Discover the Heart of Hiroshima’s Rural Charms
Tucked along the scenic coastline of Hiroshima Prefecture, Takehara is a roadside station where tradition meets modernity in perfect harmony. Situated at the crossroads of local culture and natural beauty, it serves as a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich heritage, from centuries-old farming practices to the serene rhythm of coastal life.
More than a pit stop, Takehara offers travelers a curated experience—sampling regional specialties like fresh sea bream and locally grown vegetables, exploring artisanal crafts, and enjoying panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. With its dynamic events and rotating exhibitions, including celebrated photo showcases from the Dream Road Renaissance Contest, the station continuously invites visitors to engage with the stories of the land and its people.
Why Visit
Visit Takehara roadside station to experience the region’s only artisanal milk ice cream crafted from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced directly from local farms. Wander through the seasonal flower gardens featuring rare varieties of camellias cultivated exclusively in this coastal valley. The station also hosts rotating exhibitions of award-winning photography from the Dream Road Renaissance Contest, showcasing the artistic soul of the region’s landscapes and communities.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Takehara roadside station, where fresh, regional dishes await.
Takehara Local Cuisine Restaurant
道の駅たけはら
Specialty
Traditional local dishes from Takehara
A cozy restaurant offering authentic regional cuisine from Takehara, featuring fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and fisheries. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for experiencing the true taste of the area.
Farmers' Market Café
道の駅たけはら
Specialty
Freshly baked goods and local coffee
A charming café serving artisanal coffee and homemade pastries made with ingredients from nearby farms. The space is bright and relaxed, ideal for a morning break or afternoon tea.
Seafood Specialty Stall
道の駅たけはら
Specialty
Freshly prepared seafood snacks
A lively food stall offering quick, delicious seafood treats made with the day’s catch. The energetic atmosphere and simple, flavorful dishes make it a favorite among visitors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and regional goods at Takehara roadside station, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
Local Produce Market
道の駅たけはら
A vibrant market featuring seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown by local farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested strawberries
Artisan Bakery
道の駅たけはら
A small bakery specializing in handmade bread and pastries using traditional methods and local flour.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sourdough Loaf
Craft and Souvenir Shop
道の駅たけはら
A shop offering handmade crafts and locally inspired souvenirs, including ceramics, textiles, and art pieces.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted ceramic mug
Local Alcohol Store
道の駅たけはら
A dedicated shop selling regional alcoholic beverages, including sake, shochu, and local craft beer.
Products
Must-Try Item
Takehara Mountain Sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties and local treasures crafted with pride in Takehara’s vibrant community.
Takehara Sea Salt
たけはらの海塩
Hand-harvested sea salt from the coastal waters of Takehara, known for its clean, subtle flavor.
Local Honey
地元ハチミツ
Pure, unfiltered honey collected from wildflowers in the Takehara region, rich in natural flavor.
Takehara Dried Seaweed
たけはらの乾燥海苔
Premium dried seaweed harvested from the pristine waters near Takehara, ideal for sushi and snacks.
Hand-Painted Ceramic Mug
手描き陶器マグカップ
A unique ceramic mug painted by local artisans, featuring traditional patterns from the region.
Insider Tips
Gain valuable insights and local knowledge to make the most of your visit to Takehara roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 10:00 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where freshly baked milk bread is released and typically sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the limited-edition Takehara-style pickled vegetables, available only during the summer months and often sold out by midday
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the craft corner between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to see local artisans demonstrating traditional pottery techniques using clay from nearby Mount Nokogiri
- Photo Opportunity: Stop by the eastern exhibition wall between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM to view the rotating display of award-winning photographs from the Dream Street Renaissance Photo Contest, which changes weekly and features regional landscapes and cultural scenes
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the Takehara-exclusive "Kurogane Rice Crackers" at the main sales counter—they are only stocked in limited quantities and often sell out by 2:00 PM on weekdays
- Timing for Fresh Produce: Arrive before 11:30 AM on weekdays to get the day’s first batch of farm-fresh vegetables from the Takehara Farm, which are delivered daily and displayed in the refrigerated section
- Parking Advantage: Use the west-side parking lot, which is reserved for visitors with large vehicles and offers direct access to the bakery and main shop area, especially helpful during weekend peak hours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, creating vibrant fields perfect for photography.
Summer (June-August): Fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal fruits are available at the roadside station market.
Autumn (September-November): The area hosts photography exhibitions featuring local landscapes and cultural heritage.
Winter (December-February): The roadside station offers seasonal souvenirs and warm local drinks during the cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Takehara roadside station offers stroller-friendly pathways and clean restrooms. Though no dedicated play area is mentioned, it features interactive displays and seasonal events suitable for children. Family-friendly dining options are available, enhancing its appeal for families.
Food Lover Review
Takehara roadside station provides a variety of local specialties, including fresh seafood and regional produce. The farmers market offers high-quality ingredients, and several restaurants serve authentic local dishes, making it a strong destination for food enthusiasts.
Car Camping Review
Takehara roadside station has basic facilities including restrooms and vending machines. While it is relatively quiet and suitable for short stays, there is no clear overnight parking policy. It is not designed as a dedicated camping site.
Scenic Beauty Review
Takehara roadside station features scenic views of the surrounding countryside and coastal landscape. The area offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during seasonal changes. The natural setting and peaceful atmosphere enhance its aesthetic appeal.