Station Shichijo Melon Dome

Savor the Sweetness of Kumamoto’s Heartland

Shichijo Melon Dome is a vibrant roadside station nestled along National Route 325, where the rolling hills of Kikuchi City meet the pure waters of the region’s famed springs. Known for its striking trio of melon-shaped rooftops, this charming stop is a celebration of local agriculture and community spirit. At the heart of the experience is the legendary Shichijo melon, nurtured by the area’s rich soil and crystal-clear water, with select fruits tested for sugar content using advanced light sensors to ensure peak sweetness.

Visitors can explore a wide array of locally grown produce, from fresh melons to gourmet treats like melon yogurt, melon bread, and melon jelly. The on-site restaurant offers hearty regional dishes, while the information corner provides helpful guidance on travel routes, nearby attractions, and seasonal events. Whether you're seeking a refreshing break, a taste of Kumamoto’s finest fruit, or a glimpse into rural life, Shichijo Melon Dome offers a memorable journey through flavor, nature, and tradition.

Shichijo Melon Dome stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering real-time, on-site sugar content testing of its premium melons using advanced light sensors—ensuring every fruit meets its strict sweetness standard. Visitors can savor the rare, honey-scented Shichijo Arusu melon, only grown here, and sample exclusive treats like melon shaver ice and melon yogurt made from locally harvested fruit.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to purchase the day’s first batch of fresh "Shichijo Arusu Melon" from the agricultural product counter, as they are sold in limited quantities and often deplete by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the "Ishiyama Melon Zone" section inside the shop to find exclusive seasonal melon varieties like "Fukuyo Green Melon" and "Homerun Melon," which are only available during their short harvest window and are not advertised elsewhere.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the "Tori de Farm Ice Cream Corner" between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to try the limited-edition "Shichijo Melon Shaved Ice" — it sells out quickly and is only served during the 2-hour window.

• Information Desk Tip: Stop by the "Information Corner" at exactly 10:00 AM daily to receive a free map of the "Kikuchi Riverbank Park" and nearby hiking trails, which includes access to the lesser-known "Sai River Bridge" walking path.

• Local Food Must-Try: Order the "Nanashiro Set Meal" at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, as it includes a freshly made "Shichijo Melon Soup" and "Dago Soup" — both are only available during lunch hours and not on the standard menu.

• Best Purchase Time for Melon Products: Purchase the "Melon Jelly" and "Melon Yogurt" from the "Melon Processing Products" display between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, as these items are restocked daily at 9:00 AM and are often sold out by 1:00 PM.

• Avoiding Disruptions: Check the "Tori de Farm" ice cream and sweet shop hours before visiting — the "Tori de Farm" corner is closed every Wednesday, and the "Sweet Corner" is closed every Wednesday and Sunday, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Spring (March–May): Visit for the April and November Dome Gratitude Festivals, featuring local produce and seasonal events.

Summer (June–August): Enjoy the July 21 Summer Festival and fresh melon varieties at peak harvest.

Autumn (September–November): Experience the October melon harvest and autumnal festivals.

Winter (December–February): Ideal for visiting during the winter season when the melon supply remains steady and the roadside station offers cozy indoor access.