Station Minami Kiyosato

Discover Serenity and Flavor in the Heart of the Alps

Minami Kiyosato is a roadside station nestled in the tranquil highlands of North Chuo City, Yamanashi Prefecture, where alpine meadows meet lush forests and the air hums with natural peace. More than a rest stop, it’s a vibrant gateway to rural life, offering panoramic views from the Hope Hill Observatory and a network of scenic trails connecting to the expansive South Hakuchō Mountain Flower Forest Park.

Here, visitors can savor local flavors at the farm-to-table restaurant Hotoru, sample handcrafted dairy delights at the Kiyosato Milk Plant, or join seasonal harvests and cooking workshops. With a dedicated RV park, children’s play zones, and immersive experiences like soba-making and cheese crafting, Minami Kiyosato blends relaxation, culture, and community in a stunning alpine setting.

Visit Minami Kiyosato for its unique combination of alpine beauty and hands-on agricultural experiences. The roadside station is home to the only on-site dairy processing facility in the region, where visitors can sample and purchase handcrafted milk ice cream and fresh cheese made from local Jersey cow milk. Beyond the dairy, the site offers a rare opportunity to participate in traditional soba-making at Soba Tsu Kiyoshi, using heirloom buckwheat grown in the surrounding highlands.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to access the information and tourism counter before it closes at 5:30 PM, ensuring you can receive detailed local route and weather updates.

• Hidden Gems: Stop at the Clear River Milk Plant between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to sample fresh handcrafted dairy products, including soft serve, cheese, and yogurt, which are made daily and often sell out by early afternoon.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the Farmers Market at the Food Creation Hall between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM to purchase freshly harvested strawberries from the 232-square-meter strawberry farm, available only during peak season.

• Actionable Experience: Reserve a spot at the RV Park in advance by calling 0551-20-7224 to use the designated car camping area, which accommodates only 5 vehicles and charges 1,000 yen per night plus 500 yen for electricity and garbage disposal.

• Best View Time: Take the "Koi no Bori" Lift Car from the roadside station to the Hope Hill Viewpoint between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to enjoy the best sunset views over the South Alp Mountains, especially during summer months.

• Local Food Tip: Order the Hōtō dish at the Restaurant Hotaru before 1:00 PM, as it is the last seating time for the signature noodle dish and the kitchen closes at 4:00 PM.

• Seasonal Activity: Visit the Open-Air Farm at Aozora Farm during late June to early July to participate in the seasonal strawberry picking experience, which operates only during this period and requires advance booking through the roadside station’s information desk.

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.

Summer (June–August): July brings strawberry picking at the farm and cool mountain air ideal for hiking.

Autumn (September–November): October offers maple leaf viewing and chestnut harvests at the roadside station.

Winter (December–February): December features holiday light displays and warm meals at the restaurant.