MieFood

Gokatsu Pond Furusato Village (五桂池ふるさと村)

Flow of the course

About 90 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Morning snack break with the famous Okin Mochi, beloved by travelers since the Edo period

About this spot

A tourist facility spread along the shores of Gokatsu Pond, one of Mie Prefecture's largest reservoirs, where the charm of the satoyama countryside is packed into one place—from animal encounters to shopping. At the Petting Zoo, goats, sheep, rabbits, and other friendly animals await, captivating children with hands-on feeding experiences. The farm stand displays vegetables, fruits, and processed goods freshly delivered from Taki's fields, offering the joy of discovering local bounty. The facility is also known for weekend crowds at the High School Restaurant, where local high school culinary club members show off their skills—a beloved community spot. The breeze crossing the pond is refreshing, and spending time with the animals in the crisp morning air makes for a pleasant start to your gourmet drive.

Tips

About 15 minutes by car from the Seiba-Taki IC on the Ise Expressway, with free parking. Admission to the village is free; entry fees apply only to the Petting Zoo. Animal food is sometimes limited in quantity, so if visiting with animal-loving children, head to the zoo first. Popular items at the farm stand often sell out by noon, so it's wise to browse early. The grounds are easy to walk and accessible with a stroller.