Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Tendo Onsen roadside station, nestled in the scenic city of Tendo in Yamagata Prefecture, is a vibrant gateway to Japan’s rich forest culture and artisanal traditions. Once a forest information center, it now thrives as a multifaceted hub where nature, history, and local craftsmanship converge. Set against the backdrop of lush woodlands, this roadside station serves as both a cultural landmark and a vital tourism destination.
Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of experiences—from live demonstrations of traditional Tendo chess piece craftsmanship, where skilled artisans showcase centuries-old techniques, to a dedicated space celebrating the famed La France pear, Japan’s top-producing variety. The station also features an enhanced tourism center with multilingual support, making it welcoming to international travelers. With seasonal treats like pear tarts and fresh gelato, and a curated selection of local goods, Tendo Onsen offers a sensory journey through the region’s most treasured products.
Why Visit
Visit Tendo Onsen roadside station to experience the only public showcase in Japan of traditional Tendo chess pieces, where master artisans demonstrate centuries-old craftsmanship using locally sourced wood. Discover the region’s famed La France pear in unique, limited-edition treats like pear tart and seasonal gelato—only available here. This is the heart of Japan’s top pear-producing region, where fruit and culture converge in a single, unforgettable stop.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Tendo Onsen roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional craftsmanship.
La France Fruit Specialty
ラ・フランス専門
Specialty
Fruit-based desserts and seasonal treats
A dedicated space offering a variety of fruit-inspired delicacies, focusing on the renowned La France pear. The atmosphere is fresh and inviting, highlighting seasonal produce and artisanal craftsmanship.
Chess Piece Craft Experience
将棋駒製作体験
Specialty
Traditional chess piece crafting and tasting
A hands-on experience where visitors can witness and even try their hand at crafting traditional Japanese chess pieces using time-honored techniques. The atmosphere is cultural and interactive, emphasizing heritage and craftsmanship.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and regional treasures at Tendo Onsen roadside station’s thoughtfully curated shops.
La France Fruit Processing Products
ラ・フランス加工品
A retail space specializing in processed products made from the famous La France pear, including pastries, jams, and beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
La France Tart
Traditional Chess Piece Craft Shop
伝統将棋駒工芸店
A shop dedicated to selling handcrafted traditional Japanese chess pieces, showcasing the artistry and history of local craftsmanship.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted Chess Set
Featured Products
Explore signature items like Japan’s top-producing La France pears and handcrafted Tendo Go pieces.
La France Pear Jam
ラ・フランスジャム
A rich, naturally sweet jam made from the premium La France pears, known for their delicate flavor and aroma.
La France Fruit Syrup
ラ・フランスシロップ
A concentrated syrup made from fresh La France pears, ideal for beverages, desserts, and cooking.
La France Gelato
ラ・フランスジェラート
A smooth and creamy gelato crafted exclusively from the finest La France pears, offering a refreshing taste of summer.
Traditional Chess Piece Set
伝統将棋駒セット
A handcrafted set of traditional Japanese chess pieces made using time-honored techniques and local wood.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities and helpful services at Tendo Onsen roadside station, designed for every traveler.
Tourism Information Counter
A dedicated counter providing information about local tourism attractions. The facility is operated by the Tendō City Tourism and Products Association and offers multilingual support, including audio translation devices for international visitors. It is certified by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) as an official foreign tourist information center.
Inside the Tendō City Forest Information Center
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available for visitors throughout the roadside station and forest information center.
Throughout the facility
Parking Area
Parking space is available for visitors and tourists at the roadside station.
Near the main entrance
Restrooms
Public restrooms are available for visitors, including accessible facilities.
Inside the main building
Children's Play Area
A play area is available for children, located within the facility to provide a safe and enjoyable space for families.
Inside the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors using electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and seasonal events celebrating Tendo’s rich cultural heritage.
Chess Piece Making Demonstration and Exhibition
将棋駒の製作実演＆展示
Participants can observe traditional chess piece craftsmanship being demonstrated by graduates of the successor training program. They can also view a display of various types of chess pieces made by local artisans, experiencing the depth and heritage of the craft.
Duration
60 min
La France Grape Tasting and Product Experience
ラ・フランスの魅力発信
Participants can taste and explore products made from La France grapes, including limited-edition pies, tarts, and seasonal fruit gelato, while learning about the fruit known as the 'Queen of Fruits'.
Duration
45 min
Best enjoyed during warm weather when fresh fruit is available
Forest Information and Nature Exploration Tour
天童市森林情報館「もり〜な天童」
Participants can explore the forest information center and learn about local forestry, biodiversity, and sustainable forest management through interactive exhibits and guided information sessions.
Duration
90 min
Outdoor areas may be limited during heavy rain or snow
Multilingual Tourist Information Service
観光案内機能の充実
Visitors can receive personalized tourist information and assistance in multiple languages, including through audio translation devices and certified foreign visitor support services.
Duration
30 min
Insider Tips
Gain local insights and practical guidance to make the most of your visit to Tendo Onsen roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekends to see the live demonstration of traditional shogi piece craftsmanship, as the first session of the day starts promptly at 9:30 AM and often draws the largest crowd.
- Hidden Gems: Ask at the shogi piece display counter for the "Mokume-gane" series, a special limited-edition set made using traditional layered metal techniques only available during the summer months.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the café corner features a rotating seasonal special—on weekdays, look for the "La France Tart" made with locally grown La France grapes, which is only available until 2:00 PM.
- Best Time for Local Produce: Visit the agricultural products counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to ensure you get the day’s fresh batch of La France grapes, which are restocked daily at 10:00 AM and often sell out by noon.
- Inquiry Counter Tip: Use the dedicated tourism counter (located near the entrance) between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM for the most accurate and up-to-date information on local hiking trails, as staff update trail conditions and weather alerts every morning.
- Audio Guide Access: Request the multilingual audio guide at the front desk—available in English, Chinese, and Korean—before 11:00 AM, as the devices are limited and frequently checked out by early visitors.
- Souvenir Tip: Purchase the "Mori-na Special Pack" at the gift counter, which includes a small La France jelly, a handmade shogi piece, and a map of the forest trails—this combo is only available during the June to September season and sells out quickly.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing and fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station.
Summer (June–August): July brings fresh La France pears and seasonal fruit gelato at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): October offers autumn foliage viewing and seasonal harvest events at the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): December features festive decorations and warm local snacks at the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas and interactive exhibits like live shogi piece demonstrations, which engage children. Features kid-friendly snacks and family-friendly facilities with stroller access and safe parking.
Food Lover Review
Features high-quality local specialties like La France pears and unique processed foods such as tart and pie. Offers fresh produce and artisanal products with strong regional identity and seasonal variety.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines, supporting overnight stays. Quiet surroundings enhance comfort, though overnight parking is not explicitly permitted or advertised.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic forested area with natural views and seasonal beauty. Offers excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.