Michi-no-Eki Fujikawa Rakuza

Fujikawa Rakuza is unusual among roadside stations because you can reach it from two directions. Drivers on the Tomei Expressway heading toward Tokyo walk in from the Fujikawa service area, while local traffic arrives on the Fuji-Minobu prefectural road below. The building looks east across the Fuji River, and the view of Mount Fuji is the reason most people stop.

Inside are souvenir shops, a food court, the Surugaji restaurant on an upper floor and an observation lounge. The Waiwai Gekijo planetarium uses a 14-meter dome, and the Donbura hands-on center runs science shows and craft classes for children. Both charge admission. Sakura shrimp from Suruga Bay turn up on several menus.

Clouds often hide the mountain, especially from late spring through summer, so treat the view as a bonus. The expressway entrance serves only the Tokyo-bound side; the Nagoya-bound Fujikawa service area is a separate facility. Weekends and holidays get crowded.