Fukuoka・Nico Frutta: Artisanal Gelato in Yakuoji | Savor Local Flavors at this Weekend-Only Forest Retreat

On a recent weekend drive toward the Yakuoji area in Koga City, Fukuoka, I found the perfect way to cap off a stroll: a visit to Nico Frutta, a charming gelato shop tucked away in the forest. Located right in front of Yakuoji Mizube Park, the lush, green setting is absolutely refreshing.

My dog, Elmo, was with me that day. After a lap around the park, just as it started to get a bit warm, I said, “Shall we get something cold?” The anticipation for our gelato time was on another level.

A Forest Gelato Shop Right by the Water

Nico Frutta sits directly across from Yakuoji Mizube Park at 369 Yakuoji, Koga City. When you look from the park side, the white building seems to melt into the landscape of the pond, mountains, and surrounding greenery. The park itself features a lovely walking path around a reservoir and a grassy plaza, offering a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. The trail is just the right length for a dog walk, and the abundance of shade is a huge plus.

The shop has on-site parking, making it a breeze to visit by car. From the outside, it looks like a “forest atelier,” and the large glass windows give you a peek at the bright, inviting interior. My excitement spiked the moment we arrived.

Stylish Interior and a Relaxing Terrace

Inside, the space is surprisingly stylish—think industrial-chic exposed concrete paired with warm wooden counters. It’s modern yet cozy. Large windows frame the park’s greenery, truly giving it that “forest cafe” vibe.

In the showcase, a colorful array of gelato was on display, with a bread shelf right next to it. Since I arrived a bit late in the afternoon, the bread shelves were almost bare. It’s clear that their baked goods are a hit; you really have to time your visit right before they sell out!

Outside, there are several tables and chairs where you can enjoy your treat. Feeling the forest breeze while relaxing with Elmo after our walk was the absolute highlight of the day.

My Pick: Pistachio & Chocolate

Most of the flavors at Nico Frutta highlight local ingredients from Kyushu and Fukuoka. From creamy milk bases to refreshing fruit sorbets, the selection was so tempting that it was hard to choose.

I eventually went with a double scoop of Pistachio and Chocolate. The colors looked great together, and the moment the cup was handed over, Elmo was staring it down with pure focus (lol).

The pistachio was incredible—rich and aromatic. The nutty depth really stood out without being too heavy, and eating it in the fresh forest air made it feel even more sophisticated.

As for the chocolate, I personally would have loved a punchier, darker profile. It was delicious, of course, but I’m a fan of that “bold, bitter cocoa” hit. It’s all down to preference, though! While eating, I was already planning my next order—maybe their popular milk flavor or a seasonal fruit variety next time.

The Great Bread Sell-Out: Planning My Revenge

Nico Frutta isn’t just about gelato; their house-made bread is a major draw. Depending on the day, they offer everything from croissants and danishes to egg tarts.

Unfortunately, because I arrived late, I missed out on most of it. Seeing only a few scraps left on the corner of the shelf was a bit of a shock—a testament to its popularity. According to the staff, early afternoon is the best time for a good selection. Next time, I’ll cut my morning walk a bit shorter to make sure I snag some bread.

Sitting at the outdoor table with my gelato, I couldn’t help but imagine how perfect it would be with a fresh pastry and coffee. After a long walk, that combination of sweet gelato and freshly baked bread is the ultimate reward.

Visiting with a Dog: Tips for Owners

The best thing about Nico Frutta is its location. Yakuoji Mizube Park is perfect for Elmo, with its shaded paths around the water. There are benches and gazebos scattered throughout, so you can take breaks as you go.

Just a reminder on park etiquette: leashes are mandatory. Also, since it’s near the water, bugs (mosquitoes and ticks) can be an issue, especially in summer. I’d seen reviews warning about ticks, so it’s best to keep your dog out of the deep grass and use repellent.

The shop interior isn’t pet-accessible (always check for the latest updates before you go), so the standard routine is to grab your treats to-go and sit at the outdoor tables. Elmo and I had a lovely time—him with his own snacks I brought along, and me with my gelato. That quiet forest air and a cold treat? Pure luxury.

Hours, Access, and Final Thoughts

Nico Frutta is a weekend-only gem. Their standard hours are:

Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Times may change, so I recommend checking their official site before visiting.)

Official Website: https://nicofrutta.jp/

From central Fukuoka, it’s less than an hour’s drive via the urban expressway and Kyushu Expressway. It’s a world away from the city—perfect for a weekend reset in nature.

Elmo and My Top Picks:

The Location: Right in front of Yakuoji Mizube Park.
The “Golden Route”: Walk → Gelato → Another short stroll. The perfect flow.
High-Quality Local Gelato: The pistachio flavor is a must-try.
Dog-Friendly Vibes: Relaxing at the outdoor tables with your pup is the best.

Next time, I’ll be there earlier for the milk gelato and the bread. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly spot in the Koga/Yakuoji area, the Nico Frutta and Mizube Park combo is highly recommended!