Roadside Station Sanpico Gotsu is a popular roadside stop located along National Route 9 in Gochi, Gotsu City, Shimane Prefecture. Situated almost midway between the eastern and western parts of Shimane, it is a convenient place to take a break during a road trip while discovering the local food, culture, and attractions of Gotsu.
One of the most distinctive features of the facility is its bright red roof made with Sekishu roof tiles, a traditional building material from the Iwami region. The roof’s characteristic “Kimachi color” creates a striking local landmark that can be recognized from a distance and gives visitors a memorable impression of the Gotsu area.
The main attraction of Sanpico Gotsu is Sanhikoichi, a market selling locally produced agricultural, forestry, and marine products. The name “Sanpico” reflects the three sources of local bounty represented by the sea, mountains, and rivers.
Inside the market, visitors can find fresh seafood landed in the Sea of Japan, vegetables harvested by local farmers, and a wide selection of processed foods made from ingredients grown and produced in the surrounding region.
It is an excellent place to experience the richness of Gotsu’s natural environment and take a taste of Shimane home with you.
The Iwami region faces the Sea of Japan and is known for its rich fishing grounds. Sanpico Gotsu offers a diverse selection of fresh seafood, including fatty Japanese horse mackerel, nodoguro blackthroat seaperch, squid, and flounder.
Nodoguro is particularly prized in Japan for its rich, delicate flavor and is sometimes described as the “white-meat toro” because of its exceptionally fatty texture.
Visitors can also find processed seafood such as dried fish and kamaboko fish cakes. These products are convenient souvenirs and provide an easy way to enjoy the flavors of the Iwami coast after returning home.
The vegetables grown around Gotsu benefit from the rich natural environment of the Chugoku Mountains and the region’s significant differences in temperature between day and night. Tomatoes, green onions, eggplants, cucumbers, spinach, and many other seasonal vegetables are available throughout the year.
Sakurae burdock and freshly harvested leafy vegetables are particularly popular. The quality of locally grown produce is highly regarded, with some products even being supplied to local school lunch programs.
Because many local farmers cultivate small quantities of many different crops, visitors can discover a diverse range of distinctive regional produce that may be difficult to find elsewhere.
The basin of the Gonokawa River is also rich in freshwater delicacies. Ayu sweetfish, tsugani river crabs—a regional name for mitten crabs—and eel are among the local specialties.
These ingredients are also preserved and processed into products such as kanroni, a sweet-simmered preparation, and tsukudani, foods slowly cooked in a savory-sweet sauce. Such products allow visitors to enjoy the flavors of the river throughout the year.
Traditional preserved foods such as pickled taro stems and dried daikon radish are also worth discovering. Their simple flavors reflect the culinary traditions of the local countryside.
The takeout area at Sanpico Gotsu offers a selection of foods that can be enjoyed immediately. Visitors can choose from freshly fried fish cakes, prepared side dishes, and bento lunch boxes that make the most of the natural flavors of local ingredients.
One specialty to look out for is Maruhime Pork, a local brand of pork from Gotsu. Known for its rich flavor, the pork is used in both freshly prepared dishes and processed food products.
These products are popular with visitors and make a delicious souvenir for travelers who want to take a taste of Gotsu with them.
Sanpico Gotsu offers much more than fresh food. The market also features a selection of local crafts, traditional products, and regional specialties.
Among the items available are pottery from the Iwami-yaki tradition, traditional Japanese paper products, locally produced soy sauce, sweets, and other foods unique to the Gotsu area.
Processed foods made with local ingredients are particularly varied. Specialty products such as Maruhime Pork tsukudani and burdock-flavored meat miso offer distinctive flavors that make memorable souvenirs of a visit to Gotsu.
Sanpico Gotsu is equipped with a 24-hour rest area and tourist information facilities, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region by car.
Tourist information is also provided by staff who can help visitors discover attractions and activities in the surrounding area. This makes the roadside station a useful starting point even for first-time visitors to Gotsu.
The facility also works together with the neighboring Drive Station Mainoichi, enhancing its role as a convenient transportation and travel hub.
Throughout the year, Sanpico Gotsu hosts a variety of food events and community activities. Seasonal festivals, tasting events, and sales featuring local specialties attract both residents and visitors.
These events provide an opportunity to experience more than just local cuisine. They also offer a glimpse into the culture and warm community spirit of Gotsu, making the roadside station more than simply a place to stop and rest.
Roadside Station Sanpico Gotsu brings together the natural bounty, food, crafts, and culture of Gotsu in one convenient destination.
With products from the sea, mountains, and rivers gathered under one roof, every visit can reveal something new. Travelers can sample local food, shop for distinctive souvenirs, learn about regional culture, or simply take a relaxing break during a drive.
Whether you are stopping briefly during a road trip or visiting specifically to explore its local food and products, Sanpico Gotsu offers an enjoyable introduction to the character and flavors of Gotsu and the Iwami region of Shimane.