Station Akune

Discover the Soul of Southern Kyushu at Akune Roadside Station

Nestled along National Route 3 in northern Kagoshima Prefecture, Akune Roadside Station offers a gateway to the region’s coastal charm and vibrant local culture. Perched with sweeping views of the East China Sea, it’s the first roadside station on Route 3, making it a perfect stop for travelers exploring southern Kyushu. With its fresh seafood, authentic local crafts, and panoramic sunsets, Akune blends natural beauty with community spirit.

The station shines with its fresh seafood dishes—try the Akune Seafood Bowl or Shrimp Sashimi Set—crafted from fish landed daily. Don’t miss the unique "Gofubibi Donut" or the famous self-service vending machine known as Japan’s most cheerful. Whether you’re fueling up with coffee at the on-site stand or browsing regional specialties at the market, Akune delivers an authentic, memorable experience.

At Akune roadside station, experience the only roadside station in the region offering direct views of the East China Sea, where the sunset paints the sky in fiery hues from its elevated vantage point. Savor the exclusive Akune Seafood Bowl, made with fish landed that very morning, and sample the region’s only handmade milk ice cream crafted from Jersey cow milk. Don’t miss the original "Gofoubi Donut," a locally beloved treat available only here.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM to access the tourism information counter before it closes at 5:30 PM, especially if you need route or traffic updates for the National Route 3 corridor
• Hidden Gems: Visit the coffee stand located at the roadside station’s overlook area to try the exclusive "Go-Houbi Donut," a locally loved treat only available here
• Weekend Special: Stop by the deli counter between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekends to sample the fresh seafood rice bowl made with fish landed that morning at the local port
• Best Time for Sea Views: Arrive at the observation deck by 5:00 PM on weekdays and weekends to witness the panoramic sunset over the East China Sea, which is specifically highlighted as a top attraction
• Information Hub Tip: Use the tablet terminal in the information corner to check real-time traffic and incident reports for National Route 3, especially if traveling toward Kagoshima City or beyond
• EV Charging Priority: Plug in your electric vehicle at the charging station during off-peak hours (before 11:00 AM or after 4:00 PM) to avoid wait times, as it is shared among visitors
• Local Product Purchase: Buy the "Akune Seafood Biscuits" at the shop counter before 4:00 PM, as they are restocked only once daily and often sell out by late afternoon

Spring (March-May): Visit during the udon don festival in April and enjoy fresh sea urchin dishes; bamboo shoots are available at the market in late spring.

Summer (June-August): Experience the Akune Mikodoi Summer Festival in July and savor grilled prawns at the roadside station.

Autumn (September-November): Attend the Iseebi Festival in September and the Akune Mikodoi Autumn Festival in October for fresh seafood and seasonal treats.

Winter (December-February): Explore the area during the Industrial Festival in December and enjoy coastal views, though the roadside station closes on December 31 and January 1.