Discover the Soul of Chiba’s Coastal Heritage
Nestled along the serene shores of Tokyo Bay, Kyonan roadside station is a vibrant cultural and culinary gateway in the heart of Awa District, Chiba Prefecture. More than a rest stop, it’s a celebration of local history, art, and tradition, anchored by the renowned Hishikawa Moronobu Memorial Museum—the birthplace of one of Japan’s most influential ukiyo-e artists. Visitors can explore period exhibitions, seasonal art displays, and the nostalgic charm of a 1960s-style toy museum housed within a retro-style food stall.
At the heart of the station, the Kyonan Craft Brewery offers locally brewed craft beer crafted from regional rice, while seasonal markets and eateries like Atelier Bonbon and Kira-ra showcase fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. With panoramic sea views, a welcoming atmosphere, and deep ties to community life, Kyonan is where nature, history, and flavor come together.
Why Visit
Visit Kyonan roadside station to experience the only floating art gallery in the region, home to the renowned "Kagami no Ume" (Mirror Beauty) woodblock print collection by Hishikawa Moronobu, the founder of ukiyo-e. This is the only place where you can view his birthplace and original works in a dedicated museum. Pair this cultural journey with the exclusive Kannon Brewery’s rice-based craft beer, made from locally grown rice and sold only here—perfect for tasting and taking home as a unique souvenir.
Restaurants & Dining
At Kyonan roadside station, savor local flavors with seasonal dishes and fresh seafood. Enjoy cozy meals with ocean views.
Sakura Kima Curry
旬彩櫻華
Specialty
Light and flavorful kima curry with a soothing soup, paired with traditional Japanese sweets and coffee
A cozy food stall offering a unique blend of Indian-inspired kima curry with a gentle, comforting soup, alongside a selection of traditional Japanese sweets and coffee. Perfect for a relaxing break amidst the scenic surroundings.
Showa Toy Museum Food Stall
屋台の味処 昭和のおもちゃ館
Specialty
Seafood yakitori and nostalgic 1960s-70s toys displayed throughout the space
A nostalgic food stall featuring grilled seafood skewers in a retro-themed environment filled with vintage toys from the 1960s and 1970s. Offers a fun and unique dining experience with a playful atmosphere.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional specialties at Kyonan roadside station. Find thoughtful souvenirs and handmade goods.
Atelier Bonbon
atelier bonbon
A specialty shop offering a variety of handmade pastries and cakes, including light and airy choux pastries
Products
Must-Try Item
Choux pastry
Kirara
きらら
A local market specializing in seasonal and fresh produce from the region
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal vegetables
Kyonan Beer
鋸南麦酒
A local craft brewery producing beer using regional rice and other local ingredients
Products
Must-Try Item
Rice-based craft beer
Featured Products
Try signature items like handmade sweets and craft beer made from local rice. Taste the essence of Kyonan’s seasonal harvest.
Rice-based Craft Beer
鋸南麦酒
Locally brewed craft beer made from regional rice, featuring unique flavors and an elegant label design perfect for souvenirs
Choux Pastry
シュークリーム
Light and airy choux pastry with a delicate texture, ideal as a snack or gift
Seasonal Vegetables
旬の野菜
Fresh, locally grown seasonal vegetables harvested at peak flavor
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with comfortable restrooms, parking, and a visitor center. Enjoy guided tours and cultural exhibits.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has parking spaces for 71 regular vehicles, 5 large vehicles, and 1 accessible parking space.
At the roadside station premises
Restroom
Restrooms are available at the roadside station for visitor use.
Within the roadside station complex
Kyonan Town Tourist Information Center
The center provides information about local tourism, including nearby attractions and events. Staff are available during opening hours. It also serves as a stamp collection point for local tours.
At the roadside station
Play Area
The station features a nostalgic toy museum within the 'Showa Toy Museum' food stall, showcasing toys from the 1960s and 1970s.
Inside the 'Showa Toy Museum' food stall
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi access is available at the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available for mothers with infants at the roadside station.
Within the roadside station complex
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and check event schedules. Bring cash for small vendors and local markets.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekdays to purchase the day's fresh batch of atelier bonbon's shiruko (red bean paste) filled mochi, which is only available during the morning hours and often sells out by noon.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the gallery inside the Kyonan Town Tourist Information Center between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to view rotating photo exhibitions from local photography contests, which are not advertised outside the facility.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the seasonal produce counter at kira-ra between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to pick up the day's limited-edition "Harvest Box" featuring fresh local vegetables and herbs, available only during peak harvest seasons.
- Best Beverage Pairing: Order the "Sakura Sake" craft beer at Kyonan Brewery between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM when staff are on hand to offer free tastings of the current seasonal brew, which changes monthly and is not available at other times.
- Unique Experience: Enter the Showa-era toy museum at 屋台の味処 昭和のおもちゃ館 during weekday afternoons (after 1:00 PM) when staff are present to guide visitors through the nostalgic toy collection and share stories about the era’s popular playthings.
- Timing for Food Trucks: Check the official Kyonan Town website for announcements of the monthly food truck event at the roadside station, typically held on the second Saturday of the month from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring regional snacks like grilled eel rice balls and sea urchin dumplings.
- Best Value Purchase: Visit kira-ra on Wednesdays, the only day it is open, between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to buy discounted "Last-Minute Harvest" produce bundles, which include surplus seasonal vegetables and fruits at 30% off their regular price.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing (late March–April) and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for visiting the nearby seaside beach and enjoying fresh seafood at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Best time for seasonal harvests and special exhibitions at the Ryojōshi Memorial Museum.
Winter (December–February): Cozy visits with local craft beer and warm seasonal treats available.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features include a children's play area, interactive exhibits at the Rihaku Shiensai Memorial Museum, and stroller-friendly paths. Kid-friendly food options and family facilities are available, enhancing the overall experience for families.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse dining options including local crafts, seasonal produce at Kira-ra, and unique regional products like Kyonan Beer. Fresh ingredients and artisanal items elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking for 71 standard vehicles. While quiet and suitable for short stays, there is no explicit overnight parking policy or dedicated camping facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the Pacific Ocean with scenic coastal views and seasonal landscapes. Photo opportunities abound at the beach and near the memorial museum, with a pleasant, natural atmosphere.