Station Tsushima Yasuragi no Sato

Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Natural and Cultural Heritage

Tsushima Yasuragi no Sato is a roadside station located at the exit of the Uwajima Expressway’s Tsushima-Kodan IC and just 150 meters from National Route 56, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the scenic southern region of Ehime Prefecture. Nestled between lush hills and coastal landscapes, this vibrant hub offers more than just rest and refreshment—it’s a gateway to the rich traditions and natural beauty of the area.

Visitors can explore the historic Yamasato Pasture, stroll through the expansive Nankaku Garden—the largest traditional Japanese garden in Shikoku—and wander the preserved streets of Iwamatsu, where old warehouses and the legacy of novelist Shishimaru Buntaro come alive. With seasonal events like the Tenyawan'ya Market, local artisan shops, and a variety of outdoor activities from cycling to kayaking, Tsushima Yasuragi no Sato offers a uniquely immersive experience of rural Japan.

Tsushima Yasuragi no Sato stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering direct access to the Shikoku-largest Japanese garden, Nourakuen, where two ponds are framed by meticulously arranged hills and tea pavilions, creating a serene retreat perfect for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. It is also the sole location where visitors can experience the rare "Yamamoto Ranch" seasonal offerings, including fresh dairy ice cream made from Jersey cows raised on the historic farm.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the specialty goods shop between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays to avoid crowds and ensure first pick of the day’s fresh local produce, as items like seasonal vegetables and handmade tofu are often sold out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Look for the "Tenyawan'ya Market" stall near the main entrance, operated by local community groups, which offers limited-edition seasonal items such as fermented soybean paste (natto) and handcrafted pickled vegetables not available elsewhere at the roadside station.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the outdoor multi-purpose field between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to see live demonstrations of traditional farming techniques conducted by local farmers, usually held during the spring and autumn months.

• Best Time to Visit the Japanese Garden: Arrive before 11:00 AM on weekdays to experience the quiet beauty of Nanraku-en Garden without crowds, especially during cherry blossom season when the two ponds and stone bridges are at their most picturesque.

• Must-Try Local Product: Purchase the "Kuroshio Seafood Bento" at the specialty goods shop before 1:00 PM, as it is only available during the afternoon hours and contains fresh catches from the nearby Uwajima fishing fleet, including grilled mackerel and local sea urchin.

• Best Access Point for Explorers: Use the Tsushima Takada IC exit on the Uwajima Expressway, then follow the 150-meter route along National Route 56 to reach the roadside station directly—this is the most efficient access point for travelers arriving from the south.

• Unique On-Site Experience: Attend the seasonal craft workshops held in the training and meeting facility on the second Sunday of each month (check the Tenyawan'ya Market contact number for the schedule), where visitors can try making traditional Echizen-style bamboo baskets using locally sourced materials.

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

Summer (June–August): Valley breezes cool the area, and seasonal mountain vegetables are harvested.

Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage peaks in November, and local produce like chestnuts is sold.

Winter (December–February): Snow blankets the area by December, and the hot spring offers soothing relief.