Mikasa Roadside Station - Hokkaido

Mikasa Roadside Station (道の駅 三笠) is one of the 128 roadside stations all around Hokkaido. It is located along National Route 12 at 1056 Okayama, Mikasa City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan

Mikasa Roadside Station (道の駅 三笠)
Mikasa Roadside Station

Mikasa Roadside Station details 

Since its inauguration on April 22, 1993, as the premier registered roadside station in Hokkaido, it has beckoned travelers with its charm and warm hospitality, earning the esteemed title of Registration Number 1.

Mikasa Roadside Station - Mikasa City, Hokkaido Prefecture
Mikasa Roadside Station - Mikasa City, Hokkaido Prefecture

Stepping into Mikasa Roadside Station feels like embarking on a journey through Hokkaido's rich agricultural heritage. Dominating the landscape is the iconic Agricultural House, adorned with a colossal water wheel boasting a diameter of 10 meters. This architectural marvel serves as a testament to Mikasa's agricultural legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past of cultivation and growth.

Inside Mikasa Roadside Station

Inside Mikasa Roadside Station

Ammonite fossil display
One of the ammonite fossil displays in Mikasa Roadside Station

Mikasa City Tourism Association (三笠市観光協会)

Fox-san is displayed in the lobby
Fox-san is displayed in the lobby

Inside the Mikasa City Tourism Association
Inside the Mikasa City Tourism Association

But Mikasa Roadside Station is more than just a historical landmark; it's a vibrant hub of activity and indulgence. The City Tourism Association welcomes guests with open arms, showcasing a delightful array of specialty products that capture the essence of Mikasa. Each item tells a tale of the region's bountiful harvests, from tangy pickled plums to refreshing apple juice. Visitors can also marvel at the exhibit of ammonite fossils or unwind in the cozy rest corner while planning their next adventure.

Mikasa Roadside Station "Food Storehouse"

Mikasa Roadside Station "Food Storehouse"

Mikasa Roadside Station "Food Storehouse"

Some of the items for sale

These are too cute to cook
These are too cute to cook

There are a plethora of fruits and vegetables here sold cheaper than the grocery stores
There are a plethora of fruits and vegetables here sold cheaper than the grocery stores

Other things to see outside and near Mikasa Roadside Station

Mikasa City manhole cover
Mikasa City manhole cover

Sun Farm Mikasa Agricultural Museum (サンファーム三笠農業資料館)
Sun Farm Mikasa Agricultural Museum (サンファーム三笠農業資料館)

Sun Farm Mikasa Agricultural Museum (サンファーム三笠農業資料館)

There are food trucks and even vans that sell pre-loved things in Mikasa Roadside Station grounds
There are food trucks and even vans that sell pre-loved things on Mikasa Roadside Station grounds

For culinary enthusiasts, the outdoor store building, lovingly dubbed the "Food Storehouse," is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Here, local vendors proudly display an assortment of fresh vegetables, fruits, and homemade delicacies. Indulge your sweet tooth with creamy soft-serve ice cream or savor the crispiness of freshly fried potatoes. Don't miss the charming eight-row corn shop, a nostalgic haven that comes alive during the summer season, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite.

Ramen Darumaya Mikasa

Ramen Darumaya Mikasa
Ramen Darumaya Mikasa

Doro Ramen
Doro ramen is a pork bone-based soy sauce ramen that is made by cooking the pork bones under high-pressure

And for those craving a hearty meal, the Ramen Darumaya Mikasa store stands ready to delight the senses. Their signature Doro Ramen, bursting with rich flavors, is a perennial favorite among locals and travelers alike. Pair it with a serving of hearty fried chicken marinated in their secret sauce for a truly satisfying meal. With an extensive menu featuring a myriad of tempting options, there's something to please every palate at Mikasa Roadside Station.

Mikasa Roadside Station Stamp

Mikasa Roadside Station stamp

Mikasa Roadside Station stamp

Whether you're a history buff, a culinary connoisseur, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility amidst Hokkaido's picturesque landscapes, Mikasa Roadside Station offers an unforgettable experience for all who wander its halls. So, come immerse yourself in the allure of Hokkaido's first gem and discover the hidden treasures awaiting you along Mikasa's storied roads.

Team Nicerio visits Mikasa Roadside Station

Team Nicerio visits Mikasa Roadside Station

Team Nicerio visits Mikasa Roadside Station

Last November 3, 2022, my family and I embarked on a "Culture Trip" Road Trip and enjoyed visiting Mikasa Roadside Station for the first time. This marked my 367th day in Japan as an ALT participating in the JET Programme. My family and I have a goal of visiting all the roadside stations in Japan aside from that, we also collect roadside station stamps. That’s why Mikasa Roadside Station was definitely on our itinerary when we visited the region. 


Mikasa Roadside Station Fees

It’s FREE to park, explore, and enter Mikasa Roadside Station. However, it is highly recommended that you bring cash in case you want to buy snacks or souvenirs.

Mikasa Roadside Station Operating Hours

Mikasa Roadside Station is open from 8:30 AM to 5 PM

The shop is open from 9 AM to 6 PM (April – September) and 9 AM to 5 PM (October – March)

Ramen Darumaya is open from 11 AM – 11 PM. 

Mikasa Roadside Station is closed every Monday unless it’s a holiday. In that case, it will be closed the next day.  

The roadside station is also closed during the New Year holidays (December 30th – January 4th). 

Why visit Mikasa Roadside Station?

Mikasa Roadside Station is conveniently located along National Route 12 which is one of the longest roads in the prefecture. It is a perfect stop during your long travel. Aside from that, it’s also a great place to shop for locally harvested produce. These are usually cheaper than those sold in the grocery stores. Also, if you collect roadside station stamps then you should visit Mikasa Roadside Station. 


Getting to Mikasa Roadside Station

 

From Sapporo Station head to the Sapporo Eki Mae bus terminal and board the Sapporo - Mikasa (札幌~三笠) Shimin Kaikan bus of the Chuo bus company. 

Board down at Okayama Shogakko mae [Mikasashi] bus stop. Once there, walk for about 1.6 kilometers going to Mikasa Roadside Station. 

Travel time: 1 hour and 46 minutes

Fare: 1,310 yen

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating


Comments

Book your hotel thru KLOOK

Klook.com
Subscribe and get updated with the latest travel articles of The Backpack Adventures

Popular posts from this blog

Imus City Plaza - Cavite

Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Cavite

Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park - Cavite

Jose Rizal Shrine in Calamba - Laguna

10 More Things to Do in Asahikawa City

Iwao Onsen Attamaru - Hokkaido

Japan Diaries 4: Day 387

Japan Diaries 4: Week 56

Bonifacio Shrine in Indang - Cavite

First Filipino Family to Visit All 179 Municipalities of Hokkaido: A Memorable Adventure