Discover the Spirit of the Sea and Shoreline Traditions
Kurumi roadside station lies at the northern tip of the Kuma Peninsula in Oita Prefecture, where dramatic coastal cliffs meet the sparkling waters of the Ariake Sea. Just across the bay, the historic island of Himejima comes into view, famed for its vibrant kitsune dance festival. With panoramic views stretching to the distant islands of Honshu on clear days, Kurumi offers an unforgettable setting for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion.
More than a rest stop, Kurumi blends local flavor with outdoor adventure. The adjacent auto-campground provides 13 fully equipped sites with running water and power, ideal for overnight stays or day trips. Visitors can enjoy water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and banana boating at Kurumi Seaside Park. At the heart of the station, the “Wish Octopus” sculpture invites visitors to touch it for good fortune, while the shop features fresh local produce and unique souvenirs. The restaurant specializes in dishes made with freshly caught Himejima octopus and local shrimp, offering a true taste of the region.
Why Visit
Located at the northern tip of the Kuma Peninsula, Kurumi roadside station offers a rare experience: direct access to the legendary Himejima Fox Dance, where visitors can witness the island’s famed annual festival just a short boat ride away. The station’s standout feature is its exclusive “Wish Octopus” — a red-headband adorned octopus statue said to grant wishes when touched, with original souvenirs available only here. Nearby, the seafront offers kayak, windsurfing, and banana boat rentals, making it a unique coastal adventure hub.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at Kurumi's restaurant, where ocean-fresh octopus and shrimp take center stage.
Kurumi Seafood Restaurant
くにみ海鮮レストラン
Specialty
Fresh seafood from nearby waters, featuring local octopus and shrimp
A seaside restaurant offering traditional Japanese seafood cuisine with a focus on freshly caught local octopus and shrimp. The atmosphere is relaxed and coastal, perfect for enjoying the view of the ocean while dining.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local treasures and unique souvenirs at Kurumi's shop, perfect for taking home a piece of the region.
Kurumi Local Products Market
物産館
A retail shop offering locally produced goods, including fresh vegetables, fruits, and regional specialty items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Prayer Octopus Merchandise
Kurumi Seafood Specialty Shop
海鮮専門店
A shop specializing in fresh seafood, particularly octopus and shrimp harvested from nearby waters.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Octopus
Featured Products
Sample signature items like the lucky octopus and seasonal produce, celebrating Kurumi’s coastal heritage and craftsmanship.
Prayer Octopus
願いタコ
A symbolic octopus-shaped charm believed to bring good luck and fulfill wishes. A popular souvenir representing the cultural heritage of the region.
Fresh Local Vegetables
地元野菜
Freshly harvested vegetables from local farms, known for their quality and taste.
Local Fruits
地元果物
Seasonal fruits grown in the region, offering a unique taste and freshness.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, EV charging, and an on-site campsite for a seamless stay.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area available for visitors.
Inside the roadside station premises
Restroom
Public restrooms are available at the roadside station.
Located within the station complex
Information Center
An information corner provides road information, nearby tourist attractions, events, and other details. Information is available via bulletin boards, maps, and staff assistance.
Inside the souvenir shop area
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available in the roadside station parking area.
Inside the roadside station parking lot
Park
A nearby park is available for visitors to enjoy, located adjacent to the roadside station.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Auto Campground
An auto campsite is available with 13 sites, each equipped with a sink and power supply. The campsite is open year-round and operates within the souvenir shop's business hours.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Explore coastal adventures and seasonal events, from beach sports to traditional festivals in the area.
Stand-up Paddleboarding Experience
サップ体験
Participants can try stand-up paddleboarding on the calm waters of Kunimi Seihin Park, enjoying the scenic coastal views and fresh sea breeze.
Duration
60 min
Best enjoyed on clear, calm days with minimal wind.
Wind Surfing Experience
ウインドサーフィン体験
Participants will learn and enjoy wind surfing on the coastal waters, using the natural wind and waves for an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
Duration
60 min
Requires favorable wind conditions; activity may be canceled during strong winds or storms.
