Discover Resilience and Renewal in the Heart of South Sanriku
Sansan Minamisanriku is a distinctive roadside station nestled in the revitalized town of Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture, where history, community spirit, and natural beauty converge. More than a traditional rest stop, it is a multifaceted hub that unites a vibrant local shopping street, a poignant earthquake memorial, and a dynamic tourism center—all seamlessly integrated within a single, purpose-built complex.
Visitors can savor the region’s famed seafood, including the celebrated Kirakira Uni Don, explore the moving South Sanriku 311 Memorial with its powerful exhibitions and artistic installations, and enjoy hands-on experiences like painting a Moai statue. With free Wi-Fi, rental bicycles, and a convenient train station on-site, Sansan Minamisanriku offers both cultural depth and practical convenience for travelers seeking an authentic, meaningful journey through Tohoku’s resilient spirit.
Why Visit
Visit Sansan Minamisanriku to experience the only coastal memorial site in Japan dedicated to the 2011 disaster, where artist Christian Boltansky’s haunting installation and the reflective “Shallow Sea of Memory” offer a profound, personal encounter with history. Here, you’ll also find the exclusive Kirakira Uni Don, a signature dish of fresh, locally sourced sea urchin served atop rice grown in the region, available nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, local flavors at Sansan Minamisanriku, where seasonal ingredients shine in signature dishes like the famed Kirakira Uni Don.
Kira Kira Uni Don
キラキラうに丼
Specialty
Famous uni donburi featuring fresh local sea urchin
A specialty restaurant dedicated to serving the renowned Kira Kira Uni Don, highlighting the rich, creamy flavor of fresh sea urchin from the region. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a focus on celebrating local marine delicacies.
Soba & Sake Bar
そばと酒
Specialty
Traditional soba noodles paired with local sake
A cozy restaurant offering handmade soba noodles and a curated selection of regional sake. The ambiance is rustic and authentic, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship and local culture.
Yuzu Ramen & Bento
ゆずラーメンと弁当
Specialty
Fresh ramen with yuzu citrus flavor and bento boxes
A casual food stall offering quick, flavorful ramen and ready-to-eat bento boxes. The atmosphere is lively and accessible, perfect for travelers seeking a quick, satisfying meal.
Kira Kira Sweets & Tea
キラキラスイーツと茶
Specialty
Local sweets and traditional tea
A charming café offering a variety of sweet treats made with regional ingredients and a selection of traditional Japanese teas. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, ideal for relaxation and light refreshments.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional treats at Sansan Minamisanriku’s vibrant shops and markets.
Local Produce Market
地場産品市場
A market offering fresh, locally grown produce and seasonal vegetables from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Soba & Craft Store
そばと工芸品
A craft shop specializing in handmade soba noodles, local pottery, and traditional crafts.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade soba noodles
Seafood & Souvenir Shop
海産物とお土産
A shop selling dried seafood, local snacks, and souvenirs from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Dried sea urchin
Sake & Alcohol Store
酒とアルコール
A shop specializing in local sake, shochu, and other regional alcoholic beverages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like Kirakira Uni Don and seasonal seafood, crafted with pride from the heart of South Sanriku.
Kira Kira Original Coaster
キラキラオリジナルコースター
A unique, handcrafted coaster featuring the Kira Kira logo and local design elements.
Kira Kira Stamp Book
キラキラスタンプブック
A collectible stamp book featuring all the official stamps from the Sansan Minamisanriku roadside station.
Kira Kira Memorial Ticket
キラキラメモリアル切符
A commemorative ticket featuring the Kira Kira Memorial design, available only at the roadside station.
Dried Sea Urchin
干しウニ
Premium dried sea urchin harvested from the local waters, known for its rich umami flavor.
Local Sake
地元酒
A premium local sake crafted using traditional methods and regional rice.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour parking, restrooms, and rental services for bicycles and wheelchairs.
Parking Area
The roadside station includes a parking area that is available 24 hours a day and free of charge.
Adjacent to JR Shizugawa Station
Toilets
Toilets are available at JR Shizugawa Station and are open 24 hours a day.
At JR Shizugawa Station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in the South Sanriku Portal Center and the co-working space within the facility.
South Sanriku Portal Center
Tourist Information Center
The South Sanriku Portal Center serves as a tourist information office and offers assistance with travel planning, maps, and local information. It also provides rental services for bicycles, wheelchairs, and strollers.
South Sanriku Portal Center
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles are available for rent at the South Sanriku Portal Center for 500 yen per 3 hours. Advance reservation is available.
South Sanriku Portal Center
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at JR Shizugawa Station.
JR Shizugawa Station
ATM
An ATM is available at JR Shizugawa Station.
JR Shizugawa Station
Interactive Experience Area
The South Sanriku 311 Memorial includes interactive exhibits such as a learning theater and artistic installations, including works by Christian Boltanski. The outdoor observation deck and community-created art by Masashi Asada are also available in the free zone.
