Station Misho MIC

Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Coastal Bounty

Misho MIC, nestled within the scenic confines of the Tokashiki-Uwakai National Park, is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to the natural and cultural riches of Ehime Prefecture. Located in Ainan Town, this multifaceted destination blends coastal charm with rural authenticity, offering travelers a seamless blend of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor.

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes, Misho MIC serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts with access to fishing, windsurfing, and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the region’s history at the Purple Lightning Model Museum, stroll through fragrant gardens like the Kogiken Botanical Garden, or cool off at the South Rek Jumbo Pool. With a bustling marketplace, farm-fresh produce, and seasonal events like the Autumn Harvest Fair, it’s a true celebration of local life.

Misho MIC stands out as the only roadside station in the Kuroshio Sea region to feature a preserved, rare Imperial Japanese Navy fighter plane—the Zui-ten Kai—on display at its mountain-top exhibition site. Visitors can also savor the region’s only known artisanal sweet potato ice cream, made from locally grown, sun-dried "Tōyama" yams, available only at the MIC’s seasonal “Autumn Harvest Festival.” The station’s unique combination of naval history, local harvest specialties, and panoramic views of the Uwajima Sea makes it an unparalleled stop.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a spot at the MIC Autumn Harvest Fair, where roasted sweet potatoes and grilled hioogi clams are sold starting at 9:30 AM and often sell out by noon.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the fruithaven hall inside the Uwakai Friendship Center to sample fresh citrus fruits like the local "Sakurahime" tangerines, available in seasonal bundles from October through December.

• Weekend Special: On weekends between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the roadside station’s kitchen offers a limited-time "Katsuo Rice" dish made with locally caught bonito, sold only at the food counter and often fully sold out by 1:00 PM.

• Best Time for Local Produce: Stop by the produce stand between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM during the fall season to purchase freshly harvested "Higaki" sweet potatoes, which are delivered daily from nearby farms and sold in small bags.

• Unique Experience: Visit the "Shi-den Kai" Exhibition Hall near the observation tower to view the only surviving Japanese Imperial Navy fighter aircraft, the "Shiden Kai," displayed in its original condition since its discovery on the seabed of Kuroshio Bay.

• Best Photo Spot: Head to the summit park near the Shiden Kai display at 4:00 PM on clear days to catch the sunset over the Kuroshio Sea and the Kuroshio Bay coastline, with the best view visible from the paved walkway leading to the observation deck.

• Family Activity Tip: Bring swimwear and visit the "Nanreki Jumbo Pool" between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM in summer to enjoy the 50-meter water slide pool, which is open daily and features a unique flowing water slide system that operates every 15 minutes.

Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; blooming sakura and plum trees in the Nanan Garden.

Summer (June-August): Peak season for swimming at the Jumbo Pool and outdoor activities like scuba diving and windsurfing in Uwajima Sea.

Autumn (September-November): Annual Hokuhoku Fair features roasted sweet potatoes and citrus fruits, especially from late October.

Winter (December-February): Ideal for enjoying hot meals like katsuo rice and warm local snacks; limited events but cozy atmosphere.