Discover the Heart of Shikoku’s Natural Beauty and Farm-to-Table Tradition
Mino roadside station lies along the scenic National Route 12, perched on a high ridge overlooking the serene Yoshino River, where golden sunsets paint the water in vibrant hues. More than a mere rest stop, Mino is a vibrant cultural and agricultural hub, offering visitors a true taste of Shikoku’s rural charm. Nestled in the heart of Sanuki, this wooden, two-story facility is crafted entirely from locally sourced timber, reflecting a deep commitment to sustainable design and community heritage.
At Mino, experience the region’s bounty firsthand at the on-site farm produce market, where locally grown fruits, vegetables, and signature treats like Mino Monomanzhuu (a sweet symbolizing “returning home”) are proudly displayed. Enjoy farm-fresh meals at the cozy “Mother’s Kitchen” or savor regional specialties like pickled vegetables and Mino Longqing Rolls. With panoramic views, nature trails, and seasonal activities from river fishing to forest exploration, Mino invites travelers to slow down, connect with nature, and savor the authentic spirit of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Mino roadside station to experience one of the few places along the Nardo-Ikeda Road where you can view the sunset reflecting off the surface of the Yoshino River—a breathtaking sight especially during summer when the river teems with ayu fishing. The station’s signature offering, Mino Mon Tamanjou—a local-style sweet made with rice flour and a unique regional twist—can only be found here, crafted from ingredients grown in the surrounding area.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Mino roadside station, where fresh, regionally sourced meals take center stage.
Mother's Kitchen
母ちゃん食堂
Specialty
Local-style meals centered around fresh ingredients from Mino
A cozy dining space offering traditional local cuisine with a focus on locally sourced rice and seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal while enjoying views of the Yoshino River.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal produce at Mino’s bustling roadside station shop.
Farm Produce Store
農産物直売所
A direct sales shop offering fresh, locally grown agricultural products from Mino Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mino Monomanzhū (a local specialty with a playful meaning of 'returning to Mino')
Local Specialty Shop
名産販売所
A shop specializing in regional products and souvenirs from Mino Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mino Monomanzhū
Featured Products
Taste the essence of Mino with signature specialties like mountain yam dumplings and traditional pickles.
Mino Monomanzhū
みのにもんたまんじゅう
A traditional local sweet with a playful name meaning 'returning to Mino', symbolizing a warm welcome and connection to the region.
Pickled Vegetables
漬物
Locally made pickled vegetables using traditional methods and seasonal ingredients from Mino.
Mino Longqing Roll
三好長慶ロール
A regional roll inspired by historical local figures, made with local ingredients.
Momoji Dango
もみじだんご
Traditional rural dango made with local rice flour and served with sweet soy sauce.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge at Mino roadside station with ample parking, accessible restrooms, and scenic views.
Parking Lot
Available for 16 regular cars, 3 large vehicles, and 1 disabled parking space. Open 24 hours.
Front of the roadside station
Restroom
Male: 7 units, Female: 5 units. Includes accessible toilets, ostomy toilets, and baby-changing facilities.
Inside the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Provides information about the area, events, and nearby attractions. Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
The facility includes a children's park and outdoor play areas. The area also features a children's adventure castle and learning forest.
Near the park and forest area
Hot Spring
The nearby San-no-machi Fureai Koyo Onsen is known for its high-quality bicarbonate spring water.
San-no-machi Fureai Koyo Onsen (adjacent facility)
Bike Rental
Cycling facilities available on-site, including access to scenic routes along the Yoshino River.
Near the cycling path
Nursing Room
Dedicated nursing room with baby-changing table, free hot water for milk, and baby chairs.
Inside the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Fast charging station available 24 hours a day.
Near the parking lot
ATM
ATM available on-site for convenience.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
Designated area for pets, allowing visitors to bring their animals to the roadside station.
Outside the main building
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on experiences from forest walks to seasonal festivals at Mino roadside station.
River View Relaxation
展望地
Enjoy panoramic views of the Yoshino River from the second-floor rest area of the regional development facility, especially beautiful during sunset.
