Rock Bay Garden

Rock Bay Garden is a multifaceted agricultural and recreational complex located adjacent to Roadside Station Kusatsu in Shiga Prefecture, positioned near the Karasuma Peninsula on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa. The facility underwent a major renovation in January 2023, transforming into a modern destination that combines agricultural experiences with outdoor recreation and dining.

The centerpiece attraction is the greenhouse cultivating approximately 20,000 strawberries across five varieties, including Benihoppe, Yotsuboshi, Akihime, Moikko, and Hoshi no Kirameki. Unlike traditional all-you-can-eat operations, Rock Bay Garden operates on a pay-by-weight system at 500 yen per 100 grams with no entrance fee or time limit, allowing visitors to harvest at their own pace. The facility features strawberries grown on elevated platforms, enabling visitors to pick while standing, and uniquely offers Kusatsu City's first nighttime strawberry picking experience.

Beyond strawberry harvesting, the complex includes CAFE ROB serving Taiwanese-style pancakes, a restaurant specializing in locally-raised Omi beef, and a BBQ area operating the NIGHT FIVE program from March through November. The site also houses 7th9LODGE, an outdoor equipment shop, and Fish! Tackle Shop, a trailer-format fishing gear specialist catering to Lake Biwa anglers. The adjacent Roadside Station Kusatsu offers fresh local vegetables, Omi beef, Omi rice, and regional souvenirs.

Visitors can reach the facility by taking a bus from JR Kusatsu Station bound for Karasuma Peninsula, disembarking at Green Plaza Karasuma bus stop after 20 minutes. By car, the location is accessible via a 25-minute drive from Ritto IC on the Meishin Expressway via Prefectural Road 31. The facility provides 70 parking spaces. The complex closes on Mondays except during July and August when it operates continuously.