Savor the Citrus and Seafood Bounty of Kainan Sakuasu
Nestled in the heart of Wakayama Prefecture’s citrus capital, Kainan Sakuasu is a roadside station where the sweet scent of mandarins mingles with the briny freshness of the sea. Surrounded by rolling orchards and just minutes from five bustling fishing ports, this vibrant hub celebrates the best of local agriculture and ocean harvests. From sun-ripened mandarins to daily catches of tuna, mackerel, and seasonal sea bream, every bite tells a story of place and passion.
Visitors enjoy more than just fresh produce and seafood—they can witness live tuna auctions, sample handmade mandarin desserts at SHIMOTSU FRUITS, or join seasonal events like the Christmas Market and Autumn Festival. With family-friendly facilities, cozy eateries, and a charming wooden deck, Kainan Sakuasu offers a true taste of rural Japan, where nature, community, and culinary delight come together.
Why Visit
Kainan Sakuasu stands out as the only roadside station in Japan where you can savor freshly caught mackerel, tuna, and bonito—species prized in the region—directly from the five local fishing ports of Nanki. Its signature event, the daily tuna deboning show, offers a rare, live demonstration of traditional fishing expertise, followed by immediate purchase of premium cuts. Equally unique is its seasonal citrus-focused café, SHIMOTSU FRUITS, which serves a limited-edition mikan granita made with 2.5 locally grown mandarins and Blackizawa Farm’s rich, creamy soft-serve—available only during the winter harvest.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and seasonal fruits at Kainan Sakuasu roadside station, where local flavors come alive in every bite.
Shimotsu Fruits
シモツフルーツ
Specialty
Seasonal fruit-based desserts and drinks
A fruit parlor specializing in homemade sweets and drinks made from the seasonal fruits of Wakayama's fruit kingdom, including fresh citrus, strawberries, kiwi, figs, and peaches. Features rich, creamy soft-serve ice cream made from local black sawa farm milk.
Uomori Food Court
魚盛水産フードコート
Specialty
Fresh fish and seafood from local fishermen
A food court offering freshly caught fish and seafood directly from five local fishing ports in Kainan City. Features a variety of grilled, raw, and prepared seafood dishes.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional specialties at Kainan Sakuasu roadside station, a treasure trove of authentic goods.
Farmers Market
産直マルシェ
A direct-from-farm market featuring seasonal fruits, vegetables, honey, milk, local sake, and traditional crafts such as washi and shikki.
Products
Must-Try Item
Citrus fruits
Seafood Market
魚盛水産鮮魚コーナー
A fresh fish counter offering direct deliveries from five local fishing ports in Kainan City, including seasonal fish such as mackerel, yellowtail, sea bream, and shrimp.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tuna
Pottery Market
陶器市
A seasonal pottery market featuring handcrafted ceramics from renowned kilns including Hasami-yaki, Mino-yaki, and Tanegashima-yaki.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted Hasami-yaki lunch plate
Featured Products
Explore signature products like citrus fruits, fresh fish, and handmade items, all reflecting the rich heritage of Kainan Sakuasu.
Dried Mandarin Orange
みかんのドライフルーツ
Sun-dried mandarin oranges coated in chocolate, offering a sweet and tangy snack perfect for gifting or enjoying on the go.
Smoked Egg
燻製たまご
A delicately smoked egg with a rich, savory flavor and smooth texture, popular as a snack or ingredient.
Christmas Tree Craft Kit
クリスマスツリー作りキット
A DIY craft kit allowing guests to create their own mini Christmas tree using a variety of festive decorations.
Bamboo Broom
ほうき
A traditional handmade bamboo broom crafted in Kainan City, ideal for household use or as a cultural gift.
Nara Lacquerware
紀州漆器
Handcrafted lacquerware from Wakayama Prefecture, known for its durability and elegant finish.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy family-friendly amenities at Kainan Sakuasu roadside station, including baby care rooms and spacious play areas.
Parking Lot
Provides parking for 127 regular vehicles, 20 large vehicles, 1 EV fast charger, and 4 disabled-accessible parking spaces.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
Available for public use, including facilities for children and people with disabilities.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless internet access available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Provides visitor information, maps, event details, and assistance with local attractions and services.
