Station Donburi-kan

Savor the Essence of Shikoku at Donburi-kan

Nestled in the heart of the Shikoku Nishiyo Geopark, Donburi-kan is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to the natural wonders, culinary traditions, and cultural heritage of western Ehime Prefecture. Located just off the Nishiyo Uwa Interchange, this scenic hub sits at the crossroads of lush mountains, coastal vistas, and ancient geological formations, offering travelers a rich blend of relaxation and discovery.

Donburi-kan shines as a celebration of local abundance, with its vibrant Aozora Market showcasing seasonal produce, a fresh seafood counter featuring the bounty of the Uwakai Sea, and a curated selection of regional specialties. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining at the on-site restaurant, savor artisanal gelato, or try traditional snacks like jako ten and takoyaki. With facilities ranging from accessible restrooms and nursing stations to outdoor parks, cycling paths, and guided geopark tours, Donburi-kan invites guests to connect with nature, culture, and community in a welcoming, authentic setting.

Visit Donburi-kan to experience the only roadside station in the Shikoku region where you can savor freshly made donburi bowls using rice grown in the volcanic soil of the Kuroshio Basin and topped with seafood caught daily from the rich waters of the Uwakai Sea. The station’s signature feature is its exclusive “Yamato Tako” grilled octopus, prepared with a secret local marinade only available here. Nestled within the Shikoku Nishiyo Geopark, it also offers panoramic views of the ancient, vertically tilted strata of the Sosaki Coast—a geological wonder visible nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:00–8:30 AM to secure the first selection from the fresh produce at the Aozora Market, where seasonal vegetables and fruits are restocked daily and often sell out by mid-morning.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the "Ippuku" stand near the entrance to the Aozora Market—this small vendor specializes in handmade dried fish snacks made from local catch, available only during peak season (late summer to early autumn).

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the Aozora Market features live cooking demonstrations from 10:30–11:30 AM at the outdoor food corner, where staff prepare dishes using ingredients from the market—arrive early to get a front-row seat.

• Best Value Purchase: Buy the "Yamato no Kuni" brand processed food bundle at the specialty shop before 3:00 PM, as it includes a free sample pack that is only available during weekday afternoons.

• Family-Friendly Timing: Visit the restrooms near the children’s playground between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays when the baby-changing station and nursing room are most likely to be clean and well-stocked.

• Peak Freshness Window: Head to the fresh seafood counter at 8:15 AM on weekdays to catch the daily delivery of freshly caught Uwakai fish, which are displayed and available for purchase within 30 minutes of arrival.

• Unique Experience: Join the hands-on cooking workshop at the experience facility every Wednesday at 2:00 PM—reservations are required and must be made in advance through the official website to secure a spot.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots arrive at the market in April, and the greenery of the caldera begins to flourish.

Summer (June–August): Peak season for sea urchin and fresh seafood at the fish counter, with cooling breezes from the coast.

Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage at Daino-gahara draws visitors, and local chestnuts are harvested in October.

Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal offerings, but the heated restaurant remains open for warm meals.