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Things To Do In Tokyo In July 2025 | Arigato Travel
This is it! The rain has finally passed, and summer is finally here! Despite what you might hear about the temperatures in Japan during the summertime, July and August are also well-known to be the festival months in Japan and with all different types of events and food to try out, I can guarantee there’s still plenty to do and see in the fast city of Tokyo in the hotter months. Today, we’ll go through some of the top things for you to do to either avoid, or make the most out of the nice weather, depending on your preference, as well as a few family-friendly activities now that the kids are finally on summer vacation! Shaun the Sheep Anniversary Cafe Whilst they may not be distinctly Japanese, Aardman Animations are loved by many people around the world, including the people at Sunday Brunch. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the first appearance of the iconic character Shaun the Sheep in the Wallace and Gromit episode The Close Shave, Sunday Brunch and Ardman Japan have come together to create an adorable popup cafe including all the key characters! Enjoy some Shaun’s jumper spaghetti or Gromit shaped bread with your soup whilst looking back on decades of stop motion animation. Website: https://aardman-jp.com/shaun/gromit-30th/news/?page=1 Dates: July 3rd - October 26th Time: 11 am - 8 pm (last orders at 7 pm) Admission: Free + food Location: Sunday Brunch Parco - Google Maps Design Festa Vol 61 Continuing the theme of animation and the wider field of art, this art event dates back to 1994 and is considered one of the largest in Asia. For anyone interested in art or animation this is a must see, with around 15,000 artists’ works on display across the two day period across many different genres, age groups, nationalities and professions, there’s surely something that will inspire everyone to nurture their inner artist, or at least appreciate other people’s. Website: https://m.kkday.com/en-us/product/127714?cid=15153 Dates: July 5th - July 6th Time: 10 am - 6 pm Admission: ¥800 Location: Tokyo Big Sight - Google Maps Shitamachi Tanabata Perhaps one of Japan’s most famous myths, Shitamachi Tanabata celebrates the one time a year when the star-crossed lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi can meet upon the Milky Way. Whilst decorations can be seen in the streets for the majority of the week leading up to the festival, on the weekend of the event, there are many performances and even a few parades, as well as the opportunity to write your own wish on a strip of paper and tie it on some bamboo. You just have to hope it doesn’t rain, as it’s said if it does, the magpies that form the bridge in the sky for the deities to cross cannot come and the lovers will have to wait another year. Website: http://shitamachi-tanabata.com/index.html Dates: Early July (around July 7th) Time: 10am - 7pm Admission: Free Location: Kappabashi Street - Google Maps Yurakucho Flea Market Considered Tokyo’s ‘best flea market,’ Yurakucho’s vast sea of stalls is the ideal place to find some great souvenirs. With impressive ceramics, second-hand kimonos and stunning jewellery, the finds at this flea market also make for ideal gifts (if you can bear to part with them!). Located only a short distance from Tokyo Station, you can really take in the vast city as you browse and this market will slip into your itinerary as if it was always meant to be there! Website: https://www2.recycler.jp Dates: July 13th Time: 10am - 4pm Admission: Free Location: Tokyo International Forum - Google Maps Handmade in Japan Festival If you want something a bit more personal or new than the finds at Yurakocho’s flea market but still want something authentic to take home at the end of your trip, then the Handmade In Japan festival is a great place to find some unique keepsakes! Showcasing some of the best craftsmanship in Japan, this festival aims to bring attention to the incredible handiwork of locals with everything from woodwork to live music, textiles to baked goods. I can guarantee you’ll fall in love with at least one of the many stands at this festival. Website: https://hmj-fes.jp Dates: July 