Discover the Flavors of White Stone Town
Nestled in the heart of Shiroishi, this roadside station is a vibrant celebration of local agriculture and community spirit. Located in Saga Prefecture’s lush countryside, it serves as a gateway to the region’s bountiful harvests and seasonal treasures. From crisp autumn greens to earthy lotus root and sweet corn, every product reflects the rhythm of the land and the dedication of local farmers.
What sets Shiroishi roadside station apart is its dynamic blend of fresh produce, seasonal events, and warm hospitality. Visitors can savor regional delicacies like lotus root dumplings at the on-site café, shop for unique farm-fresh goods, or enjoy panoramic views from the 360° rooftop café. With rotating seasonal offerings and community events like the autumn harvest festival, each visit offers something new—making Shiroishi not just a stop, but a destination in itself.
Why Visit
Visit Shiroishi roadside station to experience the region’s only authentic lotus root meat bun, a local specialty crafted from Shiroishi’s famed fresh lotus root and handmade in collaboration with nearby vendors. The station also features seasonal harvest festivals where visitors can taste and buy unique local produce like sweet red onions, crisp white radishes, and fresh corn—many of which are available only during specific times of year.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor seasonal flavors at Shiroishi roadside station, where local specialties meet fresh, farm-to-table cuisine.
Tannaka Cafe 360°
たんなかcafe360°
Specialty
Seasonal dishes made with local ingredients
A cozy cafe located on the second floor offering light meals and seasonal dishes crafted from fresh produce sourced from Shiroishi Town. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for relaxing with a view of the surrounding countryside.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a vibrant selection of seasonal produce and regional goods at Shiroishi roadside station.
Monogomongo Market
もんごもんご市場
A local market offering fresh vegetables, fruits, and seasonal produce directly from Shiroishi Town farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Lotus Root
Featured Products
Explore signature items like lotus root, rice, and fresh vegetables, proudly from Shiroishi town.
Lotus Root
レンコン
Fresh lotus root harvested from Shiroishi Town, known for its crisp texture and mild flavor. Ideal for cooking in stews, tempura, or as a crunchy snack.
Rice
米
High-quality rice grown in Shiroishi Town, known for its soft texture and rich flavor. Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Ichiko
いちこ
A local specialty snack made from rice flour and sweet bean paste, known for its soft texture and traditional taste.
Corn
とうもろこし
Freshly harvested corn from Shiroishi Town, sweet and juicy with a rich, natural flavor. Great for grilling or eating raw.
Onion
玉ねぎ
Locally grown onions with a sweet and mild flavor, perfect for soups, stews, and stir-fries.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, and family-friendly spaces at Shiroishi roadside station.
Parking Lot
Two parking areas are available: First Parking Lot with 105 spaces (including 5 disabled spots, 1 EV charging spot, and 11 large vehicle spots), and Second Parking Lot with 120 spaces (including 4 disabled spots). Both are available 24 hours.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Outdoor Toilet
Male and female toilets are available. There are two multi-purpose toilets (unisex). Additionally, there is one ostomy toilet for each gender located at the back.
Outside the main building
Information Center
The roadside station provides information about local products, events, and services. The center is open during business hours.
Main building
Lactation Room
A private room for nursing mothers, available during business hours.
Inside the main building
Kids Space
A designated area for children with play facilities, available during business hours.
Inside the main building
EV Charging Station
One dedicated EV charging spot is available in the First Parking Lot.
First Parking Lot
Insider Tips
Visit early for the best selection and check seasonal updates for limited-time offerings at Shiroishi roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the freshest selection of seasonal vegetables, as inventory increases throughout the morning and popular items like leafy greens and turnips are often restocked early.
- Hidden Gems: Look for the renkon nikuman (lotus root meat bun) at the deli counter—this limited-time seasonal item is only available when the station’s food truck or special event (like the recent balloon festival) is in session, and it sells out quickly.
- Seasonal Product Tip: Purchase fresh lotus root (renkon) and turnips in November, as these are highlighted in the station’s seasonal updates and are among the first root vegetables to become available after summer harvests end.
- Weekend Special: Attend the monthly Shiroishi Harvest Festival (scheduled for late October and early November) to access exclusive local produce and special tasting events not available on regular days.
- Restaurant Timing: Check the 2nd floor restaurant, Tannaka Cafe 360°, for its limited weekday openings—especially avoid visiting on the third Wednesday of each month, as it is a regular closure day.
- Product Availability Alert: Buy the seasonal Ichiko (a local sweet potato variety) in October and November, as it is only available during these months and is not restocked after the harvest season ends.
- Best Shopping Window: Visit the second-floor market counter during the morning hours (before 11:00 AM) to get the full selection of regional specialties like rice, corn, and onions, as these items are often sold out by midday.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots appear in early spring, and local markets feature seasonal vegetables like radishes and onions.
Summer (June-August): Summer harvest includes fresh corn and lotus root, with the roadside station offering seasonal treats like lotus root dumplings.
Autumn (September-November): Peak harvest season for leafy vegetables and oysters, with the annual autumn harvest festival held in October.
Winter (December-February): Ideal for enjoying warm dishes like hot pots and stews, with winter vegetables and preserved foods available.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Shiroishi roadside station offers a dedicated kids' space and a nursing room, making it suitable for families. Stroller access is easy, and the variety of local foods includes kid-friendly options like lotus root dumplings. Educational elements are present through seasonal produce and local farming displays.
Food Lover Review
The station features a diverse selection of local specialties such as lotus root, sweet corn, onions, and rice. The second-floor cafe, tannaka cafe360°, offers seasonal dishes using regional ingredients. Fresh produce is abundant, and unique items like lotus root dumplings enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Shiroishi roadside station provides ample 24-hour parking with designated spaces for disabled and EV users. Restrooms are available 24 hours, and vending machines are accessible. However, the site lacks quiet zones and dedicated camping facilities, limiting comfort for overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a rural area of Shiroishi, the station offers scenic views of surrounding farmland and seasonal landscapes. The surrounding natural environment enhances the aesthetic appeal, and photo opportunities are available near fields and seasonal displays. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting.