Mine Akiyoshidai Geopark Centre Karstar — Restaurant in Mine

After taking a nice morning walk around one of the hiking trails at the Akiyoshidai Geopark, we went to the cafe for some sorbet, castella cake, matcha latte and coffee. All the food and drinks were delicious. The view from the cafe bar seats was breathtaking as well.

I then chanced upon a sign saying that we could sign up for a guided tour in English. Upon enquiry at the Geopark Centre counter, we found out that it would cost my husband, my 9 year old daughter and I only 1000 Yen for a 30 min guided tour! We were even more surprised when we were introduced to 1 Japanese guide, Sachiko, and 1 English translator, Joanna, , both of whom were going to take us on a private tour! The most impressive of all was how interactive the tour was. Our guide had prepared a massive amount of handmade props that helped us understand the geological changes that the area had undergone over the ages. She even showed us tiny fossils on the surface of the stone tiles that were used on the buildings nearby. She also answered a huge number of our burning questions which gave us a totally new perspective of the Geopark. We were extremely impressed by the passion and knowledge that our guides had. We highly recommend anyone visiting the area to...

Nice coffee, great cassis sorbet and soft serve (chocolate) ice cream. Great rest stop with the view of Akiyoshidai that most promo materials will feature. 300m ascend from the top of elevator of Akiyoshido cave if you are exploring the cave. Otherwise, drive here if...

Limited choice of food and drink. The pear ice cream is delicious but the coffee is a bit overpriced. You can enjoy your own food if you buy a cup of coffee. The scene of Akiyoshidai plateau from the coffee shop...