19th - 20th Time: 11 am - 7 pm Admission: ¥1,300 (advance sales), ¥1,500 (on the day tickets) Location: Tokyo Big Sight - Google Maps Edogawa Ward Local Goldfish Festival Whether the beautiful fish in Japan have beguiled you, you are looking for something a bit more kid-friendly, or you recently watched the Japanese show Fishbowl Wives and, like me, came away kind of wanting a goldfish of your own, the Edogawa Ward Goldfish Festival is a great summer activity! Celebrating its 54th year and a tradition dating all the way back to the late 1800s, this is a great place to get advice from professional goldfish handlers, admire the vivid colours of the different breeds of fish, or try your hand at ‘goldfish scooping’. Taking place in the stunning Gyosen park, next to the local fishing pond, this is the ideal place to bring a picnic lunch and make a day of admiring nature. Website: https://www.city.edogawa.tokyo.jp/e032/sports/kankomidokoro/kingyo/index.html Dates: July 19th-20th Time: 10 am - 5 pm (Sat); 10 am - 4 pm (Sun) Admission: Free Location: Gyosen Park Sumidagawa Firework Festival In Japan, the summertime is most well-known for its fireworks festivals. With multiple fireworks festivals happening up and down the country in July and August, what better way to experience the festivities than to go to one of the biggest of the season? Lasting over an hour and with an incredible view of Tokyo Skytree in the background, this breathtaking display is sure to put a smile on people’s faces. Website: https://sumidagawa-hanabi.com Dates: July 26th Time: 7 pm - 8:30 pm Admission: Free Location: Taito Riverside Sports Centre - Google Maps Tokyo Honey Festival For those of you with a sweet tooth who aren’t too keen on the idea of an ice cream expo, look no further than the Tokyo honey festival! With an entire 3-day event dedicated to the art of beekeeping and making honey, it’s no wonder this event causes such a buzz! You can even book workshops in advance to learn more about the craft, as well as purchase lots of different products and types of honey! Fancy a floral-infused spread or maybe a sweet honeycomb to snack on? This festival has you covered! Website: https://83m.info/apps/note/2025-honeyfesta/ Dates: July 25th - 27th Time: 2 pm-8 pm (25th), 10 am-5 pm (26th), 10 am-4:30 pm (27th) Admission: Free Location: Ginza - Google Maps Sake Festival If you are a drinks connoisseur, or maybe just need something to wash down all the food from the other festivals, the Tokyo Sake festival is for you! Whilst you can find Japan’s well-known rice wine in just about any restaurant or conbini (convenience store), this festival goes beyond your typical bottle to show off the best of the best in alcohol. There’s no better way to relax on a warm summer’s evening than with good company and a good drink! Website: https://sakefes.com/tokyo28/ Dates: July 26th - July 27th Time: 12 pm - 5:10 pm Admission: ¥3,400 (must reserve in advance) Location: Kamimeguro - Google Maps Chidorigafuchi Moat Lantern Festival Most well-known for its cherry blossoms in the spring, Chidorigafuchi can also be enjoyed in the summertime for picnics, scenic walks, or for the moat lantern festival at the end of the month. Whether you manage to get a boat for yourself or you’re just there to spectate, there’s no better way to close out the month than to sail around the Imperial Palace to the romantic light of 2,000 lanterns and people making wishes at this incredibly picturesque festival. Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/en/floating.lantern/ Dates: July 30th - 31st Time: 7 pm - 8 pm Admission: Free entry or £51.03 per boat (book in advance) Location: Chidorigafuchi Park - Google Maps And there you have it! As you can see, there’s still plenty to do in the warmer months and plenty of different types of festivals to enjoy throughout July! With lots of food to try, places to shop, and lots of firework displays, hopefully now you can add some of these to your itinerary and find something for the whole family to enjoy over summer vacation. Happy adventuring! Featured Photo Credit: BaLL LunLa Now that we've talked about Tokyo, find out what you can do across Japan this summer with one of our amazing Summer Food Tours!
