Discover the Heart of Nature and Local Culture at Hojo Park
Nestled in the serene countryside of North Ehime, Hojo Park is a revitalized roadside station that blends natural beauty with authentic regional charm. Located in the tranquil village of Kunioka, this modern retreat offers travelers a peaceful escape from the hustle of city life, surrounded by lush forests, rolling farmland, and the gentle rhythm of rural Japan.
More than just a pit stop, Hojo Park is a cultural gateway featuring a vibrant farmers’ market, a cozy café serving locally sourced delicacies, and a well-equipped rest area with accessible facilities, EV charging, and even a children’s play zone. Visitors can enjoy a soak in the foot bath, explore nearby trails, or relax in the shaded park area, making it the perfect destination for families, cyclists, and nature lovers alike.
Why Visit
Hojo Park stands out as the only roadside station in the region featuring a fully restored Edo-period stone bridge and a preserved traditional rice mill, offering visitors a rare glimpse into rural life from the 1800s. Home to the only on-site artisanal soy sauce brewery in the prefecture, it produces a limited-run, unpasteurized variety using locally grown soybeans and heirloom fermentation methods. The station also hosts seasonal workshops where guests can craft their own rice paper lanterns using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Hojo Park roadside station, where fresh, seasonal dishes celebrate the region's rich culinary heritage.
Soba Restaurant
そば屋
Specialty
Traditional soba noodles made from local buckwheat
A cozy restaurant specializing in handmade soba noodles, offering a rustic and authentic dining experience with a focus on regional ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Local Cuisine Restaurant
地元料理
Specialty
Authentic regional dishes using locally sourced ingredients
A welcoming restaurant serving traditional dishes from the region, emphasizing seasonal and locally grown produce in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Café with Local Specialties
カフェ
Specialty
Cozy café serving regional snacks and drinks
A relaxed café offering a variety of light meals and beverages, with a focus on local flavors and a comfortable, inviting environment perfect for a break during travel.
Soba Noodle Food Stall
そば屋の屋台
Specialty
Quick-service soba noodles made on-site
A casual food stall offering fast, fresh soba noodles with simple, traditional toppings and sauces, ideal for a quick bite while exploring the area.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional treats at Hojo Park roadside station’s welcoming shop.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A market selling fresh, locally grown produce directly from regional farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh mountain vegetables
Bakery
パン屋
A small bakery specializing in handmade breads and pastries using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Soba bread
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産
A shop offering handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden souvenirs
Alcohol Shop
酒販売所
A shop specializing in locally produced alcoholic beverages, including sake and regional spirits.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties and farm-fresh goods that highlight the taste of the region at Hojo Park roadside station.
Buckwheat Flour
そば粉
Premium buckwheat flour made from locally grown buckwheat, ideal for making authentic soba noodles.
Local Honey
地元はちみつ
Pure, natural honey harvested from local wildflowers, known for its rich flavor and aroma.
Mountain Vegetable Pickles
山菜漬物
Traditional pickled vegetables made from wild mountain greens, preserving seasonal flavors.
Soba Noodle Kit
そば粉セット
A complete kit for making homemade soba noodles, including buckwheat flour and instructions.
Hand-Carved Wooden Souvenir
手彫り木製お土産
A small, intricately carved wooden item made by local artisans, perfect as a keepsake.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including accessible restrooms, baby care stations, EV charging, and public Wi-Fi at Hojo Park roadside station.
Parking Lot
Includes parking spaces for regular cars (254 total, including 7 for disabled persons), large vehicles (buses and trucks, 36 spaces), motorcycles, bicycles, and RV park.
Near the main entrance and throughout the facility
Restrooms
Available for men (Western-style and Japanese-style, including a small toilet), women (Western-style and Japanese-style), and disabled persons (equipped with ostomy facilities, multi-purpose seats, baby changing station, adult diaper changing space, and audio guidance system).
Scattered throughout the facility, including near the information center and shopping area
Public Wi-Fi
Free public Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Throughout the premises, including near the information center and rest areas
Tourist Information Center
Official tourist information center with a tourism corner and JNTO certification for foreign visitors. Offers guidance and maps.
Near the main entrance and visitor services area
Children's Play Area
Includes a child-sized toilet, baby changing station, nursing room, and a dedicated area for children's activities.
Near the family and childcare facilities
Hot Spring Facility
A hot spring wellness facility available for visitors.
Located within the facility complex
Bike Rental
Bike rental service available through shared rental cycles.
Near the entrance and cycling access area
Nursing Room
A private room equipped with a baby changing table and a lactation area with a hot water heater for preparing formula.
Near the childcare and family facilities
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging equipment available for visitors.
Near the parking area for electric vehicles
ATM
ATM available on-site for cash withdrawals.
Near the main entrance and shopping area
Pet Area
Designated area for pets, including space for walking and resting.
Near the outdoor park and walking paths
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal events and use the nearby camping and bike rental options for a deeper local experience at Hojo Park roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the new restaurant, which opens at 10:00 AM and often fills up by noon due to its popular local menu.
- Hidden Gems: Check the corner of the物産販売所 (local products shop) near the entrance for limited-edition seasonal jam made from locally grown berries—these sell out by midday.
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, the deli counter offers a special set lunch featuring a locally sourced fish dish and rice—available only from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the west side of the parking area near the signboard with the red roof for the best view of the surrounding rice fields, especially during sunrise or golden hour.
- Cashless Convenience: Use mobile payment at the restaurant and shop—both accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPay, and there is a dedicated payment kiosk near the entrance for quick transactions.
- Family-Friendly Tip: Bring your own bottle to refill at the water station near the children’s playground, which provides filtered drinking water free of charge.
- Outdoor Activity Plan: Reserve a spot at the RV park in advance through the official website, as spaces fill up quickly on weekends and during the spring cherry blossom season.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Best for visiting after the April 25 renovation, when fresh bamboo shoots and seasonal produce are available at the market.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for enjoying the outdoor foot bath and summer events at the roadside station.
Autumn (September-November): Peak season for local fruit harvesting and autumn foliage viewing in the surrounding area.
Winter (December-February): Quiet time with seasonal hot spring experiences and winter-themed local food offerings.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Hojo Park offers ample family facilities including a baby changing station, nursing room, and dedicated children's toilets. It features a play area, stroller-friendly paths, and kid-friendly food options. The presence of a childcare support zone enhances the experience for families with young children.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station provides a diverse range of dining options, including a restaurant and café serving local specialties. Fresh produce is available at the market, and there are premium local goods for sale. The food offerings reflect regional authenticity and quality.
Car Camping Review
Hojo Park features an auto-camping site with restrooms, showers, and vending machines. The location is relatively quiet with ample space for parking. However, overnight parking is not explicitly permitted, limiting its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station is situated in a scenic rural landscape with open park areas and natural surroundings. There are multiple photo opportunities, especially near the park and surrounding fields. The seasonal beauty of the region enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.