Discover the Heartbeat of Japan’s Largest Tidal Flats
Nestled along National Route 207 in Kashima, Saga Prefecture, this roadside station offers a rare gateway to one of Japan’s most extraordinary natural wonders—the tidal flats of Ariake Sea, where the world’s greatest tidal range meets vibrant coastal life. More than a rest stop, Kashima is a vibrant cultural and ecological hub, celebrated as the home of the legendary Kashima Gatalympic, an annual festival that transforms the mudflats into a stage for quirky, unforgettable competitions.
Visitors can explore the unique wetlands through guided dry-season experiences, savor freshly grilled oysters at the seasonal kaki-yaki stand, or relax at the panoramic viewing deck overlooking the vast sea. With a local market offering seasonal produce, traditional snacks like citrus soft serve, and artisanal sea products like Tanajibu sea cucumber, every visit is a taste of the region’s rich heritage. Whether you're hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the sunrise over the sea, Kashima offers a deeply authentic encounter with nature and community.
Why Visit
Visit Kashima roadside station to experience the only dry dock festival in Japan—the annual Kashima Gatalympic—where unique sand-based competitions transform the vast Ariake Sea mudflats into a lively arena. Here, you can also taste the region’s signature oyster grills, made with ozone-purified shellfish, and try the rare citrus soft serve crafted from local mandarins. With direct access to tidal flats for hands-on exploration and the only mudflat viewing platform in the area, Kashima offers an unparalleled connection to nature’s raw beauty.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Kashima roadside station, where seaside seafood and seasonal specialties take center stage.
Kakiyaki House
かき焼き小屋
Specialty
Fresh oysters grilled over charcoal
A seasonal food stall offering grilled oysters during the winter months, known for its high-quality, sterilized oysters using an ozone generator. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for enjoying the coastal charm of the area.
Udon Corner
うどんコーナー
Specialty
Local-style udon served with seasonal ingredients
A dedicated udon counter offering handmade udon with a light, savory broth and fresh local toppings. The setting is simple and inviting, ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.
BBQ Area
ＢＢＱ
Specialty
Outdoor grilling with local ingredients
An open-air BBQ area available seasonally, offering guests the chance to grill fresh seafood and local produce. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, with a strong emphasis on outdoor enjoyment.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional goods and farm-fresh produce at Kashima's vibrant roadside station market.
Chinai Market
千菜市
A local produce market offering fresh seasonal vegetables, seafood, and regional specialty products from the Ariake Sea.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mikan Soft Cream
Tana Jibu Fishing Experience
棚ジブ漁
A traditional fishing experience where visitors can participate in the unique 'Tana Jibu' method of fishing, using nets from elevated huts over the sea.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tana Jibu Fishing Session
Featured Products
Sample signature treats like grilled oysters and citrus-infused snacks, crafted from the bounty of the Ariake Sea.
Mikan Soft Cream
みかんソフトクリーム
A popular soft cream made with fresh mandarin oranges, combining sweet citrus flavor with creamy texture. Loved by visitors of all ages.
Nori Tsuma
海苔ツマ
A unique snack made from excess nori seaweed, developed in collaboration with women from a local fishing village. Available in four flavors: Yuzu Pepper, Soy Sauce, Shipporemon, and Moist Nori (Yuzu Pepper). Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ariake Sea Salt
有明海の塩
Hand-harvested sea salt from the Ariake Sea, known for its clean, mineral-rich flavor and natural production process.
Kashima Gatalympic Souvenir Kit
鹿島ガタリンピック記念品セット
A commemorative gift set featuring themed merchandise from the famous Kashima Gatalympic event, including badges, postcards, and a small guidebook.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest stops, clean restrooms, and scenic views at Kashima roadside station.
Parking
Available at the roadside station, suitable for visitors arriving by car.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Public toilets are available for visitors. Additional accessible toilets are also provided.
Throughout the facility, including near the information center and dry dock viewing area
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in the facility, including in the information corner and dry dock viewing area.
Inside the dry dock viewing area and information corner
Information Center
Provides route information, local tourism and accommodation details, medical information, and contact details for nearby medical facilities. Staff are available to assist.
Inside the dry dock viewing area
Dry Dock Experience Zone
A hands-on area where visitors can experience the unique tidal flats of Ariake Sea. Activities include mini-Gatalympics and educational programs. Open from mid-April to October.
Adjacent to the dry dock viewing area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Near the parking area
ATM
ATM available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the shop and information center
Nursing Room
A private room for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants, located within the facility.
Near the rest area and information center
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences like tidal flat exploration and seasonal events at Kashima.
Mudflat Experience
干潟体験
Participants will explore the tidal flats of Ariake Sea, engaging in activities similar to those featured in the Kashima Gatalympic, such as traditional mudflat games and learning about the unique ecosystem. The experience is suitable for small groups to up to 300 people.
