Discover the Heart of Shimanami: Where Nature, Culture, and Comfort Meet
Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen, nestled just one minute from Imabari Yonoura Interchange, is more than a roadside station—it’s a gateway to the rich heritage and natural beauty of Shimanami Kaido. Located along the scenic route connecting Honshu and Shikoku, this vibrant hub blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern amenities, offering travelers a refreshing pause amid the lush landscapes of Ehime Prefecture.
Here, visitors can savor locally crafted delicacies like Tai Ramen and Sea Strait Soup, shop for regional specialties such as citrus fruits and Imabari towels, and unwind in the soothing embrace of the onsen. The station’s unique “Spring Source Plaza,” where mist rises from the warm waters, creates a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. With cycling rentals, seasonal markets, and access to nearby attractions like Imabari Castle and Sakurai Beach, Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen invites travelers to slow down, connect, and experience the soul of the region.
Why Visit
Visit Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen to experience the only roadside station in the region where you can savor authentic Kaiyō Tsuyu—a rich, umami-packed broth made from bonito, saba, mackerel, and black seabream—crafted specifically for the Shimanami Kaido route. This signature condiment, born from local sea flavors, transforms simple meals into unforgettable tastes. Equally unique is the station’s immersive Onsen Mist Plaza, where steam rises from a simulated natural hot spring source, creating a serene, sensory journey. Here, the fusion of regional culinary heritage and onsen culture offers a distinctly authentic experience found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen roadside station, where fresh seafood and regional dishes like tai ramen and Seto Inland Sea cuisine delight the palate.
Seafood Ramen & Local Cuisine Corner
海峡めし・鯛ラーメン
Specialty
Local seafood and regional dishes using fresh ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea
A dining area within the roadside station that offers a variety of meals made with local ingredients, including fresh fish and seafood from the Seto Inland Sea. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, ideal for travelers seeking authentic regional flavors.
Light Meals & Snacks
軽食
Specialty
Quick and convenient snacks and light meals
A casual food stall offering quick bites and light meals for travelers and visitors looking for a fast, satisfying snack. The atmosphere is relaxed and accessible, perfect for a short break.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and artisan goods at Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen roadside station, where regional specialties and handcrafted items are thoughtfully curated.
Local Specialty Products Store
特産品販売施設
A retail shop offering a wide range of local products from Imabari City, including citrus fruits, Imabari towels, and regional food items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Imabari Towels
MIO Brand Store
MIOブランド
A dedicated shop for MIO BRAND products, featuring a curated selection of regional food and drink items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seto Inland Sea Dashi
Featured Products
Explore signature products like the renowned Seto Inland Sea broth and premium local goods, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Imabari.
Seto Inland Sea Dashi
海峡つゆ
A versatile, umami-rich broth made from bonito, mackerel, dried sardines, and sea bream, designed to enhance the flavor of various dishes.
Imabari Towels
今治タオル
High-quality, soft, and absorbent towels made in Imabari, known for their durability and craftsmanship.
Citrus Fruits from Imabari
柑橘類
Fresh citrus fruits grown in the Imabari region, known for their sweet flavor and vibrant aroma.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen roadside station, including parking, restrooms, EV charging, and relaxing rest areas.
Parking Lot
Standard cars: 32 spaces, Large vehicles: 3 spaces, Disabled parking: 3 spaces (available 24 hours)
At the roadside station
Toilet
Men's toilets: 7 units, Women's toilets: 7 units, Accessible toilet: 1 unit
At the roadside station
Information Corner
Provides local tourism information and regional product sales. Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (8:30 AM to 6:30 PM in July and August).
Inside the roadside station building
Playground
Free play equipment available for children within the facility grounds.
At the roadside station
Hot Spring
A hot spring facility located nearby. Features a pool zone, bath zone, and separate male/female bathing areas. Also recognized as a health-promotion facility by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
Nearby at Qua House Imabari
Shower
Shower facilities available at the nearby Qua House Imabari hot spring facility.
Nearby at Qua House Imabari
Bike Rental
Bicycle rental service available at the roadside station. Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
At the roadside station
Nursing Room
Dedicated nursing room with baby changing facilities available for mothers.
At the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging equipment available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
ATM
ATM available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
Pet Area
Pet-friendly area available for visitors with pets.
At the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences and seasonal events at Imabari Yunourafureta Onsen roadside station, from cycling to cultural workshops.
