Tsukiyono Yaze Shinsui Koen

You'd be forgiven for thinking that Tsukiyono Yaze Shinsui Koen in Minakami is just another roadside rest stop if you drove past. That is certainly what it looks like. Take the time to park up though and you will be pleasantly surprised. The facility has been built on the edge of the ruins of a Jomon Period settlement. Some of the structures have been recreated and there are explanations of all the artifacts that have been found close by. Of course if you were actually wanting just another roadside rest stop there is that too. A small kiosk selling delicious-looking local pickles, fruit and vegetables (as well as some of the biggest mushrooms I have ever seen), a cafe, a playground for the kids, plenty of space to run around in and some nice paths through the landscaped gardens. There is also a BBQ area if you are there in the right season. It would be a great place to break up a journey but is well worth visiting for its own sake too.