Station Kamae

Discover the Heart of Kyushu’s Seafood Soul

Kamae roadside station is nestled along the southernmost coast of Oita Prefecture, where the rugged beauty of the East Kyushu Rias Coast meets the vibrant life of a working fishing port. Located just off National Route 388, this coastal gem offers travelers a rare glimpse into authentic maritime culture, with fresh catches arriving daily from the nearby Kamae Fishing Harbor. The station’s vibrant atmosphere is defined by its passionate dedication to the iconic yellowtail, or "buri," celebrated through innovative dishes like the beloved Buri Burger and seasonal seafood bowls.

Reopened in 2019 with a bold vision, Kamae is more than a rest stop—it’s a living hub of regional revitalization. Visitors can enjoy locally sourced seafood at the restaurant "Umibari-tei," shop directly from the fish market, or explore the Buri Laboratory, a creative space dedicated to preserving and promoting the area’s culinary heritage. With its warm community spirit, scenic coastal views, and commitment to sustainable local food, Kamae delivers an unforgettable journey where sea, land, and tradition converge.

Located at the southernmost tip of Oita Prefecture, Kamae roadside station stands as the only public space where visitors can experience the raw energy of a working fishing port. Its signature draw is the daily arrival of freshly caught, live fish straight from the Pu-egi Fish Market—each day bringing unique, seasonal catches you won’t find anywhere else. At the heart of the station, the restaurant Uminari-tei offers the only certified Buri Burger in the region, crafted from locally sourced mackerel and served with a side of oceanfront authenticity. This is not just a meal—it’s a living tribute to the sea’s bounty.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the freshest daily catch from the adjacent Urae Fish Market, as the morning fish arrivals are typically available first and often sell out by midday.

• Hidden Gem at the Direct Sales Shop: Purchase the daily limited batch of "Buri Labo" canned sardines, available only at the direct sales shop between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, as they are made from fish caught the same morning and are not stocked beyond that window.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the restaurant "Umibari-Tei" by 11:00 AM to order the "Buri Burger" before it sells out—this signature dish is only prepared in small batches and is often unavailable by 12:30 PM.

• Information Corner Tip: Check the information board near the entrance for real-time updates on the fish market schedule, as it displays the exact arrival times of the morning fishing boats and indicates which species will be available for purchase.

• Best Time to Visit the Fish Market: Arrive at 7:30 AM on weekdays to observe the live fish auction and purchase fresh, unprocessed fish directly from the fishermen, as the market opens at 7:00 AM and the best selection is available during the first hour.

• Dine with a View: Choose a table at the restaurant "Umibari-Tei" near the large window facing the harbor to enjoy your meal while watching the fishing boats unload—this view is most active between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM.

• Event Timing: If visiting in April, arrive at the roadside station by 9:00 AM to attend the early morning "Sakurazaki Park Azalea Festival" guided tour, which starts at 10:00 AM and is advertised only on the station’s event poster near the information desk.

Spring (March-May): Visit during the仙崎公園つつじ祭り in April to see vibrant azaleas, and enjoy fresh sea bream from the morning fish market.

Summer (June-August): Ideal for the July paragliding festival and sampling grilled sea bream at the roadside station.

Autumn (September-November): Experience the たかひら展望公園のじぎく祭り in November and savor seasonal seafood.

Winter (December-February): Best for the January 八日薬師祭り and warming up with local fish dishes.