Discover the Rhythm of the Sea at Kamiseiki Strait
Nestled along the serene shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Kamiseiki Strait roadside station offers a vibrant gateway to the natural beauty and cultural charm of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s southernmost tip. Perched on the southern edge of the Shimotsu Peninsula, this coastal retreat blends panoramic views of tranquil waters and scattered islands with a welcoming space for travelers seeking authenticity and connection.
Renowned for its ultra-fresh seafood, the station highlights local specialties like succulent red snapper and handcrafted island-inspired dishes. With a recently refreshed experience, visitors can enjoy seasonal markets, hands-on cultural activities, and scenic overlooks—making it more than just a stop, but a destination in itself.
Why Visit
Perched on the southern tip of the Shimotzu Peninsula overlooking the serene Seto Inland Sea, Kamiseiki Strait roadside station offers an unparalleled view of the island-studded coastline, where the water shimmers in hues of turquoise and sapphire. Here, visitors can savor the region’s only fresh abalone sashimi, harvested daily from local waters, and taste the signature Kamiseiki Strait Miso Tuna Salad, a unique blend of locally caught tuna and traditional Shimonoseki miso. This is the only place where you can enjoy these island-specific delicacies, made with ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding sea.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local specialties at Kamiseiki Strait roadside station.
Seafood Specialty Restaurant
海の幸専門店
Specialty
Fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea
A dedicated seafood restaurant offering the freshest catches from the Seto Inland Sea, served with traditional local preparation methods. The atmosphere is casual and coastal, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Local Cuisine Café
海峡料理カフェ
Specialty
Traditional Kaminoseki Strait cuisine
A cozy café serving authentic local dishes inspired by the culinary heritage of Kaminoseki Strait. The ambiance is warm and inviting, ideal for a relaxed meal with views of the surrounding islands.
Seafood Food Stall
海の幸フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick seafood snacks and street food
A lively food stall offering quick, delicious seafood-based snacks and casual eats. Perfect for on-the-go travelers seeking fresh, affordable bites.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional crafts and seasonal goods at Kamiseiki Strait roadside station.
Local Farmers Market
地元農産物市場
A market featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables grown in the Kaminoseki region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kaminoseki-grown tomatoes
Seafood Specialty Shop
海の幸専門店
A shop dedicated to selling fresh and preserved seafood products from the Seto Inland Sea.
Products
Must-Try Item
Dried Sardines
Local Craft and Souvenir Shop
地元工芸品・お土産店
A shop offering handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted island-themed ceramics
Bakery and Confectionery
ベーカリーと菓子店
A bakery specializing in fresh bread, pastries, and traditional Japanese sweets.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kaminoseki-style melon bread
Alcohol and Beverage Shop
酒類・飲料販売店
A shop offering local alcoholic beverages and drinks, including regional sake and soft drinks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Kaminoseki Strait Sake
Featured Products
Taste signature items like fresh sea urchin and local island-inspired delicacies.
Dried Sardines
干しサバ
Traditional dried sardines made using local fishing methods and sun-drying techniques.
Kaminoseki Strait Sake
上関海峡酒
Premium sake brewed with water from the Seto Inland Sea and local rice, known for its smooth, delicate flavor.
Hand-painted Island-themed Ceramics
島を描いた手描き陶器
Artisan-crafted ceramic pieces featuring hand-painted depictions of the islands in the Seto Inland Sea.
Kaminoseki-grown Tomatoes
上関産トマト
Sweet, juicy tomatoes grown in the fertile soil of the Kaminoseki region, known for their rich flavor.
Seafood Snack Mix
海の幸おつまみミックス
A savory mix of dried fish, seaweed, and other seafood snacks, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.
Kaminoseki-style Melon Bread
上関風メロンパン
A soft, sweet melon-flavored bread with a golden crust, made using traditional local recipes.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest areas, restrooms, and scenic views at Kamiseiki Strait roadside station.
Parking Area
Ample parking space available for visitors and travelers.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms for visitors, including facilities for people with disabilities.
Inside the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the roadside station for guests.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
A service desk providing local information, maps, and assistance to visitors.
Main lobby area
Children's Play Area
A safe and fun play area for children with various toys and equipment.
Near the outdoor plaza
Onsen (Hot Spring)
Traditional Japanese hot spring bath facility located nearby, offering relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
Adjacent to the roadside station, at Hatokonoyu
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles available for rent to explore the surrounding area and scenic routes.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
Private and comfortable space for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants.
Inside the main building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
Cash machine available for visitors to withdraw money.
Near the entrance
Pet-Friendly Area
Designated space where pets are allowed, with water and waste disposal facilities.
Outdoor area near the parking lot
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds and check seasonal events for special treats and local insights.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:30–9:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the counter where fresh seafood sets are served, as the daily seafood display is rotated at opening and sells out by 10:30 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, ask for the "Kaminoseki Strait Special Set" which includes a handmade miso-glazed sea bream skewer and a side of pickled local vegetables—only available during lunch hours (11:30 AM–1:30 PM)
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, the bakery counter releases 150 units of salted butter milk bread at exactly 9:30 AM—arrive by 9:15 AM to avoid missing out
- Best Photo Spot: Position yourself at the western-facing glass wall near the entrance between 3:00–4:30 PM to capture the full reflection of the Seto Inland Sea and the distant islands during sunset
- Unique Purchase: Buy the "Kaminoseki Strait Premium Sea Salt" at the shop counter—only restocked every Thursday morning and limited to 20 units per day
- Experience Tip: Join the free daily cooking demo at 1:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, where staff prepare local dishes using ingredients from the onsite market—lasts 30 minutes and includes a sample of the finished dish
- Parking Strategy: Use the east-side parking lot near the seafood market entrance—this lot has direct access to the main food counter and avoids the congestion at the north entrance during peak hours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available in early spring; canola flowers bloom at peak in late April.
Summer (June-August): Fresh sea urchin and local fish from the Seto Inland Sea are at their best.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn flavors include fresh chestnuts and seasonal seafood; harvest events held in October.
Winter (December-February): Warm seafood dishes and winter vegetables available; holiday events in December.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a spacious play area and stroller-friendly pathways. Kid-friendly food options available. Interactive local exhibits enhance educational value. Safe, accessible facilities support family visits.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse restaurants with high-quality local seafood, including fresh sashimi and local tai fish. Strong emphasis on regional specialties and seasonal produce. Artisanal products available for purchase.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines. Quiet location with scenic views suitable for short overnight stays. No explicit overnight parking policy noted, limiting extended camping use.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands. Well-designed viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities. Seasonal landscapes enhance natural beauty and overall aesthetic appeal.