Savor the Flavors of Northern Japan’s Heartland
Hinai roadside station lies along National Route 285 in the scenic village of Higashi-Tagawa, nestled in the lush landscapes of Akita Prefecture. Renowned for its premium Higashi-Tagawa chickens, the station offers a vibrant fusion of local culture, culinary excellence, and sustainable tourism. Visitors can enjoy authentic Higashi-Tagawa chicken dishes, sample fresh regional produce, and explore eco-friendly amenities including EV charging stations and multilingual visitor services.
Why Visit
Hinai roadside station is the only place to taste handmade soft cream made from fresh eggs of the prized Higashi-akita free-range chickens, a regional specialty. It also offers the only authentic Higashi-akita-style kiritaunpo stew, crafted with locally raised chickens and traditional methods.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Hinai roadside station, where farm-fresh chicken and regional specialties take center stage.
Hinai Chicken Restaurant
れすとらん比内どり
Specialty
Local Hinai chicken dishes
A restaurant specializing in authentic Hinai chicken cuisine, offering a traditional dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and regional flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover farm-fresh produce and local crafts at Hinai’s vibrant market stalls and gift shops.
Totto Hall (Farmers Market & Souvenir Shop)
とっと館
A market offering fresh local produce and regional specialties, including seasonal vegetables, fruits, and locally made goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hinai Chicken Egg Soft Cream
Hinai Chicken Egg Soft Cream
比内地鶏卵のソフトクリーム
A unique soft cream made exclusively with fresh eggs from Hinai chickens, available only at the roadside station.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hinai Chicken Egg Soft Cream
Featured Products
Sample signature items like premium比内鶏 eggs and seasonal delicacies unique to the region.
Hinai Chicken Eggs
比内地鶏卵
Fresh, high-quality eggs from free-range Hinai chickens, known for their rich flavor and deep yolk color.
Hinai Chicken Meat (Whole or Cut)
比内地鶏肉
Premium quality chicken meat from the famous Hinai breed, known for its tenderness and flavor.
Hinai Chicken Egg Soft Cream (Packaged)
比内地鶏卵のソフトクリーム（パッケージ）
A portable version of the famous soft cream, made with real Hinai chicken eggs, ideal as a souvenir.
Hinai Chicken Broth (Dried Soup Base)
比内地鶏出汁（乾燥スープベース）
A concentrated dried broth made from Hinai chicken, perfect for making authentic kiritanpo hot pot at home.
Hinai Chicken Gift Set
比内地鶏ギフトセット
A curated gift set including Hinai chicken eggs, dried broth, and a recipe booklet for traditional dishes.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and helpful information terminals.
Parking Lot
Equipped with fast charging stations for electric vehicles. Available for use (fee applies).
Near Puromie Hinaidori
Tourist Information Center
Provides information on local tourism and specialty products. Multilingual support available for international visitors.
Inside Puromie Hinaidori
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Fast charging stations for electric vehicles are available in the parking area.
Parking Lot near Puromie Hinaidori
Restroom
Available in the rest area building. Located within the roadside station premises.
Rest Area Building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available in the rest area for visitors to use.
Rest Area
Restaurant Hinaidori
Serves local specialties such as grilled chicken, kiritanpo hot pot made with chicken broth, and chicken katsudon. Also offers ramen and other local dishes.
Inside Puromie Hinaidori
Light Meal Counter
Offers local favorites such as udon, soba, ramen, curry rice, and a unique soft-serve ice cream made with local Hinaidori chicken eggs.
To-to Kan (Hinaidori Light Food & Sales Counter)
Farmers' Market & Souvenir Shop
Sells fresh locally grown produce and regional specialties. Features a dedicated souvenir corner for visitors.
To-to Kan (Hinaidori Light Food & Sales Counter)
Rest Area
Offers tables, chairs, and tatami flooring for relaxation. Includes a computer terminal for viewing road information and tourist brochures.
Rest Area Building
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and explore nearby temples and nature trails for a deeper local journey.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to enjoy the full selection of fresh eggs at the tottokan direct sales counter, as the day’s supply of local chicken eggs is typically sold out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: At the tottokan’s soft-serve counter, order the chicken egg soft-cream using eggs from the same farm that supplies the on-site restaurant—this exclusive flavor is only available at Hinai roadside station.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the restaurant kiritanpo dining area between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to sample the limited-time “Kiritanpo Set” featuring handmade kiritanpo made with fresh local chicken broth.
- Avoid Disappointment: Call ahead to the restaurant at 0186-55-2200 before visiting on Monday to confirm if the restaurant is open, as it closes every Monday unless it’s a public holiday.
- Best Photo Spot: Take a photo at the entrance of the tottokan building where the large “Hinai Chicken” sign is located—this is the only spot with a clear view of the entire roadside station complex and is ideal for capturing the full layout.
- Use the Free WiFi: Access the free internet via the computer terminal in the rest area to view the official tourism QR code guide for nearby attractions like Beniyama Natural Park and Shitada Jinja Shrine.
- Parking Tip: Use the rapid charging station in the parking lot only during the day—charging is not available after 5:00 PM, and the station shuts down at 5:30 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available April–May; peak season for visiting the roadside station after snowmelt.
Summer (June–August): Fresh produce from local farms available daily at the direct sales counter.
Autumn (September–November): Seasonal harvest of tonburi (wild mountain vegetables) in September–October.
Winter (December–February): Limited hours; best for enjoying kiritanpo stew and local eggs during the cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, child-friendly food, stroller access, and interactive exhibits with local culture and farming.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine, fresh produce, unique regional specialties, and artisanal food products.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and quiet parking; overnight stays allowed with no explicit policy.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views, photo spots, seasonal landscapes, and a peaceful, natural atmosphere.