Duration
60 min
Local Produce Shopping
農産物直売所
Purchase locally grown agricultural products from Mino Town, including seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Duration
30 min
Traditional Snack Tasting
みのにもんたまんじゅう
Taste a local specialty snack known as 'Mino Mon Tanjū', a sweet treat symbolizing returning to Mino Town.
Duration
20 min
Local Pickled Vegetables Tasting
漬物
Sample traditional pickled vegetables made in Mino Town, known for their unique regional flavor.
Duration
20 min
Soba Noodle Rolling Experience
三好長慶ロール
Participate in a hands-on workshop to make and roll traditional Soba noodles, inspired by the local historical figure Sanuki Chōkei.
Duration
60 min
Millet Dumpling Making
もみじだんご
Learn to make traditional rural dumplings using local rice flour and seasonal ingredients.
Duration
45 min
Charcoal Burning Experience
炭焼き体験施設
Take part in a traditional charcoal-making workshop using locally sourced wood and natural methods.
Duration
90 min
Yam Fishing
鮎釣り
Enjoy summer fishing for sweetfish (ayu) in the Yoshino River, a seasonal activity popular in July and August.
Duration
120 min
Best during clear, cool mornings and evenings; avoid heavy rain
Fall Foliage Viewing
紅葉温泉
Visit the Mino Town Fureai Kokyo Onsen and enjoy the scenic autumn foliage surrounding the area.
Duration
90 min
Best during crisp, clear days with moderate temperatures
Hiking to Dragon's Head and Kongō Waterfalls
竜頭の滝・金剛の滝
Take a guided or self-guided hike to two rare waterfalls in the Ashizuri mountain range, known for their natural beauty.
Duration
120 min
Avoid during heavy rainfall; wear waterproof hiking shoes
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds and enjoy free baby milk heating at Mino roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the agricultural produce shop before it closes at 5:00 PM, as it often sells out of seasonal vegetables by late afternoon
- Hidden Gems: Check the agricultural produce shop’s "Mino no Mon Tanjuu" display—this local specialty, a sweet dumpling made with mountain vegetables and rice flour, is only available during the summer harvest season and sells out quickly
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the roadside station’s second-floor rest area between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy a free sample of the house-made yuzu squash drink, offered only during the summer months
- Best View Spot: Head to the second-floor observation area at 5:00 PM on clear days to catch the sunset reflecting off the Yoshino River, a view specifically highlighted in the station’s promotional materials
- Cycling Tip: Use the on-site bicycle rental service to access the Shikoku Sanro Yoshino River Trail, which begins directly across from the roadside station’s parking area and offers scenic river views
- Food Truck Alert: On Sundays, visit the food truck parked near the EV charging station between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM—this vendor exclusively serves the local favorite, Mino no Mon Tanjuu, with a limited daily batch
- Family Tip: Bring a stroller or baby carrier and visit the rest area’s designated family zone—this area features a shaded picnic deck with a free milk warming station and changing table, ideal for families with young children
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; peak time for viewing the scenic Yoshino River.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy river fishing for sweetfish along the Yoshino River; ideal for outdoor activities.
Autumn (September-November): Best time to visit the scenic river views and nearby waterfalls; red maple foliage enhances the landscape.
Winter (December-February): Experience the hot spring bath at Sanomi Fureai Kōyō Center; quiet, serene atmosphere.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Mino roadside station offers a dedicated playground, baby changing stations, a nursing room, and stroller-friendly paths. It features family-oriented activities like tent sites, a nature forest, and a children's adventure castle, making it highly suitable for families.
Food Lover Review
The station boasts a variety of local dining options, including a farm produce market, a restaurant serving local dishes like Mino Monjumanjuu and homemade ramen, and seasonal treats like maple dumplings and pickled vegetables.
Car Camping Review
Mino provides a designated campsite with restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. While it allows overnight parking, it lacks clear signage or dedicated overnight camping facilities, limiting its appeal for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooking the Yoshino River, Mino offers stunning views, especially during sunset. The elevated observation deck, seasonal foliage, and nearby waterfalls enhance its scenic appeal and provide excellent photo opportunities.