Station Yunokawa

Discover the Heart of Local Culture at Yunokawa Roadside Station

Nestled along the scenic coastal route of Japan’s Shikoku region, Yunokawa Roadside Station is a vibrant hub where nature, tradition, and community converge. Located in a tranquil area rich with forested hills and sweeping ocean views, it serves as both a welcoming stop for travelers and a celebration of regional heritage.

What sets Yunokawa apart is its dynamic cultural programming, including rotating exhibitions from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest, showcasing the beauty of Japan’s rural landscapes through the lens of local and national artists. Visitors can explore seasonal markets, savor freshly prepared regional specialties, and engage with authentic crafts and stories that reflect the spirit of the area. More than just a rest stop, Yunokawa is a living tribute to the enduring charm of Japan’s countryside.

Yunokawa roadside station stands out for its exclusive artisanal milk ice cream crafted from fresh Jersey cow milk sourced directly from local farms. Visitors can also experience the unique "Yunokawa Hot Spring Sake" brewed using mineral-rich spring water, a flavor found nowhere else. The station’s seasonal photo exhibitions, featuring award-winning works from the Dream Road Renaissance Contest, add a cultural layer to the visit, making it a rare blend of local taste, tradition, and art.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to access the fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is only available during this window and sells out quickly
• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for the limited-edition seasonal miso soup with local vegetables, available only from February to April
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the craft corner between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to meet local artisans demonstrating traditional pottery techniques using clay from the nearby mountains
• Photo Opportunity: Head to the western-facing viewing platform at 3:00 PM on weekdays to capture the best sunset light over the surrounding rice fields, especially during the late autumn harvest season
• Local Product Tip: Purchase the Yunokawa-exclusive "Kuroshio Miso" at the main counter before 1:00 PM, as it is restocked only once daily and often sells out by early afternoon
• Parking Strategy: Use the eastern parking lot, which is reserved for visitors with disabilities and large vehicles, to avoid congestion in the main lot during peak weekend hours
• Event Alert: Look for the rotating photo exhibition display near the information desk, which features winning entries from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest—updated monthly and always located in the same spot

Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.

Summer (June–August): The roadside station hosts seasonal events and photo exhibitions featuring local landscapes.

Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal activities or products mentioned in the content.

Winter (December–February): The roadside station displays award-winning photos from the Dream Street Renaissance Photo Contest during winter months.