Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Agricultural Heritage
Mikasa, nestled along National Route 12, is Hokkaido’s first registered roadside station, proudly marking the birthplace of the region’s modern farming legacy. At its center, a towering 10-meter waterwheel stands as a symbol of the area’s pioneering spirit. Visitors enjoy fresh local produce, artisanal soft cream, and hearty regional cuisine, all set against a backdrop of lush countryside and serene natural beauty.
Why Visit
Mikasa roadside station, Hokkaido’s first designated roadside station, features a striking 10-meter giant waterwheel and a historic farm museum showcasing traditional agricultural tools. Explore local specialties like stone coal-inspired soft serve, fresh produce, and award-winning snacks, all within a serene park setting.
Restaurants & Dining
At Mikasa roadside station, savor authentic regional flavors from hearty ramen to fresh local produce. Enjoy meals with a view of the giant waterwheel and the surrounding countryside.
Ramen Darumaya Mikasa
ラーメンだるまや三笠店
Specialty
Rich and hearty ramen with a unique signature sauce and large, flavorful fried chicken
A popular ramen restaurant offering a variety of flavorful dishes, including their signature thick and savory ramen and generously sized, uniquely seasoned fried chicken. The menu features diverse options for different tastes.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal treats at Mikasa's roadside station. Each shop offers a taste of the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Farmers Market
農家の店
Sells fresh local produce including rice and vegetables from Mikasa
Products
Must-Try Item
Mikasa rice
Yellow Carrot
きいろいくるま
Specializes in homemade soft-serve ice cream and unique snacks
Products
Must-Try Item
Black Zanji
Minoru Produce
みのる青果
Sells fresh vegetables and fruits directly from local farms
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local produce
C's PIZZA (Seasonal Pizza)
C's PIZZA（シーズピザ）
Offers freshly baked pizzas with seasonal ingredients
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal pizza
Shirakawa Tofu Shop
白川とうふ店
Sells traditional tofu-based dishes and beverages
Products
Must-Try Item
Inari sushi
MAMO
ＭＡＭＯ
Offers limited-edition bento boxes and sandwiches
Products
Must-Try Item
Limited-edition bento
Mikasa Tourism Association
〔一社）北海道三笠観光協会〕
Sells local specialty products and provides tourism information
Products
Must-Try Item
Local specialty products
Ako
〔暁〕
Sells savory dishes like pork bowl and grilled chicken
Products
Must-Try Item
Pork bowl
Maruyasu Foods (Yakitori Kuishinbo)
マルヤスフーズ（焼き鳥 くいしんぼう）
Specializes in grilled chicken skewers
Products
Must-Try Item
Grilled chicken skewers
Featured Products
Try signature items like fiery Habanero Salt and savory 'Haa~ Hokkaido' potato snacks. These local specialties celebrate Mikasa’s agricultural roots and bold flavors.
Habanero Salt
ハバネロソルト
A spicy seasoning that makes any dish extremely hot with just a sprinkle. Use with caution.
Haa~ Hokkaido Snack
はぁ～北海名物
A crunchy snack made with local potatoes and garlic chives, offering a rich and flavorful taste.
North Wind Traveler
北風の旅人
A confectionery that won a gold medal at the Mond Selection World Food Contest and is recommended by the Hokkaido Tourism Souvenir Association.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with modern amenities at Mikasa roadside station, including restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a warm bathhouse. Convenient parking and accessibility features welcome all visitors.
Parking Lot
Large parking for 13 large vehicles and 202 regular cars.
Near the main entrance of the roadside station
Toilet
Includes warm water flushing toilets, disabled toilets, and ostomy-friendly facilities. Also features a changing table for diapers.
Throughout the facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The main information center, known as the Farm Center, provides visitor information, maps, and local tourism guides. Open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Main building (Farm Center)
Play Area
The facility includes a park with open green space suitable for children's play and outdoor activities.
Adjacent to the main building
Hot Spring
A bathhouse facility is available on-site for visitors to relax and enjoy traditional hot spring bathing.
Adjacent to the main building
Bike Rental
Bike rental service is available for tourists exploring the area, especially during seasonal events.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room
A private room equipped with facilities for breastfeeding and changing diapers, located within the restroom area.
Near the restroom
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available for visitors with electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the main entrance
Pet Area
A designated area for pets, allowing visitors to walk their dogs in a safe and designated space.
Near the park area
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy extended shopping time. Check the station’s event calendar for limited-time local treats and seasonal activities.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the roadside station before crowds arrive and to secure parking near the entrance before the lot fills up.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the "農の館" (Agriculture Hall) during off-peak hours to view the collection of historical farming tools, including rare equipment from the early 20th-century agricultural development era—free entry and often less crowded than the main buildings.
- Weekend Bonuses: On Saturdays and Sundays, the "きいろいくるま" (Yellow Car) soft-cream stand offers a free sample of their signature stone-coal-style zangi (black fried chicken) when you buy a large soft-cream.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture the best photo of the 10-meter water wheel at sunrise between 6:30 AM and 7:15 AM, when natural light highlights the structure without harsh shadows and crowds are minimal.
- Money Savers: Purchase the "はぁ～北海名物" (Haa! Hokkaido Snack) at the Hokkaido Tourism Association booth—this locally made potato and garlic snack is priced 10% lower than at retail stores and is available only at the roadside station.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main parking lot by entering from the side road near the "食の蔵" (Food Store) area—this access route is less used and avoids the main lot congestion, especially during summer holidays.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call the roadside station directly at 01267-2-5775 before visiting on Mondays, as the facility closes on Mondays unless it's a public holiday, and the restaurant "ラーメンだるまや" is closed on unpredictable days.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring offers scenic views at Mikasa's roadside station, with cherry blossoms and early greenery surrounding the giant water wheel and park area.
Summer (June-August): Summer is ideal for enjoying seasonal treats like fresh strawberries and limited-time eight-row corn, available from June to July.
Fall (September-November): Autumn brings golden fields and harvest festivals, with local produce like apples and pickled plums available through early November.
Winter (December-February): Winter features the warm "Winter Cozy Festival," cozy hot springs, and seasonal soft serve, making it perfect for relaxing in snowy Hokkaido.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Play area and stroller-friendly paths; kid-friendly food and restrooms; educational farm exhibits and water wheel.
Food Lover Review
Diverse local food stalls, unique items like charcoal zangi, fresh produce, and popular ramen.
Car Camping Review
Ample parking and basic facilities; no explicit overnight policy but acceptable for short stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Large park, giant water wheel, and scenic views with seasonal natural beauty.