【Driving with Dogs】Stopped by the "Dog Walking Path" at Ebina SA (downbound)

The "Dog Walking Path" located at the EXPASA Ebina Service Area (downbound) on the Tomei Expressway in Kanagawa Prefecture. As a dog lover, it was a place I was curious about, so I decided to check it out.

Ebina SA is a must-stop point when taking a drive trip with your dog

It is the first SA (service area) from the Tokyo Interchange on the Tomei Expressway, known as "EXPASA Ebina Downhill." This popular service area is often featured on TV and is known for its gourmet offerings, including melon bread. As someone who frequently uses the Tomei Expressway, I often enjoy the local specialty "Ebi Ebi Yaki" here.

This time, I took a long drive with my dog to camp in the Yamanashi area. I stopped by to take a break. Living near Machida, Ebina is still the beginning of my journey, but when I go out with my dog, I always make sure to stop here considering future needs.

My dogs are used to traveling by car, but it's important to take short breaks for restroom needs and relaxation. I have visited many SAs with my dog, but Ebina SA is really comfortable. This is not only because of its location at the beginning of a long drive but also because it has facilities that are convenient for dog owners, allowing for a comfortable experience with dogs.

Not just restrooms!? A natural pathway perfect for dog walks

When you head right from Ebina SA (downhill), you will see the "Dog Walking Path." A slightly faded sign states, "This is a place for tired dogs from a drive to take a walk and relieve themselves." This is exactly the kind of place I was looking for.

The area is overgrown with greenery, creating a space that is truly dog-friendly. There is plenty of room for small dogs, and the dogs seem to be having a great time. There are no passersby and no worries about cars, so they can be walked safely.

There is a pathway that looks like it's been walked on by people, but it ends here. What is this path for? Was it intended to be expanded, or did the dogs create this path themselves?

As we continue with my dog, we discover a pee pole. My dog is very curious and checks it out for scents.

The dog-friendly path is not a dog run, so you cannot take off the leash. Since the main areas are surrounded by a fence, it's tempting to let them explore freely, but you need to be cautious here.

There was also a dog poop box! This is great. If you bring a bag into the car without this box, the smell will spread, but having these boxes makes it easier to have good manners about picking up poop.

Inside the Ebina Service Area, there are also dedicated pet garbage bins, making it pet-friendly. There are also installations at places like the Ashigara Service Area, which has a dog run, making it easier to go out with your dog than taking the back roads.

World's Best Apple Pie for Dogs

Walking from the "Dog Walking Path" towards the store, I saw a sign for dog treats. It's not just any dog treat; it seems to convey a focus on quality. I'm curious.

The store is "Kamakura Miremeire Ebina SA Downhill Store." It seems you can enjoy the "World's Best Apple Pie" created by world-renowned chef Marco Paolo Molinari. Of course, it's an apple pie for humans, but they also have apple pie for dogs here. By the way, it seems there is one at the Ebina SA on the uphill side as well.

Kamakura Miremeire Ebina SA Downhill Store
5-2-1 Otani Minami, Ebina City, Kanagawa Prefecture (Tomei Expressway Ebina SA Downhill)
Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

I found "Doggy Apple Pie" next to the register. According to Kamakura Mireme's official X, it seems you can only get it at the Karuizawa Mireme store besides Ebina SA. My dogs are also very interested!

Both of them seemed to like it, asking for "one more!" After playing moderately and having their bellies full, my dogs looked completely satisfied.

I hope those traveling with dogs will stop by Ebina SA down.

Now, it's the owner's turn. Ebina SA has plenty of terrace seating, so you can eat your purchased meal with your dog. There are also roofed areas, which is helpful as it isn't affected by the weather.

Once satisfied, it’s time to head to the campsite! Not only is there a "Dog Walkway," but by letting your dog use the bathroom at Ebina SA and refreshing them, you can travel comfortably and relax together. Of course, for those returning to Tokyo on the Tomei Expressway with their dogs, Ebina SA down is a place I'd recommend stopping by.

Search Ebina melon bread on Amazon