Discover the Flavors of Northern Japan at Imabetsu
Nestled just steps from the scenic Ōtsugaru Imabetsu Station on the Hokkaido Shinkansen and the Tsugaru Line, Imabetsu roadside station serves as a vibrant gateway to the rich natural and cultural heritage of Aomori Prefecture’s Tsugaru Peninsula. More than a convenient stop, it’s a community hub where travelers connect with local life, featuring a bustling marketplace, a cozy café, and the renowned restaurant “Eki.”
Visitors can savor regional specialties like Imabetsu beef steak—known for its tender, savory flavor—and the uniquely popular mozuku udon, made with seaweed harvested from nearby waters. Seasonal fresh fish and local produce are displayed daily, offering a true taste of the region’s bounty. Whether enjoying a hearty ramen or a creamy pumpkin soft serve, Imabetsu delivers an authentic, memorable experience rooted in local tradition and hospitality.
Why Visit
Visit Imabetsu roadside station for two unforgettable experiences unique to this location. Savor the region’s only handmade mozuku udon, crafted with seaweed harvested from the nearby coast, offering a distinct briny texture and oceanic flavor. Then, sample the famed Imabetsu beef steak, raised locally and known for its rich marbling and buttery tenderness—only available here in its authentic form at the on-site restaurant.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Imabetsu roadside station, where fresh seafood and hearty regional dishes await.
Restaurant Eki
驛
Specialty
Local specialty dishes featuring Imabetsu beef and mozuku udon
A restaurant located within the Imabetsu Peninsula Plaza Asukuru roadside station, offering a cozy dining atmosphere with a focus on regional ingredients. The menu highlights locally sourced Imabetsu beef and fresh mozuku udon, reflecting the culinary identity of Imabetsu Town.
Café Corner
喫茶コーナー
Specialty
Light snacks and seasonal soft serve
A relaxed café area offering light refreshments and seasonal desserts, perfect for a quick break during your visit to the roadside station.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and seasonal produce at Imabetsu roadside station’s vibrant market.
Local Products Corner
物産販売コーナー
A retail area selling a variety of local products from Imabetsu Town, including fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Mozuku Udon (2 servings)
Fresh Fish Market
鮮魚販売
A dedicated section for fresh fish, featuring seasonal catches from local waters, available for purchase.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal Fresh Fish
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature items like mozuku udon and premium Imabetsu beef.
Mozuku Udon (2 servings)
もずくうどん（2食入り）
A ready-to-eat udon dish made with fresh mozuku seaweed harvested from Imabetsu, offering a unique slippery texture and oceanic aroma.
Pumpkin Soft Serve
かぼちゃソフト
A creamy soft serve made with locally grown pumpkin, delivering a gentle sweetness and smooth, rich texture.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including dining, restrooms, parking, and free Wi-Fi at Imabetsu roadside station.
Parking
The roadside station has a parking area with 49 regular parking spaces and 2 disabled parking spaces.
Adjacent to the station entrance
Restroom
Restrooms are available at the roadside station, including accessible toilets for people with disabilities.
Inside the station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features a tourism information corner where visitors can obtain local information about Imabetsu Town and surrounding areas.
Inside the station building
Play Area
A playground is available for children, located within the station grounds.
Near the station entrance
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors using electric vehicles.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the station building
Insider Tips
Plan visits around seasonal offerings and check for temporary closures to make the most of your trip.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the fresh batch of Imabetsu town-grown vegetables and seasonal seafood, which are typically sold out by midday.
- Hidden Gem at the Deli Counter: Ask for the "Mozuku Udon 2-pack" (400 yen) at the souvenir shop—this is the only place in the area where you can buy the signature local dish in pre-packaged form for takeout.
- Avoid Missing the Imabetsu Beef Steak: Check the official website or Facebook page before visiting, as the steak is unavailable on specific dates including the 4th, 7th, 11th, 14th, 17th, 21st, 25th, and 28th of each month.
- Optimal Lunch Timing: Order the Imabetsu Beef Steak at the restaurant "Eki" by 1:30 PM, as the last order is accepted at 3:30 PM and the menu often sells out by then on weekends.
- Seasonal Treats: Purchase the pumpkin soft serve (300 yen) between April and October—this seasonal flavor is only available during those months and is made with locally sourced "One Ball into the Soul" pumpkin.
- Best Time for Fresh Seafood: Visit the fish counter between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Tuesdays and Fridays, when the latest catch from local fisheries is delivered and displayed.
- Insider Access to Local Events: Follow the Imabetsu roadside station’s Facebook page to get real-time updates on events like the "Koma no Sato" Farmland Marathon and the Imabetsu Autumn Festival, which are not always listed on the main website.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots appear in early spring, and the roadside station features seasonal produce like spring vegetables and local seafood from nearby waters.
Summer (June–August): The pumpkin soft serve is available from June through August, coinciding with peak harvest season for local pumpkins.
Autumn (September–November): The Imabetsu Autumn Festival and the "Kooba no Sato"田園マラソン (Farmland Marathon) take place in September, celebrating the harvest season.
Winter (December–February): The Imabetsu Winter Rihito event occurs in January, offering unique winter experiences in the region.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers baby beds, stroller-friendly layout, and a park nearby. Limited children's activities, but kid-friendly food like soft serve and local dishes are available. Safe, accessible, and includes educational elements through local produce and regional cuisine.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local specialties including Imabetsu beef steak, mozuku udon, and seasonal seafood. High-quality fresh fish and regional products available. Restaurants offer unique, authentic experiences with varied menus and seasonal items.
Car Camping Review
Has restrooms, vending machines, and EV charging. Parking available for 52 vehicles, including 2 accessible spots. No explicit overnight policy, but quiet during daytime. Not designed for extended stays, though suitable for short stops.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near scenic coastal views of Kogashima and the Tsugaru Strait. Offers a peaceful atmosphere with seasonal landscapes and photo-worthy coastal scenery. The surrounding natural environment enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.