Station Kitamaebune Matsumae

Savor the Sea and History at Kitamaebune Matsumae

Nestled along National Route 228 in the heart of historic Matsumae Town, Kitamaebune Matsumae offers breathtaking views of the Tsugaru Strait, where the waters of Hokkaido meet the Sea of Japan. This roadside station is a gateway to the region’s maritime heritage, where ancient trading ships once sailed and local flavors thrive. Visitors can indulge in the freshest seafood, including premium Matsumae tuna, abalone, and sea urchin, all sourced from nearby waters.

The station shines with its vibrant food offerings, from the luxurious Matsumae Tuna Bowl to seasonal seafood festivals like the weekend-exclusive Urchin Fair. The on-site seafood aquarium lets guests watch live catches before enjoying them in a meal crafted with pride. With a shop featuring local specialties like Matsumae pickle and dried squid, and a thoughtfully designed space offering 24-hour access to an inclusive restroom and free Wi-Fi, Kitamaebune Matsumae blends tradition, taste, and modern convenience into a truly memorable stop.

Perched along National Route 228 with sweeping views of the Tsugaru Strait, Kitamaebune Matsumae stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering direct access to fresh Matsumae Honmaguro—a rare, deep-sea tuna prized for its rich, buttery flavor. Visitors can savor it in the signature "Matsumae Oyakodon" or sample seasonal delicacies like the exclusive weekend-only sea urchin festival, featuring uni harvested from the pristine waters of the nearby bay.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the food hall between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekends to secure the limited-edition weekly "uni fair" items, as these are only available during the weekend event and often sell out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Check the water tank viewing room at the North Wind Matsumae Restaurant to see live sea urchins, abalone, and fresh fish, which are displayed in a dedicated aquarium just before the dining area.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, the North Wind Matsumae Restaurant offers a special "Seafood Sakura Hana Don" featuring local root fish and Matsumae tuna—order this dish between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to avoid the lunchtime rush.

• Best Purchase Time: Visit the souvenir shop between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM during summer months (April to September) when staff restock fresh Matsumae pickles and dried abalone, ensuring you get the newest seasonal items.

• Cashless Payment Tip: Use only PayPay for payments at Kitamaebune Matsumae, as it is the only accepted cashless option—carry cash or PayPay for all purchases, as credit cards are not accepted.

• Access to Off-Hours Facilities: Use the 24-hour stamp station located near the entrance, which remains accessible even on holidays, allowing you to collect your Michi-no-Eki stamp anytime, including during the winter closure period.

• Parking Strategy: Reserve one of the three large vehicle spots near the entrance if you’re arriving with a large vehicle or mobility aid, as the standard parking area fills quickly and the large spots are often occupied by tour buses.

Spring (April-May): Visit during the Sakura Festival in April to see 10,000 cherry blossoms at Matsuyama Park, including the 300-year-old bloodline cherry tree.

Summer (June-August): Enjoy the weekend-only sea urchin fair in July, featuring fresh, seasonal uni from the waters.

Autumn (September-October): Taste fresh scallops and Hokkaido salmon in dishes at the roadside station, available through early October.

Winter (November-March): Experience the tranquil beauty of the town during the off-season, with the roadside station open year-round.