Roadside station Shirane

Overview

Roadside Station Shirane (Michi-no-Eki Shirane) stands along National Route 52 in the Zaikezuka area of Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Unlike many roadside stations that put shops front and center, this one deliberately sticks to the core roadside-station functions of parking, restrooms, and travel information. The shopping side, selling local produce and specialties, is handled by a separate farm-produce market run by JA Minami-Alps on the north side of the road, making for an unusually purpose-focused design.

Highlights

• ●A rest hub true to the original roadside-station role of parking, restrooms, and information
• ●A functional split with the JA Minami-Alps produce market on the north side of the road
• ●An easy-to-reach location along the major National Route 52 artery
• ●Views toward the Southern Alps from the western edge of the Kofu Basin

History

The station was registered and opened on 13 August 2002. Rather than aiming to be a flashy tourist attraction, it was developed as a facility centered on supporting the safety and comfort of travelers with solid rest functions. Set on the plains of Minami-Alps City along the major Route 52 artery, it has served drivers moving between the Shizuoka direction and the Kofu Basin.

Map

35.6380, 138.4711 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Pull in for a break while driving National Route 52 and rest in the parking area
2. 2Check nearby sightseeing and route details at the information corner
3. 3Cross to the JA Minami-Alps produce market on the north side for seasonal goods
4. 4Resume the drive toward the orchards of Minami-Alps City or the Kofu Basin

Did you know?

💡 Its greatest character comes from a clear-cut design that focuses on resting and gathering information rather than selling goods. Because the produce and direct-sales functions are intentionally placed in the market across the road, rest and shopping face each other from opposite sides of the street.

Nearby spots