South Sanriku 311 Memorial
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available at the South Sanriku Portal Center for parents with infants.
South Sanriku Portal Center
Art and Cultural Experience
The South Sanriku 311 Memorial offers cultural and educational experiences, including a learning theater and art installations, promoting reflection and community connection.
South Sanriku 311 Memorial
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences, seasonal events, and cultural workshops at Sansan Minamisanriku.
MoiAI Coloring Experience
モアイの色塗り体験
Participants will color a large Moai statue sculpture, creating a unique and personalized artwork.
Duration
60 min
BRT and Bus Tour
気仙沼線BRT（JR東日本ホームページ）
Take a guided tour using the BRT and local bus services to explore the region's scenic routes and cultural sites.
Duration
120 min
Weather-dependent; some routes may be suspended during heavy rain or snow.
Rental Bicycle
自転車（有料）3時間500円
Rent a bicycle for up to 3 hours to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Duration
180 min
Bicycles are not available during heavy rain or snow.
Wheelchair Rental
車いす（無料）
Free wheelchair rental for visitors with mobility needs to access the facility and nearby areas.
Duration
120 min
Elderly Hand Cart Rental
高齢者用手押し車（無料）
Free hand push cart rental for elderly visitors to carry belongings while exploring the area.
Duration
120 min
311 Memorial Learning Program
南三陸311メモリアル
Participate in a guided learning program featuring local residents' stories and modern art installations, including works by Christian Boltanski.
Duration
90 min
South Sanriku Portal Center Guided Tour
南三陸ポータルセンター（観光案内所）
Join a guided tour of the South Sanriku Portal Center, learning about local history, culture, and tourism information.
Duration
45 min
South Sanriku Shopping Street Exploration
南三陸さんさん商店街
Explore the South Sanriku San-san Shopping Street, sampling local cuisine such as the famous 'Kirakira Uni Don' and purchasing regional specialties.
Duration
120 min
South Sanriku Winter Festival
キラキラ冬のみかくづくし
Experience a seasonal festival celebrating winter delicacies, including local seafood and traditional dishes.
Duration
180 min
Event may be affected by heavy snow or extreme cold.
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, check the official site for seasonal events, and use the 24-hour stamp at JR Shizugawa Station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a spot at the self-guided tour station for the "Modai Color Painting Experience" before it fills up, as sessions are limited to 20 people per day.
- Hidden Gems: At the South Sanriku Portal Center’s counter, ask for the free "South Sanriku Local Guide Map" which includes hidden spots like the memorial wall with local residents’ handwritten messages from the 3.11 disaster.
- Food Special: Order the "Kira Kira Uni Don" at the South Sanriku Kira Kira Don restaurant during lunch hours (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM) to ensure availability, as it is only served on weekdays and sells out by 1:30 PM.
- Transport Tip: Use the JR Shizugawa Station bus stop located next to the roadside station’s rotary to board the Kesennuma Line BRT or the high-speed bus to Sendai, as tickets for these services are not sold at the station ticket window.
- Activity Booking: Reserve the South Sanriku Portal Center’s rental room for a group meeting or remote work session in advance through the official website, as the rooms are available only from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and must be booked at least 24 hours ahead.
- Unique Souvenir: Purchase the exclusive “Kira Kira South Sanriku” coaster at the South Sanriku Portal Center’s gift shop for 660 yen, which is only available at this location and not sold elsewhere.
- Event Timing: Attend the “Kira Kira Winter Mikan Festival” tasting event, held daily from November 1 to February 28, at 11:00 AM in the South Sanriku Kira Kira Don restaurant, where you can sample seasonal mikan dishes and receive a free tasting card for future discounts.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market, with canola flowers peaking in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Seasonal seafood dishes like Kirakira uni don served at local restaurants.
Autumn (September–November): Natural abalone festival held annually, featuring fresh local abalone.
Winter (December–February): Special winter menu "Kirakira Winter Mikan Collection" available from November 1.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers child-friendly activities like moai coloring and bike rentals. Multiple dining options include kid-friendly meals. Facilities are stroller-accessible with wheelchair and handcart loans. Educational elements include the 311 Memorial's interactive learning program.
Food Lover Review
Features 29 shops with local specialties like Kirakira Uni Don. Offers fresh seasonal ingredients and unique regional products. The market-style shop street provides diverse, high-quality food experiences. Premium seafood and local cuisine elevate the overall dining appeal.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour parking and clean restrooms. Quiet environment with minimal noise during nighttime. No explicit overnight parking policy, but facilities support extended stays. Limited camping amenities despite good access and basic services.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers coastal views and a scenic rooftop deck. Well-designed photo spots with panoramic sea and landscape views. Seasonal beauty enhanced by coastal scenery and seasonal events. The overall atmosphere is serene and visually engaging.