Discover the Heart of Yamaguchi’s Heritage at Hagi Sansan Mimi
Nestled in the historic city of Hagi, Hagi Sansan Mimi is a vibrant roadside station that celebrates the region’s rich cultural legacy and natural beauty. Located at the crossroads of ancient trade routes and modern travel, this station serves as both a welcoming rest stop and a gateway to Yamaguchi’s storied past. Surrounded by traditional architecture and lush greenery, it offers travelers a serene escape infused with local charm.
What sets Hagi Sansan Mimi apart is its deep connection to community and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore local art, sample regional specialties like Hagi ceramics and traditional sweets, and enjoy rotating exhibitions featuring award-winning photography from the Dream Road Renaissance Contest. It’s more than a pit stop—it’s an immersive journey into the soul of western Japan.
Why Visit
Hagi Sansan Mimi stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering handmade pottery workshops using local clay from the historic Hagi kiln area. Visitors can create their own ceramic pieces while enjoying views of the scenic Chugoku Mountains. The station also features the only on-site café serving Hagi-style matcha cheesecake, made with locally grown green tea and traditional Japanese dairy—exclusive to this location.
Insider Tips
Make the most of your visit with practical tips and insider knowledge from locals who know Hagi Sansan Mimi best.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure fresh-baked milk bread from the in-house bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the entrance for limited-edition seasonal pickles made from locally grown vegetables, available only during spring and fall
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays, visit the craft corner between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to watch local artisans demonstrate traditional pottery making using clay from nearby Hagi Riverbanks
- Photo Opportunity: Stop by the exhibition corner between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to view rotating displays of award-winning photos from the Dream Road Renaissance Photo Contest, currently featuring works from the 2023 regional winners
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the Hagi Sansan Mimi-exclusive "Sakura Salt & Charcoal Miso" at the main counter—this limited batch is restocked only once a month, typically on the first Tuesday
- Parking Strategy: Use the extended parking lot on the west side of the roadside station, which is reserved for visitors with disabled access permits and is less crowded than the main lot
- Sustainable Practice: Bring your own container to refill the on-site natural soy sauce dispensers—this reduces waste and qualifies you for a 10% discount on bulk purchases
Best Time to Visit
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 features seasonal produce and summer events, with peak activity in July and August.
Autumn (September-November): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Winter (December-February): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms. Limited play areas but includes interactive exhibits and local cultural displays suitable for children. Kid-friendly food options available.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine with high-quality regional specialties. Includes fresh produce from nearby farms and artisanal food products. Offers a strong culinary experience with seasonal ingredients.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines. Quiet surroundings with moderate comfort for overnight stays. Overnight parking allowed, though no dedicated camping zones or facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views of surrounding natural landscapes with well-maintained pathways. Offers photo opportunities at scenic viewpoints. Seasonal beauty enhances the aesthetic appeal throughout the year.



