Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Rural Charm
Higashi-Yuri roadside station lies at the crossroads of northern Japan’s scenic countryside, nestled along National Route 107 in Yurihonjo City, Akita Prefecture. More than just a rest stop, it serves as a vibrant cultural and agricultural hub where travelers connect with local life, nature, and tradition.
At Higashi-Yuri, visitors can unwind in the revitalized Yurari Hot Spring, shop for seasonal produce at the fresh farmers’ market, or enjoy regional cuisine at the on-site eatery. With spacious parking, accessible facilities, and a strong commitment to community, this roadside station offers a welcoming retreat for those exploring the scenic landscapes of northern Akita.
Why Visit
Higashi-Yuri is the only roadside station in the region offering a full-scale public bathhouse with mineral-rich hot springs sourced from the Yonezawa Basin, now proudly operated by the city after a successful transition from third-sector management. Visitors can also sample the area’s exclusive “Yuri-kan” miso ramen, a locally crafted noodle soup made with regional soybean paste and served at the on-site eatery. This combination of authentic thermal bathing and a uniquely regional culinary experience is found nowhere else along the route.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Higashi-Yuri roadside station, where seasonal dishes and regional specialties warm your palate.
Yashio Dining Area
お食事処「やしお」
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy dining area offering traditional local dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the region. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal during a road trip.
Shopping Highlights
Explore a vibrant mix of local goods and crafts at Higashi-Yuri’s roadside station shop.
Fresh Vegetable Direct Sales
フレッシュ野菜直売所
A direct sales market offering fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested local vegetables
Plessa Shopping Plaza
ふれあいプラザ「ぷれっそ」
A general shopping plaza featuring a variety of local products, souvenirs, and daily necessities.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local specialty food items
Super Plessa
スーパー「ぷれっそ」
A supermarket offering a wide range of groceries, local products, and everyday essentials.
Products
Must-Try Item
Locally sourced produce
Featured Products
Discover signature items like fresh produce and artisanal treats unique to the region.
Yuri Honjo Grilled Eel
由利本荘風焼きうなぎ
A premium product featuring grilled eel with a sweet soy-based sauce, ideal for gift-giving or home cooking.
Local Vegetable Assortment
地元野菜セット
A curated selection of fresh, seasonal vegetables from local farms, perfect for cooking at home.
Yuri Honjo Rice Bowl Kit
由利本荘丼セット
A ready-to-cook kit containing all ingredients needed to make the famous Yuri Honjo rice bowl at home.
Yuri Honjo Souvenir Box
由利本荘お土産セット
A gift box containing a variety of local specialties, including snacks, sauces, and dried goods.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy spacious parking, accessible restrooms, and comfortable amenities at Higashi-Yuri roadside station.
General Parking
Provides parking for 202 regular vehicles and 18 large vehicles.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Disabled Parking
Designated parking spaces for people with disabilities, with 6 spots available.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Men's Toilet
Includes 6 urinals and 3 Western-style toilets.
Inside the facility complex
Women's Toilet
Includes 5 Western-style toilets.
Inside the facility complex
Accessible Toilet
A multi-purpose toilet with a diaper changing table, designed for people with disabilities.
Inside the facility complex
Information Center
An information facility providing local information and services for travelers.
Inside the roadside station
Yurari Hot Spring
A public hot spring facility operated by the city since May 2025, offering bath services for visitors.
Within the roadside station complex
Plessa Shopping Plaza
A shopping plaza featuring a supermarket, fresh produce market, and local goods, operating from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless internet access available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station premises
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around opening hours and seasonal highlights for the best experience at Higashi-Yuri roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM to secure a parking spot near the entrance before the morning rush, as the general parking lot fills quickly during weekend mornings due to nearby school events and local visitors.
- Hidden Gems: Check the "Super Pless" store’s produce section between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when fresh local vegetables from the on-site fresh produce market are restocked daily and often include rare varieties like Yurihonjo-grown purple carrots and heirloom tomatoes.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the "Yashio" restaurant between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to try the limited-time lunch set featuring local beef from the Oyama region, available only during weekend lunch hours.
- Best Time to Visit the Bathhouse: Arrive by 1:00 PM on weekdays to use the newly reopened public bathhouse "Yurari," operated directly by Yurihonzō City, as it opens at 1:00 PM and often reaches full capacity by 2:30 PM.
- Dining Tip: Order the "Yurihonzō-style miso soup" at the "Yashio" restaurant between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM, as this dish is made with locally produced miso that is only prepared in the morning and is sold out by early afternoon.
- Shopping Tip: Visit the "Pless" shopping plaza’s snack counter after 3:00 PM on weekdays to find the day’s final batch of fresh "Yurihonzō Milk Bread," baked in the morning and often sold out by 4:00 PM.
- Accessibility Advantage: Use the accessible entrance near the rear parking area (next to the multi-purpose toilet) during peak hours, as it has a direct ramp to the main building and avoids the crowded main entrance during school bus drop-off times.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with peak canola flower viewing from late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Open-air market features seasonal vegetables and berries; ideal for visiting before the mid-summer heat.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for local produce; autumn foliage enhances the scenic views around the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): Limited access to fresh produce; best for quiet visits with the nearby hot spring reopened in spring.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a spacious playground, stroller-friendly paths, and a family restroom with changing tables. Includes a children's play area and interactive exhibits. Kid-friendly food options available at the eatery and market.
Food Lover Review
Features a dedicated eatery serving local dishes, a fresh produce market, and a supermarket with regional products. Offers quality local specialties and seasonal items, enhancing the authentic culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, clean restrooms, and vending machines. Offers a quiet, accessible environment with no overnight restrictions. Limited comfort for extended stays due to lack of dedicated camping zones.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a scenic rural area with views of surrounding farmland and forests. Offers photo-worthy viewpoints and seasonal landscapes. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and aesthetically pleasing.