Introducing Michi-no-Eki Minamata Shop & Cafe Minamata

Hello travelers! I’m Kanao, a writer for [Sarukuma] 🌱

Today I’m excited to introduce you to a wonderful spot located in Tsukiura, Minamata City –
[Michi-no-Eki Minamata Shop & Cafe Minamata].

Michi-no-Eki Minamata had just been renovated in April 2022, so everything was sparkling clean and beautifully designed.

The name “Minamata” (with that distinctive long vowel) is catchy and memorable – I love it!

The signage is so stylish that it makes for a perfect Instagram-worthy photo spot.

Step inside and you’ll see this beautiful space ↑

Isn’t this an absolutely amazing space?!

The high ceilings and hanging pendant lights create such a calming atmosphere…
It’s so chic and the natural wood scent is incredibly soothing (^^)

Local vegetables were lined up beautifully in display.
Minamata is famous for citrus production, and there were tons of varieties available for purchase.

This is the perfect place to grab affordable, sweet citrus fruits! You’ll also find bento lunch boxes and bread here (^○^)

These are natural soap-based laundry detergents and dish soaps.
My skin is super sensitive, so gentle products like these are a real lifesaver! ♡

Goods designed by a local Minamata illustrator. The kitty designs are absolutely adorable! ♡

There were also handmade items, including baby shoes, baby crowns, and hairpins.

They’re so cute, and you can really feel the love and care the makers put into each piece!

These are candles made right here in Minamata.

The floral patterns are absolutely lovely! ♡
Small ones start at just 290 yen, making them a wonderful souvenir option (^^)

The back exit of Minamata leads directly to the oyster hut (Kaki-goya).

You can enjoy delicious “Koiji Kaki” oysters raised in the pristine waters of Minamata Bay!
The menu also features turban shells (sazae), squid, shrimp, and jakomeshi (rice with dried baby fish) (^^)

Right next to the roadside station, there’s an information center available 24 hours a day.

The interior is spotlessly maintained.

Inside, you’ll find tables, chairs, Minamata tourist information brochures, and restrooms.

And here’s something travelers with little ones will truly appreciate!
A nursing room is also available 24 hours a day! It’s equipped with a diaper changing table, nursing chair, and tables.

This is the rose garden! ♪

During rose season, the garden bursts into bloom with countless beautiful roses! You can enjoy a wide variety of types and colors.

Michi-no-Eki Minamata Shop & Cafe Minamata Recommended Menu

When you visit Michi-no-Eki Minamata, you absolutely must try this!

– Rose Soft Serve Ice Cream (350 yen)

Since Minamata is famous for its rose garden, they’ve created a unique rose-flavored soft serve.
You can only get this special soft serve here!

So how does it taste?

The fragrance of roses fills your mouth completely (^^) Is this what eating flowers feels like?? lol

It was so delicious that I devoured it in no time!
The portion is so generous that you might wonder if 350 yen is really enough – it feels like a great deal (^○^)

You’ll also find classic milk and a Rose & Milk mix flavor available!

This soft serve is sold at the “Tea Salon” cafe inside Minamata.

The menu features Minamata Japanese-grown black tea, special sweets, coffee, and 100% fruit juices.

The parfait menu changes seasonally.
Because the parfaits change throughout the year, you’ll want to come back and try them all!

The cafe interior is also stylish and incredibly comfortable! Inside, there are both table seats and counter seats.
The space is roomy enough that you can easily bring in a stroller (^○^)

You could honestly spend an entire day here! Be sure to stop by Minamata on your travels through Kumamoto.

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and opening hours are subject to change. Please check ahead before visiting.