Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Wild Beauty at Bifuka Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 40 in the serene town of Bifuka, this charming roadside station stands as a gateway to northern Hokkaido’s untouched landscapes. Designed in the style of a medieval European castle, it overlooks the flowing Teshio River and the lush Bifuka Forest Park. More than just a stop, it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure, local flavors, and cultural discovery.
Here, you’ll savor unique treats like creamy pumpkin pasta, fresh-baked Bifuka beef buns made with local wheat, and the famed "Forest Dew"—a refreshing drink made from birch sap. Don’t miss the chance to relax in the natural hot spring, where you can even enjoy rare sturgeon dishes. With camping, cozy cottages, and scenic trails nearby, Bifuka invites travelers to slow down and truly connect with nature.
Why Visit
Discover the heart of Hokkaido’s wild beauty at Bifuka, where a medieval European castle-style station overlooks the Teshio River and Bifuka Forest Park. Savor unique local flavors like creamy pumpkin pasta, fresh Bifuka beef buns made with regional wheat, and the famed Forest Dew—crafted from birch sap. Indulge in rare sturgeon dishes at the natural hot spring, and explore nearby trails, camping, and scenic cottages for an immersive connection with nature.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the flavors of Bifuka with locally inspired dishes, from spicy curry crafted by an Indian chef to hearty meals made with fresh regional ingredients.
Resthouse Aul
レストハウス「あうる」
Specialty
Spicy curry with authentic Indian flavors
A restaurant offering Indian-inspired cuisine with a focus on rich, aromatic curries. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of local crafts, gourmet foods, and handmade specialties at the roadside station's vibrant market stalls.
Bifuka Specialty Market
物産展示コーナー
A general market showcasing local produce and crafts from Bifuka, including vegetables, sweets, wine, handmade croquettes, soft cream, and ceramics.
Products
Must-Try Item
Bifuka Croquettes
Bifuka White Birch Brewery
美深白樺ブルワリー「美深ビール」
A local brewery producing craft beer using ingredients from Bifuka, including unique flavors derived from the region's natural resources.
Products
Must-Try Item
Bifuka Beer
Featured Products
Sample signature treats like Bifuka’s honey-infused soft serve and the unique kuri-jagaimo potato croquettes, crafted from the region’s prized produce.
Bifuka Honey Soft
びふかはちみつソフト
A unique soft serve made with local honey from Bifuka, offering a sweet and natural flavor.
Bifuka Curry Croquette
美深コロッケ
Crispy fried croquettes made with locally grown potatoes and a rich, savory filling.
Bifuka Beech Sap Drink
森の雫
A refreshing drink made from sap collected from local beech trees, known for its natural sweetness and health benefits.
Bifuka Beef Man
美深牛肉まん
A steamed bun filled with premium Bifuka beef, made with 100% local Haruyutaka wheat dough.
Bifuka Pumpkin Pasta
パンプキンクリーミィーパスタ
Pasta made with 100% local Haruyutaka wheat and a creamy pumpkin sauce, available only at Bifuka Michinoeki.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, accessible restrooms, EV charging, and a cozy café perfect for relaxing amid scenic surroundings.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 18 spaces, Ordinary vehicles: 200 spaces
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Includes warm water flushing toilets, disabled toilets, and ostomy facilities
Inside the facility, near the toilet hall
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the station
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Provides information about the station, local attractions, and events
Main building
Play Area
Outdoor play area for children, located near the forest park
Near Bifuka Forest Park
Bifuka Onsen
Natural hot spring with therapeutic benefits for neural pain and fatigue recovery. Features rare sturgeon dishes such as sturgeon bowl, caviar, and smoked sturgeon.
Onsite, adjacent to the main building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available on-site
Near the parking lot
Nursing Room
Private room for breastfeeding and changing diapers
Inside the facility
ATM
Cash machine available for visitors
Near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in nature with guided canoe trips on the scenic Teshio River and seasonal events celebrating Bifuka’s rich cultural heritage.
Kayaking on the Tenkawa River
天塩川カヌートリップ
Paddle down the pristine Tenkawa River, known as Japan's Yukon River, enjoying untouched natural scenery and possible encounters with wild birds and salmon migration depending on the season.
Duration
180 min
Weather-dependent; check with the operator before departure.
Insider Tips
Visit during shoulder seasons to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the rare chance to try chum salmon dishes at the on-site hot spring bath
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:00 AM on weekdays to avoid crowds and secure parking near the main entrance before the morning rush. The shop and restaurant lines are shortest during this window.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the small deli counter behind the main shop for fresh, limited-edition handmade corn bread and seasonal berry jam—only available in early summer and sold out by midday.
- Weekend Bonus: On Saturdays and Sundays, the on-site restaurant "あうる" offers a special lunch combo including the signature pancake-style pumpkin pasta and a free sample of the new "びふかはちみつソフト" until 12:30 PM.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture the best views of the castle-style building with the river in the foreground by standing at the east-facing wooden bridge near the parking lot—ideal for sunrise shots between 6:30–7:30 AM.
- Money Savers: Purchase the "美深牛まん" (250 yen) in bulk—buy 5 for 1,100 yen instead of individual pricing. Also, use the free Wi-Fi to download the official "びふか" app for exclusive digital coupons.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main shop during 11:00 AM–2:00 PM on weekends. Instead, visit the outdoor picnic area behind the building or the nearby forest trail to enjoy quiet views and fewer visitors.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call the tourism office at 01656-9-2470 before visiting, as the restrooms and some shop sections close early on winter weekdays (after 17:30), and the 松山湿原 trail is closed from November 1 to April 15 annually.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Fresh strawberries and spring vegetables arrive. Mild weather suits outdoor walks and forest hikes.
Summer (June–August): Corn, berries, and fresh produce peak. Enjoy camping and river activities.
Fall (September–October): Crisp air and vibrant foliage. Try seasonal specialties like kuri-jagaimo.
Winter (November–March): Snowy landscapes and serene trails. Visit the hot spring and savor chum salmon dishes.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Well-equipped play areas, child-friendly food, and stroller-accessible facilities enhance family experience.
Food Lover Review
Diverse local specialties and high-quality regional dishes offer a memorable culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Ample parking and basic facilities support overnight stays, though not explicitly designated for camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Stunning natural scenery with scenic viewpoints and seasonal landscapes enhances overall appeal.