Discover the Heart of Aomori at Towada Roadside Station
Nestled in the scenic city of Towada, this vibrant roadside station is a gateway to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and cultural charm. More than a stop for travelers, it’s a lively hub where local farmers, artisans, and visitors connect.
Home to fresh regional produce, artisanal crafts, and the famous Towada garlic—renowned nationwide—this station also hosts seasonal events like the TOWADA COFFEE FESTIVAL and the annual Towada Garlic Day. Don’t miss the exclusive “Towany” commemorative financier or handcrafted souvenirs from the local artisan workshop.
Why Visit
Towada is home to Japan’s only annual Tenkawa Garlic Festival, celebrating the city’s status as the nation’s top garlic producer. Visitors can taste unique garlic-infused treats like the signature Farm Ice Cream and the limited-edition New Banknote Memorial Finan-shé. The roadside station also hosts the TOWADA COFFEE FESTIVAL, showcasing local roasts in a vibrant seasonal event.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Towada roadside station with fresh, seasonal meals and signature treats.
Towada Coffee Festival
道の駅とわだ
Specialty
Coffee tasting and specialty coffee events
A seasonal coffee festival featuring local roasters and coffee enthusiasts, offering a vibrant atmosphere centered around premium coffee experiences.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and regional specialties at Towada roadside station’s vibrant market.
Towada Specialty Market
道の駅とわだ・十和田市観光物産センター
A dedicated retail space offering a wide range of local specialty products, including food, crafts, and regional souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
New Banknote Commemoration Financier
Fukuda Bakery
福田パン
A seasonal pop-up bakery selling freshly baked bread and pastries, available for limited periods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fukuda Bread
Towada Free Market
道の駅フリーマーケット
A seasonal open-air market held at the front of the artisan workshop, featuring local vendors selling handmade goods and fresh produce.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local artisan crafts
Towada Garlic Festival
十和田にんにくの日
A seasonal event celebrating Tenkawa's status as Japan's top garlic producer, featuring garlic-based food and local products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Tenkawa Garlic
Featured Products
Explore signature items like the New Banknote Commemorative Finanace and fresh regional produce.
New Banknote Commemoration Financier
新紙幣記念フィナンシェ
A commemorative dessert created to mark the introduction of new Japanese banknotes, featuring a unique design and flavor.
Towada Milk Soy Milk Smoothie
さんのうころとろ豆乳スープ
A smooth, creamy soy milk smoothie with a rich, natural flavor, made using locally sourced ingredients.
Premium Rinko Juice
プレミアムりんごジュース
A high-quality, refreshing juice made from locally grown rinko (a type of citrus fruit), known for its sweet and tangy taste.
Big Tongue Call
大舌叫
A unique, playful snack with a bold name and distinctive flavor, inspired by local culture.
Long Yam
ながいも
A locally grown long yam known for its smooth texture and mild, sweet flavor, ideal for cooking and baking.
Koizumi-san
小泉さん
A popular local snack named after a beloved local figure, known for its unique taste and nostalgic appeal.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including rest areas, information desks, and relaxing lounges.
Tourist Information Center
The roadside station features a tourist information center for visitors seeking guidance and local information about Tenkawa City and its attractions.
Inside the roadside station
Dining Area
A dining area offering meals from 11:00 to 15:00, featuring local cuisine and specialty items such as Tenkawa's famous farm ice cream.
Dining area within the roadside station
Parking Area
Parking facilities are available for visitors arriving by car.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance or main lobby
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors using electric cars.
Parking area
Play Area
A play area is available for children, providing a space for them to enjoy and relax.
Near the outdoor or family-friendly zone
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants, offering a comfortable space for breastfeeding or changing diapers.
Inside the facility, near restrooms
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets, allowing them to walk or rest with their animals.
Outdoor area near the main entrance
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and community markets.
Towada Garlic Day
十和田にんにくの日
Celebrate the annual garlic festival in Towada, known as the top garlic-producing city in Japan. Enjoy garlic-themed food, local products, and cultural activities.
Duration
180 min
TOWADA COFFEE FESTIVAL
TOWADA COFFEE FESTIVAL
Experience a three-day coffee festival featuring local roasters, coffee tastings, and live music in the event space at Towada Roadside Station.
Duration
180 min
Free Market at the Roadside Station
道の駅フリーマーケット
Participate in a local free market event held at the front courtyard of the Craft Workshop, featuring handmade goods, local produce, and artisanal products.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor event; may be canceled due to rain
Fukuda Bread Sales
福田パン販売
Purchase limited-edition bread from Fukuda Bakery, available for a short period during specific weekends.
Duration
30 min
Insider Tips
Visit during peak harvests and check event schedules for limited-time experiences.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the first batch of fresh-baked milk bread from the bakery, which sells out quickly and is not restocked during the day
- Hidden Gems: Stop by the deli counter near the rear of the sales area between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM to sample the daily limited-availability regional cheeses, including a seasonal soft goat cheese made by a local artisan
- Weekend Special: On the second Sunday of each month, head to the front courtyard between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to attend the rotating craft market featuring handmade textiles from the Southern Tsuchi织 Preservation Association
- Special Product Tip: Purchase the limited-edition New Banknote Commemorative Financier "TOWANY" at the souvenir counter between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on weekdays, as it is only available for sale during the first two hours of operation
- Food Experience: Order the seasonal "Niniku no Hi" special menu at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM on October 15, 2025, to enjoy a full meal featuring locally grown garlic in multiple preparations
- Festival Timing: Arrive at the event space by 9:45 AM on October 11–13, 2025, to secure a seat at the TOWADA COFFEE FESTIVAL tasting session, which begins at 10:00 AM and features exclusive small-batch roasts
- Market Strategy: Visit the craft market area behind the artisan workshop on the first Sunday of the month between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM to meet the local vendors and receive a free sample of handmade "Kimi-gara" slippers before they sell out
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Late March to April features peak canola flower viewing near the roadside station, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June-August): August hosts the TOWADA COFFEE FESTIVAL, while blueberries ripen in July for U-pick and fresh desserts.
Autumn (September-November): September brings special cake sales and the popular Free Market, with October hosting the annual Tenkaku Garlic Festival.
Winter (December-February): No specific seasonal events mentioned; limited activities due to cold climate.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, child-friendly food, stroller access, and interactive cultural exhibits.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local specialties, fresh produce, artisanal products, and seasonal events.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking and basic facilities, suitable for overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views, seasonal landscapes, and well-designed photo spots.