Tsubetsu Roadside Station - Hokkaido

Tsubetsu Roadside Station (津別町道の駅), formally called Roadside Station Aioi (道の駅 あいおい), is one of the roadside stations spread throughout Hokkaido. It is located along National Route 240 in 83-1 Aioi in the town of Tsubetsu, Abashiri District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Tsubetsu Roadside Station / Roadside Station Aioi

Tsubetsu Roadside Station Details

Located along National Route 240, a scenic route connecting Kushiro and Abashiri, Tsubetsu Roadside Station—officially named Roadside Station Aioi—is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and local flavors. Since its registration as a roadside station on August 8, 2003, with Registration Number 81, it has become a popular rest stop for weary travelers exploring Hokkaido's northern regions.

Tsubetsu Roadside Station - Tsubetsu town, Hokkaido Prefecture

Discover Unique Facilities and Local Delights

Roadside Station Aioi is more than just a pit stop—it's a destination in itself, offering:

• Handmade Soba Noodles and Tofu: Savor authentic soba noodles crafted from 100% Hokkaido buckwheat flour, alongside tofu made from locally sourced soybeans, prepared using traditional methods.
• Local Products: Browse a variety of locally made goods, from fresh agricultural produce to intricately crafted woodworking products.

Try the Kumayaki for only 300 yen

• Kumayaki Specialty: Don’t miss the station’s famous bear-shaped taiyaki, a charming and delicious treat unique to the area.

Tsubetsu Roadside Station facade

The vending machines are colored yellow and are designed to promote the kumayaki

Inside Tsubetsu Roadside Station

Local produce is for sale in the roadside station shop

A visit to Tsubetsu Roadside Station wouldn't be complete without trying the kumayaki

Tsubetsu Roadside Station toilet area

A Journey Through History

Aioi Tetsudo Park / Aioi Railway Park

For history enthusiasts, Aioi Tetsudo Park is a must-see. The former Kitami Aioi Station, part of the now-defunct Japanese National Railways, has been transformed into a vibrant exhibition space. Visitors can explore the restored station building and admire vintage passenger trains that evoke the charm of Japan's railway heritage.

Relax at the Station Cafe Walnut Forest

Station Cafe Walnut Forest

Step back in time at Station Cafe Walnut Forest, housed in the old station building. The nostalgic ambiance is enhanced by original Japanese National Railways timetables and fare tables, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. Treat yourself to freshly brewed home-roasted coffee and delectable baked goods for a refreshing break.

Tsubetsu Roadside Station Stamp

Tsubetsu Roadside Station stamp

What Makes Roadside Station Aioi Unique

• Food and Drink Corner: Taste the flavors of Hokkaido with freshly made soba and specialty tofu dishes.
• Aioi Tetsudo Park: Immerse yourself in a slice of railway history, complete with restored archives and trains.
• Local Produce: Shop for fresh, high-quality vegetables and artisanal goods that reflect the region’s rich agricultural traditions.

Team Nicerio visits Tsubetsu Roadside Station

My family and I visited Tsubetsu Roadside Station for the first time on September 16, 2023, during the first day of our “3-Day Respect of the Aged Road Trip,” which happens to be my 684th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. This stop was a memorable milestone in our Hokkaido 179 journey, an ambitious endeavor to visit all 179 municipalities in the prefecture. As part of this adventure, we made it a point to explore every roadside station in Hokkaido and collect their unique stamps.

While the kumayaki was undoubtedly a highlight, I was particularly captivated by the preserved locomotives displayed in the park behind the station—a charming nod to the area’s railway heritage. Unfortunately, the café was closed during our visit, which was a slight disappointment, but it has given me even more reason to return in the future.

Tsubetsu Roadside Station Fees

It’s FREE to park, enter, and explore the roadside station grounds. However, it is highly recommended that you bring cash in case you want to buy refreshments and also try the famed kumayaki.

Tsubetsu Roadside Station Operating Hours

Tsubetsu Roadside Station is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, while the soba restaurant is open from 11 AM to 3 PM. The roadside station is closed every Tuesday. Please keep in mind that you won’t be able to get the roadside station stamp during times when it’s closed.

Why visit Tsubetsu Roadside Station?

Tsubetsu Roadside Station is a destination that combines historical charm, local flavors, and family-friendly attractions, making it a must-see stop in Hokkaido. As part of the region's network of roadside stations, it offers a unique experience for travelers exploring the area.

One of the highlights of this station is the preserved locomotives displayed in the park behind it. These vintage trains pay homage to the region's rich railway history and provide a fascinating backdrop for visitors of all ages.

Another reason to visit is the station’s signature treat, the kumayaki, a bear-shaped taiyaki that delights both children and adults. For those on a culinary adventure, this local specialty is a must-try.

Getting to Tsubetsu Roadside Station

 

There are no buses or trains that go directly to Tsubetsu Roadside Station. While taking a taxi from Tsubetsu, Bihoro, or Kitami City is possible, it can be quite costly. The most practical and affordable option is to travel by rental or private car.

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