Discover the Spirit of Okinawa at Its Heart
Kina Bansho, nestled along National Route 58 in the serene village of Yonaguni, is more than a roadside station—it’s a gateway to Okinawa’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Located in the heart of the island’s lush countryside, this vibrant stop offers travelers a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of rolling hills and traditional farmland.
What sets Kina Bansho apart is its blend of modern convenience and local charm. Visitors can explore interactive information kiosks, enjoy guided tours, and learn about regional history and sustainable living. The station also serves as a hub for local artisans and farmers, showcasing authentic Okinawan crafts and seasonal produce. Whether you're refueling on a journey or seeking an immersive cultural experience, Kina Bansho invites you to connect with the soul of Okinawa.
Why Visit
Kina Bansho stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can sample authentic Okinawan kakigori made from locally harvested mountain spring water and served with house-made syrup from native fruits like rambutan and purple sugarcane. Just steps from the historic Kina Fort ruins, the station also offers exclusive access to traditional Okinawan pottery workshops, where visitors can watch artisans shape clay using techniques unchanged for centuries.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Kina Bansho roadside station.
Kina Bansho Restaurant
喜名番所レストラン
Specialty
Traditional Okinawan cuisine with local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic Okinawan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Okinawa.
Kina Bansho Café
喜名番所カフェ
Specialty
Local coffee and light snacks
A relaxed café serving locally roasted coffee and homemade pastries in a peaceful, rustic setting. Ideal for a quiet break during your journey.
Kina Bansho Food Stall
喜名番所フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick street-style Okinawan snacks
A casual food stall offering fast, delicious Okinawan street food. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the area.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and regional crafts at Kina Bansho roadside station.
Kina Bansho Farmers Market
喜名番所農産物直売所
A fresh produce market offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local farm goods directly from farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Okinawan Papaya
Kina Bansho Bakery
喜名番所ベーカリー
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Okinawan Sweet Potato Bread
Kina Bansho Craft Shop
喜名番所クラフトショップ
A shop featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Okinawan Lacquerware Bowl
Kina Bansho Meat & Seafood Market
喜名番所肉・海産物販売所
A market specializing in high-quality local meats and fresh seafood.
Products
Must-Try Item
Okinawan Black Pork
Kina Bansho Dairy & Honey Shop
喜名番所乳製品・ハチミツ販売所
A shop offering fresh dairy products and locally produced honey.
Products
Must-Try Item
Okinawan Wildflower Honey
Kina Bansho Souvenir Shop
喜名番所お土産屋
A gift shop selling a variety of Okinawan souvenirs and local products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Okinawan Spice Mix
Kina Bansho Alcohol Shop
喜名番所アルコール販売所
A shop specializing in local Okinawan alcoholic beverages, including awamori and fruit liqueurs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Okinawan Mango Liqueur
Featured Products
Taste the essence of Okinawa with signature products like local honey and traditional snacks.
Okinawan Wildflower Honey
沖縄の山花蜂蜜
Pure, raw honey harvested from wildflowers in Okinawa's natural landscapes. Known for its light golden color and delicate floral flavor.
Okinawan Spice Mix
沖縄のスパイスミックス
A blend of traditional Okinawan spices including chili, garlic, and local herbs, perfect for seasoning local dishes.
Okinawan Lacquerware Bowl
沖縄漆器ボウル
Handcrafted bowl made using traditional Okinawan lacquer techniques. Durable and beautifully finished with natural sheen.
Okinawan Mango Liqueur
沖縄マングースリキュール
A sweet, tropical liqueur made from fresh Okinawan mangoes and local spirits. Ideal for dessert or cocktail use.
Okinawan Sweet Potato Bread
沖縄スイートポテトパン
Soft, moist bread infused with locally grown sweet potato, offering a naturally sweet and earthy taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and 24-hour Wi-Fi at Kina Bansho roadside station.
Parking Lot
39 parking spaces (2 large, 35 regular, 2 for disabled persons). Available 24 hours.
Restrooms
Male: 8 units (4 large, 4 small); Female: 6 units. 24-hour access available for 4 male and 3 female units.
Accessible Restrooms
2 units, with 1 unit available 24 hours.
Information Center
Provides road information, weather updates, and other roadside station details via touch panel terminals. Open 9:00–18:00, daily except New Year's holidays.
Tourist Information Counter
Staffed window with on-site guides offering local sightseeing and event information. Open 9:00–18:00, daily except New Year's holidays.
Wireless LAN
Wi-Fi available throughout the premises.
Covered Pavilion
Two covered pavilions available for public use.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and explore nearby cultural sites with local guides.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the bakery counter before the fresh-baked milk bread sells out—this is sold daily from 9:00 AM and typically runs out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition Okinawan-style pork ramen, which is only available on weekdays and made fresh in small batches.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, check the event board near the information desk around 11:00 AM to catch the live Okinawan music performance held in the eastern pavilion.
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the northern edge of the east pavilion just after sunrise on weekdays to capture the unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean and the roadside station’s signature red-tiled roof without crowds.
- Insider Snack: Purchase the "Kina Bansho Original Seasonal Jam" at the souvenir counter between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, when staff often offer a free sample of the current month’s flavor—usually tropical fruit or local citrus.
- Parking Hack: Use the large vehicle parking spots near the entrance if you're arriving with a trailer or large RV; these are reserved for vehicles over 5 meters in length and are clearly marked.
- Wi-Fi Tip: Connect to the free Wi-Fi network named “Kinaban_WiFi” and use the login page to access the interactive map of local hiking trails—this feature is only active during the information desk’s open hours (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM).
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Canola flowers bloom from late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.
Summer (June-August): Seasonal tropical fruits like mango and papaya ripen in July and August.
Autumn (September-November): Local honey harvesting peaks in October, with fresh honey sold at the roadside station.
Winter (December-February): Cool weather makes it ideal for exploring the historical site and enjoying seasonal seafood dishes.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Kina Bansho offers ample parking, stroller-friendly paths, and two covered shelters. Though no dedicated play area exists, the information center provides engaging cultural exhibits and staff assistance for families.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features a variety of local restaurants and fresh produce. Visitors can enjoy regional specialties like Okinawan cuisine and seasonal fruits, with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients available.
Car Camping Review
With 39 parking spaces, 24-hour restrooms, and a quiet location on National Route 58, Kina Bansho supports overnight stays. However, it lacks formal camping facilities and clear overnight parking rules.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along a scenic coastal route, Kina Bansho offers peaceful views of the surrounding countryside and ocean. The site features well-maintained pathways and seasonal beauty, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.