Discover the Bounty of Hokkaido’s Northern Heartland
Kaminokuni Monju roadside station, nestled along National Route 228 in the scenic town of Kaminokuni, blends natural beauty with rich local heritage. More than a stopover, it’s a gateway to the region’s dairy legacy, pristine coastline, and cultural treasures. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Sea of Japan, savor fresh seafood like the famed tekkui tempura, and explore nearby historical sites including the ancient Kaminokuni Hachiman Shrine and the nationally designated Shogun’s Castle ruins.
Why Visit
Kaminokuni Monju offers the only roadside station in the region featuring a signature dish of tekkui tempura—a crispy, golden-fried giant flounder caught daily from the adjacent Japan Sea. Its exclusive Black Silica products, mined only in this area, are sold in a dedicated shop. Visitors can also explore the nearby National Historic Site of Shōzan-kan and the 18th-century Ko-Sasabuchi-ya home, one of Hokkaido’s oldest surviving residences.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and seasonal Hokkaido flavors with a breathtaking view of the Sea of Japan at Kaminokuni Monju roadside station.
Gourmet Boutique Monju
グルメブティックもんじゅ
Specialty
Seafood and mountain delicacies from Hokkaido with views of the Sea of Japan
Enjoy meals with a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan. The restaurant features seasonal menus highlighting fresh seafood caught off the front beach and abundant mountain ingredients from northern Hokkaido. It attracts visitors from across the region.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local treasures and artisanal goods at Kaminokuni Monju, where regional pride meets handcrafted quality.
Local Specialty Sales Counter
特産品販売所
Sells locally produced agricultural products, carefully crafted seafood processed goods, and unique Black Silica products found only in Kaminokuni.
Products
Must-Try Item
Black Silica products
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like black silica products and locally grown strawberries, unique to Kaminokuni Monju.
Strawberry Juice
いちごジュース
An original juice made from locally grown strawberries (variety: Kentarou), known for its fresh and sweet taste.
Black Silica Products
ブラックシリカ製品
Products made from Black Silica, a mineral known for its water purification and health-enhancing properties, unique to Kaminokuni.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour restrooms, accessible facilities, and free parking at Kaminokuni Monju.
Parking Lot
Provides parking for 163 regular cars, 4 disabled parking spaces, 3 large buses, and 10 motorcycles.
Along National Route 228
24-Hour Toilet
Open 24 hours, including during station closure. Includes facilities for people with disabilities and an ostomy-friendly toilet.
Located at the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station
Information Center
Provides information about the station, local attractions, events, and services.
Inside the roadside station
Dog Run
The first dog run in the Dōnan region, opened in 2012 and reopened in October 2018 after renovation. Offers about 600 square meters of space with views of the Sea of Japan. Free to use.
Near the Sea of Japan, adjacent to the roadside station
Hanae Onsen
A casual public hot spring located near the town center, offering an indoor bath and a small outdoor bath. The water is slightly viscous, odorless, and known for its skin-friendly qualities.
Next to Hanae Park, near Tenkawa Bridge
Yunotai Onsen (National Health Resort Center)
A hot spring resort with three bath temperatures (35°C, 38°C, 42°C), a soaking pool, and a rare carbonated spring. Popular on weekends with visitors from afar.
In the Yunotai area, about 16 km from the town center
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities available at the roadside station.
At the roadside station
ATM
An automated teller machine is available for visitors.
Inside the roadside station
Pet-Friendly Area
The Dog Run and surrounding areas are designed for pets, particularly dogs, to enjoy safely.
Near the Sea of Japan, adjacent to the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and check seasonal events for special local treats and activities.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the last fresh batch of the daily limited てっくい天丼 (tekkui tempura bowl), which sells out by 11:00 AM due to high demand
- Hidden Gems: Visit the 特産品販売所 (Specialty Sales Area) on the first floor between 10:00–11:00 AM to sample the Black Silica products, which are only displayed and offered for tasting during this time
- Weekend Bonuses: On Saturdays, attend the farmers market at the roadside station between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, where vendors sell locally harvested strawberries (品种: けんたろう) picked that morning—only available during this event
- Photo Opportunities: Take a photo at the "神の道" (God’s Path) near the roadside station’s entrance, where the 龙神伝説 (Dragon God Legend) stone path overlooks the Japan Sea and offers a panoramic view ideal for sunset shots
- Money Savers: Purchase the combined ticket for 旧笹浪家 (Old Sasanami House) and 勝山館跡ガイダンス施設 (Katsuyama Site Guidance Facility) for 400 yen (instead of 500 yen if bought separately)
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the restaurant (Gourmet Boutique Monju) on weekends and visit between 2:00–3:00 PM when dining tables are most available and service is faster
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call 0139-55-3955 before visiting between November and March, as the restaurant closes every Monday (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday), and the 特産品販売所 operates only from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM during winter months
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Spring brings blooming wildflowers and the start of strawberry season, with fresh local berries available at the roadside station from late May.
Summer (June–August): Summer offers peak blueberry harvests in July–August, along with fresh sea bream and outdoor dining with ocean views.
Fall (September–November): Fall is ideal for visiting during the golden foliage season, with the scenic夷王山 trail and seasonal harvest festivals in October.
Winter (December–February): Winter features snow-covered landscapes, winter skiing at the town’s ski resort, and cozy indoor dining with local seafood.