Station Iwaki

Discover the Heart of Kyuragi’s Natural and Culinary Heritage

Nestled along National Route 203, Iwaki roadside station lies at the scenic crossroads between Saga City and Karatsu City, where rolling green hills meet quiet farmland. More than a mere rest stop, this roadside station blends nature, culture, and community, offering travelers a refreshing pause in the rhythm of the journey. The station’s design, inspired by the wind, features a serene rest area and a local market that celebrates the region’s agricultural roots.

Visitors are drawn to its authentic charm, especially the beloved Sakuyo-hime Dango—a traditional sweet made from locally grown red beans, crafted by local women with care and no additives. Other regional specialties like yomogi mochi, Ishigaki manju, and homemade miso highlight the area’s deep connection to seasonal ingredients and time-honored recipes. With helpful information desks, nearby attractions like Kyuragi Dam and Shishi Castle Ruins, and a vibrant autumn festival, Iwaki is a true gateway to the soul of the region.

Visit Iwaki roadside station to savor the region’s only authentic Saya-hime Dango, made with locally grown azuki beans by women from nearby farms using traditional methods. This heirloom sweet, free from additives, captures the essence of the area’s agricultural heritage. Nearby, the rustic Kaze no Furusato Kan offers seasonal specialties like yomogi mochi and stone wall manju, crafted with ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding countryside.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:00–9:30 AM to catch the fresh batch of Kuyura giyō dango (Sakuyama Hime Dango) at the wind-themed craft market, as they are made daily by local housewives and often sell out by noon.

• Hidden Gems: Check the counter near the wind-themed rest area for Yomogi mochi (mugwort rice cakes) and Ishigaki manju (stone wall steamed buns), both made with locally sourced ingredients and available only during the day’s opening hours.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the wind-themed craft market between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to see live demonstrations of traditional kamaboko (fish cake) making by local artisans, which are occasionally available for purchase.

• Best Time for Road Info: Go to the information plaza between 8:30–9:00 AM to pick up the latest route maps and flyers for nearby Michi no Eki (roadside stations), as these are replenished early in the morning and updated weekly.

• Must-Try Food: Order the Kuyura giyō udon (Sakuyama Hime udon) at the wind-themed restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, as this is the only time the dish is served and it features local ingredients like fresh soy sauce and seasonal vegetables.

• Parking Tip: Use the large parking lot on the east side of the station when visiting during peak hours, as the west-side lot fills quickly and is often reserved for overnight visitors.

• Nearby Attraction Access: Use the station’s roadside information flyer to locate the Kuyura Onsen Sakyoyama Onsen (Sakuyama Hime Hot Spring) — it’s only a 2-minute drive from the station, and the flyer includes a direct route map to avoid getting lost on local roads.

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features the annual Wind of the Homeland Festival, celebrating local culture and seasonal produce like fresh bamboo shoots.

Summer (June–August): July and August offer access to nearby Kyuragi Dam and cool mountain air, ideal for escaping summer heat.

Autumn (September–November): Late November hosts the Wind of the Homeland Festival, showcasing regional crafts and seasonal foods.

Winter (December–February): December brings festive atmosphere with local specialties like yomogi mochi, while January offers quiet visits before the New Year.