Station Akaigawa

Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Agricultural Heritage

Nestled along National Route 393—the scenic Maple Road—Akaigawa roadside station lies at the crossroads between Sapporo and the Niseko region, blending rural charm with modern convenience. Situated in the unique caldera basin of Akaigawa Village, this station thrives on the region’s dramatic day-night temperature differences, nurturing some of Hokkaido’s most flavorful produce. More than a rest stop, Akaigawa serves as a vibrant cultural and agricultural hub where locals and visitors connect.

Here, travelers can savor freshly baked bread and artisanal ice cream made from seasonal local ingredients, shop regional specialties like pumpkin manjuu and rice gelato, and enjoy hearty dishes such as tender pork steak with local rice. With its seasonal farm stands, interactive village albums, and nearby attractions like Kirolo Resort and Akaigawa Caldera Hot Spring, Akaigawa offers a complete experience of rural Hokkaido’s enduring spirit.

Akaigawa roadside station stands out as the only place where you can taste freshly made rice gelato crafted from local "Yukisayaka" rice, a variety grown in the unique volcanic caldera terrain that gives it a naturally sweet, creamy texture. Equally exclusive is the seasonal pumpkin manjuu, made with the village’s prized deep-orange kabocha squash, available only here. These signature treats, rooted in Akaigawa’s distinct climate and farming heritage, offer a taste of the region unlike anywhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the last fresh batch of the day’s baked milk bread from the bakery counter, which is often sold out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter for the limited-run seasonal soft serve made with freshly harvested local sweet potatoes, available only from late August through early September
• Weekend Special: On Sundays, arrive before 11:00 AM to enjoy the “Poke Steak with Rice Set” at the restaurant counter, as it sells out quickly during weekend lunch hours
• Best Purchase Time: Buy the limited-edition pumpkin manjuu (6 pieces) at the shop counter before 1:00 PM, as they are typically sold out by early afternoon and not restocked
• Seasonal Product Alert: Visit the farm produce stand between mid-May and mid-June to find the first seasonal asparagus, which is only available during that window and sells out fast
• Specialty Ice Cream: Order the rice-based ice cream made with Red River Village’s “Yukisayaka” rice at the ice cream counter—this flavor is only available from May through October and is not offered year-round
• Event Timing: Attend the September 17th “Akaigawa Roadside Station Thank You Festival” to sample the exclusive “Paprika and Cheese Pasta” dish, which is only served during the event and not available on regular days

Spring (March–May): Fresh asparagus and mountain vegetables arrive at the market; the roadside station hosts the annual Spring Harvest Festival in April.

Summer (June–August): Tomatoes, corn, and melons peak in season; the roadside station features summer-themed events and live music.

Autumn (September–October): Pumpkin harvest begins in September; the annual Autumn Festival celebrates local produce and crafts.

Winter (November–February): Limited hours and seasonal closures; ideal for quiet visits and nearby snow-based activities.