Step Into Nature’s Embrace at Hiwaki Roadside Station
Nestled along the scenic route of the Kawanaka-Kagoshima Line, Hiwaki Roadside Station stands as a tranquil gateway to the renowned Ihiyono Hot Springs in Satsuma-Kagoshima. More than a mere rest stop, it serves as a cultural crossroads where travelers reconnect with rural Japan’s warmth and tradition. At the heart of its charm is the 24-hour foot bath, known as “Shimazu’s Lord’s Spa,” drawing from the region’s famed mineral-rich waters—renowned for their soothing properties and deeply rooted in local heritage.
Visitors can unwind in the natural spring waters while exploring a vibrant mix of regional treasures: from fresh local produce and handcrafted ceramics to authentic Satsuma cuisine. Highlights include the “Sedodon Bowl,” a local delicacy, and a variety of takeout options that bring the taste of the region to your journey. With easy access from Kagoshima Airport and nearby attractions like Maruyama Park and the Ihiyono Hot Springs, Hiwaki offers a perfect pause for both relaxation and discovery.
Why Visit
At Hiwaki roadside station, soak your feet in the historic "Shimazu Lord’s Bath" — a 24-hour foot soak fed by the renowned Ihi-no-Onsen, a radium-rich hot spring praised by the 19th-century Shimazu clan. This is the only place where travelers can experience the full, healing warmth of this famed natural spring in a roadside setting. Nearby, savor the region’s signature sego-don buri — a hearty bowl of grilled mackerel served with pickled vegetables and rice — a dish uniquely crafted and available only here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Hiwaki roadside station, where fresh regional cuisine meets cozy dining in a relaxing atmosphere.
Hot Spring Tea House
湯の茶屋
Specialty
Traditional Satsuma cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant serving authentic Satsuma regional dishes, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on local flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Chinko Dango
ちんこ団子
Specialty
Freshly made dango skewers with traditional sweet and savory options
A casual food stall offering light, handheld snacks perfect for a quick bite during a visit.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal goods at Hiwaki roadside station, perfect for finding thoughtful souvenirs.
Futodon Market
ふとどん市場
A local market selling fresh agricultural and marine products, handmade crafts, and traditional Satsuma goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Pickled vegetables
Amen Doru Satsuma
あめんどろ さつま
A takeout corner offering ready-to-go meals and local specialties for travelers on the go.
Products
Must-Try Item
Bento boxes
Kogura! Inn Tsuke Age Shop
甑！庵地つけあげ店
A takeout shop specializing in traditional Satsuma-style tempura and deep-fried snacks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tempura
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like traditional pickled vegetables and handmade竹 products, showcasing the region's rich culinary heritage.
Pickled Vegetables
つけもの
Locally made pickled vegetables using traditional Satsuma methods, known for their crisp texture and rich flavor.
Bamboo Crafts
竹製品
Handcrafted bamboo items made by local artisans, including baskets, utensils, and decorative pieces.
Satsuma Ceramics
陶器
Traditional Satsuma pottery with unique glazes and hand-painted designs, reflecting local artistry.
Sedogodon Bowl Set
せごどんぶりセット
A ready-to-eat meal kit featuring the signature dish of the Hot Spring Tea House, perfect for travelers.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Hiwaki roadside station, including free parking, restrooms, and relaxing foot baths.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area with 78 spaces, including 8 large vehicle spots, 69 regular spots, and 1 accessible spot.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Public restrooms are available on-site, including a separate facility for the elderly and disabled.
Throughout the premises
Free Public Wi-Fi
Free public wireless LAN is available at the information corner, accessible from 9:00 to 17:00.
Inside the restaurant 'Yunochaya'
Information Center
An information corner provides maps, route information, local tourism details, and information about nearby roadside stations. It operates from 9:00 to 17:00.
Inside the restaurant 'Yunochaya'
Foot Bath (Shimazu's Lord's Bath)
A 24-hour free foot bath using natural hot spring water from the famous Shihino Onsen. The water is colorless, odorless, and contains radium, known to help with neuralgia, rheumatism, beriberi, joint pain, and gynecological issues.
Near the main entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available on-site.
Near the parking area
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences and seasonal events, from cooking demos to seasonal harvest festivals.
Foot Bath Experience
足湯
Relax and refresh your tired body by soaking your feet in the natural hot spring foot bath, known as 'Shimazu's Lord's Bath', which is sourced from the renowned Ihi-no Onsen. The bath is available 24 hours a day and is free of charge.
Duration
30 min
Best enjoyed in cooler weather; avoid excessive heat exposure.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy the foot baths without crowds and try the popular sego-don bento for a local favorite.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM to access the foot bath "Shimazu's Lord's Bath" before it gets crowded, especially on weekends when visitors come directly from the nearby Ihiyono Onsen entrance
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter at the "Futodon Market" stand between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find fresh homemade pickled vegetables and locally produced bamboo crafts that are not always stocked
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, stop by the "Chinko Dango" food cart between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy freshly grilled skewers of local sweet potato and yam, which are only available during weekend hours
- Best Value Meal: Order the "Segodonburi" rice bowl at "Yunochaya" restaurant between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM, as it is served with a complimentary side of fresh local green tea and is the only time the full dish is available
- Local Insider Tip: Use the information terminal near the entrance to print out the free route map for the nearby Maruyama Park walking trail, which includes access points and highlights of the local historical sites
- Souvenir Shortcut: Purchase the "Sakura Sashimi Set" at the "Amen Doru Satsuma" takeout counter before 3:00 PM to get a discount on the packaged local fish and pickled radish combo, as it is marked down after that time
- Accessibility Advantage: If you have a disability, use the accessible restroom located just steps from the foot bath area, as it is the only one with a fully accessible changing room and handrails specifically designed for mobility support
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Visit for fresh bamboo shoots at the market and the peak of canola flowers in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the 24-hour foot bath year-round, especially after hot days, and try seasonal seafood.
Autumn (September–November): Savor regional produce like sweet potatoes and chestnuts at the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): Experience the soothing warmth of the natural hot spring foot bath and enjoy local comfort food.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a baby-friendly restroom, stroller access, and a relaxing foot bath ideal for children. Limited play areas, but multiple kid-friendly food options and nearby parks enhance appeal.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining with local specialties like segodonburi and regional takoyaki. Offers fresh produce, local snacks, and multiple eateries including a fish market with on-site preparation.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, clean restrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Quiet surroundings during off-peak hours. No overnight parking policy listed, limiting dedicated camping use.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near natural hot springs and scenic countryside with views of surrounding hills. Offers peaceful atmosphere and seasonal beauty, especially in spring and autumn.