Discover Coastal Serenity and Local Flavor at Yasu Roadside Station
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Kochi Prefecture, Yasu Roadside Station lies at the eastern edge of the region, just 22 kilometers east of Kochi City via National Route 55. Bordering the historic Tegami Inlet—Japan’s oldest hand-dug harbor—and adjacent to the expansive Yasea Park, one of Kochi’s largest beaches, this station serves as a vibrant gateway to nature, culture, and community. Whether you're traveling by car, train, or bicycle, Yasu offers a welcoming sanctuary for travelers, locals, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
More than a rest stop, Yasu is a hub of regional pride, showcasing local specialties like melons and fresh siira fish. Visitors can explore the serene Tegami Inlet, cycle along the scenic Pacific coast, or join seasonal events like the Handa Bon Odori and fireworks festival. With a range of dining options, a bustling farmers’ market, and free access to information and rental bikes, Yasu delivers a rich, authentic experience of rural Kochi’s charm.
Why Visit
Visit Yasu roadside station to experience the only roadside station in the region with direct access to Japan’s oldest hand-dug harbor, Tekui Inland Port, where traditional fishing boats still dock. Here, you can rent electric-assist bicycles and cycle along the Pacific coast to the nearby Yasea Park, a premier seaside resort with a unique blend of coastal and forest landscapes. The station also features the only on-site production of local melon-based ice cream, crafted from fresh, regionally grown fruit.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Yasu roadside station, where diverse eateries offer everything from hearty meals to light snacks.
Restaurant & Cafe mana*mana
レストラン＆カフェ mana*mana
Specialty
Local cuisine with a modern twist
A cozy restaurant and cafe offering a variety of locally inspired dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxing meal or casual coffee break.
Indian Restaurant & Cafe MaSaLa
インド料理レストラン＆カフェMaSaLa(マサラ)
Specialty
Authentic Indian cuisine with regional flavors
A vibrant Indian restaurant and cafe serving traditional dishes with a local touch. Offers a lively atmosphere with aromatic spices and rich flavors.
Cafe Pleasure
Cafe Pleasure
Specialty
Freshly brewed coffee and light snacks
A charming cafe specializing in high-quality coffee and light refreshments. Ideal for a quiet moment or a casual meet-up with friends.
Takoyaki Haka-se
たこ焼き はかせ
Specialty
Freshly made takoyaki with a unique local twist
A popular food stall serving hot, crispy takoyaki made with care. Offers a fun, casual dining experience with a local flavor.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and regional crafts at Yasu's vibrant retail stalls and specialty shops.
Farmers Market Yasuragiichi
農産物直販所 やすらぎ市
A fresh produce market offering locally grown fruits, vegetables, and seasonal agricultural products directly from farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local melons
Souvenir Ya-Si Store
直営土産物 ヤ・シィ店
A dedicated souvenir shop featuring regional specialties and gifts from the area, perfect for visitors to take home.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted sea salt
Alcohol & Ice Cream Shop
のみもの・アイス 野島商店
A small shop offering a selection of local alcoholic beverages and refreshing ice creams.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local fruit-flavored ice cream
Featured Products
Sample signature items like sweet melons and fresh sea catch, proudly representing the area's bountiful harvests.
Local Melons
地元メロン
Sweet and juicy melons grown in the region, known for their exceptional flavor and freshness.
Handcrafted Sea Salt
手作り塩
Artisan sea salt harvested from the nearby coastal waters, known for its natural purity and rich mineral content.
Local Fruit-Flavored Ice Cream
地元フルーツアイス
Refreshing ice cream made with fresh local fruits, offering a taste of the region's natural sweetness.
Traditional Takoyaki Mix
たこ焼き粉
A ready-to-use mix for making authentic takoyaki at home, featuring a blend of local ingredients.
Local Sake
地元酒
Premium sake produced in the region, known for its smooth taste and traditional brewing methods.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious parking, accessible restrooms, and relaxing休息 areas at Yasu roadside station.
Parking Lot
Standard cars: 73 spaces, Large vehicles: 2 spaces, Disabled parking: 5 spaces (available 24 hours)
Toilet
Men's toilets: 7 units, Women's toilets: 8 units, Accessible toilets: 3 units
Information Corner
Provides information about local tourism spots, local specialties, and road information.
Park
A public park located at the roadside station, suitable for relaxation and family outings.
Hot Spring
A hot spring facility available for visitors.
