Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Coastal Heritage
Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta, nestled along National Route 231 in the scenic thickets of Ishikari City, stands as a three-story testament to regional pride and natural beauty. Renowned for its breathtaking views, it ranks among the top scenic roadside stations in Hokkaido, earning second place in the national "Best Viewed Roadside Station" award in 2018 and 2019. From its elevated observation deck, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas of the Sea of Japan, the bustling Atsuta Fishing Port, and the golden hues of sunset over Ishikari Bay—perfect for quiet reflection or unforgettable photo moments.
Beyond the panorama, the station offers a rich tapestry of local culture. Explore exhibits on the area’s fishing heritage, admire watercolor art from the “Northern Sea” series, or visit the restored home of Shigaku Ikeda, a prominent figure in local history. With diverse dining options—from fresh squid and salmon dishes to locally crafted gelato and wood-fired pizzas—plus a vibrant marketplace showcasing seasonal produce and exclusive souvenirs, Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta invites travelers to savor the essence of Hokkaido’s coastal life.
Why Visit
Visit Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta for its breathtaking 360-degree views from the third-floor panoramic deck, where Japan Sea sunsets paint the sky in gold and the thickets of the Nishin fishing era are preserved in vivid folk art. Here, you can taste the region’s only Nishin and roe push sushi—a bold, buttery specialty made with fresh local Nishin and uniquely seasoned roe—and savor the rare Atsuta Blue gelato, a rich, creamy flavor crafted with local dairy and a nostalgic twist.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic Hokkaido flavors at Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta, where local ingredients meet culinary craftsmanship.
Soba Shop Ichijun
そば処一純
Specialty
Traditional soba made with local Ishikari buckwheat flour
A dedicated soba shop located on the first floor, offering authentic ten-soba made with locally sourced buckwheat. The shop specializes in dishes featuring fresh Ishikari-caught squid and seasonal ingredients.
Ishikari Nishin Nishin
石狩二三一
Specialty
Traditional pressed sushi featuring Ishikari herring and sea urchin
A restaurant on the second floor specializing in Ishikari herring-based pressed sushi. The space offers panoramic views of the Sea of Japan, creating a serene dining experience.
Bakery & Pizza HOME
BAKERY&PIZZA HOME
Specialty
Freshly baked pizzas and bread using local ingredients
A second-floor restaurant specializing in handmade pizzas and artisanal bread, using ingredients sourced from the Ishikari region. The open kitchen allows guests to watch their meals being prepared.
GEALATO LicoLico Atsuta Store
GEALATO LICOLICO 厚田店
Specialty
Artisanal gelato using local Ishikari ingredients
A gelato shop on the second floor offering a rotating selection of seasonal and locally inspired flavors. The shop emphasizes high-quality ingredients and unique taste experiences.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and regional treasures at Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta’s thoughtfully curated gift shop.
Local Product Sales Corner
地場産品販売コーナー
A dedicated sales area featuring locally produced goods from Ishikari, including agricultural and marine processed products, as well as exclusive collaborations with local producers and businesses.
Products
Must-Try Item
Atsuta Sunset Gelato
Featured Products
Explore signature treats like savory sea urchin and fresh crab pastries, crafted with pride from local harvests.
Hatahata Mochi and Shako Mochi
はたはたもなか・しゃこもなか
Traditional mochi shaped like local fish species—Hatahata and Shako—filled with white or red bean paste.
One-Bite Apple Yōkan
ひとくち林檎羊羹
Miniature yōkan made with juice from apples grown at the 100-year-old Kimura Orchard in Ishikari Hamayoshi.
Dorayaki, Chinese Mochi, Large Dorayaki, and Large Chinese Mochi
どら焼き・中華まんじゅう・でかどら焼き・でかどら中華まんじゅう
Handmade dorayaki and Chinese mochi crafted by Fujimiya Sweets, a confectionery established in 1969 in Ishikari Hamayoshi.
Tako Pan Kama
たこパンかま
A unique snack combining Ishikari squid, Hokkaido skate, and a crispy bread base, creating a satisfying and flavorful treat.
Atsuta Pumpkin and Milk Gelato
厚田のかぼちゃとミルクジェラート
A limited-edition cup gelato made with locally grown pumpkin and rich milk, featuring a sunset-inspired lid design.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, Wi-Fi, EV charging, and family-friendly spaces at Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta.
Parking Lot
Approximately 200 parking spaces available, including 3 accessible spaces for people with disabilities, 4 large vehicle spaces, and 1 EV charging spot.
Adjacent to the roadside station along National Route 231
24-Hour Toilet
A 24-hour accessible toilet is available on the first floor of the roadside station, including facilities for people with disabilities and ostomy users.
First floor
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center with staff to assist visitors with tourism information, maps, and local recommendations.
Main hall on the first floor
Fuwafuwa Dome (Summer Only)
A summer-only inflatable dome playground located outdoors, ideal for children to play and enjoy the view of the Sea of Japan and sunset.
Outdoor area near the roadside station
EV Charging Station
One EV charging spot is available, with construction ongoing as of October 2025, expected to be completed by mid-November 2025.
Parking area
Nursing Room & Changing Table
A private nursing room equipped with a changing table is available for parents and caregivers.
