Discover the Spirit of Northern Aomori at Minmaya
Nestled at the northernmost tip of the Tsugaru Peninsula, Minmaya roadside station offers a gateway to some of Aomori’s most breathtaking landscapes. Located just steps from the iconic Ryofu Cape and the historic Ropeway National Route, this vibrant stop is a cultural and scenic hub. Surrounded by rugged coastlines, lush forests, and sweeping sea views, it’s the perfect place to pause and reconnect with nature.
More than a rest stop, Minmaya features the unique Seikan Tunnel Memorial Museum, where visitors can step back in time and experience the engineering marvel of Japan’s longest tunnel. The station also celebrates local heritage with its signature offerings: fresh Wakaoi kelp, savory Aomori seafood rice bowls, and the beloved Mokkun plush toy. With a charming café, art gallery, and seasonal market, Minmaya blends tradition, innovation, and the warmth of rural hospitality.
Why Visit
Located at the northern tip of the Tsugaru Peninsula, Minmaya roadside station offers a rare glimpse into the history of the Shimonoseki–Aomori railway tunnel through its on-site Shimonoseki-Aomori Tunnel Memorial Hall. Visitors can explore authentic construction-era exhibits and experience the atmosphere of Japan’s longest undersea rail tunnel. The station also features the only known artisanal konbu ice cream in the region, made from locally harvested Wakaoi konbu, and serves a signature dish—freshly prepared Aomori seafood bowl with ingredients sourced daily from nearby龙飛岬.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor coastal flavors at Minmaya roadside station, where fresh seafood and local specialties come together in every bite.
Seafood Bowl Restaurant
青函海鮮丼
Specialty
Fresh seafood bowl featuring local catches from the Tsugaru Strait
A specialty dining spot offering a rich and flavorful seafood bowl made with freshly caught fish and shellfish from the surrounding waters. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for enjoying regional seafood in a relaxed setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional treasures at Minmaya’s inviting shop, perfect for thoughtful souvenirs.
Local Seafood and Konbu Market
若生こんぶと海産物販売所
A market specializing in locally sourced seafood and dried konbu from the Tsugaru region
Products
Must-Try Item
Wakaoi Konbu
Souvenir and Craft Shop
おみやげと工芸品店
A shop offering regional souvenirs and handmade crafts from the Tsugaru area
Products
Must-Try Item
Mokkun Plush Toy
Featured Products
Taste the essence of Aomori with signature products like fresh konbu and the beloved seafood bowl, uniquely crafted here.
Wakaoi Konbu
若生こんぶ
Premium dried konbu harvested from the Tsugaru Strait, known for its rich umami flavor and high quality
Mokkun Plush Toy
もっ君
A popular stuffed toy mascot of the Minmaya roadside station, representing the local charm and regional identity
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Minmaya, including restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a museum showcasing regional history.
Parking
Large vehicles: 10 spaces, regular vehicles: 178 spaces (including 2 accessible spaces for people with disabilities).
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Accessible Restroom
Restroom facilities available for people with disabilities.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free wireless internet access available at the roadside station.
Throughout the station premises
Tourist Information Center
Provides information about local attractions, events, and travel guides. Also includes a souvenir shop.
Main building of the roadside station
Restaurant
On-site restaurant serving local cuisine, including the famous Aomori seafood bowl.
Inside the roadside station building
Souvenir Shop
Sells local products such as Wakaoi kelp, seafood rice bowls, and the popular 'Mokkun' plush toy.
Inside the roadside station building
ATM
Cash machine available for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Onsen (Hot Spring)
Hot spring facility available at the roadside station. Accessible during operating hours.
Inside the roadside station building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors.
Near the parking area
Play Area
Children's play area for family visitors.
Near the outdoor park area
Nursing Room
Private room for nursing mothers, equipped with seating and baby care facilities.
Inside the roadside station building
Shower
Shower facilities available for visitors.
Inside the roadside station building
Insider Tips
Visit during open season to explore the lighthouse and tunnel memorial, and arrive early for the best parking.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the last of the day’s fresh-baked Milk Bread from the in-house bakery, which is typically sold out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: At the shop counter, look for the limited-edition Wakaoi Kombu (young kelp) packaged in traditional paper wrapping—only available during seasonal harvest months (late fall to early winter)
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the Oshirase food truck (a local vendor) sets up at the eastern parking area from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, serving Tsuruhashi-style Seafood Donburi with fresh catches from nearby waters
- Must-Visit Attraction: Head to the Seikan Tunnel Memorial Hall immediately after entering the roadside station to view the original construction tunnel model and audio guide recordings from workers during the 1980s build
- Best Photo Spot: Take a walk along the Takamatsu Pathway just past the main parking lot to reach the open cliffside viewpoint, where you can capture the full view of the Ryofu Cape Lighthouse and the Sea of Japan beyond
- Local Product Tip: Purchase the Mokkun plush toy (a mascot of the station) only at the front shop counter—this item is not available in the back gift section and sells out quickly on weekends
- Timing for Free WiFi: Use the free Wi-Fi (available via the Station Network login) between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM when connection speeds are fastest, as the system often slows down after 1:00 PM due to high usage
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Open late March to early April; fresh bamboo shoots available at market during peak season.
Summer (June-August): Active season for visiting the Lighthouse and Staircase National Route; seafood dishes featured at restaurant.
Autumn (September-November): Ideal for viewing autumn foliage near Ryo-Hashi Lighthouse; local seafood harvest at peak.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly food like local seafood bowls. Includes baby beds and accessible restrooms. Educational value from the nearby tunnel museum enhances the experience.
Food Lover Review
Features a restaurant with high-quality local dishes, including the popular seafood bowl. Offers fresh regional products like Wakaoi kombu. The on-site shop sells unique local specialties and artisanal items.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and parking for 178 cars. Quiet location near scenic views. However, no explicit overnight parking policy is listed, limiting suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near Rokkai Cape with stunning ocean views and the famous Staircase National Route. Offers scenic viewpoints and seasonal beauty, especially during spring and summer. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and picturesque.