Discover the Fascinating World of Insects at Japan’s Unique Insect-Themed Roadside Station
Insect Village Tabira, nestled along National Route 204 near the iconic Dutch Street and just minutes from the bustling tourist destination of Nagasaki’s Huis Ten Bosch, is a one-of-a-kind roadside station where nature and culture converge. The giant rhinoceros beetle monument welcomes travelers with a playful nod to the station’s insect theme, setting the tone for an unforgettable stop.
Inside, visitors can explore a vibrant shop offering local farm produce, regional specialties like fresh seafood and handmade sweets, and an intriguing selection of edible insects. The highlight? Seasonal insect sales, including live stag and rhinoceros beetles, perfect for nature-loving families. Nearby, the Tabori Insect Natural Park offers guided exploration of native species, making it a top destination for eco-enthusiasts and curious kids alike.
Why Visit
Visit Insect Village Tabira to experience Japan’s only roadside station where giant stag beetles greet you at the entrance and you can purchase live insects like stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles—offered in pairs for just a few hundred yen. Nearby, the Tabora Insect Nature Park allows hands-on exploration of native species, making it a rare destination for insect enthusiasts. Don’t miss the unique snack: the shop owner’s favorite Shinshu Muscat mochi, a sweet treat made with local grapes and traditional rice flour.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Insect Village Tabira roadside station, where regional specialties meet creative culinary delights.
Shinmai Masukatto Daifuku
シャインマスカット大福
Specialty
Popular sweet featuring fresh Shinmai Muscat grapes
A specialty dessert offered at the roadside station, combining the sweetness of premium Shinmai Muscat grapes with traditional Japanese mochi, perfect for visitors seeking a unique local treat.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treats at Insect Village Tabira, a vibrant hub for regional crafts and produce.
Insect Specialty Store
昆虫食専門店
Sells edible insects such as stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles, including insect-based snacks and souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Stag Beetle and Rhinoceros Beetle Pair
Local Produce Market
地場産物販売所
Offers fresh local seafood, vegetables, and regional processed foods such as karami-tō, dango, and sushi.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh A-go and Salted Squid
Featured Products
Explore signature items like edible insects and handmade confections, celebrating the region’s rich natural heritage.
Shinmai Muscat Daifuku
シャインマスカット大福
A sweet treat made with fresh Shinmai Muscat grapes wrapped in traditional mochi, known for its rich flavor and premium quality.
Edible Insect Pack
昆虫食セット
A collection of edible insects including stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles, packaged for easy purchase and consumption.
Stag Beetle and Rhinoceros Beetle Pair
カブトムシとクワガタムシペア
A popular insect pair sold as a souvenir, ideal for children and insect enthusiasts.
A-go and Salted Squid
あごとイカの塩から
Traditional dried seafood made from local A-go fish and squid, known for its savory taste and long shelf life.
Karami-tō
かりんとう
A traditional Japanese candy made from sugar and flour, known for its crisp texture and sweet taste.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and a welcoming rest area at Insect Village Tabira.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking facility available for visitors.
Near the entrance and main facility area
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors, including accessible facilities.
Near the main entrance and within the rest area
Information Center
An information corner provides brochures on nearby attractions, accommodations, and events. Information is also available on local tourism and transportation.
Inside the rest area
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for nursing mothers is available for use.
Within the rest area
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available in the rest area for visitors.
Inside the rest area
Activities & Experiences
Engage in hands-on experiences and seasonal events, from insect encounters to guided nature walks.
Insect Sales (Summer Limited)
昆虫の販売（夏季限定）
Participants can purchase pairs of stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles at affordable prices during the summer season.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor activity; best enjoyed on clear days
Insect Observation at Tabira Insect Natural Garden
たびら昆虫自然園での昆虫観察
Explore the natural habitat of diverse insects such as stag beetles, rhinoceros beetles, butterflies, and dragonflies with guidance from experienced解说 instructors.
Duration
90 min
Best conducted on dry, sunny days; avoid heavy rain
Insect-themed Exhibits with Special Camera Panels
特殊カメラで撮影した昆虫のパネル展示
View high-resolution insect panels captured using special cameras, showcasing intricate details of various insect species.
Duration
30 min
Indoor activity; unaffected by weather
Insect-themed Snack Tasting
昆虫食の販売
Taste unique insect-based snacks, including popular items like Shine Muscat Mochi, available at vending machines or the shop.
Duration
20 min
Indoor activity; available regardless of weather
Insider Tips
Visit during summer for exclusive insect sales and pair your trip with a nearby visit to the tawira insect natural garden.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the last remaining pair of summer-exclusive stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles, which are sold out by midday during peak season.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter inside the shop, look for the "Shinmai Koshu Kaki" (newly harvested persimmon) and "Nagasaki Gomoku" (local mixed vegetables) displayed in the seasonal produce section—these are only available during their brief harvest window.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the automatic vending machine near the rest area between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to purchase the limited-edition roasted insect snacks, including cricket and mealworm bites, which are only stocked during the summer months.
- Best Photo Spot: Stand directly in front of the giant rhinoceros beetle sculpture at the entrance between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM to capture it without crowds, especially on sunny mornings when the sunlight highlights the metallic finish.
- Must-Try Treat: Order the "Shinmai Masukatto Daifuku" (Shinmai grape mochi) at the shop counter before 11:30 AM, as it is only freshly made in the morning and typically sells out by noon.
- Nearby Experience: Take a 5-minute drive to Tabilia Insect Natural Garden to see live stag beetles and dragonflies up close—visit between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM when the on-site naturalists conduct guided insect observation sessions.
- Parking Tip: Use the large parking lot on the west side of the roadside station when visiting during the "Tabira Summer Festival" on August 17, as the main lot fills quickly and the west side offers easier access to the rest area and information counter.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit in late March to early April for the peak of the canola flower bloom near the roadside station.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for insect viewing and the summer-exclusive insect sales event at the roadside station.
Autumn (September-November): Enjoy the autumn harvest festival at the Hirado Seto Market in late October.
Winter (December-February): The roadside station is closed from December 31 to January 3, with no seasonal offerings.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a children's play area, insect-themed exhibits, and educational activities at the nearby insect natural park. It offers kid-friendly food like insect snacks and sweet treats. Facilities include stroller-accessible restrooms and a baby care room, enhancing accessibility and safety for families.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse local specialties such as fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and unique insect-based snacks. The shop sells artisanal products like karaage, dango, and wasabi sweets. The seasonal insect sales and specialty items like Shine Muscat mochi provide a distinctive culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
The station provides 24-hour access to restrooms, parking, and a rest area. While it lacks designated camping zones, the quiet location near natural areas and nearby parks makes it suitable for short overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy is listed.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near coastal landscapes and surrounded by greenery, the station offers scenic views of the sea and countryside. The large rhinoceros beetle monument serves as a striking photo spot. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by nearby natural parks and insect habitats, contributing to a pleasant, immersive atmosphere.