Station Okoppu

Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Rail & Rural Heritage

Okoppu roadside station in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, blends history and hospitality in a vibrant park setting. Once a bustling railway hub, it now features a restored diesel train converted into a cozy rest and overnight stay facility. Explore exhibits on the former Nayoro Main Line, stroll through the expansive Joy Park, and enjoy local flavors at the seasonal market.

Visit Okoppu roadside station to experience a former diesel train transformed into a unique rest and overnight stay facility. Discover the history of the abandoned Nemuro Main Line at the transportation memorial, enjoy the spacious Joy Park with its water features, and savor local specialties in a scenic, authentic setting.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to access the full range of shops and avoid the midday rush, especially during peak season (May–October).

• Hidden Gems: Visit the diesel locomotive Rugosa Express between 10:30–11:30 AM when it’s less crowded—this converted train car houses both the rest area "Kotoba no Ya" and the overnight stay "Deai no Yado," offering unique photo spots inside.

• Weekend Bonuses: On weekends and holidays, check the roadside station’s bulletin board near the entrance for pop-up vendors and free sample events—especially active during the May 18th Park Festival and the upcoming May 25th Michi-no-Eki Festival.

• Photo Opportunities: Capture the best shots of the vintage rail tracks and the large wheel sculpture in the Joy Park just after sunrise, ideally between 6:30–7:30 AM when light is soft and crowds are minimal.

• Money Savers: Purchase local dairy products like Okoppu Milk or fermented milk from the small-scale sales counter—these are priced 10–15% lower than the main shop and available only during the extended sales period (April–October).

• Avoiding Crowds: Skip the main parking lot near the entrance on weekends—use the side lot near the Joy Park entrance, which is less trafficked and closer to the diesel train and playground.

• Closure Alerts: Confirm the current status before visiting during winter months (November–April), as the main shop closes at 5:00 PM and the roadside station shuts down entirely during the New Year holidays (December 31–January 5).

Spring (April–May): Spring brings blooming hamanasu flowers, the town's symbol, with peak blooms in May, ideal for scenic walks at Joypark.

Summer (June–August): Summer offers fresh local dairy experiences, with Okoppu Milk products available year-round and seasonal events like the Park Festival in May.

Fall (September–October): Fall is perfect for visiting during the harvest season, with extended sales of regional produce from September to October.

Winter (November–March): Winter provides quiet visits with cozy diesel train shelter experiences, ideal for off-season travelers from November to March.