Things to Do in Kyoto in July 2025 | Arigato Travel
July is one of the busiest and most exciting times to visit Kyoto. The city is packed with festivals, cultural events, and seasonal traditions you won’t see at any other time of the year. Gion Matsuri is the big one, with massive floats and a lively street atmosphere, but there are also smaller local celebrations and experiences that make July special. Whether you’re into culture, food, or trying something new, there’s plenty to enjoy in Kyoto this month. Gion Matsuri If you visit Kyoto in July, it is impossible to miss the energy and excitement of Gion Matsuri, the city’s most iconic and long-lasting celebrations. Gion Matsuri is held every July for the entire month. The tradition is more than 1150 years old and was originally a religious ritual to ward off disease. Today, the festival is known for the float processions, Mikoshi-Togyo, and Yamahoko-Junko on July 17th and 24th. These impressive floats weigh up to 12 tons and are up to 25 meters tall. The procession of portable shrines and floats is preceded by Yoiyama festivities (July 14-16 and July 21-23), with food stalls and lantern-lit streets. Centered around Yasaka Shrine, the festival includes dance performances and is certain to be an unforgettable experience. Date: 7/1 - 7/31 Location: Yasaka Shrine, 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073 Website: https://www.yasaka-jinja.or.jp/en/gion_fes/ Mitarashi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine Looking to beat the summer heat in an authentic Kyoto way? The Mitarashi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine offers a cool summer ritual held from July 18 to July 28. It offers an escape from the heat as one of Kyoto’s most refreshing and spiritual traditions. Visitors wade into a shallow stream while holding a candle and approach the shrine, praying for good health and protection from illness. Once the participant places the candle, they drink a cup of bottled spring water. There are also omamori or ema available for purchase at the shrine. Date: July 18th - July 27th, 9:00 - 20:00 Location: 606-0807 Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Shimogamo Izumikawacho, ５９ Website: https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/en/saiji/ Mizu Matsuri Tucked away in the mountains just north of Kyoto, Kifune Shrine offers a quiet escape from the city’s summer heat. This over 1,600-year-old shrine is one of the oldest shrines in the region. Known for its stone stairways with red lanterns, the shrine itself is dedicated to the god of water and rain. Over the centuries, many farmers and brewers have come seeking divine favor during times of drought. But every year on July 7, the shrine holds the Mizu Matsuri, or Water Festival, a sacred summer event that coincides with Tanabata, the Star Festival. The festival begins at 10 am with a tea ceremony offered to the shrine’s divine beings. Following the tea ceremony, classical Japanese dances are held, and shikibocho, an ancient fish cooking technique, is performed as an offering to the deities. A tea ceremony is also available after the ceremony for visitors for ¥3,000. Date: 7/7 10:00 Location: 180 Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112 Website: http://kifunejinja.jp/ Fishing (Ukai) on the Uji River Step back in time with Ukai, or traditional cormorant fishing, a 1,300-year-old summer tradition that takes place on the Uji River from July through September. In this fascinating practice, master fishermen use trained aquatic birds on leashes to catch river fish by torchlight. You can watch from a nearby shore, or you can join a sightseeing cruise, which typically lasts about an hour and costs about 2,500 to 3,500 yen. While it once was a practical fishing method, today, Ukai is mostly done for visitors, although it still remains one of the most atmospheric and memorable summer experiences you could have this July. Date: July 1st - September 30th Location: Togawa-4-5 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021 Website: https://www.kyoto-uji-kankou.or.jp/ukai.html Le Marché (Paris Festival) Step into a small piece of Paris at Le Marché, a monthly charming French-style market held at the Institut français du Kansai right outside the French Consulate-General in Kyoto. Held in the institute’s garden and terrace, the event brings a slice of France to Kyoto, offering traditional French cuisine, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods. This month features the Paris Festival on July 13th from 12:00 to 18:30, so alongside the usual market, you can enjoy live music, participate in interactive workshops, and win prizes. There is a small admission fee for the event, 800 yen for general admission. If you want to experience something with an international flair in a cozy garden atmosphere, you’ll want to go to Le Marché. Date: 7/13 12:00 - 18:30 Location: 8 Yoshidaizumidonocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8301 Website: