Kawaba Den-en Plaza

Japan is home to around 1,180 “Michi-no-Eki” rest stops, multipurpose facilities where travelers can rest or recharge during a drive, that also serve as a place to tell you more about the surrounding local area during your stopover. Among these, Kawaba Den-en Plaza is the 5-year consecutive winner of the “Number 1 Best Michi-no-Eki in Kanto”. Each year it sees approx. 2 million different travelers, of which nearly 70% are reported repeat visitors. So, what makes this rest stop so popular?

For one, its set against a lush, natural backdrop in the foothills of Mt. Hotoka, rich with a full lineup of food, recreation, and shopping all in one place. In terms of size, it’s 1.5 times larger than Tokyo Dome stadium, with nearly 20 different facilities across the entire grounds.

The grounds are home to a craft beer brewery, as well as restaurants specializing in local ingredients, the Den-en Plaza Bakery, a café and children’s playzone. At the brewery you’ll find a restaurant that serves KAWABA BEER, or you can enjoy shopping around the farmer’s market.
You can also find wooden-made decorations, pottery studios available for drop in classes, and enough entertainment for an entire family, travelers young and old, to enjoy for a leisurely day.