Discover the Serenity of Japan’s Hidden Mediterranean
Nestled along the sun-kissed coast of Wakayama Prefecture, Shirasaki Kaiyō Kōen stands as a jewel of natural beauty and local charm. Surrounded by striking white limestone cliffs and overlooking the sparkling waters of the Kii Channel, this roadside station offers breathtaking views that have earned it a place among Japan’s "100 Best Sunsets" and "100 Best Beaches." Visitors can stroll the scenic trails, relax at the open-air rest area, or simply marvel at the panoramic vistas from the elevated lookout.
Beyond its stunning scenery, Shirasaki Kaiyō Kōen is a gateway to authentic regional flavors. Enjoy fresh local produce, zesty mikan oranges, and signature dishes like silverside rice bowls, akamoku seaweed bowls, and spicy shrimp burgers. With a fully equipped campsite and free Wi-Fi, it’s the perfect base for exploring nearby attractions such as the ancient Totsu-i Cave. At night, the lack of light pollution reveals a dazzling sky of stars—truly a slice of Japan’s “Aegean Sea.”
Why Visit
Visit Shirasaki Kaiyō Kōen roadside station to experience the rare sight of Japan’s only "Egean Sea"-like landscape, where towering white limestone cliffs meet the turquoise waters of the Kii Channel—perfectly framed from the on-site lookout. Here, taste the region’s signature dishes: a rich, creamy Shirasaki Soft Cream made with local milk, and the unique Akamoku Don, a vibrant seaweed bowl prized for its health benefits and locally sourced ingredients.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor coastal flavors at Shirasaki Kaiyō Kōen roadside station, where fresh local ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Shirasaki Seafood Bowl
あかもく丼
Specialty
Fresh local seaweed rice bowl with health benefits
A specialty dish featuring locally sourced, fresh seaweed known for its beauty-enhancing properties, served in a traditional rice bowl format.
Shirasaki Shirasu Bowl
しらす丼
Specialty
Freshly caught shirasu (small anchovies) served over rice
A light and refreshing rice bowl featuring freshly caught shirasu, a local delicacy from the Kii Channel, known for its delicate flavor and texture.
Shirasaki Shrimp Cutlet Burger
えびカツバーガー
Specialty
Crispy shrimp cutlet burger with fresh ingredients
A savory and crispy burger featuring a locally prepared shrimp cutlet, served with fresh vegetables and a house-made sauce.
Shirasaki Soft Cream
白崎ソフトクリーム
Specialty
Local-style soft ice cream with unique flavor
A creamy and refreshing soft ice cream made with local ingredients, offering a sweet treat with a regional twist.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local treasures and seasonal produce at the roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Local Produce and Tangerines Store
地元の野菜やみかん等を販売
A retail space offering fresh local vegetables and tangerines from the region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local tangerines
Light Meal Counter
軽食
A small counter offering light snacks and refreshments for visitors.
Products
Must-Try Item
Shirasaki Shrimp Cutlet Burger
Featured Products
Sample signature items like silvery shirasu rice bowls and nutrient-rich akamoku, crafted from the region’s pristine waters.
Shirasaki Shirasu Seasoning
しらすの佃煮
A traditional preserved dish made from shirasu, ideal for rice or as a side dish.
Shirasaki Seaweed Snack
あかもくスナック
Crunchy dried seaweed snack made from locally harvested aka-moku, rich in nutrients.
Shirasaki Tangerine Marmalade
みかんマーマレード
A sweet and tangy marmalade made from fresh local tangerines, perfect for toast or desserts.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including free Wi-Fi, accessible restrooms, and shaded rest areas.
Parking Lot
87 parking spaces (84 small vehicles, 3 large vehicles). The parking lot is available 24 hours a day. Note: Tourist buses can use 4 designated spaces (please contact in advance). Access to the second parking lot (viewpoint) is not possible by tourist bus.
At the roadside station
Toilets
23 toilets (9 urinals and 5 toilets for men, 9 toilets for women). Outdoor toilets are available 24 hours a day.
Throughout the facility
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Provides road information, tourism information, and other services. Open from 8:30 to 17:15.
At the roadside station
Free Rest Area
Free rest area open from 8:30 to 17:15.
At the roadside station
Local Products Store
Sells local vegetables, mandarins, and other regional specialties.
At the roadside station
Food Corner
Offers light meals including fresh sardine rice bowl (shirasu don), acamoku rice bowl, and white-skinned shrimp curry. Open from 9:30 to 17:00 (last order at 16:00).
At the roadside station
Viewpoint
Offers panoramic views of white limestone rocks and the sunset over the sea. Known as one of Japan's 'Sunset 100' and 'Bay 100' scenic spots.
At the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, and bring a jacket—nights can be cool despite summer warmth.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM to secure a seat at the food counter before the 10:00 AM rush, especially for the limited daily batch of fresh shirasu donburi served from 9:30 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the product corner between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the day’s fresh batch of local citrus fruits, which are restocked only once daily and often sell out by noon
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the ebi katsu burger is only available from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM—arrive before 11:00 AM to avoid missing it
- Best View Timing: Head to the lookout area just before sunset between 5:30 PM and 6:15 PM to witness the full "Japan's Sunset 100" view, as the lighting on the white limestone cliffs is most dramatic during this window
- Camping Access: If planning to use the campsite, book your spot via the official reservation link before 6:00 PM the day prior, as the site fills up quickly on weekends
- Free WiFi Access: Use the free Wi-Fi at the roadside station between 8:30 AM and 17:00 AM, as the network is only active during official operating hours and not available after closing
- Nearby Hidden Attraction: Take the 5-minute drive to Totsuji Cave (Totsuji Karst Cave) and ask the roadside station staff for the current opening days—this cave is only open on non-regular holidays and requires advance confirmation via the station’s phone line
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; best time for viewing the white limestone cliffs and sea vistas before summer crowds.
Summer (June–August): Prime season for enjoying the night sky and stargazing; ideal for camping under clear skies.
Autumn (September–November): Peak time for local citrus harvest; fresh mandarins sold at the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): Cool temperatures make the limestone cliffs and sea views especially striking; quiet period with minimal crowds.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers multiple restrooms, stroller-friendly paths, and a children's play area. Features kid-friendly food options like soft cream and simple meals. Educational value from natural rock formations and nearby cave tours enhance the experience.
Food Lover Review
Provides diverse local cuisine including fresh sardine rice bowl, sea moss rice bowl, and shrimp cutlet burger. Offers regional produce and artisanal snacks. High-quality ingredients and unique local dishes elevate the dining experience.
Car Camping Review
Features 87 parking spots, 24-hour outdoor toilets, and a nearby campsite. Quiet surroundings with minimal light pollution. Overnight parking is allowed but not explicitly confirmed; no dedicated campsite facilities mentioned.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts stunning views of white limestone cliffs and the sea. Offers panoramic sunset views and excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal beauty varies with clear skies and coastal scenery. The atmosphere feels serene and visually striking.