Discover the Heart of Saga’s Rural Heritage at Kamimune
Nestled along the historic National Route 34, Kamimune stands as one of Saga Prefecture’s largest and most vibrant roadside stations, strategically located in the bustling heart of Kaze-machi, the central district of Kamimune Town. More than a pit stop, it serves as a dynamic cultural and agricultural hub, where the legacy of the ancient Kyushu trade route meets modern local innovation.
Kamimune shines with a diverse array of offerings, from fresh produce harvested from the fertile fields of Chikugo Plain and the waters of Ariake Sea, to regional specialties like the famed ebi fry and the popular New SUN soft serve. With a bustling food court, local craft stalls, and a dedicated space for developing new agricultural products, it’s a destination where visitors can taste, shop, and connect with the spirit of the region. Whether exploring the surrounding historical sites or enjoying a quiet moment in the rest area, Kamimune offers a rich, authentic experience of rural Japan.
Why Visit
Visit Kamimune roadside station to discover the region’s only artisanal soft cream made with milk from Jersey cows, exclusively crafted on-site. This unique treat, known as "New SUN," is a must-try for visitors seeking a taste of local innovation. Additionally, sample the signature shrimp fry—a local favorite made with fresh catch from the Ariake Sea—served at the station’s original food stall, a specialty you won’t find anywhere else in the area.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Kamimune roadside station, where diverse eateries serve regional specialties and comforting meals.
EBI研究所
EBI研究所
Specialty
Famous for its shrimp-based products and local specialties
A casual food stall offering a variety of shrimp-themed snacks and quick meals, perfect for a light bite while exploring the area.
Mitsuse Chicken Shop
みつせ鶏本舗
Specialty
Specializing in local chicken dishes and light meals
A cozy café offering a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on locally sourced chicken, served in a variety of comforting dishes.
Ukaya Taste
味膳 古雅味
Specialty
Authentic Japanese cuisine with regional influences
A traditional Japanese restaurant offering a refined dining experience with seasonal ingredients and a serene atmosphere.
Kikuuya
喜久屋
Specialty
Local sweets and tea-based treats
A charming café specializing in traditional Japanese sweets and light refreshments, ideal for a peaceful break.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a variety of local goods and seasonal treats at Kamimune, perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Farmers Market
産直
A direct farm-to-table market offering fresh local produce, including vegetables, fruits, and seasonal goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested vegetables from the region
New SUN Specialty Store
新SUNテナント
A general retail shop offering a variety of local products, snacks, and souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
New SUN Soft Cream
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品・おみやげ
A specialty shop selling handmade crafts, traditional souvenirs, and regional art.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted pottery from the region
Featured Products
Explore signature items like Kamimune’s famous shrimp fritters and the popular New SUN soft cream, crafted from local ingredients.
New SUN Soft Cream
新SUNのソフトクリーム
A popular local soft cream made with fresh ingredients and a unique regional flavor.
Shrimp Fry Bento
えびフライ弁当
A ready-to-eat bento box featuring crispy fried shrimp, rice, and traditional side dishes.
Aida Botamochi
綾部のぼたもち
A traditional Japanese rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste, made using local recipes.
Local Vegetable Set
地元野菜セット
A curated selection of fresh, locally grown vegetables harvested from nearby farms.
Handcrafted Pottery
手作り陶器
Artisan-made pottery crafted using traditional techniques from the region.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including free Wi-Fi, EV charging, accessible restrooms, and a relaxed rest area.
Parking
149 parking spaces available free of charge, open 24 hours.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
41 toilets available, including barrier-free toilets and ostomy-friendly facilities, as well as kids' toilets.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Operates from 9:00 to 18:00, providing road information, nearby roadside station details, tourism information, and local history through maps, monitors, and flyers.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
A park area is available for visitors to enjoy.
Outside the roadside station
EV Charging Station
An EV fast charging facility is planned for installation.
Adjacent to the roadside station
ATM
An ATM is available for visitor use.
Inside the roadside station
Nursing Room
A baby care room is available for parents with infants.
Inside the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and check the information corner for real-time updates on local events and road conditions.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the limited daily batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery stall, which sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the back entrance to find the exclusive "Kamimune Special" rice crackers made with locally grown short-grain rice and sold only at this roadside station
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, stop by the "New SUN Tenants" food area between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample the limited-time seasonal soft serve made with local honey and wildflower syrup
- Information Corner Tip: Use the information corner between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM to get the most up-to-date route map for the nearby Yoshinogari Historical Park, as maps are refreshed daily at 9:00 AM
- Best Product to Buy: Purchase the "SUN-Style" pickled vegetables at the produce counter before 1:00 PM—these are prepared daily using ingredients from the local farm and are only available until the end of the day
- Parking Advantage: Park in the far left section of the 149-space lot (near the EV charging station) to access the direct entrance to the 2nd-floor product development area, which opens at 10:00 AM and features new limited-edition snacks
- Off-Peak Dining: Eat at the in-house restaurant between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to enjoy the "Farm-to-Table Lunch Special" with seasonal ingredients, which is only served during this window and not advertised on menus
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available in early spring, with canola flowers blooming at peak in late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the summer events at nearby Yoshinogari Historical Park from July 12 to August 31.
Autumn (September–November): The annual Yoshinogari Dream Romance Light Truck Market takes place in September.
Winter (December–February): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned; visit for quiet shopping and local crafts.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a kids' toilet, stroller-friendly layout, and multiple dining options with child-friendly meals. Includes a play area and interactive elements like local history displays, enhancing engagement for families.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of high-quality local restaurants, fresh produce from the direct sales market, and unique regional specialties like Ebi Fry and New SUN soft cream. Offers a rich culinary experience with diverse food options.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample free parking, restrooms, and vending machines. While not designated for camping, the 24-hour access and quiet location allow for comfortable overnight stays with basic facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the spine mountain range and fertile plains, offering scenic views of natural landscapes. Features attractive photo spots and seasonal beauty, with a pleasant, inviting atmosphere throughout the year.