Utashinai Roadside Station, officially known as Roadside
Station Utashinai Tyrol (道の駅 うたしないチロルの湯),
is one of the roadside stations around Hokkaido. Located at 72-2
Nakamura, Utashinai City, this station is more than just a stopover—it’s a
gateway to discovering the charm of Hokkaido's Central, Northern, and Eastern
regions.
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| Utashinai Roadside Station Revisited 2023 |
My family and I first visited Utashinai Roadside Station on September 11, 2022, during a memorable road trip spanning from September 9 to 11. At the
time, it marked my 314th day in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme. The visit was part of a cherished tradition: my
daughter and I collect roadside station stamps for the Hokkaido Stamp Rally,
a popular activity for locals and travelers alike.
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| Utashinai Roadside Station - Utashinai City, Hokkaido Prefecture |
We returned on August 13, 2023, my 650th day in
Japan, making it the first stop on an exciting day trip through
Minamifurano, Shintoku, and Memuro.
Key Highlights of Utashinai Roadside Station
Strategic
Location
Situated along Route 114, this roadside station serves as an
excellent base for travelers exploring nearby destinations. Its convenient
placement makes it a must-visit for road trippers seeking comfort and
accessibility.
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| Utashinai Roadside Station Information Board |
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| Utashinai Roadside Station parking area |
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| Utashinai Roadside Station facade |
Traveler-Friendly
Features
Utashinai Roadside Station is well-equipped for all seasons. The covered
parking area ensures safe access even during Hokkaido’s snowy winters,
while the road-heated pavement adds another layer of convenience.
The station is also thoughtfully designed to accommodate travelers with
disabilities, ensuring a welcoming experience for everyone.
Photos inside Utashinai Roadside Station
Historical
SignificanceRegistered as a roadside station on April 17, 1998, Utashinai
Roadside Station holds the designation No. 56. Over the years, it
has faced challenges due to the financial struggles of Utashinai City.
Despite these hurdles, it remains a functional and reliable rest stop for
weary travelers.
Utashinai City Pokémon Manhole Cover
A recent addition to the station’s charm is the Utashinai City Pokémon manhole cover near its entrance. This whimsical feature showcases Vulpix,
Alolan Vulpix, and Joltik, delighting Pokémon enthusiasts
and adding a playful touch to the stop. Minimalist
Offerings
While the station may lack the bustling atmosphere of larger roadside hubs
with extensive local produce and souvenir shops, it occasionally offers
fresh produce. Its simplicity is part of its charm, catering to travelers
seeking a quick, quiet break.Our Family Adventures
.jpg "Team Nicerio revisits Utashinai Roadside Station") |
| Team Nicerio revisits Utashinai Roadside Station |
Utashinai Roadside Station holds a special place in our
family’s journey through Japan. From collecting stamps to enjoying its serene
ambiance, every visit brings a sense of connection to Hokkaido’s unique
roadside culture. Just to share, visiting all the roadside stations in the
prefecture is one of the main goals of our Hokkaido 179 Travel Goal.
Utashinai Roadside Station Fees
It’s FREE to enter and explore Utashinai
Roadside Station. However, I highly recommend that you bring cash just in case
you want some local products sold at the roadside station.
Utashinai Roadside Station Operating Hours
Utashinai Roadside Station is open from 9 AM to 5 PM (all
year round).
Why visit Utashinai Roadside Station
Utashinai Roadside Station offers a perfect stopover for
travelers exploring Central Hokkaido. With its excellent facilities and
amenities, it ensures a comfortable and hassle-free break during your journey.
For stamp collectors participating in the Hokkaido Stamp Rally, this station is
an essential destination.
Getting to Utashinai Roadside Station
From Takikawa Station, walk towards Takikawa Eki Mae bus stop and ride the
Utashinai Sen Route of the Chuo bus line. Board down at Chuo Danchi Iriguchi
[Utashinaishi] bus stop. From there, walk for about 260 meters to Utashinai
Roadside Station.
Travel time: 53 minutes
Fare: 720 yen
Ratings
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| Overall rating |
.jpg "Team Nicerio revisits Utashinai Roadside Station")
.jpg "Team Nicerio revisits Utashinai Roadside Station")
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