Step into Prehistoric Wonder at Chūrui Roadside Station
Nestled along National Route 236 in Hokkaido’s scenic Shikotsu region, Chūrui Roadside Station is a gateway to ancient history and natural relaxation. Home to the famed Naumann elephant fossil discovery, this vibrant hub blends science, culture, and local flavor. Visitors can explore the newly renovated Naumann Elephant Memorial Museum, stroll through the family-friendly Naumann Park with its water play areas and park golf course, or unwind in the 100% natural alkaline hot spring bath at Naumann Onsen Arco 236. With fresh local cuisine, handmade bread, and unique souvenirs like pure white lily root sweets, Chūrui offers a rich, immersive experience for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Why Visit
Visit Zhonglei to experience the ancient legacy of the Naumann elephant, home to a life-sized fossil display and a unique fossil footprints exhibit. Soak in the naturally warm, mineral-rich Naumann温泉, then savor local delicacies like pure white lily root dumplings and cheese pork bowls at the roadside station.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at roadside station Chūrui, where fresh ingredients from the region are transformed into delicious meals and sweet treats.
Restaurant Kyori Churui
レストラン郷里ちゅうるい
Specialty
Local cuisine featuring yuri root and cheese pork dishes
A restaurant located within the Naumann Hot Spring Arco 236 complex, offering a cozy atmosphere with a focus on regional ingredients. The menu highlights unique local specialties, including dishes made with yuri root and cheese pork.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local products and seasonal goods at the roadside station, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
Yuri Root Bakery
焼き立てパン工房
A fresh bread workshop producing a variety of breads and pastries using locally sourced ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly baked bread
Michi-no-Eki Churui Gift Shop
道の駅・忠類商品販売所
A retail shop selling local specialty products, including yuri root-based sweets and regional goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Pure White Yuri Root Sweets
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like pure white lotus root sweets and fresh local produce, celebrating Chūrui’s rich agricultural heritage.
Pure White Yuri Root Cream Puff
純白ゆり根のシュークリーム
A delicate cream puff made with pure white yuri root, offering a unique flavor and soft texture.
Pure White Yuri Root Mochi
純白ゆり根大福
A traditional Japanese mochi filled with sweet yuri root paste, known for its soft and chewy texture.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, Wi-Fi, parking, and family-friendly facilities for a comfortable stop.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 12 spots, Ordinary vehicles: 269 spots
Along National Route 236, near Takihara IC on the Takahara-Hiroo Expressway
Toilet
Available 24 hours a day. Includes accessible toilets and changing tables for infants.
Inside the Michi-no-Eki
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Provides tourism information for South Hokkaido, including details on the Tensho Street and Hikosuke Pass road conditions.
Center of the Michi-no-Eki
Play Area
Features four types of playground equipment and a safe water play area for children.
Nawaman Park
Nawaman Onsen Arco 236
100% natural hot spring with alkaline simple water. Offers sauna, outdoor bath, jet bath, and other facilities. Known as a beauty bath that leaves skin smooth.
Onsite at the Arco 236 facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available at the facility.
Near the parking area
ATM
Automated teller machine available for visitors.
Near the entrance
Dog Park
Designated area for dogs to play and exercise.
Nawaman Park
Nursing Room
Private room equipped with changing tables for breastfeeding and infant care.
Inside the Michi-no-Eki
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal activities such as park golf, camping, and exploring historic sites, all within a scenic natural setting.
Naumann Elephant Museum Experience
ナウマン象記念館
Visit the museum to see the full skeleton of a Naumann elephant, footprints, and mammoth teeth. The 4.3-meter reconstructed skeleton is impressive.
Duration
60 min
Park Golf Course
ナウマン公園 パークゴルフ場
Play park golf on a 36-hole course with two courses: a beginner-friendly family course and a championship course for advanced players.
Duration
90 min
Outdoor activity; check weather conditions before playing.
Water Playground
ナウマン公園 新設遊具
Enjoy safe water play in the water play area and use four newly installed playground equipment for children.
Duration
120 min
Best enjoyed on warm, sunny days.
Camping
ナウマン公園 キャンプ場
Set up your tent at the designated camping site within Naumann Park. Enjoy panoramic views of the日高山脈.
Duration
1440 min
Check weather and availability before arrival.
Skiing and Snowboarding
白銀台スキー場
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the only ski resort in South Tokachi. Features include a pair lift, night lighting, and a rest lodge.
Duration
240 min
Requires snow conditions; check snow report before visiting.
Scenic Viewpoint Tour
丸山展望台
Visit the scenic viewpoint to enjoy panoramic views of the town, the 日高山脈, and the Pacific Ocean. Legend says a pirate hid treasure here during the Bakumatsu period.
Duration
30 min
Best viewed on clear days for optimal visibility.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and take advantage of extended hours in the summer months for a more relaxed experience.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 9:15–10:00 AM during peak season (April–November) to secure parking and avoid the midday rush, especially on weekends when the restaurant and gift shop fill up quickly.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the small "Yurine Garden" near the entrance to the parking lot, where fresh white yurine (a local root vegetable) is grown and displayed seasonally—often overlooked but worth a quiet moment.
- Weekend Bonus: On Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00–11:30 AM, the on-site bakery offers free samples of freshly baked yurine bread and seasonal pastries—arrive early to catch this limited-time treat.
- Photo Opportunities: For the best view of the Naumann Elephant skeleton and the stone façade of the facility, position yourself at the main entrance just before 10:00 AM when natural light is optimal and crowds are thinner.
- Money Savers: Purchase the "Yurine Gift Set" (includes dried yurine, yurine powder, and a recipe card) directly at the front counter—this bundle is 15% cheaper than buying items individually at the retail kiosk.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main parking area during holidays and weekends; instead, use the large, less-used lot on the west side of the complex, accessible via the side road behind the restaurant—this reduces walking distance to the main buildings and avoids the bottleneck near the entrance.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call 01558-8-3236 at least 24 hours in advance, as the site occasionally closes unexpectedly for maintenance—especially during the 4-day closures in November (e.g., Nov 4–7), which are not always announced in advance.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Fresh strawberries and spring vegetables peak. Mild weather suits outdoor walks and exploring the park.
Summer (June–August): Corn and local fruits shine. Enjoy park activities, camping, and evening strolls.
Fall (September–October): Golden landscapes and harvest festivals. Try seasonal treats like yuri根 sweets.
Winter (November–March): Snowy scenery and hot springs. Ski at Shirogane-dai or relax in the温泉.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Well-equipped play areas, family activities, and child-friendly facilities available.
Food Lover Review
Excellent local specialties and diverse dining options with unique regional dishes.
Car Camping Review
Camping area available with scenic views and basic facilities for overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Stunning views of日高山脈 and scenic natural surroundings with excellent photo opportunities.