe weather.
Sanada Festival
真田まつり
Participants can experience a traditional festival honoring Sanada Yukimura and his son, featuring historical reenactments, music, and local cuisine.
Duration
150 min
Outdoor events may be moved indoors if rain is expected.
Insider Tips
Plan ahead for peak visits and explore nearby world heritage sites just minutes away.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the bakery café "Parsimon" before the morning rush, as fresh baked milk bread and seasonal fruit breads sell out quickly.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the "Soba Making Experience" station at 10:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays to participate in a hands-on soba noodle-making class, which is scheduled specifically for those days and requires advance booking.
- Best Purchase Time: Buy fresh "Fuyu Persimmon" at the "Farmers Market Yottette" stand right when it opens at 9:00 AM on Sundays, as the first batch of the day's harvest is displayed and sold before the midday crowds arrive.
- Food Truck Timing: Arrive at the roadside station by 11:30 AM on the second Saturday of each month to catch the seasonal food truck that sets up near the parking area and serves locally made persimmon dumplings and yuzu tea.
- Information Center Access: Visit the World Heritage Information Center between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays to join the free 30-minute guided tour of the Koyasan Stone Road, led by a certified "Storyteller" who shares historical insights not available in brochures.
- EV Charging Tip: Use the fast EV charger located near the entrance only during off-peak hours (before 11:00 AM or after 3:00 PM) to avoid waiting, as it is frequently in use during lunchtime and weekend afternoons.
- Family Activity Window: Bring children to the Amusement Plaza between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM on weekends to enjoy the large playground equipment, as it is less crowded during this time and the staff often runs a short storytelling session about the history of the nearby Sanada An.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit during the May 5 "Sanada Festival" celebrating Masayuki and Yukimura, and enjoy fresh bamboo shoots at the market.
Summer (June-August): Experience fireflies in the Tama River Gorge in June and enjoy summer fishing and camping.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest fresh kaki fruit and attend the November "Great Harvest Festival" celebrating the local kaki.
Winter (December-February): Explore the area's historic sites and enjoy seasonal treats at the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a large playground with diverse equipment, stroller-friendly paths, and family activities like soba and persimmon leaf sushi making. The café offers kid-friendly options like fruit ice cream and pancakes, and the facility is safe with ample parking and accessible restrooms.
Food Lover Review
Offers a variety of high-quality local foods including fresh persimmons, persimmon bread, and seasonal produce at the farm stand. The bakery café serves creative dishes like persimmon smoothies and regional curry, with fresh ingredients and unique artisanal products.
Car Camping Review
Provides 122 parking spaces, 24-hour restroom access, and an EV charging station. The area is relatively quiet during off-peak hours, though it lacks designated overnight camping zones and has no official overnight parking policy.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the scenic Kumagawa Gorge with seasonal beauty, especially during summer and cherry blossom season. Offers photo opportunities at nearby World Heritage sites and a pleasant atmosphere with natural surroundings and well-maintained green spaces.