Station Mitsu

Savor the Essence of the Seto Inland Sea at Mitsu

Nestled along National Route 250 in the scenic coastal town of Murotsu, Mitsu roadside station offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and local culture. Perched with sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea, this vibrant hub invites travelers to pause and immerse themselves in the rhythm of rural Japan. Surrounded by lush landscapes and the historic charm of ancient maritime traditions, Mitsu is more than a rest stop—it’s a gateway to the region’s rich heritage.

At the heart of the station lies the acclaimed panoramic restaurant Fish & Vegetable House, where fresh catch from local waters and seasonal produce come together in authentic coastal cuisine. Visitors can also explore the vibrant farm-to-table market, sampling regional specialties like dried fish, handmade jams, and seasonal vegetables. With hands-on experience workshops, seasonal events, and nearby attractions like the world-renowned plum park and pristine beaches, Mitsu delivers a uniquely memorable journey.

Visit Mitsu roadside station to savor the region’s only fisherman’s stew made with mae-dore catch—freshly hauled daily from the Seto Inland Sea—served at the panoramic restaurant Fish & Vegetable House. Here, you’ll also find the only local jam made from wild sea grape, a unique coastal fruit. With sweeping views of the sea and direct access to the historic Roomizu Port, Mitsu offers an authentic taste of this maritime village unlike any other roadside station.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the rooftop restaurant 'To Tonoya' before the 10:30 AM lunch rush, as it fills up quickly during peak hours
• Hidden Gems: Visit the specialty produce shop between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to catch the daily fresh batch of locally harvested 'Maizuru' fish and dried seafood, which are displayed only during this window
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the 'Sea Wind Kitchen' food stand before 12:00 PM to try the limited-time 'Mitsui Seafood Burger' made with freshly caught local fish
• Best View Spot: Use the rooftop terrace of the 'To Tonoya' restaurant between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to enjoy the best sunset views over the Seto Inland Sea, especially when the sky turns pink and orange
• Avoid Crowds: Skip the main parking lot during peak hours and use the east-side parking area, which remains less crowded than the north and dog park lots, especially after 4:00 PM
• Food Preparation Tip: Purchase the 'Mitsui Seafood Bento' from the direct sales shop before 5:00 PM to take home and reheat later—this meal includes local fish and seasonal vegetables and is best enjoyed within 24 hours
• Experience Opportunity: Join the monthly 'Sea-Themed Learning Workshop' on the first Sunday of the month at 11:00 AM, where you can learn to prepare traditional local dishes using fresh ingredients from the nearby fishing grounds

Spring (March–May): Peak season for plum blossoms at Ayabe Mountain and World Plum Park, with blooms from late January to early March.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for seaside activities at Shinmaikohama Beach, including beachcombing and swimming.

Autumn (September–November): Best for seasonal seafood at the roadside station, especially fresh catch from October to November.

Winter (December–February): Visit for local cuisine and events, with special offerings from December through January.