Roadside Station Awakurando

Roadside Station Awakurando opened on August 4, 1994 in Nishiawakura Village, located in the Aida District of northeastern Okayama Prefecture. The village itself has historical roots as the Awakura-so, a privately-owned estate from feudal times, with Nishiawakura representing the western estate while an eastern counterpart was later incorporated into modern Mimasaka. Today, the village is recognized for its sustainable forestry initiatives and won the Excellence Award from the Japan Times in 2021 for forest revitalization efforts.

The station sits in a heavily forested region where 95% of Nishiawakura is covered by forest, with 84% being artificial forests of cedar and cypress planted after World War II. This natural setting makes the area significant for conservation efforts and ecotourism. The village maintains approximately 1,300 residents and is positioned strategically between the San'in and San'yo regions, making it a cultural meeting point between Okayama and Tottori prefectures.

Visitors to Roadside Station Awakurando can purchase fresh vegetables grown with pure mountain spring water at reasonable prices, along with agricultural products and processed goods from local farmers. The station's unique location between two regions means shoppers can find specialties from both Okayama Prefecture and the San'in area, including famous sweets and regional products. The colorful windmills lining the corridor beside the building serve as a popular photography spot. The facility includes a restaurant serving local cuisine, an outdoor shop, and a vegetable market where visitors can experience the local food culture.

The station is conveniently located near Nishiawakura Interchange on the Tottori Expressway at 418 Kageishi, Nishiawakura Village, Aida District. By train, visitors can reach the area via the Chizu Express Line through Nishiawakura Station or Awakura-Onsen Station, with connections from Okayama via Ohara Station. Admission to the roadside station is free.