Car rentals might be the best way to explore Kyoto, Japan. These roadside stations are proof.

One such must-visit roadside station is Funaya-no-Sato Roadside Station, nestled along the banks of the Yura River. This roadside station showcases the traditional architecture and craftsmanship of the Tango Peninsula. The name “Funaya-no-Sato” literally translates to “Fishing Boat Village,” a nod to the area’s long history of fishing and maritime activities.

Among its many attractions, Funaya-no-Sato Roadside Station offers visitors the chance to explore local artisanal crafts and products. Here, you’ll find intricate lacquerware, delicate woven baskets, and a treasure trove of other handmade wares. You can even chat with friendly vendors and learn the fascinating stories behind these unique items. This is the perfect place to pick up authentic souvenirs that will remind you of your Kyoto adventure for years to come.

Access:
About 25 min. by car from the Yoza-Amanohashidate Interchange

Info:
Address: 459 Kameshima, Ine-cho, Yoza-gun, Kyoto Prefecture
Closed: Generally closed on Tuesdays
*Toilets, parking lot, and public phone are open 24 hours.

Our next stop is Roadside Station Kyoto by the Sea MIYAZU, located about 2 hours from Kyoto City in Miyazu. Here you can enjoy stunning views of Miyazu Bay and the famous Amanohashidate sandbar. Food lovers will appreciate Osakana Kitchen Miyazu, featuring two standout restaurants: HAMAKAZE Cafe and MIYA-Poke. HAMAKAZE Cafe offers a delightful lunch and transforms into a Western-style tavern at night. Meanwhile, MIYA-Poke allows you to create your own Hawaiian-style poke bowl with fresh local seafood. Don’t miss the Amanohashidate Cheesecake, handmade by their pastry chef. You can even buy local goods at the Miyazu Magokoro Ichiba. Moreover, you can even take a boat from Miyazu Pier to visit Amanohashidate and Ine, or enjoy a relaxing time with family at Shimazaki Park.

Access:
About 5 minutes by car from Miyazu Amanohashidate IC

Info:
Address: 3007 Hamamachi, Miyazu, Kyoto 626-0012, Japan
http://michinoeki-miyazu.jp/ (Japanese language only)

Another great rest area is Roadside Station Maizuruko Toretore Center. It’s situated at Maizuru Port, the largest fishery base in the region and an international trading port. This lively roadside station offers valuable information on local attractions, including Maizuru, Ine, Amanohashidate, and Wakasa. You can enjoy fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, including delicious fish cakes, and explore the historic charm of the nearby west city center. Be sure to visit “Aguri” farmer’s market for local vegetables, fruits, and crafts at direct sales prices. You can also unwind in the i-cafe, a spacious shop with free internet.

Access:
From Kyoto 100 km on Kyoto Jukan Expwy and Maizuru-Wakasa Expwy
From Amanohashidate 45 km on Kyoto Jukan Expwy via Maizuru-Oe IC 30 km on Route 178 and 175

Info:
Address: 905 Shimofukui, Maizuru, Kyoto
Closed: Wednesdays (may be closed on other special days)
https://toretore.org/en/