Shower
Public shower facilities available for visitors.
Bicycle Rental
Bike rental service available at the roadside station. Includes 3 cross bikes, 4 electric-assist bikes (2 with child seats), and 3 children's bikes. Rental hours: 9:30–17:30. Rates: 500 yen for students 13 and above, 250 yen for children under 13. Electric-assist bikes are double the price. Limited availability.
Near the information corner
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for breastfeeding and changing diapers, equipped with baby changing tables.
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities available at the roadside station.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available for visitors.
Activities & Experiences
Explore hands-on experiences, seasonal events, and outdoor adventures from cycling to beachside festivals.
Bike Rental
レンタサイクル
Rent a cross bike, electric-assist bike, or children's bike at the roadside station. Available from 9:30 to 17:30.
Duration
360 min
Beach Swimming
ヤ・シィパーク海水浴場
Swim at the largest beach in the prefecture, located adjacent to the roadside station. Facilities include showers and lockers.
Duration
240 min
Shower and locker facilities are closed after August 24.
Fireworks Festival
手結盆踊り＆花火大会
Attend a traditional Bon dance and fireworks festival held annually in August. The event includes cultural performances and nighttime fireworks.
Duration
180 min
Road access to the roadside station is restricted during the event.
Nighttime Firefly Viewing
ホタルの乱舞
Observe fireflies dancing in the forested area near the Yotome Obo Mansion during early summer.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed on clear, humid evenings.
Cycling Tour
サイクリング
Ride along the coastal cycling route connecting to Anji City, with access to rental bikes at the roadside station.
Duration
120 min
Avoid riding during heavy rain or strong winds.
Historic Harbor Tour
手結内港
Explore the oldest hand-dug harbor in Japan, built over 350 years ago, still used today for fishing boats.
Duration
45 min
Insider Tips
Plan ahead for peak events, use nearby parking during festivals, and check opening times for seasonal highlights.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a spot at the rental bicycle counter, as the first daily pickup of electric assist bikes (including two with child seats) begins at that time and they often sell out by noon.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the Cafe Pleasure counter between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM to get the day’s fresh batch of milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day.
- Weekend Special: On August 15, attend the Handan Bon Odori & Fireworks Festival and visit the Mana*Mana restaurant between 8:00 AM and 12:30 PM to enjoy the special festival menu, including regional dishes not available on regular days.
- Best Access for Cyclists: Use the 香南市サイクリングターミナル (Kochi Prefecture Cycling Terminal) as a starting point and rent a crossbike or electric-assist bike at the 道の駅やす (Yasu roadside station) between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM for a ride along the coastal route toward the Handan Inner Harbor.
- Off-Peak Parking Strategy: Avoid the main parking lot during the Handan Bon Odori & Fireworks Festival on August 15 by using the Yasea Park paid parking lot, as the roadside station’s main lot closes at 1:00 PM and charges 800 yen per vehicle after 4:30 PM.
- Must-Visit Experience: Stop at the Handan Inner Harbor located just north of the roadside station to view the 350-year-old hand-dug fishing port, accessible directly from the station’s northern exit, where traditional fishing boats still moor.
- Specialty Purchase: Buy fresh melon and sillago fish at the 農産物直販所 やすらぎ市 (Yasuragi Market) between 8:00 AM and 12:30 PM, as these seasonal products are only available on-site and are restocked once daily.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots at the market and the start of the seasonal melon harvest.
Summer (June-August): Best time for beach activities at Yasea Park, with the Handan Bon Odori & Fireworks Festival on August 15.
Autumn (September-November): Ideal for cycling along the coastal route and visiting the Handan Inner Port.
Winter (December-February): Quiet season with limited events; visit for tranquil nature walks and local produce.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Yasu roadside station offers ample family facilities including a playground, nursing rooms, diaper changing stations, and stroller-friendly paths. It features child-friendly dining options and interactive experiences like bike rentals and nature exploration.
Food Lover Review
The station provides diverse dining choices including local specialties like sea bream and melons, fresh produce from the farmers market, and artisanal snacks. Multiple restaurants and cafes enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Yasu roadside station has clean restrooms, vending machines, and a designated camping area with basic facilities. While not ideal for extended stays, it offers a quiet, accessible spot for overnight parking with clear access policies.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near a historic harbor, natural park, and coastal views, Yasu offers scenic landscapes year-round. The station features a panoramic viewpoint and beautiful seasonal scenery, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.