Savor the Sweetness of Kyushu’s Fruit Paradise
Suika no Sato Ueki, nestled along the bustling National Route 3 in northern Kumamoto, stands as a vibrant roadside station and a celebration of the region’s renowned fruit heritage. Located in the heart of the famed Suika (watermelon) producing town of Ueki, this modern stop offers more than just a pit stop—it’s a gateway to the flavors, culture, and craftsmanship of rural Kyushu. From sun-ripened melons to locally crafted sweets and fresh farm goods, every visit is a journey through the bounty of the land.
At the core of the experience is the vibrant Suika & Melon Plaza, where growers proudly display their seasonal harvests, including the legendary Kumamoto watermelon. Visitors can sample, purchase, and even learn about the farming journey from field to table. With a bustling Shipper Plaza featuring over 50 local producers, rotating seasonal events like the lively Happy Night Market, and a popular Lunch & Sweets Map for culinary exploration, Suika no Sato Ueki blends tradition with innovation. Whether enjoying a slice of fresh melon, a warm handmade watermelon bread, or exploring recipes from the on-site collection, guests discover the true essence of local flavor in every bite.
Why Visit
Suika no Sato Ueki stands as the only roadside station in Japan dedicated entirely to the art and innovation of watermelon. Visitors can taste the region’s signature sweet varieties, including the rare "Hikari no Yuki" melon, and explore unique products like watermelon liqueur and watermelon sorbet made from locally grown fruit. The station also hosts the exclusive "Suika Pan" — a limited-edition watermelon-flavored bread crafted by local bakers — available only here.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a welcoming information center.
Parking Lot
Open 24 hours, accommodates 114 standard vehicles and 7 large vehicles, with 2 spaces designated for disabled persons.
Front of the roadside station
Toilet
Available for public use, located within the facility.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless internet access available throughout the premises.
Throughout the roadside station
Information & Multi-Purpose Space
A space for information services and various events or gatherings.
Inside the roadside station
Tourist Information Center
Provides tourist information and assistance to visitors.
Inside the roadside station
Large Roofed Plaza
An open area under a large roof, suitable for relaxation and events.
Main plaza area of the roadside station
Farm Produce Direct Sales Store
A store where fresh local agricultural products, including watermelons and melons, are sold directly from farmers.
Inside the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Join seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and fun experiences celebrating local culture and agriculture.
Happy Night Market
ハッピー夜市
Enjoy a lively night market with delicious food, festival-style stalls, and stage performances including dance and music acts.
Duration
300 min
Outdoor event; check weather conditions before attending
Sunflower Festival
ひまわりフェスタ
Celebrate the blooming sunflowers with themed activities, local food, and family-friendly entertainment.
Duration
240 min
Outdoor event; best enjoyed on sunny days
9th Anniversary Festival
9周年祭
Join the celebration of the roadside station's 9th anniversary with special events, live performances, and local product displays.
Duration
300 min
Outdoor event; weather-dependent
Melon and Watermelon Plaza
すいか・メロン広場
Explore and enjoy fresh watermelons and melons directly from local farmers, with opportunities to taste and learn about cultivation.
Duration
60 min
Indoor and outdoor access available
Farmer's Plaza
出荷者広場
Interact with local farmers, learn about their farming practices, and purchase fresh produce directly from the source.
Duration
60 min
Indoor and outdoor access available
Watermelon Recipe Workshop
レシピ集
Learn how to prepare delicious dishes using fresh watermelons, including recipes for drinks, desserts, and savory meals.
Duration
90 min
Indoor activity
Watermelon-themed Lunch & Sweets Map
植木ランチ&スイーツＭＡＰ
Participate in a themed stamp rally to discover local lunch spots and sweet treats featuring watermelon in various forms.
Duration
120 min
Indoor and outdoor activities
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around monthly events and check parking updates to make the most of your trip.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of fresh watermelon from vendor No. 435, which is typically sold out by 11:30 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-time "Watermelon Pancake" made with fresh watermelon from vendor No. 094, available only during the 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM window on weekends.
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the "Watermelon & Melon Plaza" between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to sample free tastings from vendors No. 094, No. 155, and No. 404, who rotate their samples daily.
- Specialty Product Tip: Purchase the "Suika Pan" (Watermelon Bread) from vendor No. 173, "Handmade Bread Shop Beccam," which is baked fresh daily and available only until 1:00 PM.
- Event Timing: Attend the "Happy Night Market" on November 2, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and arrive by 3:30 PM to secure a spot near the stage for the performance by Yumi Dance Studio at 5:00 PM.
- Parking Tip: On busy weekends like November 2, 2025, use the temporary parking lot located just left after passing the main entrance—this is the designated spot for overflow traffic and avoids congestion at the main lot.
- Sticker Challenge: Pick up the "2025 Planting Town Lunch & Sweets Map" at the information desk and visit all 10 featured food vendors to collect stamps and receive a free watermelon-shaped keychain at the end of the month.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for melon and watermelon harvesting begins in late May, with fresh produce available at the sales plaza.
Summer (June–August): Watermelon and melon harvests peak from July to August, offering the freshest fruit at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): The 9th Anniversary Festival and Happy Night Market occur in November, featuring local food, live performances, and seasonal produce.
Winter (December–February): Limited fresh fruit availability; visit for indoor amenities and seasonal events like the Happy Night Market.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a large open area with ample space for children to play. Features a variety of kid-friendly food options including unique fruit-based treats. Restrooms and parking are accessible and stroller-friendly. Seasonal events and interactive activities enhance the experience for families.
Food Lover Review
Features a diverse range of local specialties, including fresh watermelons, melons, and citrus fruits. Offers artisanal products like handmade bread and fruit-based beverages. The farmers market provides high-quality seasonal produce. Multiple dining options and recipe resources elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines for basic needs. The spacious parking area accommodates overnight stays. While not designed as a dedicated campsite, the quiet environment and accessibility make it suitable for short-term car camping. No explicit overnight parking policy is listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by lush farmland and natural landscapes with scenic views of rural Kyushu. Offers multiple photo opportunities, especially during seasonal events like the sunflower festival. The well-maintained grounds and seasonal variety contribute to a pleasant, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.