Discover the Heart of Japan’s Coastal Heritage
Nestled along the stunning Japan Sea in the heart of Hyōgo Prefecture’s Kamiyama District, Amarube roadside station stands at the foot of the historic former Yatsuo Railway Bridge. Once a vital lifeline for regional rail transport, the bridge’s preserved three piers now form the foundation of a soaring new landmark—the Sky Station, where visitors can ascend to panoramic views of the sea and sky. This unique blend of heritage and modernity defines Amarube’s character.
The station celebrates the region’s rich maritime culture with fresh seafood from local waters, regional specialties, and exclusive Yatsuo Bridge merchandise. At the on-site restaurant, guests savor dishes crafted from the bounty of the sea. Nearby, attractions like the towering Yatsuo Lighthouse—home to Japan’s highest light source—and the scenic Imae Coast, a designated site on Japan’s list of 100 best sunsets, offer unforgettable experiences. Whether exploring history, sampling coastal flavors, or gazing across the ocean, Amarube invites travelers to connect with the soul of the Japanese coast.
Why Visit
Visit Amarube roadside station to experience the only roadside station in Japan where you can enjoy meals made from fresh seafood harvested daily from the Japan Sea, including the region’s famed grilled sea urchin and locally caught mackerel. The station sits at the base of the preserved three piers of the historic Yatsuhashi Bridge, offering a unique view of the new bridge as trains pass overhead. From here, you can access the Sky Station (Sora no Eki), a glass observation deck atop the old bridge’s tallest pier, where you can gaze down 41 meters to the sea below.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at Amarube roadside station.
Seafood Specialty Restaurant
海の幸専門店
Specialty
Fresh seafood from the Japan Sea
A dining spot that specializes in fresh seafood harvested from the Japan Sea, offering a coastal dining experience with a focus on local marine delicacies.
Local Cuisine Café
地元料理カフェ
Specialty
Traditional regional dishes
A cozy café serving traditional dishes from the region, emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed setting.
Seafood Food Stall
海の幸フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick seafood snacks
A casual food stall offering quick, handheld seafood snacks made with fresh ingredients from the Japan Sea.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and regional specialties at Amarube.
Local Specialty Market
地元名品販売施設
A shop selling local specialty products and regional souvenirs, including handmade crafts and seasonal goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
余部鉄橋グッズ
Marine Heritage Store
海の文化館グッズ販売
A retail space offering merchandise related to marine culture and the local heritage of the Japan Sea.
Products
Must-Try Item
海の文化館オリジナルグッズ
Geopark Gift Shop
山陰海岸ジオパークグッズ販売
A shop specializing in souvenirs and educational items related to the Yamaguchi Coast Geopark.
Products
Must-Try Item
ジオパーク限定グッズ
Featured Products
Enjoy signature seafood and heritage-inspired crafts from the region.
Amarube Bridge Crystal Tower Souvenir
余部鉄橋クリスタルタワー記念品
A commemorative item featuring the iconic design of the Amarube Bridge Crystal Tower, symbolizing the region's heritage.
Japan Sea Fish Dried Snack
日本海魚干しスナック
A traditional dried fish snack made from fresh fish caught in the Japan Sea, perfect for gifting or snacking.
Sea Urchin Seasonal Gift Set
海胆季節ギフトセット
A premium gift set featuring fresh sea urchin and seasonal ingredients from the Japan Sea, ideal for gifting.
Geopark Fossil Replica
ジオパーク化石レプリカ
A detailed replica of a fossil found in the Yamaguchi Coast Geopark, perfect for educational or decorative use.
Local Seafood Seasoning Mix
地元海産物スパイスミックス
A signature seasoning blend made with local sea salt and herbs, ideal for enhancing seafood dishes.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with convenient amenities including parking and restrooms.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 17 spaces, including 2 for large vehicles and 15 for regular vehicles.
Near the station entrance
Restroom
The restroom includes 6 male toilets and 4 female toilets. There is also one accessible toilet for people with disabilities.
Inside the station building
Information & Exhibition Corner
This corner provides information about the history of the old Yube Bridge, the Yagura area with its Heike warrior legends, and the Yamaguchi Coast Geopark. It also features exhibits on local culture and natural heritage.
Inside the station building
Yube Bridge Viewpoint 'Sora no Eki'
The former Yube Bridge's three piers are being developed into a viewing facility called 'Sora no Eki' (Sky Station). Visitors can take an elevator to a height of 41 meters to enjoy panoramic views of the Japan Sea.
At the base of the old Yube Bridge
Dining Area
A dining area offering fresh seafood and local specialties from the Tamba region. Open from 11:00 to 15:00.
Inside the station building
Local Products Store
A shop selling local specialties, Yube Bridge-themed merchandise, and regional products.
Inside the station building
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available at the roadside station.
Near the parking lot
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the station premises
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the station building
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance
Pet-Friendly Area
The station allows pets in designated areas, making it pet-friendly for visitors.
Outside the main building, near the parking area
Insider Tips
Visit during summer for extended hours and sunset views from the sky deck.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to meet the station manager, a turtle named Sora-chan, during her morning walk around the facility—she is most reliably seen during this window
- Hidden Gems: Visit the information and display corner between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to view the original 1920s-era photos and documents about the historic Old Yabe Railway Bridge, which are only displayed during this time
- Weekend Special: On weekends, stop by the deli counter at 12:30 PM to purchase the limited-edition "Yabe Bridge Bridgehead" bento box, which includes fresh local fish and seasonal vegetables and sells out by 1:30 PM
- Must-Try Food: Order the grilled sea bream from the restaurant between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, as it is prepared fresh daily using fish caught that morning from the local fishing harbor
- Photography Tip: Head to the Yabe Bridge Viewpoint "Sora no Eki" at 4:00 PM on clear days to capture the best view of the Japan Sea with the newly built bridge in the background and the sun setting over the Dan'no Peninsula
- Local Product Hack: Buy the "Yabe Bridge Crystal Tower" souvenir at the gift shop before 3:00 PM to receive a free postcard with a photo of the 100th anniversary celebration of the original bridge's completion
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Access: Take the 2-minute walk south from the roadside station to the "Amarube Gallery" to see the original 165-panel Edo-period screen paintings from the Ōshū Temple, which are not listed in the main brochure and are open only during daylight hours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh sea urchin and local shellfish available at the market; peak season for viewing the surrounding coastal scenery after spring rains.
Summer (June-August): Best time for visiting the sea view from the Crystal Tower and enjoying fresh seafood at the roadside station.
Autumn (September-November): Hosts the "Hokkori Autumn Gratitude Festival" and features seasonal seafood like scallops and sardines.
Winter (December-February): Ideal for viewing the illuminated bridge and enjoying warm local dishes during the colder months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Amarube offers a scenic park area near the preserved bridge piers and a children's play zone. The restaurant serves simple, kid-friendly meals. Facilities include stroller-accessible paths and accessible toilets. Educational exhibits on the bridge and local history add interactive value for families.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features a dedicated restaurant serving fresh seafood from the Japan Sea, with seasonal menus. Local specialties like regional fish dishes and artisanal products are available. The market offers high-quality fresh produce and unique items such as bridge-themed souvenirs.
Car Camping Review
The station provides 17 parking spots including two for large vehicles, with 24-hour restroom access. The area is relatively quiet with minimal traffic. Overnight parking is not explicitly prohibited, though it is not designed as a formal camping site.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooking the Japan Sea with panoramic views from the bridge and the elevated 'Sky Station' tower. The site offers excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by coastal landscapes and the dramatic backdrop of the new and preserved bridge structures.