Discover the Heart of Fukuoka’s Green Gateway
Omuta roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the scenic beauty and cultural richness of northern Fukuoka Prefecture. Located just 1 kilometer off the Kyushu Expressway’s Minami-Seki IC, this modern glass-fronted facility welcomes travelers with a striking symbol—the Great Snake Mountain—marking the eastern entrance to the city of Omuta. More than a rest stop, it’s a community hub where local agriculture, art, and hospitality converge.
Inside, visitors find a lively marketplace showcasing fresh regional vegetables, seasonal flowers, and Omuta’s signature products. The ground floor offers a relaxed shopping experience with ample rest areas, while the second floor hosts exhibitions and workshops, making it a versatile space for events and learning. With free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and digital signage providing real-time travel and tourism information, Omuta delivers both convenience and charm. Seasonal highlights include the Summer Festival at Great Snake Mountain, celebrating local heritage with energy and color.
Why Visit
Visit Omuta roadside station to experience the region’s only roadside flower and greenery relaxation hub, where seasonal blooms and locally grown vegetables are displayed in a glass-fronted building that serves as the gateway to eastern Omuta. The station is uniquely home to the only artisanal milk ice cream made from Jersey cows raised in the area, available only here. During summer, don’t miss the annual "Omuta Oyama Festival" celebrating the symbolic Oyama Mountain, a rare event blending local heritage and community spirit.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Omuta roadside station, where seasonal dishes and cozy café fare await.
Flower Plaza Restaurant
花ぷらす館内レストラン
Specialty
Local cuisine with seasonal ingredients
A cozy dining space within the Flower Plaza Hall, offering a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant emphasizes regional flavors and seasonal produce.
Café Garden
カフェガーデン
Specialty
Light meals and beverages with a garden view
A peaceful café offering light refreshments and beverages in a serene, garden-inspired setting. Ideal for relaxing breaks with a view of seasonal flowers and greenery.
Seasonal Market Food Stall
季節の市場屋台
Specialty
Fresh seasonal snacks and street-style treats
A lively food stall offering quick, flavorful snacks made with seasonal produce. Perfect for on-the-go dining with a local touch.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures and farm-fresh goods at Omuta’s vibrant roadside station market.
Local Produce Market
地元野菜市場
A market specializing in fresh, locally grown vegetables and seasonal flowers from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Omuta Specialties Store
大牟田特産品店
A dedicated shop offering a wide range of Omuta's signature products and regional souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Omuta-style pickled vegetables
Artisan Craft Shop
工芸品店
A boutique shop featuring handmade crafts and artistic creations from local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted pottery
Bakery Corner
ベーカリー角
A small bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and traditional Japanese sweets.
Products
Must-Try Item
Matcha croissant
Featured Products
Explore signature items like local produce and traditional crafts unique to Omuta’s heritage.
Omuta Pickled Vegetables
大牟田漬物
Authentic pickled vegetables made using traditional methods and local ingredients, known for their crisp texture and balanced flavor.
Seasonal Flower Tea
旬花茶
A premium blend of dried seasonal flowers, carefully selected for their aroma and health benefits.
Local Honey
地元ハチミツ
Pure, unfiltered honey harvested from local flowers, offering a unique regional taste.
Hand-Painted Ceramic Mug
手描き陶器マグカップ
A unique, hand-painted ceramic mug featuring traditional patterns and local motifs.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and rest areas at Omuta roadside station.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking facility available for visitors.
Near the main entrance of the facility
Restroom
Public restrooms are available inside the facility.
Inside the facility
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in the facility, specifically within the Hanapurasu Kan (flower and green relaxation hall).
Hanapurasu Kan (flower and green relaxation hall)
Information Center
An information corner provides digital signage with road information, maps, brochures, and local administrative information. It also offers information about nearby tourist attractions and other roadside stations.
Inside the facility
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available on-site.
Outside the facility
Activities & Experiences
Participate in seasonal events and hands-on workshops celebrating Omuta’s culture and nature.
Summer Festival 'Ootakeyama'
夏祭り「大蛇山」
Participants can enjoy a traditional summer festival featuring local performances, food stalls, and cultural activities held at the roadside station.
Duration
180 min
Insider Tips
Visit during the summer festival to experience the lively atmosphere and local traditions.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the day’s first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter near the entrance, look for the seasonal pickled vegetables made from locally grown cucumbers and daikon—available only from June through August and sold in limited quantities.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the flower shop inside the Omuta roadside station features a rotating display of seasonal blooms, including peonies in spring and chrysanthemums in autumn—arrive by 10:30 AM to see the full selection before it’s reduced.
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Use the free Wi-Fi at the information corner by entering the password “omuta_free” to access real-time traffic updates and local event schedules displayed on the digital signage.
- Event Timing: Plan your visit on the weekend closest to July 25th to attend the "Omuta Oyama Festival," which features traditional music, food stalls, and a lantern parade centered around the symbolic "Oyama" structure.
- EV Charging: Plug in your electric vehicle at the EV charging station located just outside the main entrance; the station operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily and supports CCS2 connectors.
- Information Desk Tip: Ask the staff at the information corner for the latest copy of the "Omuta Tourism Map," which includes details on nearby heritage sites like the Matsuoka Port Gate and Auxiliary Weir, plus walking routes to the nearby Sekia Hills.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the market.
Summer (June–August): The summer festival "Oshizayama" takes place in late July, featuring local traditions and food.
Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned in the content.
Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Omuta roadside station offers a family-friendly environment with ample rest areas, stroller access, and a clean, spacious layout. While no dedicated play area or baby facilities are available, the interactive flower and local product displays provide educational value for children. The presence of multiple dining options enhances appeal for families.
Food Lover Review
The station features a wide selection of high-quality local produce, seasonal flowers, and regional specialties. The on-site restaurant and café offer fresh, locally sourced meals. The variety and freshness of goods, along with dedicated seasonal events, deliver a strong food experience for enthusiasts.
Car Camping Review
Omuta provides basic facilities including restrooms, parking, and free Wi-Fi, making it suitable for short stops. However, there is no designated overnight parking policy, and no camping or overnight amenities are available. The area lacks quietness for extended stays, limiting its suitability for car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
The station is set in a scenic area with views of the surrounding landscape and seasonal beauty. The glass-fronted building and nearby natural surroundings enhance visual appeal. The annual summer festival at the large snake-shaped hill offers unique photo opportunities and cultural atmosphere.