Discover the Wild Heart of Hokkaido at Lake Utonai
Nestled along National Route 36 in Tomakomai, Lake Utonai roadside station is a gateway to one of Hokkaido’s most treasured natural landscapes. Designated a national bird and wildlife protection area and recognized under the Ramsar Convention, the surrounding wetlands are home to over 250 bird species, making it a premier destination for birdwatching and nature immersion. With panoramic views of the lake from its open, wood-lined lounge, visitors can relax, explore, or take a stroll along scenic walking trails.
Beyond its ecological wonders, the station offers a vibrant mix of local flavors and unique experiences. Savor regional specialties like fresh Hokkori clam skewers, handcrafted soba made with local flour, and hearty pork buns from the B1 Tonchan stall. The on-site science center features a rare, authentic Earth-based replica of a space station—perfect for curious minds of all ages. Whether you're seeking tranquility, adventure, or a taste of authentic Hokkaido, Lake Utonai delivers an unforgettable journey.
Why Visit
Lake Utonai roadside station offers two unparalleled experiences: first, it’s the only place where you can savor North-Sea Clam Fritters—a local specialty made from fresh Hokkaido clams, perfectly fried with butter and served in a uniquely crisp batter. Second, it’s the sole access point to the world’s only terrestrial, authentic-scale replica of a space station, housed within the nearby science center—where visitors can walk through actual astronaut living modules and experience zero-gravity simulations. Nestled beside a Ramsar-listed wetland teeming with over 250 bird species, it’s a rare fusion of wild nature, local innovation, and interstellar wonder.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Lake Utonai roadside station, where seasonal dishes and regional specialties await.
Lapo Lapola Restaurant
ラポ・ラポラ食堂
Specialty
Authentic soba noodles made with buckwheat flour from Nakashibetsu Town
A restaurant operated by Northern Horse Park, offering a refined selection of traditional Japanese soba dishes. The menu features aromatic and freshly prepared soba noodles, emphasizing the natural flavors of high-quality ingredients.
Sushi Demonstration Shop Seafood Park
寿司 実演販売の店 海鮮パーク
Specialty
Freshly made pressed sushi and specialty seafood dishes
A live demonstration sushi shop offering a variety of pressed sushi and seafood dishes. Guests can enjoy a hands-on experience with seasonal ingredients and a range of popular combinations.
Plaisir Takeout Counter
テイクアウトコーナー Plaisir（プレジール）
Specialty
Handmade buns and original drinks using local brand pork
A takeout counter offering freshly made buns and beverages using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its homemade quality and regional flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local goods and handcrafted treasures at Lake Utonai roadside station’s vibrant market.
Antenna Shop Meiru
アンテナショップ ミール
A dedicated shop offering exclusive products from Utonai Lake, including bird-themed merchandise, seafood-based food items, and local hawthorn treats.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hawthorn-based sweets and beverages
Local Agricultural and Marine Products Direct Sales
農林海産物直売所
A direct sales shop offering fresh vegetables from local farms in Shikimine and Miso areas, along with fresh-cut flowers, mini tomatoes from a plant factory, and seafood from Platto Minato Market.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh-cut flowers with long shelf life
Featured Products
Taste the essence of Hokkaido with signature products like wild bird-themed items and North Pacific clam delicacies.
Sakura Hime Chicken Fried Chicken
桜姫鶏炸鶏排
A new product launched in 2020 featuring tender fried chicken made from local Sakura Hime chicken, known for its rich flavor and juicy texture.
North-Sea Scallop Dumplings
北寄玉
Juicy dumplings made with fresh North-Sea scallops and Hokkaido butter, offering a unique taste of Hokkaido’s sea flavor unlike traditional takoyaki.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, Wi-Fi, EV charging, and family-friendly spaces at Lake Utonai roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with 10 large vehicle spaces and 93 regular car spaces. There is also a covered parking area available.
Adjacent to the roadside station along National Route 36
Toilet
The facility includes standard toilets, a wheelchair-accessible toilet, an ostomy-friendly toilet (not available 24 hours), and a changing table. A bidet toilet is also available.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility, including the information and rest areas
Information Center
The roadside station features an information corner with terminals where visitors can search for tourism information about Tomakomai City and the surrounding area.
Inside the station, within the free rest and information area
Kids Space
A designated area for children, including a kids' space and facilities for parents with infants, such as a nursing room and changing table.
