Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Natural Heritage
Nakagawa roadside station lies at the serene heart of the Teshio River basin, nestled along National Route 40 about 90 kilometers south of Wakkanai. More than a mere rest stop, it stands as a warm, welcoming sanctuary defined by its striking iron-framed hearth—a centerpiece that glows through long winter nights and transforms into a seasonal art installation in summer. Surrounded by vast farmland and pristine nature, the station serves as a cultural gateway to the region.
Visitors are drawn to its locally crafted treasures, including the famed Nakagawa sausage with garlic, tangy haskap jam, and hand-roasted corn. The roadside station also features a popular restaurant serving hearty dishes like pork cutlet rice and ramen, all made with regional ingredients. Nearby attractions include the Eco Museum Center, where ancient fossils tell the story of prehistoric life, and the nearby Ponpira Aqua Resort, offering hot springs and camping—all perfect for an extended adventure.
Why Visit
Visit Nakagawa roadside station to experience the only roadside station in the region featuring a large iron hooded hearth that warms visitors year-round—burning wood in winter, transformed into an artistic centerpiece in summer. Here, taste the exclusive Nakagawa Uinnaer, a locally made sausage infused with garlic chives, and savor the rare combination of tart wild haskap and spicy mountain wasabi in handcrafted soft serve. These are flavors found nowhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Nakagawa roadside station, where hearty dishes like katsudon and ramen highlight regional ingredients.
Katsudon Restaurant
カツ丼レストラン
Specialty
Local-style pork cutlet dishes with a focus on regional ingredients
A cozy dining spot offering hearty meals featuring locally sourced pork cutlets, including katsudon, katsu set meals, and katsu curry. The menu also includes ramen made with house-special chashu, reflecting the authentic taste of Nakagawa.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and gourmet treats at Nakagawa roadside station’s vibrant market stalls.
Local Produce Market
地場産品コーナー
A dedicated section showcasing locally produced goods from Nakagawa Town, including processed foods and artisanal items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Garlic-Flavored Sausage
Takeout Corner
テイクアウトコーナー
A quick-service stall offering popular local snacks and treats.
Products
Must-Try Item
Haskap Soft Serve with Haskap Sauce
Nakagawa Wurst
ナカガワウインナー
A specialty meat product made from locally sourced ingredients, known for its rich flavor and generous portion.
Products
Must-Try Item
Nakagawa Wurst
Featured Products
Taste the essence of the region with signature products like haskap jam, mountain wasabi soft serve, and Nakagawa sausages.
Haskap Jam
ハスカップジャム
A sweet and tangy jam made from locally grown, wild haskap berries, known for their unique flavor and natural antioxidants.
Garlic Powder
ギョウジャニンニクパウダー
A finely ground powder made from locally grown garlic, used to enhance the flavor of various dishes.
Pickled Bamboo Shoots
竹の子の瓶詰め
Fresh bamboo shoots preserved in a traditional brine, offering a crisp and slightly tangy taste.
Roasted Corn
コーン
Hand-roasted corn kernels with a rich, nutty flavor, made using traditional methods.
Haskap Soft Serve Ice Cream
ハスカップソフト
A refreshing soft serve ice cream made with locally harvested haskap berries, combining sweet and tart flavors.
Spicy Mountain Wasabi Soft Serve
山わさびソフト
A unique soft serve ice cream with a bold, spicy kick from mountain wasabi, balanced with natural sweetness.
Nakagawa Wurst
ナカガワウインナー
A premium frankfurter sausage made with locally sourced meat and traditional seasonings, known for its hearty texture and rich taste.
Charcoal
木炭製品
High-quality natural charcoal made from local wood, ideal for grilling and cooking.
Ceramics
陶芸品
Handcrafted pottery made by local artisans, each piece reflecting the unique character of the region.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable amenities including restrooms, Wi-Fi, EV charging, and family-friendly spaces at Nakagawa roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 10 large vehicle spaces and 40 regular car spaces.
Near the entrance
Restroom
The facility includes regular restrooms, a wheelchair-accessible restroom, and an ostomy-friendly restroom. The ostomy restroom is not available 24 hours.
Inside the station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the station
Information Center
The roadside station features a regional information corner where visitors can find local guides and maps.
Near the entrance
Kids Space
A children's area with wooden puzzles, picture books, and a massage machine for family relaxation.
Adjacent to the lounge area
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors.
Near the parking lot
Nursing Room
A dedicated nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the station
ATM
An ATM is available for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance
Insider Tips
Visit during summer for seasonal produce and check opening hours—some services operate seasonally.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM to secure the last available serving of the hand-baked corn from the takeout counter, which often sells out by noon
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the back wall for the limited-edition seasonal produce from the local farm stand, available only during summer and autumn months
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, arrive by 11:15 AM to get the last serving of the original mountain wasabi soft serve, which sells out quickly due to its unique flavor profile
- Must-Try Menu Item: Order the katsu curry at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM, when it is freshly prepared using the special fried pork cutlet from the local processing center
- Best Value Purchase: Buy the 230 yen garlic sausage at the local product counter—this is the most popular item and often sold out by 2:00 PM, so purchase early to avoid missing it
- Smart Parking Strategy: Use the covered parking spot designated for disabled visitors if you’re traveling with young children or elderly companions, as it provides easy access to the entrance and the kids’ corner
- Post-Visit Tip: After visiting the Nakagawa Ecocenter Museum, return to the roadside station between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM to grab the last batch of the year’s seasonal roasted corn, available only during the late summer harvest period
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station in early spring, with local produce like gyokujaninku and haskap jam newly stocked.
Summer (June–August): Haskap soft serve and mountain wasabi soft serve peak in summer, while the roadside station’s produce stand operates through August.
Autumn (September–November): Harvested bamboo shoots and corn are available in late summer through autumn, with hasegawa sausages and corn-based products in demand.
Winter (December–February): The central iron fireplace glows through winter, offering warmth and ambiance, with seasonal events and cozy visits ideal during cold months.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a dedicated kids' corner with puzzles and books, stroller-friendly paths, and family amenities like changing tables and nursing rooms. The warm atmosphere and nearby museum enhance the experience for children and parents alike.
Food Lover Review
Offers a variety of local specialties including unique haskap and mountain wasabi soft-serve, handmade corn, and regional sausages. The restaurant serves locally crafted dishes like pork cutlet rice, and the market features seasonal, high-quality produce.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking, restrooms with warm water, and Wi-Fi. While no explicit overnight policy is listed, the nearby NaPort Park campsite supports extended stays. Quiet hours are not specified, limiting full comfort for overnight visitors.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a wide plain along the Tenkawa River, the station offers open natural views. The central iron fireplace adds aesthetic warmth, and seasonal changes enhance the landscape. Photo opportunities are plentiful, especially with the striking entrance design.