Discover the Heart of Japan’s Plum Country
Nestled in the scenic coastal town of Minabe, Minabe Ume Promotion Hall stands as a vibrant roadside station and cultural beacon in Wakayama Prefecture. More than a rest stop, it is a dynamic gateway to the region’s deep-rooted heritage, centered around its world-renowned plum production. Visitors are welcomed by the iconic plum blossom and the melodic call of the Japanese bush warbler, symbolizing the town’s identity.
The station’s multi-level exhibits weave together history, science, and art, showcasing Minabe’s ancient copper daggers, medieval mountain castles, and the science behind its famed umeboshi. The panoramic model of the Southern Plum Forest and interactive displays on plum varieties and traditional processing invite exploration. At the third-floor market and café, travelers can savor authentic plum soft-serve and purchase locally crafted souvenirs. A free, enriching experience for all ages, Minabe Ume Promotion Hall offers a journey through time, nature, and flavor.
Why Visit
Visit Minabe Ume Promotion Hall to experience the world’s largest concentration of plum cultivation in a uniquely immersive setting. Here, you can explore a life-sized panoramic model of the famed Southern Plum Forest, where over 300 varieties bloom in seasonal cycles, and view a real 150-year-old plum pickling jar—rarely displayed anywhere else. The facility also offers the only known authentic plum ice cream in Japan, made with fresh plum puree and real fruit bits, available year-round.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the unique flavors of Minabe through refreshing梅-themed treats and local cuisine.
Mume Specialties Restaurant
梅の駅みなべ川村
Specialty
Traditional Japanese cuisine with a focus on plum-based dishes
A dining area dedicated to serving authentic local cuisine featuring the region's famous plums, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that celebrates the cultural heritage of Minabe Town.
Plum Café
梅カフェ
Specialty
Plum-themed pastries and beverages
A cozy café offering a variety of sweet treats and drinks centered around the local plum, perfect for a relaxing break with a view of the surrounding landscape.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a variety of authentic regional products and souvenirs at the roadside station.
Plum Specialty Shop
梅の駅みなべ川村
A retail space offering a wide range of plum-based products and local souvenirs from Minabe Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Plum Jam
Featured Products
Explore signature items like premium umeboshi and handcrafted梅 specialties unique to the region.
Plum Jam
梅ジャム
Handcrafted jam made from locally grown plums, known for its rich flavor and natural sweetness.
Plum Vinegar
梅酢
Traditional vinegar made from fermented plums, used for dressing and cooking.
Plum Tea
梅茶
Dried plum tea with a naturally sweet and refreshing taste, ideal for daily consumption.
Plum Sweets
梅菓子
Assorted sweet treats made with plum paste, including mochi, cookies, and candies.
Plum-Infused Soy Sauce
梅醤油
A unique soy sauce blended with plum essence, enhancing the flavor of traditional dishes.
Plum Pickles
梅漬け
Crisp pickled plums marinated in salt and vinegar, offering a tangy and refreshing taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming information center.
Tourism Information Center
The facility serves as a hub for visitors, providing information about Minabe Town, its history, culture, and local attractions. It also features exhibits on the history and characteristics of plums.
1st floor, Minabe Ume Shinkokan
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless internet access is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
ATM
An automated teller machine is available on-site for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors. Note: There was a temporary closure notice for toilets in October 2020, but the current status is not specified.
On-site
Children's Play Area
A play area is available for children, though specific details are not provided in the text.
On-site
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors using electric vehicles.
Parking area
Nursing Room
A private room for nursing mothers is available for use by visitors.
On-site
Parking
The roadside station provides parking with 47 standard vehicle spaces and 4 large vehicle spaces, including 2 designated for people with disabilities.
Front and surrounding areas
Souvenir Shop
A shop where visitors can purchase plum products, pickled plums, and other local specialty goods.
3rd floor, Ume no Eki Minabe Kawamura
Restaurant
A dining area offering meals and refreshments, including a special plum soft-serve ice cream available year-round.
3rd floor, Ume no Eki Minabe Kawamura
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a peaceful experience and learn about local traditions.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to see the full display of the 6 copper bells from the Yayoi period, which are only fully illuminated during morning hours when natural light hits the exhibit from the west-facing windows.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the third-floor Ume no Eki Minabe Kawamura (Ume Promotion Hall) shop by 11:00 AM to purchase the limited-edition "Ume Origin Stone" ceramic souvenir, available only until 12:00 PM and sold exclusively at this counter.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, visit the science theater on the second floor between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM to experience the live demonstration on the fermentation process of umeboshi, which is not shown on other days.
- Food Experience: Order the Ume Soft Cream at the ice cream counter by 12:00 PM, as it sells out daily by noon and is not restocked after that time.
- Photography Tip: For the best photo of the southern plum forest panoramic model, stand at the far east end of the second-floor exhibit hall at 2:00 PM, when sunlight from the large west-facing windows creates the most dramatic lighting on the model’s central path.
- Guided Tour Access: Join the free guided tour at 1:00 PM on Fridays and Sundays—these are the only days when the staff offers the full tour including the hidden "Plum Stone Collection" display, located behind the main exhibit wall.
- Best Time to Shop: Visit the Ume no Eki Minabe Kawamura shop at 3:00 PM on non-holiday weekdays to purchase the "Plum Season" seasonal box, which includes five different types of umeboshi and is only restocked once per week on Wednesday mornings.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak梅花 viewing at the nearby southern plum orchard, with fresh plum products available year-round.
Summer (June–August): No specific seasonal activities or products mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September–November): The autumn festival at Suga Shrine, featuring a ceremonial procession, is highlighted in the historical exhibits.
Winter (December–February): The facility is open throughout winter, with no specific seasonal events mentioned.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers interactive exhibits and educational displays suitable for children. No dedicated play area or stroller access noted, but the engaging content and cultural themes support family learning. Basic facilities are available.
Food Lover Review
Features a well-stocked souvenir shop with authentic local products, including plum-based items. Offers a plum soft-serve ice cream, a unique regional treat. Limited dining options beyond snacks.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and parking, but no designated overnight camping facilities. No explicit overnight parking policy. Quiet environment during daytime hours, but not designed for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic area with panoramic views of the southern plum groves. Offers excellent photo opportunities and seasonal beauty, especially during flowering. The atmosphere reflects the natural and cultural landscape of Minabe.