Inside the roadside station building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging is available at the roadside station.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room
A private room for breastfeeding mothers, located within the station and equipped with a changing table.
Inside the roadside station building
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Immerse in nature and culture through birdwatching, seasonal events, and interactive experiences at Lake Utonai.
Birdwatching and Nature Walk
バードウオッチングと自然散策
Participants can explore the walking trails around Utanai Lake to observe a wide variety of bird species and enjoy the natural surroundings. The lake is home to over 250 bird species and is a designated protected area and Ramsar site.
Duration
60 min
Wear appropriate clothing for outdoor conditions; bring binoculars for better birdwatching.
Interactive Space Station Experience
本物の宇宙ステーション「ミール」展示館
Visitors can explore the real-life replica of a space station located at the Tomakomai City Science Center. Experience what life is like aboard a space station, including simulated zero-gravity sleeping, toilet use, and showering.
Duration
30 min
Planetarium Show
プラネタリウム
Enjoy a short planetarium show that projects celestial scenes onto the dome. Shows are held at 14:00 and 16:00 on weekdays, and also at 11:30 on weekends.
Duration
20 min
Spring Investigation Rally
なぞときラリー 春のウトナイ湖を調査せよ！
Join a fun, themed scavenger hunt during spring to explore the area around Utanai Lake. Solve clues and discover hidden points of interest in the natural environment.
Duration
90 min
Best enjoyed on clear, dry days; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Ryukyu Kingdom Festival Taiko Performance
琉球國祭り太鼓 創作エイサー演舞
Experience a unique performance featuring original Eisa dance and taiko drumming inspired by Ryukyu Kingdom culture. A vibrant cultural event held annually.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor event; check for weather updates and dress warmly if needed.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a peaceful stroll and explore nearby attractions like the real-life space station exhibit.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the Plaisir takeout counter before the B1 tochan’s pork bun and Haskap an man are sold out, as they are often fully depleted by noon.
- Hidden Gems: At the Plaisir takeout counter, look for the brand-new “Sakura Hime Chicken Fried Chicken Bao” (Sakura Hime Chicken Fried Chicken Bao) — it is only available at Lake Utonai roadside station and has been sold out within hours of release on multiple occasions.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the Seafood Park counter between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM to purchase the 5-piece customizable sushi lunch set, which is only available during lunch hours and often sells out by 1:00 PM.
- Dining Strategy: Order the Hokkori and vegetable tempura soba at the Rapo Rapola restaurant at 10:30 AM — this is the earliest time the kitchen starts serving, and the hot tempura is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
- Exclusive Product Tip: Purchase the Japan Birdwatching Association’s “Hokkori-inspired” food items and Haskap-themed snacks at the Mearl antenashop — these are exclusive to Lake Utonai roadside station and not available elsewhere in the region.
- Best View Access: Walk the trail behind the roadside station to the viewing platform near the lake’s edge between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to see the highest concentration of migratory birds during spring, especially when the birdwatching map shows peak activity.
- Free Experience: Visit the “Real Space Station Mearl” exhibit at the Tomakomai City Science Center (located next to the roadside station) between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays to experience the 20-minute planetarium show — it is free and the only time the show runs during weekends.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Visit during the spring birdwatching season, with migratory birds arriving in April and the annual "Nazo Toki Rally" event in late April.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy fresh Hokkori clam and sea urchin dishes at the seafood stand, with peak activity from June through August.
Autumn (September–November): Savor seasonal Hokkori clam dishes and the limited-time "Sakura Hime Chicken Fried Chicken" in September.
Winter (December–February): Experience quiet lake views and the cozy roadside station atmosphere, open with shortened hours from December to February.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a dedicated kids space, multiple family-friendly food options, and stroller-accessible facilities. Educational elements include birdwatching, the wildlife center, and the interactive space station exhibit, enhancing child engagement.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse, high-quality dining options with regional specialties like Hokkigai-based dishes, B1 pork buns, and local soba. Fresh produce and unique local products are available, enhancing the authentic culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, clean restrooms with warm water, and a quiet location near natural scenery. No explicit overnight stay policy, but facilities support short-term stays. Limited amenities for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooks Lake Utonai, a designated Ramsar wetland with rich birdlife and seasonal natural beauty. Offers panoramic views, scenic walking paths, and photo-worthy landscapes throughout the year.