Banana Boat Ride
バナナボート体験
Participants will enjoy a fun and thrilling banana boat ride on the sea, ideal for families and groups seeking excitement.
Duration
30 min
Activity is weather-dependent and may be suspended during rough seas or high waves.
Water Bike Ride
水上バイク体験
Participants can ride a water bike on the calm coastal waters, offering a unique and enjoyable way to explore the sea surface.
Duration
30 min
Best conducted on calm, sunny days with low wave activity.
Camping
オートキャンプ場
Rent a campsite with access to running water and electrical outlets. Ideal for overnight stays or day camping with family and friends.
Duration
1440 min
Camping is available year-round, but check weather conditions before arrival, especially during typhoon season.
Local Festival: Himejima Fox Dance
姫島きつね踊り
Attend the traditional Himejima Fox Dance festival, a cultural event held in August featuring colorful costumes and lively performances.
Duration
180 min
Event is held outdoors; check for rain or extreme weather conditions in advance.
Kegu Festival
ケベス祭り
Join the Kegu Festival in October, a local celebration featuring music, food, and traditional performances in honor of regional heritage.
Duration
240 min
Outdoor event; may be affected by rain or cold weather.
Ryōgama Horse Racing
流鏑馬
Witness or participate in the traditional Ryōgama Horse Racing event, a historic equestrian ceremony held in October.
Duration
120 min
Event is held outdoors; may be postponed or canceled due to poor weather.
Insider Tips
Visit early to find the lucky octopus charm and check event schedules for the famous Kitsu dance festival.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is only available during the 9:00–11:00 AM window.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter inside the general store, look for the limited-edition “Wishes Octopus” merchandise, including handmade keychains and stickers, available only during the summer months when the roadside station features the “Wishes Octopus” attraction.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the restaurant between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to order the “Kunihime Set” — a special menu featuring locally caught octopus and shrimp from Hime Island — as it is only served during this time and is not available on weekdays.
- EV Charging Tip: Use the EV charging station located in the roadside station’s parking area between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the staff is present to assist with access and ensure the charging station is operational.
- Camping Access: Reserve a site at the Kurumi Auto Campground in advance if visiting during August, as the campground fills up quickly during the Hime Island Fox Dance Festival (August), and all 13 sites have electricity and running water.
- Event Timing: Attend the Hime Island Fox Dance Festival by taking the 20-minute boat ride from the Kurumi Sea Park, as the event begins at 6:00 PM and the boat departure is timed to arrive just before the performance starts.
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the edge of the sea park’s viewing platform just after sunrise on a clear day to capture the full view of the Honshu islands across the water, especially during the early morning hours when the light is optimal and the crowds are minimal.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh sea urchin and local vegetables available at the market; cherry blossoms peak in early April.
Summer (June–August): Best for sea activities at the beach park; attend the Kitsuji fox dance festival in August.
Autumn (September–November): Enjoy the Kebezu Festival in October and seasonal seafood harvests.
Winter (December–February): Quiet visits with coastal views; ideal for camping and observing winter skies.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a nearby campsite with picnic tables and a children's play area. While no dedicated play equipment is listed, the beach and campsite offer natural engagement. Family-friendly food options are available, and the site is stroller-accessible with clear signage and ample parking.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers a variety of local seafood dishes, especially fresh octopus and local shrimp. The specialty menu includes regional favorites like the Kuni-hime set. Fresh produce is available at the market, and unique local products like the 'wish octopus' souvenirs enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
The adjacent auto campsite provides 13 sites with sinks and electrical outlets. Restrooms and vending machines are available, and the site is open year-round. However, there is no explicit overnight parking policy, and noise from nearby beach activities may affect comfort during extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located at the northern tip of the Kunito Peninsula, the station offers stunning coastal views with clear visibility of the mainland islands on sunny days. The seafront setting and seasonal events like the Kitsu-tako Festival enhance the visual appeal and natural atmosphere.