Sail into the Heart of Hokkaido’s Seafood Paradise
Marine Island Okashima, shaped like a ship gliding along the rugged coast, stands proudly on National Route 238 overlooking the vast Okhotsk Sea. This roadside station is a gateway to the bounty of Hokkaido’s northern waters, offering fresh local seafood, handcrafted souvenirs, and warm hospitality.
Step inside to savor signature dishes like Hokkaido scallop curry and seafood ramen, or browse the vibrant market featuring prized kani-meshi seasoning and local honey. With panoramic views from the Mika-sayama Lookout and 24-hour stamp collection, it’s a journey where sea, land, and culture converge.
Why Visit
Visit Marine Island Okashima, a ship-shaped roadside station overlooking the rugged Okhotsk Sea. Taste unique local specialties like fresh Hokkaido scallops, the famed "Ebisu" scallop, and the popular seafood curry. Enjoy authentic regional flavors in the restaurant and discover handmade honey and kani-meshi seasoning as perfect souvenirs.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the taste of the sea at Marine Island Okashima’s restaurant, where fresh local seafood takes center stage in hearty, flavorful dishes.
Seafood Curry Restaurant
海の幸カレー
Specialty
Featured dishes include seafood curry, salmon parent-child donburi, and seafood ramen.
A popular restaurant specializing in seafood-based dishes using fresh local ingredients from Esashi Town. Known for its unique and flavorful seafood curries and ramen, this eatery offers a delightful culinary experience with a coastal atmosphere.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and regional specialties at Marine Island Okashima’s roadside station shop.
Seafood Corner
海産物コーナー
Sells fresh seafood products from Esashi Town, including the top-ranked hair crab and the nationally first branded scallop.
Products
Must-Try Item
Esashi Scallop
Souvenir Shop
おみやげ
Offers a variety of local souvenirs and specialty food items from Esashi Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Honey
Featured Products
Explore signature products like prized Hokkaido scallops, honey, and savory kani-meshi seasoning, crafted from the region’s finest ingredients.
Honey
はちみつ
Locally produced honey from Esashi Town, known for its natural flavor and purity.
Crab Rice Seasoning
かにめしの素
A convenient seasoning mix to prepare delicious crab rice at home using local ingredients.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, Wi-Fi, EV charging, and a quiet lounge to relax during your journey.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 13 spaces, Ordinary vehicles: 45 spaces. Roofed parking available.
Along National Route 238
Restroom
Includes warm water flushing toilets and facilities for people with disabilities. Temporary closure due to construction was reported in March 2021.
Inside the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Available for visitors. Free access provided.
Throughout the roadside station
Information Center
Provides various information and guidance about the area, including local products and tourism spots.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
Not explicitly mentioned. No dedicated play area found in the provided content.
Onsen
Not available at this roadside station.
Bike Rental
Not available at this roadside station.
Nursing Room
Includes a nursing room and diaper changing station. Located inside the facility.
Inside the roadside station
EV Charging
Electric vehicle charging station available on-site.
Near the parking area
ATM
Not explicitly mentioned. No ATM found in the provided content.
Pet Area
Not explicitly mentioned. No designated pet area found in the provided content.
Insider Tips
Visit during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and check seasonal updates for temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to avoid crowds and secure parking near the entrance before the site fills up during peak hours.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter just inside the main shop entrance to find fresh, limited-edition seafood snacks like smoked salmon jerky and seasonal kelp wraps, often not listed on menus.
- Weekend Bonus: On Saturdays and Sundays, the roadside station hosts a rotating local artisan market from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, featuring handmade crafts and seasonal vegetables from nearby farms.
- Photo Opportunities: Take photos at the south-facing overlook near the entrance during golden hour (just after sunrise) for the best views of the Okhotsk Sea with the ship-shaped building in silhouette.
- Money Savers: Purchase the “Marine Island Combo Pack” at the souvenir shop—includes a small container of herring roe, a packet of kani-meshi no so, and a discount voucher for the restaurant.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main parking area and use the smaller, side lot on the west side of the building, which is less crowded and closer to the restroom and picnic area.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call the office (0163-62-2860) before visiting during winter months, as sudden snowstorms can lead to unscheduled closures, especially in November and April.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Spring offers fresh seafood and early seasonal treats, with the roadside station opening in late April and peak hokkaido sea urchin season beginning in May.
Summer (June–August): Summer is ideal for enjoying fresh scallops and seafood meals, with the restaurant serving seasonal specialties like hotate curry from June through August.
Fall (September–October): Fall brings the peak of scallop harvests and warm, clear days perfect for viewing the Okhotsk Sea from the panoramic view tower.
Winter (November–March): Winter is the best time to experience local seafood and hot dishes, with the restaurant serving hearty seafood ramen and kani tamago ramen through the cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers play areas, kid-friendly food, stroller access, and a quiet rest area with family facilities.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local seafood dishes, fresh specialties like hokkaido scallops, and unique regional products.
Car Camping Review
Provides adequate parking and basic facilities; suitable for short stops but lacks overnight camping support.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views of Okhotsk Sea, scenic overlooks, and seasonal natural beauty from the lookout.