Roadside station

A roadside station (道の駅) is a government-designated rest area found along roads and highways in Japan.

In addition to providing places for travelers to rest, they are intended to promote local tourism and trade. Shops may sell local produce, snacks, souvenirs, and other goods. All roadside stations provide 24-hour access to parking, public toilets and facilities for sharing information.

As of February 2024, there are 1213 roadside stations across Japan: 127 in Hokkaido, 174 in the Tōhoku-area, 186 in the Kantō-area, 84 in the Hokuriku-area, 135 in the Chūbu-area, 157 in the Kinki-area, 108 in the Chūgoku-area, 90 in the Shikoku-area and 152 in the Kyushu- and Okinawa-areas.