Station Kitaura Kaido Toyokita

Discover the Heart of Japan’s Westernmost Coastline

Located at the westernmost tip of Honshu, Kitaura Kaido Toyokita is a vibrant roadside station nestled along National Route 191 in Toyokita, Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Perched with sweeping views of the Japan Sea and just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Akajima Bridge, it serves as the closest rest stop to one of Japan’s most celebrated scenic landmarks. With its panoramic seafront terrace and a prime position on the Shimonoseki tourism corridor, the station is a gateway to natural beauty and cultural discovery.

The station thrives as a celebration of local life, featuring the vibrant Toyokita Dream Market where fresh, regionally caught seafood and seasonal produce are proudly displayed. Visitors can savor the catch of the day at Wakuwaku Tei, a restaurant renowned for its innovative dishes using local fish such as fresh squid, or enjoy artisanal breads made with homegrown fruits and vegetables at Maison de la Mère. With its warm hospitality, seasonal events, and the beloved mascot Hokkun, Kitaura Kaido Toyokita offers a truly authentic taste of rural Japan.

Located just ten minutes from the iconic Akashio Bridge, Kitaura Kaido Toyokita offers an unmatched experience: the only roadside station in the region where you can savor freshly caught North Bay squid served as live sashimi, a seasonal specialty only available during peak months. Its standout feature is the panoramic ocean view from the rooftop terrace, framed by the bridge and the setting sun—perfect for capturing the famous "sunset over Akashio Bridge" view. Visitors also find the only on-site bakery crafting sourdough loaves using locally grown citrus and vegetables, a signature treat exclusive to this location.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays to secure the last fresh batch of the seasonal squid sushi (特牛イカ) at Wakuwaku Tei, as it sells out quickly during peak hours.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the Mezon de la Mere bakery between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM to purchase the day’s first batch of fruit and vegetable-based artisan breads, which are only available on-site and not sold in the market.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the Hokkun Market stall between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to sample the limited-edition "Oko-ge Senbei Soy Sauce Flavor" snack, which is only restocked during weekend events.

• Photo Opportunity: Take a photo at the front of the roadside station’s sea-facing terrace around 5:30 PM during November to capture the golden sunset over the Sea of Japan and the silhouette of the Kajiki Bridge, especially during the 25th Anniversary Celebration event.

• Best Food Timing: Order the "Kajiki Bridge Special Seafood Bowl" at Wakuwaku Tei between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to enjoy the daily fresh catch of fish, which is delivered directly from local fishermen and prepared on-site.

• Event Attendance: Attend the "Houhoku Cultural Festival" on October 31st from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM to experience live local performances and taste traditional dishes from the region, including handmade rice cakes and seasonal fish dishes.

• Gift Strategy: Purchase the limited-edition "Hokkun Character Goods" set at the information counter between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekends, as these exclusive items are only restocked during weekend events and are not available daily.

Spring (March–May): Fresh sea urchin and seasonal fish arrive in early spring; peak bloom of local citrus trees in April.

Summer (June–August): Live squid served as sashimi during peak season; summer seafood festival features local catches.

Autumn (September–November): Blueberry pie and seasonal fruit pies available from late September; autumn foliage views from the seaside terrace.

Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal seafood; heated indoor seating available for cold weather visits.