Discover the Spirit of the Coast at Higashimatsushima Roadside Station
Nestled along the scenic Sanriku Expressway, Higashimatsushima Roadside Station stands as a vibrant gateway to the heart of Miyagi Prefecture’s coastal charm. Located adjacent to Yabu Parking Area, this modern complex offers travelers a seamless blend of relaxation, local flavor, and immersive experiences. With over 2,200 square meters of space and panoramic views from its second-floor observation deck, it’s a perfect stop for families, road trippers, and culture seekers alike.
What sets Higashimatsushima apart is its unique fusion of tradition and innovation. Visitors can savor fresh local seafood, especially the famed oysters of the region, at its spacious dining area. The station also features a standout VR experience that lets guests soar alongside the Blue Impulse aerobatic team or explore scenic landmarks like Saga River. With a dedicated kids’ space, barrier-free facilities, and a wide range of locally crafted souvenirs—many exclusive to the station—every visitor finds something unforgettable.
Why Visit
Higashimatsushima roadside station offers a one-of-a-kind experience centered around the region’s iconic Blue Impulse jet training flights. From its second-floor observation deck, visitors can witness low-altitude passes of the elite aerobatic team—something few other roadside stations can claim. The station also houses the only on-site VR experience in the area, letting guests soar through the skies above the scenic Saragaki Gorge in immersive 360-degree view. Beyond aviation, it’s the only place to find Higashimatsushima’s exclusive Blue Impulse merchandise and limited-edition souvenirs, making it a must-visit for aviation fans and local collectors alike.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Higashimatsushima roadside station, where seafood delights like oysters take center stage.
Seafood Restaurant
海鮮レストラン
Specialty
Local seafood dishes featuring fresh oysters and other regional seafood
A dining spot on the second floor offering a variety of local seafood dishes, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from the region. The atmosphere is welcoming and family-friendly, ideal for lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Local Noodle Shop
地元そば屋
Specialty
Handmade soba noodles using regional buckwheat
A specialty shop offering handmade soba noodles made with locally grown buckwheat. The atmosphere is cozy and traditional, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxing meal.
Convenience Store
コンビニエンスストア
Specialty
24-hour convenience store with local snacks and drinks
A 24-hour convenience store offering a wide range of snacks, drinks, and daily necessities. It's a convenient stop for travelers and locals alike, open around the clock.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and exclusive Higashimatsushima merchandise at the roadside station’s vibrant shop area.
Local Products Store
物産店
A shop specializing in local products from Higashimatsushima City and the surrounding region, including food, crafts, and souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Blue Impulse merchandise
Farmers Market
農産物市場
A market selling fresh produce and agricultural products from local farms in the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Bakery
ベーカリー
A bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and desserts using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local honey cake
Craft Store
工芸品店
A store specializing in handmade crafts and artisanal goods from local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted pottery
Meat and Seafood Market
肉と魚介類市場
A market offering fresh meat and seafood products from local producers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh oysters
Dairy Shop
乳製品店
A shop specializing in local dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local cheese
Alcohol Store
酒類販売店
A store selling local alcoholic beverages including sake, beer, and regional spirits.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Highlighting regional specialties such as bluefin tuna and handmade crafts, the station offers signature products you won’t find elsewhere.
Blue Impulse Merchandise
ブルーインパルスグッズ
Exclusive merchandise featuring the Blue Impulse aerobatic team, available only at this roadside station.
Higashimatsushima Limited Edition Souvenir
道の駅東松島限定オリジナルグッズ
Unique, locally designed souvenirs created exclusively for this roadside station.
Local Oyster Sauce
地元牡蠣ソース
A flavorful sauce made from fresh local oysters, perfect for enhancing seafood dishes.
Honey Cake
ハチミツケーキ
A sweet cake made with locally sourced honey, known for its rich flavor and soft texture.
Handcrafted Pottery Set
手作り陶器セット
A set of handmade ceramic items crafted by local artisans, each piece unique.
Local Sake
地元日本酒
Premium sake brewed using traditional methods and local rice from the region.
Seasonal Vegetable Pack
季節野菜パック
A pack of fresh, seasonal vegetables harvested from local farms, ensuring peak freshness.
Blue Impulse VR Experience Kit
ブルーインパルスVR体験キット
A digital experience kit that allows users to enjoy a 360-degree virtual flight with the Blue Impulse team.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy full accessibility and family-friendly amenities, including multi-functional restrooms and a dedicated kids’ space.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area with 133 spaces, including a dedicated parking area for large buses.
Adjacent to Yabu Parking Area on the Sanriku Expressway
Multi-functional Toilet
The facility includes multi-functional toilets and diaper changing tables, fully accessible with barrier-free design.
Inside the roadside station
Tourism Information Center
The tourism information center is staffed with a dedicated tourism concierge who provides recommendations, local guides, and pamphlets about attractions in the city.
Tourism Information Area
Kids Space
A designated kids' space is available in the tourism information area, ideal for families with young children.
Tourism Information Area
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the roadside station.
Parking area
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available in the tourism information area for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants.
Tourism Information Area
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences, from VR flight simulations to seasonal events celebrating local culture.
VR Experience: Blue Impulse Flight
VR体験：ブルーインパルスの飛行
Participants can experience a 360-degree immersive flight of the Blue Impulse aerobatic team using virtual reality technology.
Duration
10 min
Indoor activity, unaffected by weather
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, and ask the on-site staff for the best local routes and hidden gems.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to secure a seat at the 2nd-floor dining area, where the limited-time oyster set meal is served and often sells out by 1:30 PM
- Hidden Gems: Check the 1st-floor gift shop between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to purchase the Higashimatsushima-exclusive blue sky-themed tote bag, which is restocked daily and sells out by noon
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the VR experience booth at 9:30 AM to avoid the 10:00 AM crowd; the Blue Impulse flight simulation is most popular during this time and runs out of slots by 11:30 AM
- Best Dining Option: Order the local oyster ramen with a side of pickled vegetables at the 2nd-floor dining area—this combo is only available between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM and is not listed on the standard menu
- Family-Friendly Tip: Use the kids' play area in the tourism information zone before 3:00 PM to avoid the 4:00 PM rush, as it becomes crowded with school groups and families after this time
- Convenience Access: Use the 24-hour convenience store located near the entrance to pick up cold drinks or snacks between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM, especially if you're visiting after the dining area closes at 7:00 PM
- Local Product Alert: Buy the Higashimatsushima Blue Impulse-themed keychain at the gift shop before 1:00 PM, as it is only available during the first three hours of operation and is not restocked midday
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; canola flowers bloom in late April.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for fresh oysters from local waters; VR experience features blue impulse flights.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest season for local produce; ideal for enjoying regional seafood and scenic views.
Winter (December-February): Limited fresh seafood availability; best for quiet visits and VR experiences.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a dedicated kids' space, stroller-friendly access, and multilingual restrooms. Features VR experiences and educational play with local themes, plus child-friendly food options and seating.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse dining with local specialties like oysters and regional ramen. Includes a 24-hour convenience store, fresh seafood, and unique roadside station merchandise with high-quality local products.
Car Camping Review
Has ample parking for 133 vehicles and basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines. Quiet location near a highway exit, but lacks explicit overnight camping policies or designated camping zones.
Scenic Beauty Review
Features a scenic 2nd-floor deck with panoramic views of the coastline and Blue Impulse flight paths. Offers strong photo opportunities, seasonal landscapes, and a modern, inviting atmosphere.