Discover the Heart of Yamaguchi: A Journey of Taste, Nature, and Tradition
Located along National Route 316, just a three-minute walk from Yufuku Station, Ofuku roadside station is a vibrant gateway to the natural beauty and local heritage of Yame City in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Nestled in a quiet rural setting, it blends serene landscapes with modern amenities, making it a must-visit stop for travelers exploring western Japan.
More than a rest area, Ofuku offers a rich sensory experience—from the refreshing handcrafted shaverries made with seasonal fruits to the aromatic local brews like Hidakamugi Ale and Pear Ale. Savor regional flavors at the Amairo Dining Hall, unwind in the full-sourcereach Yufuku Onsen, or take in panoramic views from the Karuster observatory. With a bustling marketplace featuring local specialties and a commitment to community, Ofuku celebrates the spirit of place with every visit.
Why Visit
Visit Ofuku roadside station to experience the only handcrafted shaverett factory in the region, where seasonal flavors like yuzu, chestnut, and wild strawberry are made daily using local ingredients. Sip the rare "Hidakamugi Ale," a locally brewed beer made with traditional hida barley, and sample the must-try "Benten Ale" and "Pears Ale" from the exclusive "Akigawa Ale" series. At the Karuster viewpoint, enjoy panoramic views of the Akigawa Plateau and the surrounding autumn foliage, a sight you can’t find anywhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at roadside station Ofuku, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a welcoming dining experience.
Amairo Dining Hall
レストラン「あまいろ食堂」
Specialty
Local ingredients with a focus on regional flavors
A cozy dining hall offering a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal during your journey.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of regional treasures and handmade goods at roadside station Ofuku’s vibrant marketplace.
Handmade Sherbet Workshop
手作りシャーベット工房
A dedicated shop offering a variety of handcrafted sherbets made with seasonal ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal Sherbet
Local Specialty Market
特産品販売コーナー
A market featuring a wide selection of regional specialties and local gourmet products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yamaguchi Prefecture Specialties
Yufuku Onsen
於福温泉
A hot spring facility offering natural hot spring baths with rich mineral content.
Products
Must-Try Item
Natural Hot Spring Bath
Karsuter
カルスター
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Products
Must-Try Item
Panoramic Viewpoint
Featured Products
Sample signature specialties like seasonal shaverries and local craft ales, crafted with pride from the heart of the region.
Hidakamugi Ale
はだか麦エール
An original ale brewed with Hidakamugi (naked barley) from Yame City, offering a unique and refreshing taste.
Pears Ale
梨エール
A fruity ale made with fresh pears, combining sweetness and crispness in every sip.
Benten Ale
弁天エール
A newly launched ale named after the local deity, blending traditional brewing with modern flavor.
Mito Gobo Potato Chips
美東ごぼうポテトチップス
Crispy potato chips made with locally grown gobo (burdock root), offering a unique savory flavor.
Autumn Ales Set
秋吉台エールセット
A curated set of three original ales including Hidakamugi Ale, Pears Ale, and Benten Ale, perfect for tasting and comparison.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including a relaxing hot spring, free Wi-Fi, and EV charging at roadside station Ofuku.
Parking
Available at the roadside station. The parking lot is accessible 24 hours a day.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Toilet
24-hour access restroom available at the roadside station.
Inside the main building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi hotspot available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station premises
Information Center
Provides local information, maps, and assistance for travelers.
Main building, near the entrance
Yufuku Onsen
Hot spring with a rich flow of 1.5 tons per minute, offering full bath with natural hot spring water. Open daily from 11:00 to 20:00 (last entry 19:30). Half-price entry on the 19th and 29th of each month.
Within the roadside station complex
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available on-site.
Near the parking area
Insider Tips
Visit on the 19th and 29th for half-price spa entry and explore hidden gems in the local market.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the handcrafted sherbet shop between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to ensure you get the day’s first batch of seasonal flavors, as popular varieties like yuzu and cherry often sell out by midday
- Hidden Gem: Check the special display near the entrance of the local product sales area every month for limited-edition "秋吉台エール" (Akiyoshidai Ale) tasting packs, which are only available during the first week of the month
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the "あまいろ食堂" (amairo restaurant) by 11:30 AM to secure a seat before the lunch rush, as the "Gobo Curry Rice" (featured on the menu board) sells out daily by 12:30 PM
- Best Value: Take advantage of the 50% discount on bath admission at Yufuku Onsen on the 19th and 29th of each month—arrive just before 11:00 AM to avoid the midday crowd and enjoy the full bathhouse with minimal wait time
- Exclusive Purchase: Buy the "美東ごぼうポテトチップス" (Mito Gobo Potato Chips) at the sales counter during weekdays before 3:00 PM, as the stock is replenished only once daily and often sells out by late afternoon
- Local Insight: Visit the "カルスター" (Calster) viewing platform before 4:00 PM to witness the golden hour light on the surrounding hills, which is especially striking on clear days and rarely photographed by visitors
- Pro Tip: Use the free Wi-Fi at the roadside station to access the online store and pre-order the "はだか麦エール" (Hadaka Mugi Ale) and "梨エール" (Pear Ale) combo pack for pickup—this avoids the in-person queue and guarantees your preferred flavor combination
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market, with peak harvest in April.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy handcrafted shaverries and the scenic view from the Kaluster.
Autumn (September-November): Try the new "Benkei Ale" and seasonal produce at the specialty shop.
Winter (December-February): Visit the hot spring and enjoy the cozy atmosphere with local brews.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a children's favorite handmade sherbet shop, a safe and accessible layout, and a relaxing hot spring. While no dedicated play area exists, the variety of engaging activities and kid-friendly food options enhance its family appeal.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse dining with a local restaurant, artisanal sherbet, and a well-curated specialty products section. Local brews like 'Hidakamugi Eer' and seasonal items like yam chips provide unique regional flavors and high-quality experiences.
Car Camping Review
A 24-hour restroom is available, and the site has Wi-Fi and EV charging. However, there is no official overnight parking policy, and the area lacks quietness and dedicated camping facilities, limiting its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station offers a serene atmosphere with a scenic viewpoint at the Kalster and beautiful natural surroundings. The peaceful hot spring and seasonal displays enhance the visual appeal, though the landscape remains modest.