Station Fukaura

Savor the Sea and Soil of Northern Japan

Fukaura roadside station, nestled in the heart of Minamiboso in Aomori Prefecture, is a vibrant gateway to the region’s natural beauty and culinary heritage. Located along the scenic western coast of the Tsugaru Peninsula, it offers sweeping views of the Sea of Japan and serves as a cultural crossroads where local traditions meet modern charm.

Renowned for its fresh seafood, especially the famous grilled squid, Fukaura features a dedicated yakitori corner where visitors can enjoy charred, flavorful squid over an open flame. The on-site restaurant delights with signature dishes like squid ramen and curry, while seasonal vegetables and wild greens from the fertile White Forest foothills add a local touch. Don’t miss the unique "Soltee," a natural salt-infused soft serve that captures the essence of the sea.

Fukaura roadside station stands out for its exclusive focus on fresh sea urchin and squid, with a dedicated grilled squid corner where visitors can watch skilled chefs char the catch of the day over open flames. The only place in the region to offer the signature "Soltee" soft-serve made with natural sea salt, and the rare chance to taste handmade rice balls wrapped in sea urchin roe, known locally as "Ika Sushi."

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the fresh batch of grilled squid from the "ika-yaki corner" before it sells out, as the daily supply is limited and often depleted by midday
• Hidden Gems: Look for the "shin-maguro" (fresh tuna) display at the seafood counter near the entrance—this locally caught fish is available only during peak season and is sold on a first-come, first-served basis
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the deli counter between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to purchase the limited-edition "Fukaura-style rice ball" (飯寿し), which is only made on weekends and sold out by noon
• Best Snack Choice: Order the "Sority" (salty soft serve) at the snack counter between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM when it’s freshly made using natural sea salt from the region—this flavor is only available during daylight hours
• Dining Tip: Request the squid ramen with extra grilled squid at the restaurant counter—this dish is made with locally sourced squid and is not listed on the standard menu but is available upon request
• Shopper’s Hack: Purchase the "kakushi" (hidden) pack of dried grilled squid at the shop counter just before closing—these are sold at a discount and are not advertised on signage
• Photography Spot: Head to the eastern side of the roadside station’s parking area after 4:00 PM on clear days to capture the best view of the sunset over the Tsugaru West Coast, especially from the small stone platform near the seawall

Spring (March–May): Fresh sea urchin and spring vegetables arrive in April, with the peak season for sea urchin fishing running from March to May.

Summer (June–August): Freshly caught fish and grilled squid are available daily, with peak sea urchin and squid harvests from June to August.

Autumn (September–November): Freshly harvested mountain vegetables and autumn sea urchin are available from September to November.

Winter (December–February): The roadside station is closed from December 31 to January 3, but fresh fish and dried squid are available in early winter.