https://essential-japan.com/news/le-marche-kyoto/ Hiwatari Matsuri (Firewalking Festival) The Hiwatari Matsuri, or Firewalking Festival, is held annually on July 28th at Tanukidani Fudo-in, a temple in northern Kyoto, hidden among the mountain forest. Rooted in traditional Buddhist, Shinto, and Taoist beliefs, the festival invites participants to walk barefoot on smoldering embers as a form of purification and mental discipline. The ritual begins with the burning of goma, or wooden prayer sticks, which are offered into the fire as monks chant. Once the fire dies down, the ashes are raked flat and then walked across. Visitors are welcome to try the firewalking themselves, guided by temple staff. After the ceremony, many pick up a special charm to protect their homes from fire. Whether you walk the coals or just watch, it’s a rare glimpse into this fiery tradition. Date: 7/28 19:00 Location: 6 Ichijoji Matsubaracho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8156 Website: https://www.tanukidani.com/en/ Kamishichiken Beer Garden The Kamishichiken Beer Garden is a rare chance to share a cold drink in the company of real geisha in the traditional garden of the famous Kaburenjo Theater. Held in the courtyard of the theater from July 1st to September 6th from 17:30 to 22:00, this seasonal event blends tradition with casual charm. Guests are seated outdoors, where maiko take drink orders, serve food, perform short dances, and chat with guests. Date: 7/1 - 9/6 17:30 - 22:00 Location: 〒602-8381 Kyoto, Kamigyo Ward, Shinseicho, 742 今出川通七本松西入真盛町742 Website: https://maiko3.com/beer-garden/ Tanabata Festival Tanabata, or the Star Festival, celebrates the annual meeting of Orihime and Hikoboshi, a weaver and a cowherd. As the tale goes, they both fell so deeply in love that they began to neglect their celestial duties. As punishment, Tentei, Orihime’s father, separated them by the Milky Way and allowed them to meet only once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month, but only if the skies were clear. In Kyoto, Tanabata is celebrated throughout the month, with many events happening around the city. Some locations, like Kifune Shrine and Kodai-ji Temple, feature evening illumination and seasonal decorations that create a uniquely festive atmosphere. Date: July 7th and throughout July Location: Throughout Kyoto Website: https://kyonotanabata.kyoto.travel/ July is a perfect time to visit Kyoto, as the city is alive with energy, tradition, and unforgettable experiences. From casual drinking and chatting with Geishas at Kamishichiken Beer Garden to the intense rush of watching temple followers walk over a bed of coals at Hiwatari Matsuri, each event offers a glimpse of the deep culture and traditions that shape life in Kyoto. July has something for every type of traveler, and with so much happening across the city, it is the perfect time to visit. Featured Photo Credit: Pixabay Ready to see more of what summer has to offer across Japan? Check out our Summer Food Tours for a summertime adventure you'll never forget!
The Best Spots for Vintage Kimono Shopping in Kyoto | Arigato Travel
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is not only renowned for its stunning temples and traditional tea houses but also as a heaven for vintage kimono enthusiasts. On the hunt for that perfect piece to take home as a unique souvenir, but don’t want to splash out on just one item? You're in luck because today I will introduce you to some of the best shops in Kyoto where you can find exquisite and affordable vintage kimonos. You don’t always have to go for a brand new one, a vintage one can be just as beautiful and even adds a timeless charm to it! Lily Kyoto Antiques Kimono Lily Kyoto Antiques Kimono is a gem nestled in the heart of the city, just a little south of the Kyoto Garden. This shop offers a carefully curated selection of vintage kimonos for both adults and children, and they update their inventory regularly, so each time you go, you might just find something new! Whether you're looking for a silk kimono or a casual cotton yukata, you’ll find a range of options here. The knowledgeable staff are eager to assist you in selecting the perfect piece that suits your style. The owner of the store, Rii, is a kimono enthusiast and is even learning English to help foreign tourists find the best kimono set for them. How sweet! Address: 438-1 Sakurabnomachi, Nakagyoku, Kyoto, Japan Opening Hours: Every day from 11 AM to 9 PM Official Website: https://www.antiqueskimonolily.com/ Modoribashi Shashinkan At Modoribashi Shashinkan, you'll discover a unique selection of vintage kimonos, especially in the Showa style. This shop is known for its artistic, vintage, and traditionally Japanese atmosphere. The store acts as an art museum as well, displaying all sorts of vintage Japanese pieces. If you are looking for a more local selection as well as getting an artistic experience, this is a great spot for you seasoned kimono lovers. And the store even has an adorable black cat as