Discover the Heart of Kii: Where Tradition Meets the Road
Kuchikumano is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene landscapes of Minamiboso, located at the historic crossroads of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. Situated in the southern part of Wakayama Prefecture, it lies at the entrance to the Nak边路 (Nakabeji) and Obeji trails, offering travelers a gateway to Japan’s spiritual heritage. More than just a rest stop, this roadside station serves as a cultural bridge, connecting visitors with the region’s rich history, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship.
Here, you’ll find a curated selection of regional specialties—premium plum products, soy sauce, citrus fruits, honey, miso, and traditional snacks—alongside a cozy dining area serving local favorites like udon, soba, rice bowls, and Wakayama ramen. With 24-hour restrooms, ample parking, and free Wi-Fi, it’s a welcoming haven for travelers exploring the scenic routes of the Kii Peninsula.
Why Visit
Visit Kuchikumano, the only roadside station in the region where you can taste authentic Kishu plum miso made from locally grown, sun-dried plums. Located at the historic fork of the ancient Kumano Kodo trails—Middle and Great Bendo Routes—it offers exclusive access to guided walking maps and on-site storytelling about the sacred pilgrimage routes. The station’s signature plum juice, pressed daily from estate-grown fruit, is available only here, making it a must-try for travelers seeking the true taste of Kishu.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kuchikumano roadside station, where traditional dishes like udon, ramen, and sanma sushi are served with warmth and regional pride.
Udon, Soba, Donburi, Wakayama Ramen, Sanma Sushi
うどん、そば、丼、和歌山ラーメン、さんま寿司等
Specialty
Local Japanese comfort food with regional specialties
A casual dining spot offering a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, including udon, soba, rice bowls, Wakayama-style ramen, and sanma sushi. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, perfect for travelers seeking authentic local flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of local specialties and artisanal goods at Kuchikumano, where every purchase supports the vibrant culture of the region.
Local Products and Souvenirs
梅干し、醤油、野菜、みかん、はちみつ、味噌、梅ジュースなどの地元産品・お菓子類、紀南のおみやげ 他
A retail space specializing in locally produced goods, including pickled plums, soy sauce, vegetables, mandarins, honey, miso, plum juice, and regional snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Pickled Plums
Featured Products
Highlighting signature items like premium plum products, honey, and regional sauces, Kuchikumano showcases the best of Wakayama’s agricultural heritage.
Pickled Plums
梅干し
Traditional Japanese pickled plums made from fresh ume fruit, known for their tangy flavor and health benefits.
Soy Sauce
醤油
Authentic locally brewed soy sauce with a rich umami flavor, made using traditional methods.
Mandarins
みかん
Fresh, sweet mandarins grown in the region, known for their juicy texture and bright flavor.
Honey
はちみつ
Pure, locally sourced honey with a smooth, floral taste, harvested from regional beekeeping farms.
Miso
味噌
Traditional fermented soybean paste with a deep, savory flavor, produced using local ingredients.
Plum Juice
梅ジュース
Naturally sweetened juice made from fresh plums, offering a refreshing and tangy taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious parking, accessible restrooms, and 24-hour Wi-Fi at Kuchikumano roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a total of 42 parking spaces, including 7 large vehicle spots and 35 regular vehicle spots. Of these, 23 spaces are designated for the Kisei Expressway, with 7 large and 16 regular vehicles. Additionally, there are 19 spaces accessible from National Route 42, all for regular vehicles.
Located at the roadside station, with separate areas for Kisei Expressway and National Route 42 access
Restroom
The restroom includes 5 small male toilets, 3 large male toilets, and 11 female toilets. It also features a baby changing station and a multi-purpose toilet for people with disabilities.
Located within the roadside station premises
Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Available throughout the station
Information Center
The roadside station provides information about local tourism, road conditions, and the Kumanokoji Ancient Road (Middle Bentō and Large Bentō routes), serving as a hub for regional travel and cultural information.
Located in the information dissemination corner
Restaurant
A restaurant serving udon, soba, rice bowls, Wakayama ramen, sardine sushi, and other local dishes. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM (last order at 6:00 PM).
Located within the roadside station
Gift Shop & Local Products Store
A retail area selling local products such as pickled plums, soy sauce, vegetables, mandarins, honey, miso, plum juice, local snacks, and souvenirs from the Kishu region.
Located in the local products sales corner
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around the seasonal blooms and local festivals, and take advantage of the nearby historical sites accessible just minutes away.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:00 AM to secure a seat at the restaurant before the morning rush, as the udon and soba dishes are typically served fresh from 8:30 AM and popular items like the local ramen and sanshō sushi sell out quickly by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the produce counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the day’s fresh pick of local mandarins and mountain vegetables, which are delivered daily and often sell out by midday.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, check the food truck located near the main entrance (just outside the restaurant area) from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, where you can try limited-edition grilled fish skewers made with locally caught sea bream.
- Best Time to Buy Local Products: Purchase the signature Kishu plum products—especially the plum juice and pickled plum—between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM, when the staff restocks the display with the morning’s freshly prepared batches.
- Information Desk Tip: Ask the staff at the information counter for the free map of the Kishu Ancient Road (Middle Bentō Route) and the nearby historical sites, which includes walking routes to the Yakami Prince Ruins and Inabane Prince Ruins, both within a 10-minute drive.
- Parking Strategy: Use the National Route 42 parking area (19 spots for regular cars) if you’re coming from the Newkawa or Shirahama direction, as it’s less crowded than the Kishu Expressway exit parking lot during peak hours.
- Restroom Access: If you’re traveling with a young child, use the multi-purpose restroom near the entrance to the restaurant, which includes a baby changing table and is located closest to the family-friendly seating area.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for Okafuji (Oka Fuji) blooms in April, with the entire shrine forest covered in pale white flowers.
Summer (June-August): Large-scale hibiscus (Oka Fuji) blooms from July to August, coloring the area in soft pink.
Autumn (September-November): Fresh citrus and local produce from the region are available at the roadside station throughout autumn.
Winter (December-February): Ideal time to sample seasonal pickled plums and warm local dishes like udon and ramen.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers ample parking, stroller-friendly paths, and multiple restrooms with baby beds. Features a family-friendly restaurant serving kid-friendly meals and a spacious rest area. Educational signage about local history enhances the experience.
Food Lover Review
Serves a variety of local dishes including udon, soba, and Wakayama ramen. Offers high-quality regional products like pickled plums, honey, citrus, and soy sauce. Fresh produce and artisanal items are available at the farm shop.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour access to restrooms and parking with space for 42 vehicles, including 7 large trucks. While no formal overnight policy is stated, facilities support short stays. Noise levels are moderate, but not ideal for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the Kumano Kodo trails with scenic views of the Futagawa River and surrounding natural landscapes. Offers photo opportunities at nearby historical sites and seasonal beauty from blooming okafuji and oka hasu flowers.