Japan's Unique Michi-no-Eki(Roadside Stations)

What do you do if you need a restroom while driving? Urban expressways don’t have regular rest stops—only suburban or long-distance routes do. You can use gas stations or fast-food places, but wouldn’t regular rest areas be more convenient?

In Japan, I used to struggle to find restrooms on rural roads. Now, however, there are free parking areas with toilets and rest facilities called Michi-no-Eki. Ever heard of them? They’re uniquely Japanese and have grown into a nationwide roadside rest network. Let me explain.