Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Dairy Heritage at Otoineppu Roadside Station
Nestled at the junction of National Routes 275 and 40 in the scenic town of Otoineppu, this roadside station embodies the spirit of rural Hokkaido with its wooden charm and warm hospitality. A cultural and culinary hub, it celebrates the region’s legacy as a birthplace of Japanese dairy farming, offering everything from hearty local ramen to handmade crafts. Visitors can explore the seasonal market, enjoy a 24-hour restroom, or unwind at the nearby Teshio River Hot Spring, all while soaking in the peaceful blend of forest and farmland.
Why Visit
Visit Otoineppu roadside station for its authentic taste of Hokkaido’s forest and craftsmanship. Savor the famed Marushichi soba and the rich, traditional ramen at Tenhokuryu, and explore the unique local flavors and wooden artisan crafts. A must-stop for travelers seeking genuine regional charm.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Otoineppu roadside station, where rustic ramen and traditional dishes reflect the village's craftsmanship and forest heritage.
Tenpaku Ramen
常盤ラーメン
Specialty
Traditional-style ramen with a rich, savory broth
A cozy dining spot offering authentic ramen with a focus on classic flavors and a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of old-fashioned street food stalls.
Tenpaku Ryuu
天北龍
Specialty
Authentic ramen with a traditional roadside flavor
A charming food stall serving delicious ramen with a nostalgic, old-school street food vibe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts at Otoineppu, featuring local characters, wooden art, and seasonal specialties.
Souvenir Store
売店
A retail shop offering a variety of local products including woodcrafts, official merchandise, and items featuring the village mascot, Otokkī.
Products
Must-Try Item
Otokkī-themed merchandise
Featured Products
Try signature treats like fresh-made soba noodles and regional favorites such as 'Sunapu Udon,' crafted with pride from local ingredients.
Marushichi Soba
マルシチそば
Freshly made soba noodles produced in Otoineppu, known for their premium quality and traditional craftsmanship.
Sunapu Udon
すなっぷうどん
A unique local udon noodle product made in Otoineppu, known for its distinctive texture and regional flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour restrooms, accessible facilities, EV charging, Wi-Fi, and spacious parking at Otoineppu roadside station.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 15 spots, ordinary cars: 23 spots. Includes covered parking.
Adjacent to the roadside station, along National Route 275
Public Toilet 'Hokuto Shichi-sei' (北斗七星)
Flush toilet, open 24 hours a day, year-round, located next to the roadside station.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station premises
Information Center
Provides information about the area, events, and services. Available 24 hours.
Inside the roadside station building
Tenkawa Onsen
Hot spring with views of the Tenkawa River. Features an outdoor bath and is known for its health benefits. Adult entry fee is 400 yen.
Adjacent to the roadside station, near the river
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging available on-site.
Near the parking area
Nursing Room & Changing Table
Facility for breastfeeding and changing diapers, located within the roadside station.
Inside the roadside station building
Play Area
Open space for children to play, available in the general area of the roadside station.
Near the main building
ATM
Cash withdrawal machine available on-site.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a peaceful stroll, and check seasonal updates for limited-edition food and craft releases at Otoineppu.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to avoid crowds and ensure the best selection of fresh local products, especially the limited-edition "マルシチそば" at the deli counter.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the back corner of the roadside station near the 2nd-floor exhibition space to find the seasonal display of handmade wooden crafts from local artisans—often not listed in the main shop.
- Weekend Bonus: On Saturdays and Sundays, the "天北龍" ramen stand offers a free side of pickled vegetables with any order between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM—ideal for pairing with your meal.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture the best views of the surrounding forest and mountain backdrop at the roadside station’s northern-facing parking area just before sunset, especially during late autumn when the trees turn golden.
- Money Savers: Use the 24-hour stamp station to collect a free "おとっきー" keychain with your fifth stamp—available even on closure days, so plan your visit early in your trip to maximize this freebie.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the midday rush by visiting between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM on weekdays; the station is typically quietest during this window, especially in winter.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call the village office at 01656-5-3313 before traveling, as the roadside station remains closed indefinitely as of April 2024—only the 24-hour stamp station and public toilet remain accessible.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring is ideal for visiting after snow melts, with the roadside station opening in April and early blooms appearing in nearby fields.
Summer (June-August): Summer offers peak access to fresh local soba noodles, with the "Marushichi Soba" and seasonal ramen available from June to August.
Fall (September-November): Fall brings crisp air and harvest experiences, with regional specialties like buckwheat and seasonal produce available at the roadside station.
Winter (December-February): Winter is perfect for visiting the nearby Teshio River Hot Spring, with snowscapes and 24-hour access to the roadside station's facilities.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly access, restrooms with changing tables, and a quiet, safe environment for children.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like regional ramen and handmade soba, with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking and 24-hour access, though no official overnight camping policy is stated.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near scenic rivers and natural landscapes, with beautiful views and seasonal visual appeal.