their Neko-tencho (Cat Shop Owner)! Address: 237 Yakunincho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto Opening Hours: Every day except Thursday from 1 PM to 6 PM Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modoribashi237 Official X: https://x.com/modoribashi237 AN Gion Vintage Kimono For those who love the charm of Gion, AN Gion Vintage Kimono offers a fantastic selection of female and male vintage kimonos that are more flashy and historic (with selections that are 80-100 years old!). Located in a quaint alley, this shop specializes in unique pieces that can definitely catch your eye. Not to mention their excellent prices, starting from only 1000 Yen! Be sure to check out their Instagram for the latest arrivals and inspirations. Address: 37-4 Bishamoncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto Opening Hours: Every day from 10 AM to 7 PM Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vintagekimonoan/?hl=en Yaya Yaya is another must-visit for vintage kimono shopping. This shop prides itself on providing high-quality vintage pieces, including beautiful kimono fabrics. With a commitment to sustainability, the owner of Yaya passionately and carefully selects each item, ensuring that every piece is not only stylish but also ethically sourced. In addition to kimonos and obi, they also offer a range of traditional accessories such as obi cords, obijime, and zori sandals. Address: 306 Ishibashicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto Opening Hours: Every day except Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 AM to 6 PM Official Website: https://www.yaya2002.com/shop/index.html Kyonokimonoonaoshiyasan For a more personalized experience, visit Kyonokimonoonaoshiyasan, where you can find everything about vintage kimonos. From the traditional accessory to stylish, practical, and reasonably priced kimono items made in Kyoto with guaranteed quality. This shop also offers kimono repair services, ensuring that your piece can be cherished for years to come. Address: 6/F, Hankyu Oomiya Building North, Nishikiomiyacho 116, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto Opening Hours: Every day except Sunday and Holidays from 11 AM to 7 PM Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyonokimonoonaoshiyasan/?hl=ja Ochicochiya Lastly, don't miss Ochicochiya, a charming shop that offers a delightful selection of vintage kimonos, as well as accessories to complete your look. With a focus on quality and comfort, you’re sure to find a good piece here. The owner, Kyoko Tanaka, is also incredibly passionate about conveying the practicality of wearing a kimono and is more than willing to educate you on how to wear them comfortably without feeling restrained. At Ochicochiya, the staff are here to help you embrace a comfortable kimono lifestyle, even if it’s your first time trying one on. Address: Kyoto, Shimogyou-ku, Bukkoji-doori, Yanagi-no-banba Higashiiru Bukkoji Higashimachi 112-1 Opening Hours: Every day except Monday and the second Tuesday of the month, from 11 AM to 6 PM Official Website: https://www.ochicochiya.com/en/ Tips for Shopping for Kimonos as a Tourist I know you might be very excited to get your hands on one of the most iconic pieces of traditional Japanese apparel, but there are several things you might want to keep in mind before you go and get one. First, do your research. Familiarize yourself with different kimono styles, materials, and patterns. And make sure to try them on before purchasing because the sizes of a kimono can be limited, but many shops will have staff who can assist you with fitting. Second, aside from purchasing the actual piece of kimono, look for obi (belts), obijime (decorative cords), and other accessories to complement your look. But don’t worry, many shops offer matching pieces to create a complete look. In Japan, haggling is generally not practiced in retail shops, but some store owners may offer discounts for multiple purchases, so don't be afraid to ask, just do it in a very polite way! And finally, don’t hesitate to ask shop owners about the history and significance of the pieces. Most are happy to share stories and details that can enhance your appreciation of your purchase. Kimonos from Kyoto hold a special place in Japan's cultural heritage. Known for their exquisite craftsmanship, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors, these garments often reflect Kyoto's textile traditions. Kyoto is home to skilled artisans who have perfected the art of kimono-making over generations. By purchasing a vintage kimono in Kyoto, you're not only acquiring a beautiful piece of clothing but also a slice of history and culture that resonates with the city's rich legacy. So there you have it, visit one of these amazing stores in Kyoto and get your hands on your first kimono! Featured Photo Credit: Lan Pham There's even more to discover when it comes to culture and traditions in Kyoto! Book one of our Kyoto tours today for an adventure you'll never forget!
