The English map of Japan's roadside stations

Michi-no-eki (道の駅, literally “road stations”) are government-designated rest areas built along Japan's roads — more than 1,100 of them, in every corner of the country. Each one is registered with Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and must offer free parking and around-the-clock restrooms.

But they are far more than rest stops. Most double as a showcase for the surrounding region: farmers markets piled with same-morning produce, restaurants serving the local specialty, hot-spring baths, craft shops and tourist information. For anyone exploring Japan by car or campervan, they are the single most useful — and most rewarding — place to stop.