Discover the Flavors of Southern Kyushu’s Hidden Gem
Nestled along National Route 202 in the heart of Saga Prefecture, the roadside station Imari is a vibrant gateway to the region’s rich agricultural and cultural heritage. Just a five-minute drive from either the Nambataya-guchi or Imari Higashi Fusho Interchanges on the Kyushu Expressway, this revitalized hub offers travelers a refreshing pause with panoramic views, local flavors, and immersive experiences.
Imari shines as a true culinary and cultural destination, celebrating its famed Imari beef, sun-kissed fruits like pears and grapes, and traditional ceramics. Visitors can savor signature dishes such as the acclaimed Imari beef mentaiko cutlet, enjoy seasonal fruit tastings, or take part in hands-on harvesting. With a modern information center, free Wi-Fi, a scenic observation deck, and a spacious park with play equipment, Imari invites guests to slow down, connect, and explore. Whether sampling local produce, planning a day trip to nearby historic kilns or beaches, or simply relaxing in the open-air space, every visit unfolds as a sensory journey through the heart of rural Kyushu.
Why Visit
Visit Imari roadside station to experience the only roadside station in the region offering direct access to a working fruit orchard where visitors can pick fresh plums, peaches, kiwi, and strawberries year-round. Home to the exclusive "Koi-ga Menchi Katsu"—a signature pork cutlet made with Imari beef and developed in collaboration with Nagasaki Prefectural University—this station delivers a unique taste of local terroir. From the panoramic views of the surrounding fruit fields to the seasonal harvest festivals, Imari offers a rare, hands-on journey through one of Japan’s most celebrated agricultural and ceramic heritage towns.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the flavors of Imari with locally crafted dishes featuring Imari beef and fresh seasonal fruits.
Menchikatsu Special
こいがメンチカツ
Specialty
Signature dish made with Imari beef, developed in collaboration with Nagasaki Prefectural University
A specialty restaurant offering a unique take on mentaiko-style meatballs using high-quality Imari beef, combining local flavor with innovative culinary techniques. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a distinctive local dish.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and regional specialties at Imari’s roadside station shop.
Imari Fruit Market
フルーツと焼き物
A market specializing in fresh seasonal fruits and local ceramics, offering a wide variety of produce grown in the Imari region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Imari Pear
Imari Beef Specialty Store
伊万里牛
A dedicated store selling premium Imari beef, including various cuts and ready-to-cook packages.
Products
Must-Try Item
Imari Beef Skewers
Imari Souvenir Shop
物産販売所
A retail shop offering a wide range of local products, including food, crafts, and souvenirs from the Imari region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Imari Pear Jam
Featured Products
Explore signature products like Imari beef, fresh fruits, and handcrafted ceramics from the pottery-rich region.
Imari Pear
伊万里梨
A premium variety of pear known for its juicy texture and sweet flavor, grown in the Imari region using traditional farming methods.
Imari Grape
ぶどう
Freshly harvested grapes from Imari, prized for their natural sweetness and vibrant taste, available during summer months.
Imari Pear Jam
伊万里梨ジャム
Handcrafted jam made from locally grown Imari pears, offering a rich, natural sweetness without artificial additives.
Imari Ceramic Set
伊万里焼物セット
A set of traditional Imari ceramics, handcrafted by local artisans, known for their intricate designs and durability.
Imari Beef Jerky
伊万里牛せんべい
Dried beef jerky made from high-quality Imari beef, seasoned with local spices for a savory, chewy snack.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, EV charging, rest areas, and scenic views at Imari roadside station.
Parking
Parking facility available at the roadside station.
Located at the roadside station premises
Restroom
Restrooms are available for visitors.
Located at the roadside station premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is provided in the facility, available from 9:00 to 18:00 in the specialty shop area. Digital signage provides 24-hour information.
Inside the specialty shop area
Information Center
Information center provides road information, nearby roadside station details, local event updates, weather forecasts, medical facility information, and other travel-related data via digital signage and staff assistance.
Inside the facility, near the information corner
Play Area
A grass park with playground equipment is available for children. The area also includes a grape arbor for events.
Near the grass park and grape arbor
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station is available on-site.
Located at the roadside station premises
Nursing Room
A dedicated room for nursing mothers is available.
Located at the roadside station premises
Viewing Facility
A viewing facility is available for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Located at the roadside station premises
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences such as fruit picking, BBQ, and seasonal festivals in Imari.
Fruit Picking Experience
フルーツ収穫体験
Participants can pick various fruits such as pears, grapes, peaches, plums, kiwis, strawberries, and tangerines depending on the season.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor activity; check weather conditions before participation.
Grass Park and Playground
芝公園（遊具等設置）
Enjoy open space for relaxation, play, and family activities with playground equipment and green space.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor facility; may be restricted during heavy rain or extreme weather.
Viewing Platform
展望施設
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from an elevated observation platform.
Duration
30 min
Best viewed on clear days; avoid during rain or fog.
Outdoor BBQ (Yakiniku Man)
屋外BBQ「焼肉マン」
Grill your own meat and enjoy a barbecue experience using provided grills and facilities.
Duration
90 min
Weather-dependent; not available during rain or high winds.
Local Events and Festivals
周辺のイベント情報
Participate in seasonal festivals such as the Doccchan Festival, Pear and Grape Festival, Summer Festival, Iimari Autumn Festival, and Iimari Bay Fireworks.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor events; may be canceled or postponed due to weather.
Insider Tips
Visit during fruit season for harvest fun, and use the free Wi-Fi to explore local events and routes.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure fresh-baked milk bread from the 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 specialty shop, look for the limited-edition Imari-grown kiwi jam, available only during the kiwi harvest season (mid-July to early September)
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the grape pavilion area between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to experience the free grape tasting event hosted by local farmers during the grape festival (early August)
- Best Photo Spot: Head to the elevated viewpoint at the southeast corner of the facility, accessible via the stairs beside the information corner, for the best panoramic view of the surrounding orchards and the Imari City skyline
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Connect to the "ImariMichi" network at the information corner or near the café seating area to access real-time event updates and road condition alerts displayed on the digital signage
- Food Truck Tip: Check the digital signage near the parking lot every Friday and Saturday evening between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, as the rotating food truck serving Imari beef curry and local fruit smoothies operates only on those nights
- Family-Friendly Activity: Bring children to the grassy playground near the grape pavilion, where the shaded area features a permanent interactive map of Imari’s famous pottery kilns and a QR code that links to a short audio guide in English
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit during the 5th month's final Sunday for the Doccchan Festival, featuring local crafts and food.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for the July–August grape and pear festivals, with fresh fruit picking and summer events.
Autumn (September-November): Enjoy the October Ikoma Autumn Festival and November's Imari Bay Fireworks.
Winter (December-February): Experience the December Agricultural Festival and seasonal produce at the roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features a dedicated playground with equipment, stroller-friendly paths, and a spacious grassy park. Offers child-friendly food options and interactive experiences like fruit picking. The information center and free Wi-Fi enhance accessibility for families.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local specialties including伊万里牛 (Imari beef) and seasonal fruits like pear and grape. Features a well-stocked market with fresh produce and unique items such as Imari beef mentaiko and fruit-based snacks. The food experience is enhanced by on-site dining and takeout options.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and a parking area suitable for overnight stays. The site is relatively quiet during off-peak hours and offers free Wi-Fi. However, it lacks designated camping facilities and has no explicit overnight parking policy.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views from the elevated observation deck with scenic countryside and seasonal landscapes. The surrounding natural beauty is enhanced by fruit orchards and proximity to cultural sites. The atmosphere is peaceful and aesthetically pleasing, ideal for photography.