Discovering Michi-no-Eki: roadside stations in Japan | Arigato Travel
Have you heard about Michi-no-Eki? It is a place where you can rest while driving. Not only can you stretch your legs or have a light meal, but there are various facilities like a local-based market, a photo booth, and a historical museum. There are over 1200 roadside stations in Japan, but all of them make your travel experience unique with convenience, comfort, and culture. What is Michi-no-Eki? Michi-no-Eki (道の駅), literally translated as “road station,” are government-designated rest areas along major highways and local roads in Japan. They were established in 1993 by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism to promote safe driving as well as community revitalisation. Generally, roadside stations have four features: free parking, resting areas, an information centre for driving and touring, and a community with locals. Different from a normal highway rest stop, Michi-no-Eki is designed for both travellers and the region around it. Drivers can rest well and learn about the culture, and locals can improve the economy by spreading the goodness of their place. Every road station is operated independently. Through events, stores, and leaflets, they show the characteristics of their area like local specialities, crafts, and nature. What you can find Offerings in Michi-no-Eki depend on the region, but you can try many things, from buying vegetables to relaxing in a hot spring. It is more likely a small community place rather than a resting spot. In most areas, you can go to a farmers’ market where they sell high-quality but affordable produce. In addition, there are regional restaurants and food stalls that use local food in the market. This attempt is called 地産地消 (Chisan-Chisho) in Japanese, which means production and consumption of local food. After eating cuisine in restaurants, let’s see souvenirs in the craft shops! Each region has specific famous industries, such as knives, clothes, or dolls. If you want to know the area more deeply, we recommend going to tourist information centers and getting a brochure, maps, and local event news. Michi-no-eki has a strong relationship with the local communities, so there is beneficial information that you can not discover on the internet. Free Wifi and charging stations are offered too. When it comes to recreation, some Michi-no-eki have facilities like playgrounds or parks where both adults and children can hang out. You can even enjoy hot springs and foot baths. In cultural exhibitions, you can learn about local history or art. Famous and unique branches Each Michi-no-Eki has its own charm. Here, we will show some places that stand out with unique and fascinating facilities and services. Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo Located in the northern part of Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo is a scenic roadside station. You can experience outdoor barbecues, strawberry picking, see flower gardens, and even an onsen there! The most famous place is the FARM CIRCUS, which consists of a market, food court, and a restaurant. With the concept of “Chisan-Chisho,” you can buy fresh vegetables, enjoy harvesting, and eat seasonal dishes. You can reach Kobe Fruit Flower Park Ozo in about 15 minutes by car from Okabe Station. Address: Kamiozo-2150 Ozocho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1522 Opening hours: Depends on the facility (you can check here!) Price range: 500 ~ 1000 yen (FARM CIRCUS Restaurant) Website: https://fruit-flowerpark.jp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fruitflowerpark.kobe Michi-no-Eki Asagiri Kogen In Michi-no-Eki Asagiri Kogen on the slopes of Mt.Fuji, you can get local specialities and information related to sightseeing. This Michi-no-Eki is surrounded by the Asagiri plateau, which is known for farming because of the fresh air, as well as melted snow water. They have their own ice cream and dessert shop with products made using local ingredients. While watching Mt. Fuji, you can try ice cream made from freshly produced milk! It is 12.5 kilometers from Mt. Fuji 5th station. Address: Nebara, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0101 Opening hours: 8:00 ~ 17:00 Entrance fee: Free Website: https://asagiri-kogen.com/73417/ Michi-no-Eki Utsukushigahara Kogen Residing in Nagano Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Utsukushigahara Kogen is said to be the highest roadside station in Japan. From an elevation of 2000 meters, you can see the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains), Mt. Asama and Sakudaira. During summer, it is a great spot to escape from the hot and humid weather! Also, you can visit a museum called the Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum and see 350 sculptures outside the building, which are made by artists from around the world. Address: 2085-70 Takeshikamihoniri, Ueda, Nagano 386-0507 Opening hours: 9:00 ~ 17:00 Price: 1000 yen (Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum) Website: http://m-utsukushigahara.jp Michi-no-Eki Hota Shogakko Located in Kyonan Town, Chiba Prefecture, Michi-no-Eki Hota Shogakko is a unique roadside station. It was renovated from a closed elementary school. Many parts of the old classroom, like blackboards and hallways, are still there. You can also taste Japanese school lunch and stay overnight in a classroom! Not only can you experience staying in a school, but you can also buy local vegetables, fruits, seafood, and handmade goods at the farmer’s market. You can reach this location in about 15 minutes on foot from Hota Station. Michi-no-Eki Hota Shogakko is the best place to see the scenery as if in an anime and feel a nostalgic atmosphere. Address: 724 Hota, Kyonan, Awa District, Chiba 299-1902 Opening hours: 9:00 ~ 17:00 Entrance fee: Free Website: https://hotasho.jp Michi-no-Eki are more than just rest spots–they are relaxing and enjoyable places to learn local culture and communicate with people through the market, craft shops, and museums. It has four features: free parking, resting areas, an information center for driving and touring, and a community space with locals. With clean facilities, local specialities, and other unique attractive points, you can make road travel more enjoyable and meaningful. Whether you are tasting fresh produce, watching scenery, or just resting in a quiet area, each station offers something special to your journey. Featured Photo Credit: 丸岡ジョー Want to road trip across Japan and visit lots of different Michi no Eki locations? Contact our team of travel specialists to see how we can build your personalized itinerary!