Discover the Heart of Iwanai: Where Nature, Art, and Tradition Meet
Nestled at the crossroads of highways 229 and 276, Iwanai roadside station is a vibrant hub where coastal charm meets rural heritage. Home to the striking yacht-shaped guide center, "Tara Maru Hall," this destination offers more than just a pit stop—it's a gateway to local culture. Explore the art of famed painter Kijiro Koda at the nearby museum, unwind at the acclaimed Iwanai Onsen with its nationally ranked "beauty skin" hot spring, and enjoy fresh local flavors from craft beer to seafood delicacies. With a campsite, events, and a warm community spirit, Iwanai invites you to slow down and savor the bounty of Hokkaido’s scenic coast.
Why Visit
Visit Iwanai roadside station to explore a maritime gateway where the sea meets art. Discover the vibrant works of local painter Kijiro Koda at the Koda Jinjiro Art Museum, savor regional specialties like Iwanai craft beer and rice wine, and unwind in the acclaimed Iwanai Onsen, ranked nationally for its skin-friendly waters.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and seasonal goods at Iwanai's roadside station, perfect for authentic souvenirs.
Iwanai Specialty Store
売店
Sells local specialties, agricultural products, seafood processed goods, sweets, and craft beer made from Iwanai-grown sake rice.
Products
Must-Try Item
Craft beer made from Iwanai-grown sake rice
Featured Products
Explore signature items like Iwanai’s locally brewed craft beer and premium sake made from regional rice.
Iwanai Craft Beer
クラフトビール
Locally brewed craft beer made from Iwanai-grown sake rice, known for its unique regional flavor.
Iwanai Sake Rice
酒米
High-quality sake rice cultivated in Iwanai, used for premium local sake and craft beer production.
Iwanai Seafood Processed Goods
水産加工品
Traditional processed seafood products made from local catches, preserving the taste of the region.
Iwanai Sweets
お菓子
Locally made confections using regional ingredients, ideal as a gift or souvenir.
Taramarukan Merchandise
たら丸グッズ
Official merchandise featuring the Taramarukan mascot, popular among visitors and collectors.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, Wi-Fi, and a coin laundry for a comfortable stop.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 8 spots, Ordinary cars: 94 spots. Parking is available in several locations around the roadside station.
Various locations around the roadside station
Toilet
Toilets are located across from the Taramaru Hall. Includes accessible toilets and a washlet-equipped toilet.
Opposite side of Taramaru Hall
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The information corner provides tourist brochures and flyers from local businesses. Staff are available to assist visitors.
Inside Taramaru Hall
Play Area
The site includes an auto campsite with a view of the sea, suitable for families and all age groups.
Marine View Auto Campsite
Iwana Onsen
A hot spring that ranked 3rd nationwide in the 'Beautiful Skin' category in the 2024 Hot Spring Grand Prix (1st in Hokkaido). Features two types of water: bicarbonate-chloride spring (warmth bath) and carbonic acid bicarbonate spring (beautiful skin bath), both sourced from the base of a mountain. Day-use bathing is available.
At the base of a mountain near the roadside station
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
On-site
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
On-site
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around local events and seasonal offerings for the best experience at Iwanai roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:15 AM during summer months (April–October) to secure a parking spot near the main entrance and avoid the midday tourist rush, especially on weekends.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the back of the shop to find limited-edition bottled craft beer from Iwanai Brewery, often sold only during seasonal events like the "Iwanai Hishoguza" beer crawl.
- Weekend Bonuses: On Saturdays and Sundays from August through October, the roadside station hosts pop-up food trucks offering fresh local seafood and regional specialties—check the event calendar on the website for exact days.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture the best views from the small observation deck behind the roadside station, especially during sunset when the sky reflects off the nearby harbor; bring a tripod for long exposures.
- Money Savers: Purchase the "Iwanai Local Delights Bundle" at the shop—this pre-packaged set of local snacks, including salted cod and rice crackers, is 15% cheaper than buying items individually.
- Avoiding Crowds: Visit on weekdays between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when most tourists have already left after lunch, and staff are less busy with information requests.
- Closure Alerts: Monitor the official website or the Facebook page for last-minute closure notices, especially during winter months when snow removal delays may affect operations—official updates are posted by 7:00 AM on affected days.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring offers mild weather and scenic views, ideal for visiting the art museum and nearby coastal paths.
Summer (June-August): Summer is peak season for events like the beer garden, bonfire, and summer festival, with fresh seafood and local drinks available.
Fall (September-November): Fall brings the annual sake tasting and autumn festivals, with crisp air perfect for exploring the roadside station and surrounding areas.
Winter (December-February): Winter offers cozy visits with hot spring baths, seasonal craft beer, and quiet charm during the off-season.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, kid-friendly food, stroller access, and educational art exhibits.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties, craft beer, wine, and fresh regional products.
Car Camping Review
Has camping site with showers and basic facilities, suitable for overnight stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers coastal views, forest scenery, and seasonal landscapes with scenic spots.