The Arao Mud Flats are located on the eastern shores of central Ariake Sea and span approximately 9.1 km north to south, making them the largest tidal flats in Japan. In July 2012, they became the first site in Kumamoto Prefecture to be registered as a Ramsar Convention Wetland and are now recognized internationally as an important wetland. These flats are home to a wide variety of life, including Arao's famous majaku, and serve as a crucial stopover for internationally significant migratory birds. The sunset viewed from the tidal flats is a breathtaking sight.