Station Kosuge

Discover the Heart of Rural Japan at Kosuge Roadside Station

Nestled in the serene embrace of Yamanashi Prefecture’s North Tsuru District, Kosuge Roadside Station stands as a vibrant gateway to the natural beauty and cultural richness of rural Japan. Located in the picturesque village of Kosuge, it serves as both a rest stop for travelers and a dynamic cultural hub where local traditions, sustainable agriculture, and community life come together.

More than just a pit stop, Kosuge offers a full sensory experience—from the aroma of wood-fired pizzas at the Source Restaurant, crafted with ingredients sourced from the village’s pristine rivers and forests, to the warm, handcrafted treats like the beloved Cha-chan Mantou in the local specialty shop. Visitors can explore seasonal events, enjoy interactive exhibits at the Community Hall, or extend their journey with nearby adventures like forest trekking, fishing, or a relaxing soak at Kosuge Onsen. This is where nature, flavor, and community converge.

Visit Kosuge roadside station to savor the region’s only handmade cha-chan manju, a traditional sweet crafted with a unique, village-origin recipe and sold exclusively here—many days it sells out by noon. Equally unique is the Source Restaurant’s stone-fired pizza, where ingredients are sourced directly from the pristine waters and forests of Kosuge Village, including wild mountain vegetables and fresh salmon, creating a taste found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the物産館 (Market) by 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of the limited-edition "Chaa-chan Manju" (a local specialty), which often sells out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter in the物産館 (Market), look for the seasonal "Kosuge Mountain Vegetable Gomaae" (a lightly dressed mountain vegetable salad) — it’s only available during the summer months and is not listed on the main menu.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the源流レストラン (Source Restaurant) between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to enjoy the rotating seasonal pizza special — such as the “Salmon-Loaded Pizza” announced in the event calendar — which sells out quickly.

• Tea Time Tip: Stop by theふれあい館 (Community Hall) between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to participate in the free tea ceremony demonstration, held every Saturday and Sunday during the 4–11 month season.

• Food Truck Alert: Check the event calendar for the “大地の恵みまつり” (Land’s Bounty Festival) on November 1st — this annual event features a dedicated food truck lane with local vendors offering regional specialties like grilled mountain yam skewers.

• Photography Perk: The large digital display in theふれあい館 (Community Hall) shows real-time footage of the surrounding forest and river — set your camera to capture the best views of the seasonal foliage, especially in autumn when the leaves turn vivid red and gold.

• Treats to Try: Order the “Stone Oven Chicken Croquette” at the源流レストラン (Source Restaurant) for a unique take on a classic — it’s made with locally raised chicken and served only during the summer months (June to August).

Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots at the market and early harvest of local vegetables.

Summer (June–August): Fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal fruits available; ideal for outdoor activities at Forest Adventure.

Autumn (September–November): Harvest festival on November 1 features local produce and special events; fresh mushrooms and chestnuts in season.

Winter (December–February): Cozy visits to the roadside station; enjoy seasonal dishes and warm drinks at the restaurant.