Station Shimanto Taisho

Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Natural and Cultural Heritage

Shimanto Taisho is a vibrant roadside station nestled along the serene banks of the Four Million River in Kochi Prefecture, where nature, tradition, and community converge. Located in the historic Daini district of Shikoku’s lush Shikoku Island, this roadside station is more than a pit stop—it’s a gateway to local culture and the region’s unspoiled beauty. With its inviting information center, fresh local produce market, and the renowned Music Toilet—renovated with playful, melodic flair—visitors are welcomed with charm and comfort.

Just across the road lies the scenic Todoroki Park, home to the iconic stone windmill and expansive green spaces perfect for relaxation and outdoor events. Whether exploring the nearby Shikoku Folklore Museum or enjoying a peaceful riverside stroll, Shimanto Taisho offers an authentic, immersive experience of rural Japan.

Visit Shimanto Taisho roadside station to experience the only music-powered toilet in Japan, a unique feature that blends local charm with innovation. Located beside the scenic Hiroo Park, home to the iconic stone windmill, the station offers a rare chance to taste fresh, locally crafted shiitake mushroom dumplings made from foraged wild mushrooms harvested in the surrounding forests. This is the only place in the region where you can sample them.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to access the full selection of fresh produce at the Agricultural and Forestry Products Direct Sales Store, as seasonal items like mountain vegetables and local rice are often sold out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the information center between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to speak with staff who can provide detailed maps and seasonal event schedules not listed on the website.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the roadside station’s deli counter between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM to purchase the limited-edition grilled fish skewers made from locally caught river fish, which are prepared fresh daily and often sell out by noon.

• Music Toilet Experience: Use the music toilet (renovated in May 2021) during the 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM lunch break window, when the audio system features a rotating playlist of traditional shakuhachi music and local folk songs, offering a unique sensory experience.

• Nearby Attraction Access: Park your car in the information center lot and walk across the street to the Hōkō Park’s stone windmill between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to see the windmill in motion, as it is only activated during daylight hours on weekends and holidays.

• Seasonal Product Tip: On the first weekend of every month, visit the Agricultural and Forestry Products Direct Sales Store before 10:00 AM to find the special “Shimanto River Rice Cake” made from locally milled rice, available only during the early harvest season.

• Best Photo Spot: Position yourself near the stone windmill in Hōkō Park just before sunset (around 5:45 PM in summer) to capture the full view of the windmill against the backdrop of the Shimonoseki River, as this vantage point is not marked on standard maps.

Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing in late March to April and fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June–August): Ideal for visiting the Shikoku Island's lush green landscapes and enjoying the cool shade of the riverbank park.

Autumn (September–November): Best time for harvesting chestnuts and experiencing the vibrant foliage along the river.

Winter (December–February): Quiet months with fewer crowds; visit the information馆 to learn about local traditions and seasonal crafts.