Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Rural Bounty at Assabu Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 227 in Hokkaido’s lush Miyoshi Village, Assabu is a vibrant roadside station built with fragrant hinoki (Japanese cypress) wood and rooted in local heritage. Known as the birthplace of the iconic Meekin potato, it showcases fresh, seasonal produce and handcrafted goods from thickets to table. With a spacious rest area, a cozy bakery, and a dynamic cultural hub called ASSAN—featuring a cinema space and regional dining—Assabu offers more than a pit stop; it’s a celebration of community, nature, and authentic local flavor.
Why Visit
Visit Assabu roadside station to discover the heart of Hokkaido’s agricultural heritage. Renowned as the birthplace of the Meikin potato, it offers fresh, locally grown produce and unique crafts. The station’s timber structure, built with aromatic hinoki cypress, enhances the authentic regional charm.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Assabu roadside station, where fresh, regional dishes meet cozy comfort. Enjoy everything from hearty meals to sweet treats made with local Meekin potatoes.
Assan Bakery
アッサンベーカリー
Specialty
Freshly baked bread and pastries using local ingredients
A cozy bakery located within the new commercial facility ASSAN, offering a variety of handmade breads, pastries, and seasonal treats. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing break with a cup of coffee.
Tashikara
味処 停車場
Specialty
Local cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients from Ashibetsu
A casual dining restaurant offering traditional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, ideal for a hearty meal after exploring the area.
Assan Theater
道の駅シアター
Specialty
Entertainment-focused food and drink service with multimedia experiences
A unique food stall located within the new commercial facility ASSAN, combining cinematic experiences with light refreshments. It offers a modern, immersive environment where visitors can enjoy snacks while watching curated videos or live events.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and seasonal treasures at Assabu’s roadside station. Explore vibrant stalls filled with crafts, food, and souvenirs from thick-forested Hokkaido.
Ashibetsu Town Product Center
あっさぶ町物産センター
A large retail space featuring a wide variety of local products from Ashibetsu Town, including fresh vegetables, processed foods, and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Meekin potato products
Oraimo-kun Merchandise Store
おらいも君グッズ
A dedicated shop selling official merchandise of Oraimo-kun, the official mascot of Ashibetsu Town. Items include plush toys, keychains, stationery, and apparel.
Products
Must-Try Item
Oraimo-kun plush doll
Featured Products
Taste the heart of the region with Assabu’s signature products, including Meekin potatoes and premium local sake. Each item reflects the town’s rich agricultural heritage.
Kichiri Shochu 5-Pack Set
焼酎喜多里5本セット
A premium set of five bottles of Kichiri Shochu, a locally produced distilled spirit known for its smooth flavor and regional authenticity.
Meekin Potato Chips
メークインポテトチップス
Crispy potato chips made from the famous Meekin potatoes, a local specialty known for their rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor.
Hinoki Asunaro Scented Candle
ヒノキアスナロ香るキャンドル
A hand-poured candle infused with the natural fragrance of Hinoki Asunaro wood, offering a calming and refreshing aroma reminiscent of the local forest.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with modern amenities at Assabu roadside station. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, EV charging, and spacious seating for every traveler.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with 8 large vehicle spots and 73 regular car spots.
Located at the roadside station premises, along National Route 227
Restroom
The restroom includes facilities for people with disabilities, a bidet toilet, and a changing table for infants.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center providing details about local attractions, events, and services.
Inside the roadside station building
Play Area
A spacious rest area with space for relaxation and occasional events such as music live performances.
Located within the rest area of the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging is available at the roadside station.
Located at the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room & Changing Table
A private nursing room equipped with a changing table for infants is available for parents.
Inside the restroom area
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and check seasonal event schedules. Don’t miss the temporary stamp station during renovations.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 8:45 AM during winter months (November–April) to secure a parking spot and avoid the midday rush, as the roadside station opens at 9:00 AM and fills quickly.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the back of the main hall during late morning hours to find fresh, limited-edition Meekin potato pastries made that day—only available until 11:30 AM.
- Weekend Bonuses: On Saturdays and Sundays, the ASSAN café hosts live acoustic music from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM; sit near the large window for the best view and a free complimentary local honey sample with any drink.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture the best shots of the Hinoki Asunaro scent diffuser display just inside the main entrance—especially striking at golden hour between 4:30–5:30 PM when sunlight hits the wooden beams.
- Money Savers: Purchase the "Meekin Harvest Bundle" (a mix of dried potato chips, jam, and a small bag of fresh potatoes) at the direct sales counter—this combo is 15% cheaper than buying items separately.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main entrance line by using the side entrance near the EV charging station, which leads directly to the gift shop and is less frequented, especially between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official Assabu website or contact the tourism office at 0139-64-3738 before visiting, as temporary closures for maintenance or events (like the annual winter festival) are often announced only a few days in advance.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring offers fresh local produce, with early harvests of thickened potatoes and seasonal vegetables available from April.
Summer (June-August): Summer is ideal for enjoying fresh strawberries and regional fruits, with peak picking from June to July.
Fall (September-November): Autumn brings the highlight of local harvests, including meekin potatoes and autumn vegetables, perfect for tasting and purchasing.
Winter (December-February): Winter features cozy visits with seasonal baked goods, warm drinks, and the soothing scent of hinoki wood in the heated roadside station.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers spacious rest area, kid-friendly snacks, and nearby forest camping with educational value.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like Meekin potatoes, fresh produce, and diverse dining options including bakery and restaurant.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking and basic facilities; suitable for overnight stays near forest camping area.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural pine forests and scenic views, with notable seasonal landscapes and peaceful atmosphere.