Station 230 Rusutsu

Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Agricultural Heritage

Tucked at the foot of Mount Shiribetsu in the serene village of Rusutsu, 230 Rusutsu is a revitalized roadside station that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural legacy. Reopening in April 2025 with a renewed mission, the station embodies the philosophy that “Rusutsu is the beginning of abundance,” offering visitors a vibrant gateway to local flavors, fresh produce, and rural charm.

More than a rest stop, 230 Rusutsu is a celebration of community and sustainability. From farm-fresh vegetables and organic condiments to hearty dishes like local pork donburi and daikon-packed buckwheat noodles, every bite reflects the purity of the surrounding landscape. The station also pays homage to local culture with the nearby Red Shoes Park, inspired by the beloved folk song, making it a place where nature, food, and history come together.

Located at the foot of Shikaribetsu Mountain, 230 Rusutsu stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering freshly harvested, farm-direct vegetables from local growers, including rare heirloom varieties like the deep-purple Shikaribetsu carrot. Its signature dish, the Rusutsu Pork Butadon, features pork raised in the village’s pristine highlands, delivering a rich, tender flavor unmatched elsewhere. The station also hosts the only dedicated “Red Shoes Park” in Japan, honoring the local legend of the folk song “Akai Kutsu,” making it a poignant cultural stop for travelers seeking authentic regional stories.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the freshest selection of daily produce from local growers at the agricultural direct sales counter before it sells out, especially during summer months when seasonal vegetables like snap peas and green beans are featured.

• Hidden Gems: Check the agricultural direct sales counter for the seasonal "Rusutsu Vegetable Bean Collection" — look for fresh edamame, green snap peas, and black soybeans, which are only available during specific months and often sell out by midday.

• Must-Try Menu Item: Order the "Rusutsu Pork Bento" at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM, as it is prepared fresh daily using locally raised "Rusutsu Pork" and is typically the last serving around 1:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to purchase the limited-edition "Rusutsu Village Original Cookie" — these are restocked only once per weekend and often sell out by noon.

• Best Time to Visit the Gift Shop: Arrive before 11:30 AM on weekdays to avoid the midday rush and to get first access to new arrivals of local products like the "Yumegi Original Miso Manju" and other seasonal specialties.

• Parking Strategy: Use the roofed parking area for large vehicles if you're traveling with a family or carrying bulky purchases, as the open-area parking fills quickly during peak hours, especially on weekends.

• Stamp Collection Tip: Visit the information desk between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to collect your stamp during the opening hours, as the stamp station closes at 17:00 in winter and 18:00 in summer, and late arrivals may miss the opportunity due to closing procedures.

Spring (March–May): Open from late April; fresh local vegetables and seasonal beans available at the market.

Summer (June–August): Peak season for the Rutsu Industry Festival in late August and fresh produce at the roadside station.

Autumn (September–October): Harvest season for root vegetables and beans; ideal for experiencing local farm-fresh flavors.

Winter (November–February): Limited hours; visit for quiet charm and seasonal specialty foods.