[Kyushu] Local Food, History & Seasonal Beauty in Shiroishi, Saga — Don’t Miss the Beloved Mascot!

Shiroishi in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, is the perfect place to experience Japan’s seasonal beauty, local flavors, and a touch of quirky charm. This nature-rich town faces the Ariake Sea and offers stunning views throughout the year. From cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring at Utagaki Park, to panoramic views from the Hizen Inuyama Castle Observatory—a scenic lookout styled like a traditional Japanese castle—Shiroishi is full of photo-worthy spots. You’ll also find delicious local food made with fresh, regional ingredients at Michi-no-Eki Shiroishi, a popular roadside stop. And if you’re lucky, you might even run into the town’s beloved mascot, Shiroishi Minori-chan—a super cute character with an onion head, a strawberry body, and a lotus root pouch—sharing the charm of Shiroishi with the world. With scenic views, historic shrines, tasty eats, and local character (literally!), Shiroishi is an ideal spot for a laid-back, off-the-beaten-path trip in Japan.

Utakaki Park: Cherry Blossoms, Azaleas, and Local Legend
Hizen Inuyama Castle Observatory — Scenic Views from a Castle-Inspired Spot
Local Flavors at Michi-no-Eki Shiroishi
Meet the Town’s Star: Shiroishi Minori-chan

Utakaki Park: Cherry Blossoms, Azaleas, and Local Legend

One of the best places to visit in Shiroishi is Utagaki Park, set on the slopes of Mt. Kishima. This romantic spot is inspired by the ancient tradition of “utagaki,” where people expressed love through poetry and dance. Come spring, the park bursts into color with around 230 cherry trees and 70,000 azaleas. It’s the perfect place to soak up the spring vibes—and capture them on camera.

Hizen Inuyama Castle Observatory — Scenic Views from a Castle-Inspired Spot

At the top of Utagaki Park sits the Hizen Inuyama Castle Observatory, styled like a real Japanese castle. On a clear day, you’ll get sweeping views of the Shiroishi Plain and the Ariake Sea. From cherry blossoms in spring to fiery leaves in fall, the scenery changes with the seasons—so bring your camera and snap that perfect travel shot.

Local Flavors at Michi-no-Eki Shiroishi

If you're exploring Shiroishi, make sure to stop by Michi-no-Eki Shiroishi, a local roadside station, is a great place to find fresh produce and specialties from the area. Inside, you'll find seasonal vegetables and fruits grown in the area, along with local favorites like lotus root and seaweed from the Ariake Sea. There’s also a restaurant and food court offering dishes made with regional ingredients. Enjoy a relaxing meal while taking in the 360-degree view—it's a great way to experience the local flavor and scenery in one spot.

Meet the Town’s Star: Shiroishi Minori-chan

Shiroishi’s official mascot, Minori-chan, is as cute as she is creative—she has an onion for a head, a strawberry body, a lotus root pouch, and seaweed and rice stalks as accessories! She’s often spotted at events and on social media, but if you run into her during your visit, don’t be shy—ask for a photo! You can also pick up exclusive Minori-chan merch as a fun souvenir.