Guidelines for roadside stations: "Michinoeki"

Michinoeki are the road-side service stations. They are a uniquely Japanese concept. They are different from other road-side service around the world for three reasons: (i) They are designed with the help of the communities and provide much stronger links between local communities and the users of the roads; (ii) they provide business opportunities for local residents; and (iii) they are possible venues for the provision of multiple public services such as, health care (including HIV/AIDS care), education and training activities, and cultural activities, as well as for the provision of normal restaurant and commercial services.

Given their unique structure, they have great potential as a tool for reducing poverty in many of developing countries.  All too often inter-city roads effectively bypass the communities through which they pass without directly benefitting them. Michinoeki can help to link local communities with road users, thus benefitting both parties.

This guideline brings together more than 10 years of successful Japanese experience and selected practical work in client countries in East Asia and Africa. Today in Japan there are more than 700 Michinoeki and their positive impact on local economies, job creation, provision of public services for local communities (such as health care, education and training and cultural activities) and regional integration is evident throughout the country.

This guideline discusses the Michinoeki concepts and provides specific advice on the planning, design and operations of these facilities.

See also Michinoeki pilot study in Kenya .