Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Rural Charm
Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka (Hometown Hill) is a vibrant roadside station nestled along National Route 5 in the scenic town of Rancho, Hokkaido. Perched between the bustling cities of Hakodate and Sapporo, it offers breathtaking views of the majestic Niseko mountain range and the pristine Shiribetsu River, which nourishes the region’s fertile farmland. More than a pit stop, this roadside station celebrates local heritage through farm-fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a renowned ice cream made from freshly squeezed milk—crafted with care and enjoyed by visitors from near and far.
At the heart of the experience is the on-site ice cream factory, where guests can savor rich, creamy treats made daily. The station also features a bustling market selling regional specialties such as handmade soba noodles, pickled mountain vegetables, and traditional kimchi—all made from locally sourced ingredients. Just behind the station lies a well-equipped campsite and bunkhouses surrounded by native forests, inviting travelers to unwind beneath the stars. Whether sampling local flavors, exploring nature, or simply taking in the serene beauty of the countryside, Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka offers a true taste of Hokkaido’s rural soul.
Why Visit
Visit Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka (Hometown Hill) to taste the region’s only artisanal milk ice cream made from fresh Jersey cow milk, crafted on-site using a traditional method. This roadside station is also the only place to find its signature mountain vegetable pickles—like wild fuki and udo moromi—harvested from the surrounding forests and preserved in traditional kumizuke. With panoramic views of the Niseko mountains and access to a forested campsite, it’s a rare destination where local flavor, craftsmanship, and nature converge.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka roadside station, where farm-to-table meals and creamy, milk-based ice cream delight every visitor.
Soba Shop
ふるさとの丘のそば
Specialty
Local buckwheat noodles made from Ryukō Town-grown buckwheat flour
A specialty shop offering a variety of buckwheat noodles crafted from locally sourced buckwheat flour. The atmosphere is rustic and welcoming, ideal for enjoying traditional Hokkaido-style soba in a serene setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and seasonal goods at Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka roadside station, a gateway to authentic Hokkaido craftsmanship.
Farmers Market
直売センター
A direct sales center offering fresh local produce, including rice, vegetables, and other agricultural products from Ryukō Town.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local buckwheat noodles
Ice Cream Factory
アイス工場
A local ice cream factory producing handmade ice cream using fresh milk from the region, known for its high quality and unique taste.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh milk ice cream
Mountain Vegetable Processing Shop
各種漬物等山菜加工品
A shop specializing in processed mountain vegetables and pickled foods made from locally foraged ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Three-cup pickled vegetables set
Featured Products
Indulge in signature specialties like handmade soba, mountain vegetable pickles, and rich dairy ice cream crafted from local milk.
Three-Cup Pickled Vegetables Set
三升漬詰合せ
A premium set of pickled vegetables made from locally foraged mountain vegetables, including celery kimchi, bamboo shoot miso pickle, and melon pulp pickle.
Celery Kimchi
セロリキムチ
A unique fermented kimchi made with fresh celery, offering a crisp texture and mild, refreshing flavor.
Bamboo Shoot Miso Pickle
ふきもろみ漬
A traditional pickle made from fresh bamboo shoots fermented with miso, known for its rich umami flavor.
Udon Miso Pickle
うどもろみ漬
A distinctive pickle made from fresh udon root, fermented with miso for a deep, savory taste.
Melon Pulp Pickle
メロン粕漬
A unique pickle made from melon pulp, offering a sweet and tangy flavor profile that pairs well with rice or as a side dish.
Local Buckwheat Noodles
ふるさとの丘のそば
Handmade buckwheat noodles made from locally grown buckwheat flour, known for their nutty flavor and firm texture.
Fresh Milk Ice Cream
アイスクリーム
Handcrafted ice cream made from fresh, locally sourced milk, with a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, parking, Wi-Fi, and cashless payment options at Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking area with 2 large vehicle spots and 16 standard vehicle spots.
Adjacent to the main facility
Toilet
Public toilets are available, including a disabled-accessible toilet.
Inside the main facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station premises
Information Center
The roadside station serves as an information center for local tourism, events, and nearby attractions.
Main building
Camping Area
A campsite and bungalow facilities are located at the back of the roadside station, surrounded by natural forests of spruce and birch, ideal for nature observation and forest bathing.
Behind the roadside station
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors.
Near the parking area
Insider Tips
Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and bring a reusable bag for eco-friendly shopping at Rankoshi Furusato-no-Oka roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a parking spot near the entrance, as the large parking area fills quickly during peak hours despite only having two large vehicle spaces
- Hidden Gems: Visit the backside of the roadside station between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to see the fresh batch of local buckwheat noodles displayed at the shop counter—these are made from Sapporo-produced buckwheat flour and sell out by midday
- Weekend Special: On weekends, check the deli counter between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM for the limited daily batch of pickled mountain vegetables including sesame radish, bamboo shoots, and melon rind pickles, which are only available during the summer months
- Seasonal Product Timing: Purchase the roadside station’s signature ice cream between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM in winter months (November to March), as the daily production is limited and often sells out by 1:00 PM due to high demand
- Camping Reservation Tip: Call the roadside station directly at 0136-55-3251 before 3:00 PM on weekdays to reserve a campsite or bungalow at the adjacent Furusato no Oka Campground—reservations are only accepted in person or by phone, not online
- Local Produce Availability: Check the produce stand daily between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM to catch the morning delivery of fresh local rice and seasonal vegetables, which are often the first items to sell out each day
- Stamping Strategy: Collect the official roadside station stamp during opening hours (9:00 AM to 16:00 PM in winter, 9:00 AM to 17:00 PM in summer), but avoid the stamp booth between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when staff are occupied with lunch and customer service duties
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; peak season for canola flower picking from late March to April.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for visiting the campsite and enjoying forest bathing among native trees; local soba noodles made from regional buckwheat are at their freshest.
Autumn (September–November): Best time for mountain vegetable pickling; various preserved mountain vegetables available through autumn.
Winter (December–February): Limited access during colder months; closed on Tuesdays and holidays, with reduced hours from November to March.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
A children's play area is not available, but the scenic surroundings and nearby campsite offer natural exploration. Family-friendly food options include local ice cream and soba. Facilities are accessible with stroller-friendly paths and adequate restrooms.
Food Lover Review
Features high-quality local specialties such as fresh milk ice cream and regional soba made from local buckwheat. Offers a variety of preserved mountain vegetables and fresh produce from the direct sales center.
Car Camping Review
Has a well-maintained campsite and bungalows with restrooms and vending machines. The area is quiet and scenic, though overnight parking is not explicitly permitted. Limited space may affect comfort.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by expansive natural landscapes, including the Niseko Mountains and Shirakaba forest. Offers beautiful views, seasonal changes, and excellent photo opportunities from scenic viewpoints and forest trails.