Inside the facility
Children's Playground (Kodomo Hiroba)
An outdoor play area called 'Fuwafuwa Dome' is available during summer months, offering fun and safe play for children.
Outside the roadside station
Onsen (Hot Spring)
No onsen is available at this roadside station.
Bike Rental
No bike rental service is available at this roadside station.
ATM
No ATM is mentioned as being available at this roadside station.
Pet Area
No designated pet area is mentioned at this roadside station.
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and outdoor adventures at Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta.
Fuwafuwa Dome (Summer Only)
ふわふわドーム（夏季のみ営業）
Children can enjoy playing freely in the inflatable dome structure located outdoors at the roadside station. The dome offers a fun and safe space for kids to play while enjoying views of the majestic Japan Sea and stunning sunsets.
Duration
120 min
Activities may be suspended during heavy rain or strong winds.
Zip Line 'Atsutan' at Atsuta Campground
ジップライン「アツターザン」
Participants slide down a wire stretched between trees using a pulley system, enjoying a thrilling and scenic ride through the forest canopy.
Duration
30 min
Activity is suspended during heavy rain, snow, or strong winds.
Autumn Harvest Festival
秋の大収穫祭
A seasonal event celebrating the autumn harvest with local produce, food stalls, and cultural activities showcasing regional agriculture and traditions.
Duration
180 min
Event may be canceled or postponed due to bad weather.
Sunset Viewing at the 3rd Floor Observation Deck
3階 展望デッキ
Enjoy panoramic views of the Japan Sea and the town of Atsuta from the elevated observation deck, especially breathtaking during sunset when the Sea of Ishikari glows golden.
Duration
60 min
Best viewed on clear days; visibility may be reduced during fog or rain.
Love Shrine (Atsuta Observatory)
恋人の聖地（厚田展望台）
Visit the designated 'Love Shrine' where couples can ring a bell and attach a padlock to a fence as a symbol of enduring love. The site offers a scenic view of the surrounding area.
Duration
30 min
Access may be limited during heavy rain or snow.
Atsuta Campground River Play and Salmon Viewing
厚田キャンプ場
Enjoy river play in the Mokuzo River and observe salmon migration during the spawning season. The campsite also features a playground and outdoor facilities.
Duration
120 min
Activities may be restricted during heavy rain or high water levels.
Atsuta Historical House Tour
戸田城聖生家
Take a guided or self-guided tour of the restored home where Daisaku Ikeda, the second president of Soka Gakkai, spent his childhood. Learn about his life and the history of the region.
Duration
45 min
Indoor access only; closed during winter months.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal highlights and check opening times to make the most of your experience at Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM during winter months (November to March) to enjoy the full range of seasonal offerings at GEALATO LicoLico, including the limited-time "thick blue" flavor made with concentrated buttermilk, which is only available until early spring.
- Hidden Gems: Head to the second-floor deli counter to try the "Tako no Marinaru" pizza made with fresh Hokkaido squid, a menu item that is only available when the fish is in season and often sells out by midday.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the "Hatahata Mochi" and "Shako Mochi" stand in the souvenir shop to purchase the original regional sweet made with real hatahata and shrimp-shaped mochi, which are only available at Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta and not sold elsewhere.
- Best Viewing Time: Arrive at the third-floor observation deck by 5:30 PM from June through September to witness the golden sunset over Ishikari Bay, which is visible through the glass railing and offers the most vivid photo opportunities.
- Seasonal Food Tip: On October 21, visit the GEALATO LicoLico stand during the "Atsuta School 5th–7th Grade × LicoLico Collaboration Flavor" event to sample the exclusive "Atsuta Sunset" ice cream, a limited-edition blend of mango and raspberry created specifically for that day only.
- Best Shopping Time: Purchase the "Kabocha and Milk Gelato" from GEALATO LicoLico before 3:00 PM on weekdays, as this limited-run flavor is only produced in small batches and frequently sells out by early afternoon.
- Must-Visit Nearby Spot: Walk the 7-minute path from Ishikari Ai-Road Atsuta to the "Lovers' Shrine / Atsuta Observatory" to ring the "Vow Bell" and attach a commemorative lock to the iron fence, then buy a lock directly from the roadside station's souvenir shop to take home as a keepsake.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Visit for fresh herring from the morning market and the opening of the summer playground.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for enjoying the seaside view, summer-only fun dome, and fresh seafood at the morning market.
Autumn (September–October): Best for the autumn harvest festival and seasonal flavors like pumpkin and apple treats.
Winter (November–March): Visit during the quiet season for cozy indoor experiences and winter-themed events.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Features include a summer-only soft dome play area, stroller-friendly paths, and a children's space. The 24-hour restroom and family facilities support long visits. Educational exhibits on local history and nature enhance the experience for kids.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse local cuisine with multiple specialty shops. Highlights include fresh seafood dishes, regional ingredients like Hokkaido octopus and pork, and unique seasonal treats such as 'Atsuta Sunset' gelato.
Car Camping Review
Provides a campsite with toilets, a kitchen area, and play equipment. While facilities are functional, overnight parking is not explicitly permitted, and the site is not quiet due to nearby activities and foot traffic.
Scenic Beauty Review
Features a top-floor viewing deck with panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and Atsuta town. The sunset over the calm Ishikari Bay is particularly stunning, and the surrounding natural scenery enhances the overall atmosphere.