Duration
120 min
Access depends on tide levels; activities are only available during low tide
Mini Gatalympic
ミニガタリンピック
A scaled-down version of the famous Kashima Gatalympic, featuring unique mudflat sports and games such as mud wrestling and shell collecting. Designed for educational and recreational purposes, especially popular with school groups.
Duration
90 min
Conducted during low tide; weather may affect availability
Oyster Roasting
かき焼き
Enjoy freshly roasted oysters cooked over charcoal. The oysters are sanitized using an ozone generator for safety and taste. A seasonal favorite served with traditional accompaniments.
Duration
30 min
Available only during the winter season
Tana-Jibu Fishing
棚ジブ漁
Participate in a traditional fishing method unique to Ariake Sea, where fishermen use hand nets from elevated huts to catch small fish. A hands-on cultural experience with guided instruction.
Duration
60 min
Only available during low tide; weather may affect access
Sunrise Viewing at Ariake Sea
有明海から登る日の出
Watch the sunrise over Ariake Sea from a scenic viewpoint. This peaceful experience offers breathtaking views of the sea and sky, ideal for photography and reflection.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed on clear mornings
Gatalympic Festival
鹿島ガタリンピック
A major annual event held in early summer, featuring unique mudflat sports and competitions. Attracts participants and spectators from across Japan and beyond, celebrating the culture and natural environment of the tidal flats.
Duration
480 min
Weather-dependent; may be rescheduled if conditions are poor
Mudflat Viewing Pavilion
干潟展望館
Enjoy panoramic views of the Ariake Sea tidal flats from an elevated observation deck. Learn about the ecosystem and seasonal changes through informational displays.
Duration
30 min
Best viewed during low tide
Mudflat Exchange Center
干潟交流館
Explore a small aquarium and interactive exhibits about the marine life of Ariake Sea. Learn about the ecological importance of the tidal flats and participate in educational programs.
Duration
45 min
Indoor facility; unaffected by weather
Camping and Outdoor Activities
七浦海浜スポーツ公園
Access to sports facilities including a gymnasium and swimming pool. Ideal for families and groups seeking outdoor recreation and physical activities.
Duration
180 min
Indoor facilities available regardless of weather
BBQ Area
ＢＢＱ
Use the designated BBQ area for outdoor cooking. Requires advance reservation. Available during spring and summer months.
Duration
120 min
Weather-dependent; may be canceled in rain or strong wind
Citrus Soft Serve
みかんソフトクリーム
Taste a refreshing citrus-flavored soft serve made with local mandarins. A popular treat enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
Duration
15 min
Available indoors; no weather dependency
Insider Tips
Plan visits around tidal schedules and book popular activities like oyster grilling in advance.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a spot at the dry dock experience zone, as it opens at 9:00 AM and often fills up by noon during peak season
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "Nanaumi" dry dock exhibition hall between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to view the live tide simulation display and ask staff about the current dry dock conditions
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the "Kaki Yaki" stand at 11:00 AM to try the first batch of grilled oysters, which are freshly cooked daily using an ozone sterilization system
- Actionable Experience: Book the "Tana Jibu" fishing experience in advance by calling 0954-60-5040, as it is available year-round but only during high tide hours and requires full reservation
- Food Tip: Purchase the "Mikan Soft Cream" at the "Chinai Market" before 1:00 PM, as it sells out quickly and is only available until 4:00 PM
- Best View Time: Head to the dry dock observation deck between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to witness the sunset over the Ariake Sea, especially when the tide is receding
- Seasonal Insight: Visit the "Chinai Market" in November to try the new "Yuzu Koshō" and "Soy Sauce Aji" flavor seaweed snacks, which are only available during the oyster season and sold exclusively at the roadside station
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Peak season for canola flower viewing (late March–April) and fresh bamboo shoots at the market.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for BBQ (3月下旬–10月中旬) and dry season dryland activities.
Autumn (September-November): Best for the Kaki Festival (early November) and dryland exploration.
Winter (December-February): Prime time for hot oyster grills (11月中旬–3月中旬) and sunrise viewing.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a dedicated dryland experience zone, interactive exhibits at the tidal flat交流馆, and a children's play area. It offers family activities like mini-gatalympics and seasonal events, with stroller access and baby facilities. Educational value is strong through nature engagement.
Food Lover Review
The roadside station offers diverse dining options including fresh oyster grills, local udon, and seasonal specialties like mandarin soft serve. The 'Chinai-shi' market features high-quality regional produce and artisanal products like yuzu-hokkaido seaweed snacks, enhancing the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
While there is parking, restrooms, and a shower, no designated overnight camping area or overnight parking policy is available. The site lacks dedicated camp facilities, though quiet hours during daytime activities support short stays. No overnight access is confirmed.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station offers sweeping views of the Ariake Sea and tidal flats with seasonal beauty, especially during sunrise. Scenic viewpoints at the tidal flat observatory provide excellent photo opportunities. The natural landscape and open coastal setting create a serene, visually appealing atmosphere.