Station Lover's Sacred Place Utazu Rinkai Park

Discover Serenity and Seaside Magic at Lover's Sacred Place Utazu Rinkai Park

Nestled along the shimmering shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Lover's Sacred Place Utazu Rinkai Park is a coastal haven where natural beauty meets cultural heritage. Located in Uwajima, Kagawa Prefecture, this roadside station offers panoramic views of the iconic Seto Bridge and the lush, scattered islands of the Seto Inland Sea National Park—making it a prime destination for both romance and adventure.

Beyond its breathtaking scenery, the park stands out with its authentic reconstructed salt fields, where visitors can experience traditional salt-making through hands-on workshops. The on-site Utaizu Sea Firefly building blends history and hospitality, housing a café and exhibits on local salt culture. With facilities ranging from playgrounds and cycling paths to a marina and camping grounds, this seaside retreat offers something for every traveler.

Lover's Sacred Place Utazu Rinkai Park stands out as the only roadside station in Japan where visitors can experience authentic in-harbor salt farming firsthand. Its restored salt fields, using traditional methods since the Edo period, offer guided tours and hands-on salt harvesting—something no other roadside station provides. Nearby, the Umihotaru building features the region’s only salt-themed café and a museum showcasing the history of Utazu’s famed salt, including rare salt caramel made exclusively from local sea salt. With panoramic views of the Seto Great Bridge and the Seto Inland Sea, it’s a rare blend of living tradition and breathtaking coastal scenery.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to experience the salt-making demonstration at the reconstructed salt fields, which begins at 10:00 AM and requires advance reservation via phone at 0877-49-0860
• Hidden Gems: Visit the salt exhibit inside Utaizu Umihotaru to see the original salt-making tools and learn about the traditional in-hama salt production method used in Utaizu
• Weekend Special: On weekends, stop by the Utaizu Umihotaru café between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to sample freshly baked salt bread made with local Utaizu sea salt, available only during morning hours
• Must-Visit Feature: Walk through the reconstructed salt fields (14m x 28m, two areas) located directly behind Utaizu Umihotaru to see the real salt-making process and touch the salt crystals formed by sunlight and wind
• Best Photo Spot: Climb to the top of the Gold Tower Playground, accessible via the playground area, for a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and the Seto Ohashi Bridge, best viewed between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM when sunlight reflects off the water
• Exclusive Product Tip: Purchase the Utaizu Salt Caramel at the Utaizu Umihotaru shop before 4:00 PM on weekdays—these are made fresh daily and often sell out by 5:00 PM
• Family-Friendly Action: Use the play area and grassy field near Utaizu Umihotaru before 12:00 PM to avoid crowds, then head to the salt field experience session at 1:00 PM, which is best enjoyed in the afternoon sunlight

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing, with salt-making experiences available at the restored salt fields.

Summer (June–August): July and August offer sea breeze cooling at the coastal roadside station, ideal for visiting the Gold Tower and seaside park.

Autumn (September–November): September brings the final chance to sample seasonal salt caramel and enjoy the calm, clear skies of the Seto Inland Sea.

Winter (December–February): December through February provides peaceful visits to the seaside park, with rare winter light and views of the Seto Bridge in crisp air.