Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Natural Bounty
Nestled along National Route 3 at the scenic Ko-ri Pass, Shikakita roadside station sits at the crossroads between Kumamoto City and Kuma City in Fukuoka Prefecture, offering travelers a serene retreat amid lush forests and rolling farmland. This vibrant hub is more than a rest stop—it’s a celebration of local craftsmanship, where the rich flavors of regional agriculture meet the warmth of community spirit.
Visitors are drawn to its signature offerings: fresh, sustainably grown produce like bamboo shoots, heirloom Kyushu tea, asparagus, eggplants, chestnuts, and rice, all nurtured by the area’s crisp air and distinct seasonal contrasts. Don’t miss the beloved chestnut dumplings, local meat buns, or the innovative Oguri Pie. With a cozy café, a farm-to-table restaurant, and seasonal activities like the nearby summer pool, Shikakita invites travelers to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the rhythm of rural life.
Why Visit
Shikakita roadside station stands out for its exclusive artisanal offerings and immersive nature experiences. Home to the only local dairy farm in the region, it features a signature milk ice cream made from Jersey cows raised in the pristine highlands of Kaho. Visitors can also savor the rare Kaho Tea, grown in the historic Yagama Valley with its distinct climate, and sample fresh bamboo shoots harvested daily from nearby mountain slopes. The station’s wooden playhouse, nestled in a forested clearing, offers a unique hands-on experience only found here.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced meals at Shikakita roadside station, where regional flavors meet seasonal ingredients.
Akane Beef Restaurant Yokayoka
あか牛食堂よかよか
Specialty
Specializing in high-quality beef dishes made from locally raised Akane cattle
A cozy restaurant offering hearty meals centered around premium Akane beef, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for a relaxing break during travel.
Puchi Cafe Oguri no Ki
ぷちかふぇおぐりの樹
Specialty
Cozy café serving homemade pastries and light meals with a focus on local ingredients
A charming small café offering a peaceful retreat with a homely atmosphere, ideal for enjoying tea, coffee, and light snacks made with regional produce.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and farm-fresh goods at Shikakita roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Kokuboku General Store
小栗館
A general retail shop offering a wide variety of locally produced agricultural products, processed foods, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kakuni (braised pork belly)
Oguri Craft Shop
おぐりの樹工芸店
A craft store specializing in handmade items made by local artisans using natural materials.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-carved wooden figurines
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like mountain-grown vegetables, heirloom Kyakocha tea, and handmade treats crafted with care.
Bamboo Shoot Dumplings
筍団子
Traditional dumplings made from fresh bamboo shoots, known for their delicate texture and natural sweetness.
Instant Bamboo Shoot Dumplings
いきなり団子
Ready-to-cook dumplings made with fresh bamboo shoots, perfect for quick meals at home.
Horse Meat Bun
馬肉まん
A unique steamed bun filled with seasoned horse meat, offering a rich, savory flavor typical of the region.
Local Tea
鹿北茶
A high-quality green tea grown in the mountainous region of Kaho, known for its smooth taste and aromatic freshness.
Roasted Chestnuts
栗
Sweet, roasted chestnuts harvested from local trees, prized for their rich flavor and natural sweetness.
Asparagus
アスパラ
Fresh, tender asparagus grown in the fertile soil of Kaho, known for its crisp texture and mild flavor.
Nasu (Eggplant)
ナス
Locally grown eggplants with a firm texture and rich, sweet flavor, ideal for grilling or stewing.
Rice
米
High-quality rice cultivated in the region, known for its soft texture and excellent taste when cooked.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, information kiosks, and family-friendly spaces at Shikakita roadside station.
Parking
Parking is available at the roadside station. Located on the left side of the road when approaching from Kumamoto City or the right side when approaching from the Fukuoka direction.
Left side of the road along National Route 3, near the Kogura Pass
Restroom
Restrooms are available at the roadside station. There is also a separate restroom for people with disabilities.
Inside the facility complex
Information Center
The information center provides 24-hour access and includes one information terminal, one large screen display, and one bulletin board. It offers road information, nearby 'Michi no Eki' details, and local tourism information via maps, route displays, and flyers.
Inside the information provision and rest room area
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available in the information provision and rest room area, accessible 24 hours a day.
Inside the information provision and rest room area
Play Area
The play area is part of the 'Kigurumi Kan' (Wooden Play House), offering recreational space for children. It is available during the station's operating hours.
Kigurumi Kan (Wooden Play House)
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the roadside station. The station is equipped with EV charging infrastructure.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants. It is located within the facility complex.
Inside the facility complex
ATM
An ATM is available at the roadside station for convenient financial transactions.
Near the main entrance
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets. It is located near the parking and entrance area.
Near the parking area
Insider Tips
Visit midweek for fewer crowds, and arrive early to enjoy fresh produce before it sells out at Shikakita roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to get first access to the fresh produce at the small market inside the Shikakita’s small market, where seasonal items like mountain vegetables and local chestnuts are displayed daily and often sell out by midday.
- Hidden Gems: Look for the "Oguri Kantenaimay" display near the information counter—it features handmade local treats like chestnut dumplings and “ikinari dumplings,” which are only available during the fall and winter months and sell out quickly.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the puchi cafe Oguri no Ki between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to enjoy the limited-time seasonal milk bread made with local dairy, which is baked fresh daily and often sells out by noon.
- Best Time for Local Produce: Go to the small market on Tuesday or Thursday mornings to find the best selection of locally grown Asparagus and Kakeya Tea (also known as Kaho Tea), which are harvested weekly and only available for a few days after picking.
- Must-Try Food Item: Order the “Oguri Pie” at the Shikakita’s restaurant, Oguri no Ki, only available from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekends and holidays—this pie features locally sourced chestnut and is made exclusively in small batches.
- Off-Peak Experience: Visit the Shikakita’s play area, Muyu Kan, between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the children’s nature play space with minimal crowds and full access to all outdoor activity zones.
- Best Use of Information Counter: Use the 24-hour information desk to check real-time road conditions on National Route 3, especially before entering the mountain pass near the Shikakita, as weather-related closures are common in winter—check the large screen display for updates before continuing your journey.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots and asparagus peak in early spring, with the annual Kako Tea Mountain Song Festival held in October.
Summer (June–August): The seasonal outdoor pool opens in summer, while the Akagyu Restaurant launches in April, offering local beef dishes.
Autumn (September–November): The Kako Tea Mountain Song Festival takes place in October, celebrating local tea culture.
Winter (December–February): The Mountain Lantern Romance event occurs in February, featuring illuminated displays.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shikakita offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and a family-friendly cafe. The wooden playhouse and seasonal activities enhance engagement. Restrooms include baby-changing facilities, and the peaceful forest setting is ideal for families.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station features a variety of local food options, including specialty items like chestnut dumplings and horse meat buns. Fresh local produce and handmade goods are available, with high-quality ingredients and authentic regional flavors.
Car Camping Review
Shikakita provides restrooms, vending machines, and a large parking area suitable for cars. While no formal overnight parking policy is listed, the quiet forest location offers comfort. Noise levels are low, especially outside peak hours.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a lush forested area with views of surrounding mountains, Shikakita offers serene natural beauty. The greenery and seasonal changes enhance the atmosphere, and the peaceful environment provides excellent photo opportunities.