Station Hiromimori no Sankaku Boushi

Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Rural Charm

Hiromimori no Sankaku Boushi is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene countryside of Kami-Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture, where lush forests meet rolling farmland. Located near the scenic Nagi River Gorge and the majestic Katsuragi Mountains, this destination offers travelers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature’s beauty. More than just a rest stop, it’s a cultural gateway connecting local traditions with modern hospitality.

The station features a charming red-roofed building housing a curated marketplace of regional agricultural and forest products, including the famed Sankaku Boushi specialty goods. At the on-site café, “Arika Chaya,” guests enjoy light meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients, served on handmade wooden tables and ceramic ware. With ample parking, accessible facilities, and nearby trails and hot springs, Hiromimori no Sankaku Boushi is the perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of western Shikoku.

Visit Hiromimori no Sankaku Boushi to experience the region’s only roadside station dedicated to artisanal products from Jersey cows, including its signature milk ice cream made with locally sourced cream. The station also features a rare, fully restored 19th-century wooden barn used as a seasonal craft workshop, where visitors can watch local artisans make traditional woven baskets from native bamboo—only available here.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the full range of fresh produce at the speciality goods sales counter, as the morning harvest deliveries are stocked before 9:30 AM and often sell out by noon.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the limited daily batch of handmade smoked sausages made from local pork, which are not listed on the menu but are available only during this window.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the "Sankaku Boushi Farm Stand" opens at 8:30 AM at the east entrance and sells freshly picked seasonal vegetables and berries directly from the on-site organic farm—arrive before 9:00 AM to get the best selection.

• Best Dining Time: Order at the "Ajiro Chaya" café by 10:30 AM to secure a seat at the wooden tables made from local cedar and hinoki, which are preferred by locals and often occupied by 11:00 AM.

• Free Activity: Join the free guided nature walk at 10:00 AM on weekends, led by staff from the local environmental group, which departs from the information corner near the entrance and includes a short hike to the nearby viewing platform with panoramic views of the Kōgawa Gorge.

• Best Photo Spot: Take a photo at the "Sankaku Boushi Viewpoint" located just north of the main building, accessible via the forest path behind the restroom, where you can capture the full view of the Kōgawa Gorge with the red-roofed station in the foreground—best light is between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

• Pro Tip for Cyclists: Rent a bicycle from the roadside station’s rental desk before 10:00 AM to reserve one of the limited 6 electric-assist bikes, which are in high demand for the scenic route along the Kōgawa River and are often fully booked by 11:30 AM.

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.

Summer (June–August): The roadside station hosts the summer green market, and visitors enjoy shaded walks near the scenic riverbanks.

Autumn (September–November): The area's maple trees turn vibrant red from mid-October, offering stunning views along the river trail.

Winter (December–February): The surrounding mountains display delicate tree ice formations in January, especially near the hot spring area.