Main entrance area
Play Area
A grassy playground with a wooden deck and slide, designed for children to enjoy safely.
Outdoor play area near the main entrance
Nursing Room
Private room equipped with a changing table and comfortable seating for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants.
Inside the roadside station
EV Charging Station
One fast-charging station available for electric vehicles.
Parking area
ATM
Cash withdrawal machine available for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance
Pet Area
Designated space for pets, allowing visitors to walk their animals safely within the premises.
Outdoor area near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops and seasonal events at Kainan Sakuasu roadside station, from fish deboning shows to holiday crafts.
Tuna Deboning Show
マグロの解体ショー
Witness the live deboning of fresh tuna, followed by the opportunity to purchase the fish. The event is scheduled around 12:00 PM and may be subject to change.
Duration
60 min
Christmas Tree Decoration Workshop
クリスマスツリーを一緒に飾りつけ
Create your own personalized Christmas tree by selecting from a variety of decorations. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with family or friends.
Duration
60 min
Pottery Market
産地直送陶器市
Explore a wide selection of pottery from across Japan, including Hasami-yaki, Mino-yaki, and Tanegashima-yaki. Enjoy tastings of smoked eggs and live tuna deboning demonstrations.
Duration
180 min
Autumn Festival Market
Autumn Festival シャングリラ
Join a seasonal market featuring food trucks, handmade accessories, and workshops such as bath bombs and aromatherapy. Enjoy live performances by a cheerleading team.
Duration
180 min
Rainy days permitted, but canceled in case of severe weather
Christmas Market
Christmas シャングリラ
Experience a festive holiday market with food trucks, handmade accessories, and workshops such as bath bombs and candles. Enjoy live performances by a cheerleading team.
Duration
180 min
Rainy days permitted, but canceled in case of severe weather
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal events and peak harvest times to experience the best of Kainan Sakuasu roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM on weekdays to catch the daily tuna deboning show, which is typically scheduled around 12:00 PM and often draws crowds immediately after.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the SHIMOTSU FRUITS café between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to secure the seasonal citrus grand parfaits, which are only available during peak citrus season and often sell out by noon.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 10:00 AM to join the ceramic market event held from November 21–26, where you can try smoked eggs from Kun-tama Prince and browse handcrafted pottery from wave-sourced kilns like Hasami-yaki and Mino-yaki.
- Foodie Tip: Order the special matcha soft serve at SHIMOTSU FRUITS before 1:00 PM, as it is made fresh daily using Uji matcha and is frequently sold out by early afternoon.
- Family-Friendly Perk: Use the dedicated children’s restroom and baby changing area located near the wooden deck and slide play area, which is ideal for families with toddlers during peak visiting hours.
- Seasonal Planning: Reserve your New Year’s sushi or sashimi platter at Fish Sō Suisan by November 20, as reservations close on December 25 and the limited quantities sell out quickly.
- Event Planning: Book the indoor workshop for making Christmas trees at 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM by calling 073-492-1093 in advance, as each session has a strict cap of 20 participants and fills rapidly.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh citrus fruits begin ripening in late March, with peak harvest from April to May.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn Festival Market runs on November 9, featuring seasonal foods, crafts, and performances.
Winter (December-February): Christmas Market (December 7) and New Year preparations include special cakes, sushi sets, and holiday-themed workshops.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a dedicated play area with a wooden deck and slide, stroller-friendly paths, and ample family facilities including nursing rooms, changing tables, and child-friendly restrooms. Activities like fish auctions and seasonal events engage children.
Food Lover Review
Features a diverse selection of local seafood, seasonal fruits, and artisanal products. The fresh fish market and fruit-based café offer unique regional specialties like citrus parfait and grilled fish. High-quality ingredients and seasonal menus enhance the experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking for 127 regular cars and 20 large vehicles. While not designated for overnight stays, the site is quiet and accessible. No explicit overnight policy is mentioned.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by citrus orchards offering scenic views year-round. Seasonal beauty is enhanced by vibrant fruit harvests and events like Christmas and autumn markets. Well-maintained grounds and clear sightlines create a pleasant, inviting atmosphere.