Discover the Soul of雄勝: Where Sea, Craft, and Community Meet
Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu, nestled on a high ridge in the heart of Ogatsu, Miyagi Prefecture, offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and a vibrant celebration of local heritage. Opened in 2021, this roadside station stands as a cultural and culinary hub where tradition meets modern charm. From the historic Ogatsu Inkstone—the region’s famed craft—to seasonal seafood festivals and rotating art exhibitions, every visit reveals a new layer of the area’s identity.
Guests can savor fresh local catches at the bustling market, explore handcrafted displays, or unwind in the scenic overlook with the sea breeze at their back. Seasonal events like the Ogatsu Seafood Festival and traditional performances such as the Ogatsu Hōin Kagura bring the community to life. With rotating art shows, live music, and local crafts, Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu is more than a stop—it’s a destination where nature, culture, and connection converge.
Why Visit
Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can experience the legacy of Ogatsu's traditional stone carving industry firsthand. Its highlight is the exclusive display and sale of handcrafted Ogatsu inkstones—each one uniquely shaped and polished by local artisans. Beyond the crafts, visitors can savor freshly caught seasonal seafood at the on-site market, including live uni and grilled abalone, only available here during the summer and fall festivals.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu, where coastal charm meets authentic regional cuisine.
Tobu Sushi
伝八寿司
Specialty
Traditional sushi with fresh local seafood
A classic sushi restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced seafood in a simple and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its authentic taste and dedication to quality ingredients.
Tana Koya Karaoke
たなこや
Specialty
Live karaoke performances with local entertainment
A lively food stall and entertainment space offering a fun, interactive atmosphere with live singing and casual dining. Perfect for groups and visitors seeking a vibrant experience.
The Tips Live Music
THE TIPS
Specialty
Live acoustic music performances
A cozy café that hosts live music events, offering a relaxed and intimate setting where visitors can enjoy music and light refreshments.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal goods at Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu, a vibrant hub of regional treasures.
Ogatsu Seafood Market
おがつ海産物直売所
A fresh seafood market offering locally caught fish and shellfish directly from the sea.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Sea Urchin
Kenshō no Sato Craft Shop
雄勝硯伝統産業会館
A craft shop specializing in traditional Kōsō inkstones, showcasing local artistry and heritage.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kōsō Inkstone
Ogatsu Art Gallery
雄勝硯伝統産業会館 展示スペース
An art gallery space featuring rotating exhibitions of local artists and photographers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Watercolor Art by Takamori Keiko
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like雄勝硯-inspired crafts and freshly caught seafood, celebrating Ogatsu’s rich heritage.
Fresh Sea Urchin
活ウニ
Freshly harvested sea urchin from the Pacific Ocean, known for its rich, buttery flavor.
Kōsō Inkstone
雄勝硯
Traditional Japanese inkstone made from local stone, valued for its craftsmanship and historical significance.
Watercolor Art Set
水彩画セット
A curated set of watercolor art supplies inspired by local landscapes and nature.
Photography Book: Sky Search
星月写真展「空を探しに」
A collection of photographs capturing the natural beauty and skies of Ishinomaki.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities and relaxing spaces at Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu, designed for comfort and connection.
Central Parking Lot
The central parking area is located within the roadside station premises and is used as a venue for events such as the 'Yokatsu Hōin Kagura New Yamashimo Shrine Commemoration Festival'.
Central area of the roadside station
Public Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors within the roadside station facilities.
Throughout the premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the premises
Information Center
The roadside station serves as a tourist and commercial hub, providing information about the area, events, and local attractions.
Main facility
Children's Play Area
A play area is available for children, supporting family visits and leisure time.
Near the main building
Hot Spring
There is no hot spring (onsen) facility mentioned in the provided content.
Bicycle Rental
There is no bicycle rental service mentioned in the provided content.
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available for parents with infants, supporting family-friendly access.
Inside the facility
EV Charging Station
There is no EV charging station mentioned in the provided content.
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use within the roadside station premises.
Near the entrance
Pet-Friendly Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets.
Outdoor area near the parking lot
Activities & Experiences
Immerse in cultural events, seasonal festivals, and hands-on workshops at Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu.
Yakumo Festival of the Ogaatsu Region
雄勝法印神楽 新山神社奉祝祭
Participate in a traditional festival featuring Yakumo Kagura performances, with food stalls offering grilled seafood and yakitori, as well as local vendors and mobile sales.
Duration
180 min
Event may be canceled due to bad weather.
High Mori Watercolor Exhibition
高森圭子水彩画展【心地よい光を求めて】
View a watercolor exhibition featuring serene depictions of Ogaatsu's landscapes and natural light, with a guest book available for visitors to leave messages.
Duration
60 min
Star Moon Photography Exhibition
星月写真展「空を探しに」
Explore a photography exhibition showcasing the natural beauty and scenic views of Ishinomaki, capturing the sky and landscapes of the region.
Duration
60 min
Xuanqiong Society Selection Exhibition (Second Half)
玄穹社選抜展【後半】
View a second half of a calligraphy exhibition featuring powerful and expressive works from selected artists, displayed at the Ogaatsu Inkstone Traditional Industry Hall.
Duration
60 min
Ogaatsu Seafood Festival
おがつ海鮮まつり
Enjoy a seasonal seafood festival featuring fresh local seafood, cooking demonstrations, and local food stalls celebrating the region's marine bounty.
Duration
240 min
Ogaatsu Summer Festival
おがつ夏まつり
Join a summer festival with music, food, and local activities celebrating the vibrant community and coastal culture of Ogaatsu.
Duration
240 min
Tana Koya Karaoke Tournament
たなこや大カラオケ大会
Participate in a large-scale karaoke competition featuring local talent and community singing, held at the roadside station.
Duration
120 min
Coastline People Art Exhibition
企画市民展「海岸線の人々」
Explore an art exhibition showcasing portraits and stories of people living along the coastal line, highlighting local life and culture.
Duration
60 min
TIPS New Year Live
THE TIPS 新春LIVE！
Attend a live music performance celebrating the new year, featuring local musicians and festive entertainment.
Duration
120 min
Jazz Live for Memorial
鎮魂JAZZライブ開催します
Experience a soulful jazz concert dedicated to remembrance, offering a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
Duration
90 min
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local events and seasonal highlights for the most authentic experience at Suzuriue-no-Sato Ogatsu.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure fresh batches of the bakery’s milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked during the day.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter inside the direct sales shop, look for the seasonal seafood items like live sea urchin and oyster tasting samples, which are only available during the "Ogatsu Seafood Festival" in September and May.
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, especially during the "Ogatsu Festival" on October 12, visit the central parking area to experience the traditional Yūkō Hōin Kagura performance at the New Yamazumi Shrine Memorial Festival, where you can enjoy grilled seafood and local snacks from temporary stalls.
- Art Exhibition Tip: During the High Mori Keiko watercolor exhibition (September 20 – October 19), visit the traditional industry hall display space and leave a message in the guest notebook located at the entrance to share your thoughts directly with the artist.
- Photography Enthusiast’s Guide: Check out the "Looking for the Sky" photography exhibition in the Kōshū Inkstone Traditional Industry Hall from September 1 to September 17; the display features stunning images of the natural landscapes of Ishinomaki, best viewed during daylight hours between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
- Seasonal Food Alert: Visit the direct sales shop on the first weekend of November to find the special "Ogatsu Festival" event menu, which includes a limited-time seafood tasting set featuring local catch and seasonal vegetables.
- Avoid Disruptions: Plan your visit around the temporary closure notices for Denhachi Sushi, which has been announced for October 27, August 29, and May 11—confirm availability before making a trip if you're planning to eat there.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for the GW Ogatsu Seafood Festival (late April) and fresh sea urchin sales (May 4–5).
Summer (June-August): Hosts the Ogatsu Seafood Festival (June 22) and summer exhibitions, with summer closure from August 10.
Autumn (September-November): Features the Ogatsu Seafood Festival (September 17), high-profile art exhibitions, and the Ogaatsu Autumn Festival (November 2).
Winter (December-February): Limited events; notable for New Year’s live performances (January 1) and year-end sales (December 31).
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a children's play area and interactive art exhibits like watercolor and photo displays. Features kid-friendly food options and stroller-accessible paths. Educational elements include local craft exhibitions and seasonal events, enhancing family engagement.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local seafood and regional specialties such as fresh uni and oyster tastings. The market offers high-quality produce and artisanal products. Multiple food vendors and seasonal festivals enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines for basic needs. The site is relatively quiet during off-peak hours, suitable for overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy is listed, limiting reliability for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from a highland location. Scenic viewpoints are available for photography. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by coastal landscapes and seasonal events, creating a serene and visually appealing atmosphere.