Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station (道の駅 らんこし·ふるさとの丘) is one of the 127 roadside stations around Hokkaido. It is located at 969 Aioi in the town of Rankoshi, Isoya District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station |
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station Details
Registered as an official roadside station on August 8, 2003, with the registration number 77, Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Hokkaido. Conveniently located along National Route 5, midway between Hakodate and Sapporo, this roadside station offers not only convenience but also an authentic taste of the region's natural and cultural charm.
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| Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station - Rankoshi town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
Visitors are greeted with breathtaking views of the Niseko mountain range and the iconic Mt. Yotei, making it a picturesque stop for nature lovers and photographers. The station features a delightful array of locally crafted goods, fresh produce, and Hokkaido specialties that showcase the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing break or a deeper connection to Hokkaido’s unique offerings, Rankoshi Furusato no Oka promises an enriching experience for all.
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station Facade
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| 道の駅 らんこし·ふるさとの丘 |
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station boasts a wide selection of locally produced items, including fresh agricultural goods nourished by the pristine waters of the Shiribetsu River. A highlight is the homemade ice cream, crafted with freshly squeezed milk and a unique manufacturing process. This creamy treat is sold directly at the station and select shops in town, offering a taste of Rankoshi's finest.
Inside Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station
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| The famed soba of Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station |
If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, the soba noodles made from locally grown buckwheat flour are a must-try. Renowned for their exceptional flavor, these noodles are loved by locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the station sells a variety of pickled and processed wild vegetable products, such as the Misozuke Assortment, celery kimchi, butterbur moromi pickles, and melon kasuzuke. These are not only perfect for home cooking but also make excellent souvenirs to bring a piece of Hokkaido back with you.
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| Furusato no Oka Campsite |
Behind Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station lies a campsite and bungalow facilities, nestled within lush forests of larch and birch trees. Visitors can enjoy activities like nature observation and forest bathing, soaking in the tranquil environment. The fresh air and serene surroundings make it an ideal spot to unwind or take a refreshing break during a long drive. Reservations for the campsite can be made directly through the station.
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station Stamp
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| Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station Stamp |
On April 2, 2023, during the second day of our three-day Birthday Road Trip, my family and I visited Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station. This visit marked my 517th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. I made it a point to include this roadside station in our itinerary as part of our Hokkaido 179 challenge to visit all roadside stations across the island. Additionally, my daughter and I enjoy collecting roadside station stamps for the Hokkaido Roadside Station Stamp Rally, making this stop even more special.
Team Nicerio visits Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station
What stood out to me about Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station was its picturesque setting, surrounded by vast fields and stunning scenery. The station also features clean and well-maintained toilets, along with a variety of fresh local produce sold at more affordable prices compared to other stores. It’s a charming spot that perfectly combines practicality with a touch of Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station Admission Fee
One of the best things about Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station is that parking, toilets, and WiFi are all FREE to use, making it a convenient and budget-friendly stop for travelers. Whether you’re taking a break from a long drive or exploring the local area, the station provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable visit.
However, it’s highly recommended to bring cash with you. The station features a souvenir shop offering locally made products and a restaurant that serves delicious soba, a must-try specialty of the region. Having cash on hand will make it easy to enjoy these offerings and bring home a piece of Rankoshi’s charm.
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station Operating Hour
April to October: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
November to March: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Closed Days:
Every Tuesday (from November to March).
New Year's Holiday: Closed from December 31st to January 5th.
Make sure to plan your visit accordingly especially if you collect the roadside station stamps as you won’t be able to stamp if the roadside station is closed.
Why visit Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station?
Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station offers more than just a rest stop—it’s a gateway to experiencing the natural and cultural richness of Hokkaido. With its combination of stunning scenery, delicious local food, and recreational facilities, it’s a place that truly stands out. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, this roadside station promises a memorable experience.
Getting to Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station
There are several ways to get to Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station, but traveling by rental or private car is the most convenient option. If you prefer to commute, here’s the route I’m most familiar with:
From Niseko Station, take the Local Oshamambe train on the Hakodate Line and get off at Mena Station. From there, it’s about a 1.6-kilometer walk to reach Rankoshi Furusato no Oka Roadside Station.
Travel time: 52 minutes
Fare: 540 yen
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