Discover the Heart of Shonan: Where Community and Culture Meet
Shonan roadside station is a vibrant cultural and economic hub nestled in the heart of Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, where nature, local tradition, and modern innovation converge. More than a rest stop, it serves as a dynamic gathering place that connects people, products, and purpose across the region.
At the center of it all is Tentō, a strikingly designed facility whose name reflects the mission of linking people and places. Visitors can explore the Chinochi Market, where local farm-fresh produce meets mindful consumption, enjoy a unique tea café, or savor seasonal dishes at the Shonan Gochisō Shokudō. With a vegetarian café, a local bakery, and an on-site book center, Shonan roadside station offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate community, sustainability, and the spirit of place.
Why Visit
Shonan roadside station stands out for its unique fusion of local agriculture and creative culinary innovation. Visitors can savor the region’s only Shonan Vegetable Burger made with fresh kohlrabi and local greens, a signature offering at the on-site café. Equally distinctive is the Vegetarian Shanty, a dedicated plant-based eatery serving seasonal dishes crafted from produce grown in the nearby Tegnuma Agri-Business Park. These are experiences found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, local flavors at Shonan roadside station, where farm-to-table cuisine meets cozy café charm.
Cha no Go Cafe
ちゃのごカフェ
Specialty
A cozy café offering seasonal drinks and light meals with a focus on local ingredients.
Located within the Shonan roadside station, this charming café provides a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy fresh, locally sourced beverages and small bites. The space is designed to feel welcoming and intimate, perfect for a quiet break or casual meet-up.
Vegetarian Shanty
VEGETALIAN SHANTY
Specialty
Plant-based dining with locally sourced vegetables and creative vegetarian cuisine.
A dedicated vegetarian restaurant offering a thoughtfully crafted menu that celebrates regional produce through innovative, plant-forward dishes. The ambiance is warm and earthy, emphasizing sustainability and mindful eating.
Shonan Gochisou Shokudou
しょうなんのごちそう食堂
Specialty
A challenge-style restaurant featuring seasonal and regional dishes from local chefs.
A dynamic food stall that hosts rotating culinary challenges, showcasing the creativity and diversity of local chefs. Each dish reflects the season and regional identity, offering a unique dining experience with a focus on innovation and community.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treats at Shonan roadside station’s vibrant marketplace.
Direct Sales Market Chisan Chisho Marushie
直売所 知産知消マルシェ
A direct sales market that promotes local agriculture by connecting producers with consumers, emphasizing knowledge of regional products and consumption culture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal vegetable box
Arakawa Book Center Shonan Branch
青山ブックセンター 道の駅しょうなん支店
A bookstore offering a curated selection of books on local culture, nature, and regional history, along with general reading materials.
Products
Must-Try Item
Regional culture anthology
Bakery Harabinou
ベーカリー ハレビノ
A bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Shonan sourdough loaf
Kimura Peanuts
木村ピーナッツ
A specialty shop dedicated to locally produced peanuts and peanut-based snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Roasted peanut snack pack
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like seasonal vegetables and artisanal snacks crafted from regional ingredients.
Shonan Vegetable Burger (Turnip)
しょうなん野菜バーガー かぶ
A signature vegetarian burger made with locally grown turnips, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.
Shonan Sourdough Loaf
しょうなん自家製パン
A handmade sourdough bread crafted with locally milled flour and natural fermentation.
Roasted Peanut Snack Pack
ローストピーナッツ パック
A premium pack of locally roasted peanuts, ideal as a healthy snack or gift.
Seasonal Vegetable Box
旬の野菜ボックス
A curated box of fresh, seasonal vegetables sourced directly from local farms.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and relaxing spaces perfect for travelers.
Parking
A parking area is available for visitors to use.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors.
Throughout the facility, including near the main building and food areas
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility, including inside buildings and outdoor areas
Information Center
An information center provides visitors with local guides, maps, and assistance.
Inside the main building (てんと)
Play Area
A dedicated play area for children is available in the large roof plaza.
Large Roof Plaza (大屋根ひろば)
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the main entrance
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented for exploring the surrounding area.
