If you can imagine a rest area and a regional business promotion center combined, you pretty much guessed Michi no Eki. Although it’s not always easy to get to one of these stations with public transportation, we highly recommend it. Not only do these stations provide comfortable rest areas, but also give you an opportunity to sample unique local food and other products.
Last weekend, we visited a Michi no Eki in Kurume (southern part of Fukuoka Prefecture, known for agriculture). There, we bought a lot of organic vegetables harvested that morning and ate Dago jiru (vegetable soup with dumplings). This particular Michi no Eki is packed with visitors seeking such fresh food every weekend.
There are 16 Michi no Eki spots in Fukuoka Prefecture.
Here are some of those.
1. Harazuru
Harazuru is a well know hot spring town. It’s also famous for its amazing fruits. During autumn, you can enjoy permission, pear or grapes picking trips. The very best of the bunch is of course Kyoho – soft serve made with the big juicy dark grapes! If you have a chance to visit a hot spring in Harazuru, please stop by this Michi no Eki.
2. Koishiwara
A bit far, but you will enjoy this town famous for pottery. At Michi no Eki in Koishiwara, you can purchase a variety of Koishiwara cups and other pottery products created in the local kilns. You can also try making pottery yourself.
