Road Station Tendo Onsen serves as both a highway rest stop and cultural gateway to one of Japan's most distinctive hot spring towns. Located along National Route 13 in central Yamagata Prefecture, this facility combines practical amenities with unique local experiences centered around Tendo City's status as Japan's largest producer of shogi pieces and La France pears.
The region's hot spring heritage dates back to 1911, when hot spring water suddenly began gushing from a rice field during well-digging operations. The Tendo Onsen district developed as an accommodation base for sightseeing tours around the prefecture due to its central location in Yamagata. The sodium and calcium-sulfate hot spring water is renowned for its beautifying properties and therapeutic benefits including relief from neuralgia, arthralgia, and fatigue.
Visitors can explore the comprehensive Shogi Piece PR Corner, featuring live demonstrations by graduates of traditional shogi piece-making courses and displays of veteran artisan works. The facility showcases Tendo's production of more than 90 percent of Japan's shogi pieces, with shogi puzzle plates around the fountain plaza created by famous players including Yoshiharu Habu. The Tento La France Factory offers tastings and confections made from locally grown pears, with gelato featuring seasonal fruit flavors including the popular La France and unique rice varieties.
The signature attraction is Koma no Yu, a complimentary footbath designed in the shape of a shogi piece when viewed from above, operating from 6:00 to 21:00 daily. The adjacent Sunpure facility functions as a farmer's market selling seasonal vegetables, fruits, and regional souvenirs, while offering dining options including Yamagata's traditional ita-soba, ramen, and curry dishes.
The facility is easily accessible by car via National Route 13, positioned strategically for travelers exploring Yamagata Prefecture. From Tokyo Station, the journey takes 2 hours 40 minutes via Yamagata Shinkansen to Tendo Station, followed by a short drive or taxi ride to the road station. The location serves as an ideal base for accessing nearby attractions including Mount Maizuru with its cherry blossoms and Yamadera Temple, while providing convenient highway access for continued regional exploration.
