Station Hakushu

Discover the Heart of Yamanashi’s Natural Bounty at Hakushu

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Koma, Hakushu roadside station lies in the serene heart of North Yamanashi, where alpine vistas meet lush farmland. Surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature and just steps from the trailhead to the famed Koma Ridge, this vibrant hub offers travelers a true taste of rural Japan. More than a rest stop, it’s a celebration of local craftsmanship, seasonal harvests, and the pure, crystal-clear water that flows from the region’s ancient springs.

Visitors can savor farm-fresh produce at the lively Farmers Market, sample hearty regional dishes at the popular Kamoishi Restaurant, or refill their bottles at the 24-hour natural water station. Highlights include the beloved honeyed sweet potato from Kitano Mori Farm, seasonal harvest festivals, and monthly special menus like the spring cabbage and wild greens chahan. With its warm hospitality and deep connection to the land, Hakushu is the perfect gateway to unforgettable mountain adventures and authentic local experiences.

Hakushu roadside station stands out as the only place where visitors can taste mitsu-imo—a uniquely crafted roasted sweet potato from Kitanomori Farm, grown without pesticides and slow-baked in special clay pots to achieve a honeyed, velvety texture. Just steps away, the station offers direct access to the region’s pristine natural water source, where travelers can fill bottles with the pure, mineral-rich water of the White Mountain area—water that flows from the same springs feeding the surrounding alpine forests and rice fields.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the first opportunity to purchase North Forest Farm’s "mitsu-imo" (honey baked sweet potatoes) from the cold storage unit just inside the entrance, as these sell out quickly during peak hours.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter in the farmers market, look for the daily limited batch of "Spring Cabbage and Napa Cabbage Mountain Goro Cha Han" — a special seasonal dish that changes monthly and is only available for 10 servings per day.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy the special "Soba and Udon Festival" menu, where you can get a combo of cold soba or udon with a side of pickled vegetables at a discounted rate.

• Seasonal Offer: During the Harvest Festival Week from November 2 to 6, arrive early on the first day to participate in the free miso soup distribution at the main plaza and to join the lucky draw for gift baskets featuring local produce.

• Exclusive Discount: After purchasing food or goods at the farmers market, visit the café located at the back of the facility before 3:00 PM to redeem a 100 yen discount voucher on any soft serve, available only until February 29.

• Unique Experience: Visit the water dispensing area during the day to fill reusable bottles with the station’s natural spring water, then immediately walk to the adjacent rest area to taste a complimentary sample of locally grown shiitake mushrooms from Inoue Farm.

• Special Event Tip: On the first day of each month, the "Monthly Special" dish — such as the "Spring Cabbage and Napa Cabbage Mountain Goro Cha Han" — is only available for the first 10 customers who order it at the restaurant, so arrive early to secure your serving.

Spring (March–May): Enjoy fresh bamboo shoots and spring vegetables at the farmers' market, with the golden week special featuring spring cabbage and wild greens.

Summer (June–August): Savor cooling buckwheat noodles and seasonal special meals during the summer stamina fair, with fresh produce from local farms.

Autumn (September–November): Visit during the harvest festival week (November 2–6) for fresh apples, local produce, and traditional pork soup.

Winter (December–February): Experience warm comfort foods and seasonal treats, including the popular honey-like "mitsu-imo" sweet potato, available year-round.