Discover the Heart of Fukushima’s Coastal Heritage
Soma roadside station, nestled along National Route 6 in the northern part of Fukushima’s coastal region known as Hamadōri, is a vibrant hub where tradition meets modernity. Reimagined as a landmark for regional revitalization, the station draws inspiration from the historic Sōma Yagura, or Sōma Castle’s military compound, blending cultural heritage with contemporary charm.
Visitors are welcomed by a dynamic mix of local flavors and craftsmanship. Explore the fresh produce market featuring seasonal vegetables and fruits from Sōma farms, or savor unique dishes at Kitchen Nittaki, where Fukushima-raised meats meet local recipes like grilled pork with Kinsho pickled mustard. Don’t miss the Palace Milk Stand Soma, where original soft-serve made from milk from the historic Sōma Domain dairy farm pairs perfectly with seasonal fruit parfaits and house-blend coffee. With events throughout the year, this roadside station is more than a stop—it’s a destination.
Why Visit
Visit Soma roadside station to experience the only milk ice cream in the region made from cow's milk sourced directly from the historic Soma Domain's former pasture. Savor the original soft-serve parfaits topped with seasonal fruits and sample the exclusive Soma blend coffee, both available only here. The station also serves the legendary Kinsho-zuke pork roast and Soma kimchi stir-fry—dishes rooted in the area’s samurai-era culinary traditions and impossible to find elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Soma roadside station, where fresh regional ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Kitchen Nittaki
キッチンにったき
Specialty
Fukushima prefecture beef dishes with local ingredients
A restaurant offering unique dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, focusing on beef from Fukushima Prefecture. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, ideal for enjoying hearty meals made with regional flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal produce at Soma roadside station’s vibrant marketplace.
Soma Milk Stand
殿様ミルクスタンドSOMA
A sweets shop offering original soft-serve ice cream, parfaits, smoothies, and coffee made from milk and yogurt sourced from the historical Soma Domain's pasture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Original Soft-Serve Ice Cream
Local Products Sales Facility
物産販売施設
A sales facility featuring fresh vegetables and fruits harvested in Soma City, along with local specialties, crafts, and ready-to-eat meals for daily use.
Products
Must-Try Item
Locally harvested vegetables and fruits
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like farm-fresh dairy treats and regional delicacies crafted from Soma’s heritage.
Soma Domain Milk Yogurt
相馬藩牛乳ヨーグルト
Yogurt made from milk sourced from the historical Soma Domain pasture, known for its rich and creamy texture.
Soma Kimchi
相馬キムチ
Authentic Soma-style kimchi made with locally grown vegetables and traditional fermentation methods.
Soma Fresh Vegetable Box
相馬野菜セット
A curated box of fresh vegetables harvested daily in Soma City, showcasing seasonal produce from the region.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious parking, restrooms, and a welcoming information center at Soma roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 70 spaces, including 22 large vehicle spots, 45 regular vehicle spots, and 3 accessible spots for people with disabilities.
Located along National Route 6, north of Nikkashigawa River
Toilet
Restrooms are available at the roadside station for visitors' convenience.
Inside the roadside station premises
Information Counter
The roadside station features an information center providing local tourism and travel information, serving as a hub for visitors.
Inside the roadside station premises
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Kitchen Nittaki Restaurant
A restaurant serving local Fukushima ingredients, featuring unique dishes such as Kinsho-zuke grilled pork loin and Soma kimchi stir-fried pork, using locally sourced meat.
Inside the roadside station premises
Local Product Sales Facility
A sales facility offering fresh produce harvested in Soma City, along with local specialty products and crafts. It also features daily-use items such as prepared foods.
Inside the roadside station premises
Daimyō Milk Stand SOMA
A sweets shop offering original soft-serve ice cream made from milk and yogurt sourced from the historical Soma Domain's pasture, seasonal fruit-topped ice cream parfaits, original smoothies, and blended coffee.
Inside the roadside station premises
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and make the most of local favorites before they sell out.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the fresh batch of milk bread from the bakery, which sells out by 11:00 AM and is not restocked during the day
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited-edition "Kinko-zuke" pork roast, available only until 1:00 PM on weekdays and 1:30 PM on weekends
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive by 10:00 AM to get the first taste of the seasonal fruit soft-serve parfaits at the "Daimyo Milk Stand Soma," which are only available from November through January and often sell out by 2:00 PM
- Best Dining Time: Order the "Soma Kimchi and Pork Stir-Fry" at the "Kitchen Nittaki" restaurant between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to ensure it’s served hot and fresh, as the kitchen stops preparing it at 3:30 PM
- Exclusive Product Timing: Purchase the limited-run "Soma Autumn Harvest" mixed vegetable pack at the retail store between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, as it is only restocked once daily at 9:30 AM and rarely re-ordered after midday
- Parking Strategy: Use the large vehicle parking area on the far left side of the lot when visiting on weekends, as the regular parking spaces fill by 10:15 AM and overflow into the access road
- Information Desk Tip: Ask at the road information desk between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM for the latest copy of the November event PDF, as it is only printed and distributed once daily at 9:30 AM and often runs out by noon
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; no specific seasonal events mentioned.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal products or events listed for summer.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn harvest offerings include local produce; events held throughout November.
Winter (December-February): Closed on January 1–2; limited seasonal offerings noted during winter months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Soma roadside station offers ample parking, stroller-friendly paths, and a clean, safe environment. While no dedicated play area is mentioned, the variety of food and interactive elements like local product displays enhance family appeal.
Food Lover Review
The station features diverse dining options including a restaurant serving local meat dishes and a unique milk stand offering seasonal soft-serve made from regional dairy. Fresh produce and authentic local specialties are well represented.
Car Camping Review
With 70 parking spots including spaces for large vehicles and basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines, Soma is suitable for short stops. However, no overnight parking policy is stated, limiting its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along National Route 6 with views of the surrounding landscape, the station offers pleasant natural surroundings. Seasonal changes and the nearby river enhance scenic appeal, with several photo-worthy spots available.