Roadside Station Yubari Merodo - Hokkaido

Roadside Station “Yubari Merodo” (道の駅 夕張メロード) is one of the 128 roadside stations of Hokkaido. It is located at 526-19 Momijiyama, Yubari City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Roadside Station “Yubari Merodo”

Roadside Station “Yubari Merodo” Details

Roadside Station Yubari Merodo is a must-visit destination for those traveling along National Route 274 in Hokkaido. Opening its doors on June 18, 2011, this roadside station quickly became the 111th of its kind in Hokkaido, officially registered on March 3, 2011. Conveniently situated just 1.5 km from the Yubari Interchange and adjacent to JR Shin-Yubari Station, the station is easily accessible by both car and train, making it a perfect pitstop for travelers.

Roadside Station “Yubari Merodo” - Yubari City, Hokkaido Prefecture

The station was developed as a way to promote the Momijiyama district of Yubari, aiming to revitalize the local shopping area and become a tourist hub. Originally a supermarket known as Meraude, operated by JA Yubari City, the facility has since been transformed into a bustling roadside station. Despite its official status as a roadside station, it still retains the appearance of a typical supermarket, with the added distinction of its "Eco-op" signage, signifying its commitment to environmental and sustainable practices.

道の駅 夕張メロード

You will see this giant Yubari melon display outside the roadside station

Local Produce and Specialty Items

A key feature of Roadside Station Yubari Merode is its farm produce shop, where visitors can purchase fresh, locally grown vegetables and specialty products. The station is famous for its Yubari melons in the summer, a prized Hokkaido delicacy, as well as Chinese yams and other seasonal produce. Visitors can also find light snacks at the station, perfect for a quick bite or a souvenir from their travels.

Inside Roadside Station "Yubari Merodo"

Thankfully, Melon Kuma is caged here

This is literally a "melon pan"

Seasonal Operations and Attractions

During the summer months, the station comes alive with additional offerings, including a hamburger stand and other outdoor vendors serving snacks and treats. However, during the winter, the area becomes quieter, with fewer activities taking place, as the local shopping area becomes less bustling. The station’s focus on fresh produce, local goods, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot to explore while passing through the area.

The facility is managed by the Yubari City Agricultural Cooperative and the Yubari City Agricultural Cooperative (Roadside Station Yubari Merodo Management Council). It operates under the same hours as the original supermarket, offering flexibility for visitors to stop by at their convenience.

Roadside Station Yubari Merodo Stamp

Roadside Station Yubari Merodo Stamp

Although there are no full-service restaurants inside, the outdoor stands during summer offer a taste of local flavors. As the area’s development continues, there are ongoing efforts to enhance its appeal as a tourist destination, balancing local heritage with modern-day needs.

 

Team Nicerio visits Roadside Station Yubari Merodo

On May 13, 2023, my family and I visited Roadside Station Yubari Merodo for the first time during our "Wedding Anniversary" road trip. It also marked my 558th day in Japan as an ALT with the JET Programme. As part of our personal goal to visit all 179 municipalities of Hokkaido, we made it a point to visit all the roadside stations of the prefecture. During our visit, we didn’t miss getting the roadside station tamp for our collection. We also bought some products from its grocery store to support the city's economy.

 

Roadside Station Yubari Merodo Admission Fee

It’s FREE to park at the vast car park at the roadside station. It’s also FREE to enter and explore Roadside Station Yubari Merodo. However, it is highly recommended that you bring cash if you want to purchase goods at the roadside station/

 

Roadside Station Yubari Merodo Operating Hours

• April 23rd - April 29th: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• May 1st - August: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
• September: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
• October - December: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• January - February: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• March - April 21st: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Roadside Station Yubari Merodo is closed every Monday. Make sure to plan your visit as you won’t be able to get a stamp during closed days.

 

Why visit Roadside Station Yubari Merodo? 

Roadside Station Yubari Merode is the perfect stop for anyone traveling through the Yubari area. Located conveniently along National Route 274, it offers easy access by both car and train, making it a great place to take a break, explore local products, and experience the charm of Yubari. Known for its Yubari melons and fresh, locally grown vegetables like Chinese yams, the station is a food lover’s paradise, especially during the summer months. The farm produce shop also offers unique Hokkaido specialties and light snacks, allowing visitors to enjoy the best of local flavors. Also, it’s a must-visit if you also collect the roadside station stamps of Hokkaido for the Hokkaido Stamp Rally.

 

Getting to Yubari Roadside Station Yubari Merodo

 

Roadside stations are best visited with private or rental cars but if you plan to use public transportation, this is what I’m familiar with:

Board a train going to Shin Yubari Station. Once there, cross the street and you’ll find yourself on the roadside station grounds.

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