Michi-no-Eki Kina Banjo is a roadside station located in Yomitan Village. A "banjo" is a facility similar to what we would call a "government office" today. During the Ryukyu Kingdom era, banjos were established throughout the prefecture, and the Kina Banjo was responsible for the administrative functions of the area that is now Yomitan Village. Michi-no-Eki Kina Banjo is a recreation of that former Kina Banjo.

What's particularly distinctive is the building itself, which evokes the image of an old Okinawan house. The unique construction of the building, which seems to have been a direct reproduction of the "old Okinawan house" that one might imagine in their mind, is different from the typical roadside rest areas and is full of Okinawan charm.

1. Inside the Kina Bansho Roadside Station building

The key feature of Michi-no-Eki Kina Bansho is that it recreates the appearance of the time as much as possible. The building is made of wood and apparently not a single nail was used in its construction. The facility is divided into two main spaces: a tatami room on the right and a community space on the left.

The tatami room space is said to recreate the atmosphere of that time, giving you the feeling of having traveled back in time to Okinawa a generation ago, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

The community space on the left is a place where you can easily take a break. The walls feature information about the history of Kina Bansho and the culture of Yomitan Village, making it a space where you can learn about the charm of the region while you relax.

However, as you may have noticed, it's a little different from a typical roadside station. When you think of a roadside station, you probably imagine being able to enjoy local food and local specialties, but Kina Bansho has none of that.

However, its greatest appeal lies in being a spot where you can feel the culture and history nurtured by the region, allowing you to relax and experience the charm of Yomitan. Even the restrooms have hidden details that showcase the region's character. The men's and women's restroom signs are made of Ryukyu glasswork, giving it a distinct Kina Bansho feel.

The ceramic water basin in the restroom is a work of "pottery," showcasing the charm of Yomitan Village, where Yachimun pottery is thriving, and demonstrating attention to detail.

Of course, in addition to the restrooms, there are also works of art made in Yomitan Village on display inside the Kina Guardhouse, so be sure to check those out as well. There is always a tourist information officer on duty, so you can ask about the history of the Kina Guardhouse, or get information about Yomitan Village's culture and recommended spots.

2. The exterior of the building also reflects the character of the area.

Stepping outside the building, you immediately notice the unique character of the place. The old-fashioned appearance, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese house, gives you a strange feeling that time has stopped here.

One of the most distinctive features is the "gray tiles" on the roof. While Okinawa is often associated with "red tiles," gray tiles were common during the time when the guardhouses were in operation.

The Kina guardhouse was no exception, and apparently, gray tiles were used there at the time. It's quite moving to think that they recreated the gray tiles using only a few clues to make it as close to the original as possible.

To the right of the building is a garden-like space. The air is crisp and clear, and combined with the gentle atmosphere of the Kina Bansho building, it creates a peaceful and relaxing feeling.

Don't miss the handcrafted pottery items, including Shisa statues, that are characteristic of Yomitan Village, placed around the premises. Despite being located along National Route 58, the relaxed atmosphere makes you forget you're on a busy road.

Final thoughts

Roadside stations are generally associated with "enjoying gourmet food and local specialties," so if you're looking at them from that perspective, you might find them somewhat lacking. However, Michi-no-Eki Kina Bansho has an irreplaceable charm, with buildings that recreate the atmosphere of the time and opportunities to experience the history and culture of Yomitan Village. Why not experience that atmosphere for yourself?

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