What is Umihotaru PA?
Umihotaru Parking Area has recently started growing in popularity due to Daikoku Parking Area's slow demise. The insanely fast increase in tourism has increased the amount of police shut downs. Umihotaru Parking Area serves as one of the last bastions for car enthusiasts in Tokyo and Chiba.
But what actually is Umihotaru PA? Just like Daikoku PA, it is a rest stop on the expressway. However, it is extremely unique. Why? Because it's basically a small "floating" city! Not only can you park your car in the middle of the ocean, you can also get your Starbucks fix, some ramen, a foot bath, massage, play some arcade games, and take your dogs for a walk! There is so much to do! The Japanese ingenuity is quite impressive. Why does it exist? Beats me! I'm glad it does, though!
How do you get there?
This is gonna sound crazy, but you drive under a 9+ km long underwater tunnel. Yes, I know underwater tunnels exist in a lot of areas, but this one is special. The sheer size of it is absolutely insane, its completely flat, and there are no speed cameras! It gets even more mind blowing when you stand next to the drill bit that made the tunnel! They have it on display at Umihotaru PA! And yes, this does mean that you will need a car!
What is the best time to go?
Well, like I mentioned above, it does not get shut down. This is due to the location of it and the fact that the police would be putting people in danger if they were to close it. In case of an accident in the tunnels, it needs to be accessible. The best times to go are 20:30 - 00:00 on Friday and Saturday nights!
Be careful though! Even though the police don't shut down the PA, it doesn't mean that they won't give you a free shaken! What is a free shaken? Shaken is the bi-annual safety inspection that every car endures in order to be allowed to drive on public roads. The police often use Umihotaru PA as a free shaken checkpoint. This means that they stop every incoming car that looks like it may have illegal mods. If you are found to have said illegal mods, they will either arrest you, write you a ticket, or even worse... They make you literally cut your pillegal mods off right in front of them! They could also impound your car. This all depends on the severity of your mods. Just be careful! Ready to take your trip to Umihotaru and Daikoku PA? Choose your ride here!
Final Thoughts
If you love cars, engineering marvels, and unique experiences, Umihotaru PA is a must-visit. It may not have the same legendary status as Daikoku PA, but it’s quickly becoming the new hub for Japan’s car culture!