Rent a Bicycle
レンタサイクル
Rent a bicycle at the roadside station and explore the surrounding area, including scenic routes along the Shimanami Kaido.
Duration
120 min
Bicycling is recommended on clear days; avoid during heavy rain or strong winds.
Local Market on Sundays
日曜市
Visit the weekly Sunday market to enjoy local crafts, fresh produce, and regional specialties from vendors in the area.
Duration
180 min
The market is held outdoors; check weather conditions and bring rain gear if necessary.
Onsen Experience
温泉体験
Relax in the natural hot spring waters of Yunoura Onsen, enjoying the soothing steam and traditional Japanese bathhouse atmosphere.
Duration
60 min
Best enjoyed during cooler months; avoid during extreme heat.
Horseback Riding with Wild Horses
野間馬乗馬体験
Ride on the native wild horses of the region, known as the smallest native horse in Japan, and learn about their history and care.
Duration
45 min
Riding is not available during rainy or stormy weather.
Petting Zoo with Guinea Pigs
モルモットとふれあい
Interact with friendly guinea pigs at the petting zoo and enjoy a fun, hands-on experience suitable for all ages.
Duration
30 min
Indoor activity; unaffected by weather conditions.
Guided Tour of Imabari Castle and Uwahama Park
今治城・吹揚公園
Take a guided walking tour of Imabari Castle, a historically significant castle with views of the Seto Inland Sea and the Shikoku mountain range.
Duration
90 min
Best experienced on sunny days; avoid during heavy rain.
Mitsukawa Temple and Historical Site Visit
国分寺
Explore the historic Kōbun-ji Temple, a designated cultural property with ancient stone foundations and a rich history dating back to the 8th century.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor visit; bring rain protection if needed.
Sakurai Beach Cherry Blossom Festival
桜井海岸
Visit the scenic Sakurai Beach during the cherry blossom season to enjoy the blooming flowers and participate in the annual Hanamatsuri festival.
Duration
120 min
Best enjoyed on clear, mild days; avoid during rain or strong winds.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during off-peak hours to enjoy seamless access and make the most of local insights shared by staff and regular visitors.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure one of the 32 standard parking spaces before they fill up, as the site is busiest between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-edition MIO Brand "Kaiyō Tsuyu" (Sea of Islands Broth) – it’s only available during summer months (July and August) and often sells out by 2:00 PM.
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the outdoor market area between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample fresh tuna ramen and Shimano cuisine dishes, which are only served during the Sunday market event.
- Best Time for Bike Rentals: Reserve a rental bicycle at the cycle station by 9:00 AM, as rentals are only available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and often sell out by 11:30 AM on weekends.
- Thermal Experience Tip: Use the outdoor温泉 (onsen) stand between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM on weekdays to enjoy the morning mist and avoid crowds, as the hot spring area is most tranquil during this early window.
- Souvenir Strategy: Purchase the Imabari Towa Towel (now branded as MIO) at the gift shop before 3:00 PM, as the limited stock of seasonal designs (like the “Shimano Sea” pattern) is only restocked once per week and frequently sells out.
- Family-Friendly Access: Take advantage of the nursing room and diaper-changing station located near the information corner when visiting with infants, as they are specifically marked and equipped with baby-sized changing tables and a quiet space for feeding.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit for the Sakura Coast's plum blossom festival in February and fresh bamboo shoots at the market.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy the seaside at Sakura Coast and the cool waters of the marine park.
Autumn (September-November): Experience the scenic beauty of the island views and seasonal seafood.
Winter (December-February): Soak in the hot spring during the cold months and enjoy the quiet charm of the area.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a playground, nursing rooms, changing tables, and family activities like horseback riding and animal encounters. Includes child-friendly food options and stroller-accessible facilities. Educational experiences enhance the appeal.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including unique sea-based dishes and signature products like 'Kaikyo Tsuyu.' Offers fresh produce, artisanal food, and a variety of restaurants and cafes with high-quality regional ingredients.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour access to restrooms, parking, and vending machines. Offers a quiet, scenic environment with designated camping areas. Overnight parking is permitted, though no formal camping facilities are described.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near scenic coastal areas with views of islands and mountains. Features a picturesque hot spring plaza and seasonal beauty from cherry blossoms to seaside landscapes. Offers excellent photo spots and a peaceful atmosphere.