Top Five Roadside Stations to Stop By on a Drive

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Michi-no-Eki (roadside stations) have evolved from simple rest stops into destinations in their own right. A survey conducted by the travel information site JALAN News asked 4,219 people nationwide, aged 20 to 50, to rate roadside stations in terms of satisfaction.

The top-ranked station for satisfaction is Kawaba Denen Plaza in Kawaba Village, Gunma Prefecture. It reclaimed the top spot after ranking second in 2024.

The station is particularly known for its local gourmet offerings. Specialties include Yukihotaka rice produced in the area and yogurt drinks made from local milk. Visitors can also enjoy craft beer at the on-site restaurant. The bakery, famous for freshly baked bread, attracts many visitors who come specifically for its products.

Hands-on experiences such as pottery classes and obstacle courses are also available. Situated at the foot of the lush Mt Hotaka, the station provides opportunities for both adults and children to enjoy the outdoors.

Rising Star

Rising from 10th place last year to second place is Roadside Station Munakata in Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is a favorite in the Kyushu region.

A highlight is the seafood section, which features fresh fish from the Genkai Sea. The station is so popular that people form lines even before opening. It features a restaurant that serves dishes such as tuna bowls and chazuke sets. In addition to seafood, a wide variety of local produce and prepared foods are available. The Hijiki Croquette, made with fluffy potatoes and plenty of hijiki seaweed, is particularly popular.

Large and Popular

Ranking fifth is A-La-Datena Roadside Station in Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. It is one of the largest roadside stations in the Tohoku region, attracting over three million visitors annually.

Its spacious marketplace features a wide range of local specialties, including processed wild boar meats such as OSAKI GIBIER, which is popular among adventurous food enthusiasts.

The true charm of Michi-no-Eki is that they offer both a place to rest and a convenient way to experience local food and culture, right along major roads.