VIDEO: Don’t miss Japan’s rest areas while traveling along expressways

Hanyu PA in the Tohoku Expressway (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Driving long distances in Japan may seem intimidating, but don’t be afraid to hit the road! The country’s expressways are part of an efficient system that can get you virtually anywhere in the country without worry. Smooth roads and convenience aside, Japan’s parking and service areas are another feature well worth hopping in a car to explore.

Though you may think roadside stations in Japan are like the run-of-the-mill rest areas you’d find in the States, these offer so much more. They are places to rest, grab regional food and souvenirs, and to use the spotless facilities.

Both parking areas (PA) and service areas (SA) are spread throughout the expressway system and provide various features to make the drive even better. PAs are found every 15 kilometers along the expressway and have public restrooms, vending machines and a restaurant or convenience store. SAs are spread out about 50 kilometers on the road and tend to be larger with convenience stores, souvenir shops, toilets, full-service restaurants and gas stations.

NEOPASA Shizuoka SA in the Tomei Expressway (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Kariya SA in the Tomei Expressway (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Fujigawa SA in the Tomei Expressway (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

So, be sure to drop by one or more on your next road trip to grab a snack and visit the food courts inside. Believe me, you won’t regret it! And for the ultimate in relaxation, some extra-large SAs have hot springs to soak in or amusement parks with Ferris wheels and other rides for the kids!

Stop by Umihotaru PA, an artificial island on the Tokyowan Aqua-line, and you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic night view of the Tokyo Gulf and surrounding metropolitan skyline. For a taste of old Japan, head to the Hanyu PA on the Tohoku Expressway, which features a traditional façade that will transport you to the feudal times of the samurai.