Higashiyoka Coast Glasswort Colony (東与賀海岸シチメンソウ群生地)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A promenade overlooking the Ariake Sea tidal flats runs along the seawall on the south side of Higata Yoka Park. Spreading out at your feet is a colony of glasswort (シチメンソウ), a plant that grows in salty ground; in autumn it turns red, creating scenery known as 'autumn foliage of the sea.' When the tide goes out, muddy flats appear as far as the eye can see, with countless glistening channels of water forming patterns. Migratory birds gather over the tidal flat depending on the season, and even children can follow the movement of the flocks from a distance. The path is flat and offers a clear view, making it easy to walk hand in hand with a small child.

Tips

There's no shade, so always bring a hat and something to drink, and keep the visit short on hot days. The mud on the tidal flat is deeper than it looks, so make sure your child promises not to step down off the seawall or promenade. When the tide is in, the tidal flat is hidden under water, so timing your visit to the ebb tide using a tide chart makes a big difference to the view. On windy days, hats can easily blow off, so one with a chin strap is reassuring.

Best time to visit

About 45 minutes. Timing your visit to the ebb tide lets you see the tidal flat's vast, characteristic scenery

Access & map

〒840-2221 佐賀県佐賀市東与賀町大字下古賀