Minamifurano Roadside Station - Hokkaido

Minamifurano Roadside Station (道の駅 南ふらの) is one of the roadside stations spread around Hokkaido Prefecture. It is located along National Route 38 at 687 Ikutora in the town of Minamifurano, Sorachi District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Minamifurano Roadside Station

Minamifurano Roadside Station Details

Minamifurano Roadside Station is one of Hokkaido’s outstanding roadside stations, combining convenience, culture, and natural beauty in one remarkable location. Officially registered on April 22, 1993, as Registration Number 3, this popular stop is more than just a roadside station—it’s an experience that celebrates the charm and uniqueness of Minamifurano.

Minamifurano Roadside Station - Minamifurano town, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Landmark with Iconic Architecture

One of the station’s standout features is its architecture, inspired by the town’s connection to canoeing on Lake Kanayama and the Sorachi River. The building’s design, shaped like the tip of a canoe’s axle, is a nod to the vibrant outdoor activities the area is known for.

Minamifurano Roadside Station facade

Must-See Attractions

Entrance Lobby and Aquarium

Minamifurano Roadside Station entrance lobby

The roadside station's aquarium...

Sakhalin taimen also called huchen

The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by an impressive aquarium showcasing freshwater fish such as huchen, white-spotted char, and Japanese dace. This tranquil display captivates visitors of all ages and sets the tone for an engaging visit.

Specialty Products Sales Corner (1st Floor)

Browse a curated selection of Minamifurano’s finest goods at the sales corner. From handcrafted woodwork and pottery to delectable local treats like butter potatoes, kumasasa tea, and melon jelly, this area is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.

Forest Exhibition Corner (2nd Floor)

Nature lovers can marvel at the Forest Exhibition Corner, featuring samples of trees native to the forests of Minamifurano, such as Japanese Sakhalin Fir, Ezo Picea, and Mizunara Oak. This exhibit is a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.

More to Explore

Facilities for Travelers

The station offers ample parking with space for 74 cars and 10 large vehicles, along with well-maintained rest areas on both floors. These facilities ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stop for all visitors.

Nanpu Adventure Park, Montbell Shop, and Nanpu Forest Bakery

Montbell Minamifurano

The rock climbing facility inside Montbell Minamifurano

Nanpu Forest Bakery

There are plenty of different kinds of bread to choose from

Trying out the bread from Nanpu Forest Bakery

Adventure awaits at the nearby Nanpu Adventure Park, while the Montbell shop provides quality outdoor gear for enthusiasts. Don’t forget to grab a bite at the Nanpu Forest Bakery, known for its fresh and flavorful offerings.

Minamifurano Roadside Station Stamp

Minamifurano Roadside Station Stamp

Team Nicerio visits Minamifurano Roadside Station

On August 13, 2023, my family and I visited Minamifurano Roadside Station for the first time, marking my 650th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. This visit was particularly special as it was our first stop in Minamifurano during our initial trip to the town. As part of our journey to explore all 179 municipalities of Hokkaido, we made it a point to include this roadside station in our itinerary and collect its stamp as a memento of our visit.

We took our time exploring the station and its stores, thoroughly enjoying the delicious bread from the Nanpu Forest Bakery. Beyond its amenities, Minamifurano Roadside Station proved to be an excellent spot to relax and recharge while traveling along the extensive National Route 38.

 

Minamifurano Roadside Station Fees

It’s FREE to park and use the toilet at Minamifurano Roadside Station. You can also use its WiFi for FREE. However, I highly suggest that you bring cash just in case you want to buy souvenirs or food from one of the shops in the roadside station grounds.

Minamifurano Roadside Station Operating Hours

Minamifurano Roadside Station is open from 9 AM - 5 PM (April-May), (October-March), and

9 AM – 7 PM (June-September).

Minamifurano Roadside Station is closed during the New Year's holiday (December 31st to January 2nd), and there may be temporary closures for about 2 days in winter.

Heads up for those collecting roadside station stamps. You won’t be able to get the stamp during days when it is closed.

Why visit Minamifurano Roadside Station?

Minamifurano Roadside Station is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Hokkaido, offering a perfect blend of convenience, local culture, and natural charm. Its canoe-inspired architecture reflects the town's connection to outdoor activities like canoeing on Lake Kanayama and the Sorachi River, while its facilities cater to visitors of all ages. 

The station features a mesmerizing aquarium with freshwater fish, a sales corner brimming with unique local products, and a forest exhibition showcasing Minamifurano’s native trees. With a Montbell shop, a bakery offering freshly baked treats, and nearby Nanpu Adventure Park, it’s more than just a rest stop—it’s a gateway to the heart of Minamifurano. Whether you’re collecting stamps for your Hokkaido travels or simply looking for a relaxing break along National Route 38, this roadside station promises an experience worth remembering.

Getting to Minamifurano Roadside Station

 

The best way to reach Minamifurano Roadside Station is by private or rental car, as you won't need to memorize the bus and train schedules going in and out of the town.

However, if you plan to use public transportation, here's what I'm familiar with:

From Furano Eki Mae Bus Stop, board the North Liner (Via Karikachitoge Pass)Obihiro-eki Bus Terminal (Via Karikachitoge Pass, Shintoku Yakuba-mae) operated by the Taku Bus Company. 

Get off at Michi no Eki Minamifurano bus stop. 

Travel time: 1 hour

Fare: 800 yen

Rating

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating