Station Kahoku

Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Rural Charm

Tucked along National Route 287, just across from the serene Mogami River, Kahoku roadside station offers a serene escape rich in local culture and natural beauty. More than a mere pit stop, it’s a vibrant community hub where travelers connect with the spirit of rural Yamagata. From seasonal treats to hands-on activities, every visit feels like a journey into the region’s soul.

Step inside to explore a vibrant mix of local products—handmade slippers, frozen fruits, and regional snacks—plus a cozy tea house serving summer’s fluffy shaved ice and winter’s warm roasted sweet potatoes. The second floor invites guests to play free table tennis, including a quirky slipper-themed version, while exhibits spotlight the area’s history and the famed safflower blooms. On the third floor, the restaurant “Yuraku-tei Branch” serves up the local favorite, meat soba, and the must-try “Yadachi Meat Mochi”—a dish you can only enjoy here.

Visit Kahoku roadside station for its exclusive 谷地の肉もち—a uniquely local version of meat-filled dumplings served only here, crafted from the region’s famed pork and simmered in a rich, savory broth. Perched along National Route 287 with sweeping views of the Mogami River, it’s the only roadside station in the area offering a dedicated space for traditional sashiko embroidery displays and seasonal student art exhibitions.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the 3rd-floor restaurant,汤楽亭分家 (Yoraku-tei Hanka), before the lunch rush begins, as the meat soba and sauce katsu don are popular and often sell out by 1:00 PM.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter on the 1st floor, look for the seasonal homemade syrup for the summer frosted shaved ice, available only on weekends and holidays during summer months—this is the only place in the area where it’s offered.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the 1st floor between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to purchase the limited-edition frozen fruits from the local farm, which are released fresh each Saturday and Sunday and often sell out by noon.

• Unique Local Experience: Try the free loaner table tennis equipment on the 2nd floor, including the special slipper table tennis racket—these are only available at Kahoku roadside station and are used by locals during free play sessions.

• Must-Try Menu Item: Order the "Yadachi’s Meat Dumpling" (谷地の肉もち) at the 3rd-floor restaurant—it is only served during lunch hours (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM) and is not available at any other restaurant in the region.

• Best Time to View Exhibits: Visit the 2nd floor on a Friday or Saturday between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to see the current student calligraphy exhibition, which changes monthly and is only open during these afternoon hours.

• Souvenir Tip: Buy the locally made slippers made from河北町 (Kahoku Town) materials at the 1st-floor gift shop before 3:00 PM, as they are restocked only once per week and often sell out by early afternoon.

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

Summer (June–August): Homemade syrup shaved ice is served daily, and red flower exhibits highlight local heritage.

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

Winter (December–February): Winter-exclusive kettle-roasted sweet potatoes are available on weekends and holidays.