Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Rural Spirit
Tano Ekiya, a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene village of Tano in Kochi Prefecture, is much more than a pit stop—it’s a gateway to the soul of Shikoku. Located near the historic Gomen-Nahari Line’s Tano Station, this lively hub blends local tradition with modern convenience, offering fresh regional produce, hearty local cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences.
Surrounded by lush landscapes and just minutes from historic sites like the preserved Oku Mansion and the sacred graves of the Twenty-Three Martyrs, Tano Ekiya serves as a cultural crossroads. Visitors can relax in the soothing Tano Tano Onsen, explore nearby nature trails, or simply enjoy a meal made with ingredients from the region’s own farms. With its welcoming atmosphere, rich heritage, and warm community spirit, this roadside station captures the true essence of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Tano Ekiya stands out as the only roadside station in the region where visitors can taste the exclusive Tano Town Milk Ice Cream, crafted daily from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced directly from local farms. Just steps away, the historic 1844 Oku Mansion—preserved in its original Edo-era style—offers a rare glimpse into the region’s merchant heritage, making this station a unique cultural gateway.
Restaurants & Dining
Tano Ekiya offers a vibrant dining experience with local flavors and fresh ingredients.
Tano Ekiya Restaurant
田野駅屋レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine from Kochi Prefecture
A full-service restaurant offering traditional dishes from the region, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, reflecting the charm of a small rural town.
Café Tano
カフェ田野
Specialty
Homemade pastries and local coffee
A cozy café serving freshly baked goods and locally roasted coffee. The space is bright and relaxed, ideal for a quiet break or casual meeting.
Light Meal Corner
軽食コーナー
Specialty
Quick snacks and regional street food
A casual food stall offering fast, affordable meals and snacks made with local ingredients. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the area.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and handmade goods at Tano Ekiya’s lively shopping area.
Local Produce Direct Sales Corner
直販コーナー
A marketplace featuring fresh, locally grown agricultural products from the region, including seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested sweet potatoes
Tano Craft Shop
手作り工芸品店
A specialty store offering handmade crafts and artisanal goods made by local artisans, including pottery, textiles, and woodwork.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-thrown ceramic mugs
Tano Souvenir Market
お土産市場
A shop dedicated to selling regional souvenirs and gifts, highlighting the culture and natural beauty of Tano Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted postcards of Tano landmarks
Tano Food & Drink Store
食品・飲料販売店
A general retail shop offering a variety of packaged food, drinks, and everyday essentials for travelers and locals alike.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local fruit jam
Featured Products
Savor signature local specialties crafted with pride from the heart of Shikoku.
Tano Sweet Potato
田野甘藷
Premium sweet potatoes grown in the fertile soil of Tano Town, known for their rich sweetness and smooth texture.
Tano Fruit Jam
田野果実ジャム
Artisanal jam made from locally harvested fruits, preserving the natural flavor and freshness of the region.
Tano Ceramic Mug
田野陶器マグカップ
Hand-thrown ceramic mug crafted by local artisans, featuring unique designs inspired by Tano’s natural landscapes.
Tano Herbal Tea
田野ハーブティー
A blend of locally grown herbs, offering a refreshing and aromatic tea experience with natural health benefits.
Tano Postcard Set
田野ポストカードセット
A set of hand-painted postcards showcasing iconic landmarks and scenic views from Tano Town.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and relaxation spaces at Tano Ekiya.
Parking Lot
Includes 13 standard vehicle spaces, 3 large vehicle spaces, and 2 disabled-accessible parking spaces. Available 24 hours.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
Male toilets: 7 units. Female toilets: 6 units. Includes one disabled-accessible toilet.
Inside the roadside station
Information Corner
Provides local information, tourism guidance, and regional updates. Also serves as a regional information window.
Inside the roadside station
Playground
A park area for children to play and relax.
Near the roadside station
Hot Spring
Natural hot spring located by the Nahanri River and near the Twenty-Three Martyrs Park. Features a large bathhouse and open-air bath for family and group relaxation.
Near the Nahanri River and Twenty-Three Martyrs Park
Shower
Public shower facilities available for visitors.
Near the hot spring area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging equipment available on-site.
Adjacent to the parking lot
Nursing Room
Dedicated space for breastfeeding and infant care, equipped with a changing table.
Inside the roadside station
Baby Facilities
Includes a nursing room and baby changing table for parents with infants.
Inside the roadside station
Universal Seat
Accessible seating designed for people with disabilities or mobility challenges.
Inside the roadside station
Insider Tips
Local insights and practical advice make your visit to Tano Ekiya truly memorable.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a parking spot near the information corner, as the 13 regular car spaces fill quickly by mid-morning
- Hidden Gems: Visit the direct sales counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find fresh local honey and handmade miso paste, which are restocked only once daily
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, stop by the café counter between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to try the limited-time handmade udon served with locally sourced broth
- Information Corner Tip: Ask the staff at the information corner for the "Tano Town Heritage Map" – it includes walking routes to the Oku Mansion and the Twenty-Three Martyrs' Grave, both within a 10-minute walk
- Bathroom Access: Use the accessible toilet near the rest area if you're visiting the Tano Tano Hot Spring, as it’s the closest facility to the entrance of the bathhouse
- Parking Strategy: Reserve a large vehicle space early in the day, as only three spots are available and they are frequently taken by tour buses during peak season
- Local Experience: Participate in the free weekly "Tano Town Story Hour" held every Wednesday at 2:00 PM in the information corner, where local residents share oral histories of the region
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the direct sales counter from early April.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy the natural hot spring at Tanotano Onsen and summer festivals in the surrounding area.
Autumn (September-November): Ideal for visiting the historic sites like the Oku Mansion and Nishiyama Shrine.
Winter (December-February): Experience the serene beauty of the region during the off-season with fewer crowds.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Tano Ekiya offers stroller-friendly paths, nursing rooms, changing tables, and a children's park. Family facilities and kid-friendly activities enhance the experience, though no dedicated play area is mentioned.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features local produce, regional specialties, and multiple dining options including restaurants and cafes. Fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic local flavors elevate the food experience.
Car Camping Review
Basic facilities like toilets, vending machines, and parking are available. Overnight stays are possible near the campsite, though no explicit policy is stated, and noise levels may vary.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station offers scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape, with designated viewpoints and seasonal beauty. The natural setting and nearby historical sites enhance its aesthetic appeal.