Near the large roof plaza (大屋根ひろば)
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the main building (てんと)
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for owners to walk their animals.
Near the large roof plaza (大屋根ひろば)
Activities & Experiences
Join hands-on workshops and seasonal events that celebrate Shonan’s culture and natural beauty.
Seasonal Market
秋の知産知消マルシェ
Participants can experience and purchase seasonal local produce while learning about regional agricultural knowledge and sustainable consumption practices.
Duration
120 min
Vegetarian Café Experience
ちゃのごカフェ
Guests can enjoy a unique vegetarian café experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menu items.
Duration
60 min
Local Food Challenge Restaurant
しょうなんのごちそう食堂 ［チャレンジレストラン］
Participants can engage in a hands-on cooking experience to create local dishes using regional ingredients, guided by chefs.
Duration
90 min
Bakery Workshop
ベーカリー ハレビノ 道の駅しょうなん店
Attendees can participate in a bread-making workshop using locally grown grains and traditional baking techniques.
Duration
120 min
Peanut Tasting and Making
木村ピーナッツ 道の駅しょうなん店
Visitors can taste and learn about the process of making traditional roasted peanuts using local recipes.
Duration
45 min
Rent a Bicycle
レンタサイクル
Guests can rent bicycles to explore the surrounding area and enjoy scenic routes near the roadside station.
Duration
120 min
Weather-dependent; not recommended in heavy rain or extreme heat
Community Gathering at Large Roof Plaza
大屋根ひろば
Join seasonal community events such as fire prevention concerts and local cultural performances held at the large roof plaza.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor event; may be canceled due to rain or poor weather
Insider Tips
Visit during market days for exclusive deals and use the rental bikes to explore nearby scenic trails.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the Cha no Cafe before the 11:00 AM rush, as the Shonan Vegetable Burger (Kabu) is only available from 11:00 AM and sells out quickly
- Hidden Gems: Visit the Tent building’s Vegetarian Shanty on Sundays to sample the seasonal Shonan Vegetable Curry—it’s only served during the autumn Know-Product, Know-Consumption Market events
- Weekend Special: On the first Sunday of each month, join the Kitchen Car food truck lineup at the Great Roof Plaza, where the Shonan Local Soba Noodles stand opens at 10:00 AM and often runs out by 1:00 PM
- Unique Product Tip: Purchase the Shonan Vegetable Oil from the Direct Sales Market in the Tent building—only available during the Autumn Know-Product, Know-Consumption Market on November 29, 2025
- Best Time to Visit the Bookstore: Stop by the Aoyama Book Center Shonan Branch between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays to browse the local history section, which is only restocked during that time
- Bike Rental Strategy: Reserve the Rent-a-Bike service in advance through the website for weekend use, as the station only has 12 bikes available and they are often fully booked by 11:00 AM on Saturdays
- Event Timing: Attend the Fire Prevention Concert by the Kashiwa Fire Department Music Team on November 8 at 2:00 PM at the Great Roof Plaza, where free local snacks are distributed during the event
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring, with seasonal vegetable dishes featured at the restaurant.
Summer (June–August): Limited seasonal offerings noted; peak heat may affect outdoor activities.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn harvest events and the "Shonan Vegetable Burger Turnip" launch in November highlight the season.
Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal activities mentioned; visit for indoor facilities and local products.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shonan roadside station offers a spacious grassy plaza ideal for children, with stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the interactive market and events provide engaging experiences for families.
Food Lover Review
The station features diverse dining options including a vegetarian café, bakery, peanut shop, and a farmers market with local produce. Unique items like the Shonan Vegetable Burger highlight regional specialties and high-quality, fresh ingredients.
Car Camping Review
Restrooms and vending machines are available, supporting overnight stays. The facility is quiet during evening hours, though no explicit overnight parking policy is stated. Limited camping infrastructure reduces its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station is set in a pleasant, open area with views of surrounding greenery and seasonal landscapes. The distinctive roof design and large grassy plaza enhance visual appeal, offering excellent photo opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere.