The sunsets here are beautiful! ️
There's also a grassy campground (fees apply), and although it's a small roadside station, there's also an RV park where you can relax.
This time we used the RV park.
This is definitely a spot I'd like to return to.
It was a really nice campsite.
It was a very cold and windy day, but there was hot water in both the kitchen and the bathrooms, which was a relief, and the staff were so kind that I forgot about the cold.
The weather was nice, and we were able to see a beautiful sunset.
This roadside station has some great photogenic spots.
I've only been there during the day, so I'd love to see the Daruma sunset someday. 🌅
When I went in August, there were wind chimes.
There's also space for camping and sleeping in your car, as well as athletic facilities.
Also, the selection of vending machines was unique.
The best viewing period is from mid-November to late February, when the atmospheric conditions create this rare mirage phenomenon. Visitors should arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to witness the complete transformation from start to finish. The phenomenon can be seen approximately 20 times during the 3.5-month viewing season, typically on cold, clear evenings. Check local sunset times before your visit, as they vary throughout the season.
Entry to the roadside station grounds and parking area is completely free. As with all Japanese roadside stations, the facility provides 24-hour free parking and restrooms. However, purchases at the direct sales market, restaurants, and souvenir shops require separate payment, as do BBQ equipment rentals at the adjacent park facilities.
The direct sales market features locally harvested citrus fruits including buntan pomelo and other varieties from regional farms. Visitors can purchase fresh seasonal vegetables, potatoes, prepared lunch boxes, and local food products. The station particularly highlights Shiokaze Grapes from Hiraoka Vineyard, known for exceptionally high sugar content. Coral goods sourced from the local reef are available in the souvenir shops, reflecting Sukumo Bay's marine environment.
From Kochi Station, take the Tosa Kuroshio Railway Nakamura-Sukumo Line to Sukumo Station, the terminus of the line. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours 20 minutes. From Sukumo Station, the roadside station is roughly 10 minutes by car via taxi or rental vehicle. The facility is located along Japan National Route 321, making it accessible for those traveling by car through southwestern Shikoku.
While the parking lot and restrooms are accessible 24 hours as standard for Japanese roadside stations, the facility itself is not designed as an overnight camping destination. The shops and restaurants operate during regular daytime business hours. For overnight stays, visitors should seek accommodation at nearby hotels in Sukumo City. The adjacent park does offer BBQ facilities with equipment rentals for daytime outdoor dining activities overlooking the bay.
