Where Nature, History, and Culture Meet by the Sea
Tanoura-La, a vibrant roadside station nestled along the serene shores of Beppu Bay in Ōita City, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local heritage, and modern hospitality. Designed with inspiration from the rugged ridgeline of Takasaki Mountain, its striking white façade and sweeping rooflines harmonize with the surrounding landscape, creating a landmark that feels both timeless and contemporary.
More than just a rest stop, Tanoura-La is a cultural gateway where the past meets the present. Visitors can explore a preserved vintage tram from the former Beppu Electric Railway, listen to live music on a grand piano in the "Sound-Listening Plaza," or savor fresh local seafood and regional specialties at the on-site dining area. With panoramic views of the bay, a dedicated cycling and running station, and a vibrant marketplace featuring regional produce, it’s a destination that invites exploration, relaxation, and connection.
Why Visit
Tanoura-La stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can experience the historic charm of a preserved section of the former Oita Electric Railway, now displayed as a living exhibit. More uniquely, its "sound-filled plaza" features a grand piano open to the public—rare for a roadside station—inviting spontaneous music and cultural exchange. Visitors also enjoy panoramic views of Beppu Bay from its elevated terrace, where sightings of wild dolphins are occasionally reported.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood bowls and local specialties at Tanoura-La’s dining area, where scenic views of Beppu Bay enhance every bite.
Original Spicy Noodles House Masumoto Oita × Delicious Finds
元祖辛麺屋 枡元大分×うまいもんめっけた
Specialty
Local-style spicy noodles with fresh regional ingredients
A vibrant dining space offering hearty, authentic regional cuisine centered around spicy noodles, crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, perfect for a satisfying meal with a local touch.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and handmade goods at Tanoura-La’s market, a vibrant hub for local craftsmanship and flavor.
Tanoura Market
たのうら市場
A local market featuring fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties from nearby farms and fishermen.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly caught local fish
Yamaya Kinpaku
芋屋 金風
A specialty market dedicated to regional root vegetables and potato-based products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-crafted sweet potato chips
Fish Market 350
おさかな350
A dedicated seafood shop offering fresh fish and seafood caught daily from the别府湾.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly caught别府湾 fish
Featured Products
Explore signature items like premium seafood, artisanal preserves, and regional snacks that capture the essence of Oita’s bounty.
Sweet Potato Chips
スイートポテトチップス
Crispy, hand-cut sweet potato chips made from locally grown sweet potatoes.
Local Seafood Bento Box
地元海鮮弁当
A convenient boxed meal featuring a variety of fresh seafood from the别府湾.
Spicy Noodles Seasoning Pack
辛麺スパイスパック
A ready-to-use spice blend for making authentic spicy noodles at home.
别府湾 Seafood Sauce
別府湾海鮮ソース
A rich, savory sauce made with ingredients from the别府湾, perfect for rice or noodles.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy 24-hour parking, accessible restrooms, and unique amenities including a historic tram display and music-themed plaza.
Parking Lot
A 24-hour accessible parking lot with space for 236 regular cars, 29 large vehicles, and 5 designated spots for people with disabilities and pregnant individuals.
Outdoor
Toilet
Indoor toilets with multi-functional facilities, ostomy-friendly options, and baby changing tables. Also includes outdoor toilets with similar amenities.
Indoor and Outdoor
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Located at the main entrance, this center features a large monitor displaying various attractions of Oita and is staffed by a concierge for visitor assistance.
Main entrance
Kids Corner
A wooden play area with a pinecone pool and wooden slide, designed as a nature education space where children can freely play and enjoy.
Indoor
Bike Rental Station
A shared bicycle port available for rent, also accessible at the Takasaki Mountain Nature Zoo. Operated through the Oita Cycle Share system.
Outdoor
Baby Care Room
A private space equipped with baby changing tables, nursing chairs, and a baby bed, designed with privacy in mind for parents with infants.
Indoor
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities available for visitors.
Outdoor
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance
Pet-Friendly Area
A designated area for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals to the roadside station.
Outdoor
Insider Tips
Visit early to secure parking, enjoy the sunset from the terrace, and check for pop-up markets and live music events.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the front row of the outdoor terrace for the best view of the别府湾 sunrise, as this spot fills quickly by 10:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the Tanoora Market section, look for the limited-edition Kinko Mochi (rice cakes) made daily from locally grown sweet rice; they are only available from 10:00 AM until sold out and are not listed on the menu board.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, visit the Uraura Market stall between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to catch the pop-up Kaki no Tane (dried persimmon) tasting event hosted by the local farm Yamato Kaki—only five samples are given per person.
- Unique Experience: Use the Grand Piano in the Oto no Kikoeru Hiroba (Sound-Listening Plaza) between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays when the staff hosts open piano sessions for visitors to play without reservation.
- Local Food Tip: Order the Tuna Sashimi Set at Genso Karami between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM on Fridays and Sundays, as it is only served during these time slots and features fish sourced directly from the morning catch at the local fishery.
- Photography Hack: Position yourself at the edge of the Viewing Deck facing west just before sunset on clear days to capture the reflection of the sun on the Otsu Electric Tram display in the history corner, which is often overlooked by visitors.
- Event Alert: Check the official website or the information counter for the monthly Yamato Kaki harvest celebration, held on the second Sunday of each month, where visitors can join a guided tour of the nearby persimmon orchard and sample freshly picked fruit.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and early summer vegetables at the market.
Summer (June–August): Best time to enjoy sea views and evening breezes at the sunset terrace.
Autumn (September–November): Ideal for cycling along the coastal route with clear skies and mild temperatures.
Winter (December–February): Cozy visits to the heated seating areas and seasonal seafood dishes.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
A dedicated kids' corner with a wooden slide and pine ball pool offers engaging play. Stroller-friendly access, baby care facilities, and family-oriented activities enhance the experience. The interactive environment supports child development and comfort.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including fresh seafood bowls and regional dishes. Offers a variety of food stalls with high-quality ingredients. The market-style setup and local specialties enhance the culinary experience with authenticity and freshness.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour access, ample parking, and outdoor restrooms. Quiet surroundings and spacious layout support overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy is stated, limiting full confidence for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views of Beppu Bay from the terrace and lookout areas. Scenic photo spots include the bay and the building's design inspired by Takasaki Mountain. Seasonal beauty and peaceful atmosphere enhance the visual appeal.