Most of the SA’s we’ve been to have a separate inbound/outbound side that can only be accessed by the corresponding inbound/outbound traffic. NEOPASA Okazaki Service Area had separate parking areas for the two sides, but shared the same facilities that were sandwiched between them. The SA was really large and featured Starbucks, a couple of retail shops such as Graniph (specialty T-shirt shop) in addition to the usual food court, restaurants, omiyage (souvenir) shops, and convenience stores.

We actually stopped here twice during our 15 day new years road trip. Once on the way down and once on the way back. Both of our experiences at the SA were good and we’d be happy to come and stay here again.

NEOPASA Okazaki Service Area Food Court

On our way down, we stopped for a bathroom break and a quick bite to eat. We had heard that the Nagoya area was known for their red miso and specifically their Miso Tonkatsu. We decided to share a delcious Miso Tonkatsu Don from Misokatsu Yabaton (矢場とん NEOPASA岡崎店). The restaurant was located among a variety of other restaurants in a food court type setting. There were plenty of tables and chairs and a complimentary self serve water station.

At first glance we were a little worried that the miso sauce was going to be too salty. We were pleasantly surprised to find that this was not the case. The sauce had a deep miso flavor without tasty too salty. The katsu was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The excess sauce had seeped into the rice making it flavorful as well. The side of pickled vegetables and the salad with its yuzu dressing added some nice contrasting flavors. The hot miso soup was perfect for such a cold day.

After eating we took our tray back to the restaurant and decided to look around a bit. The SA featured a couple of quick service takeout restaurants as well as a whole row of street vendor esque booths. There was also a standalone bakery and sweets shop. On the roof they had a children’s play area with Michimaru the mascot for the company that runs the SA. We got some drinks at the attached 7/11 convenience store before heading out.

NEOPASA Okazaki Service Area Shower Facilities

On our way back up we took advantage of the 24 hour public shower facilities. The gender separate shower facilities had 8 individual shower stalls and 8 corresponding lockers in a communal changing area. Soap and towels were not provided, but there was a large mirror and counter area to comb our hair and brush our teeth. The cost of the shower was ¥300 for ten minutes of hot water. In addition to use the locker we had to insert a ¥100 coin, which was refunded when we finished up. Just outside the changing rooms there was a seating area where we could relax and wait. In times of heavy usage, the area doubled as a waiting line with numbered seats.

Final Thoughts

We enjoyed our time at the NEOPASA Okazaki Service Area. The food was good, the facilities were modern, and most importantly we felt secure sleeping in the car overnight. We really liked the shower facilities at the SA. The price was extremely affordable at only ¥300 per person. There location within the SA and its 24 hour availability made them very convenient. In addition the bathroom facilities were inside and had a seating area, which allowed us to take turns brushing our teeth at night. Okazaki SA will be on our go to list when we are in the area and need a place to stop or spend the night.

More to Come…

Here is the link to their website.