Discover the Bountiful Beauty of Hokkaido’s Coastal Heritage
Route 229 Motowadai is a scenic roadside station perched 40 meters above the Japan Sea, offering panoramic views of rugged cliffs, rolling waves, and the winding国道229. Nestled near the rare seaside pool of Motowadai Seaside Park and the natural wonder of Maguro Cape, it’s a gateway to coastal adventure. Enjoy local treasures like honey, yuri mochi made with native yuri root, and fresh seafood—perfect for a stop that nourishes both body and soul.
Why Visit
Perched 40 meters above the Japan Sea, Route 229 Motowadai offers breathtaking coastal views and easy access to the rare seaside pool at Motowadai Seaside Park. Discover local treasures like the award-winning yuri mochi made from heirloom yuri root and pure Otobe honey, all while exploring the historic "Shibi no Misaki" with its striking columnar rock formations.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional crafts and gourmet delights at Route 229 Motowadai’s well-curated shop, ideal for thoughtful souvenirs.
Route 229 Motowadai General Store
売店
Sells a variety of local specialty products from Otobe Town, including confectionery, honey, and seafood products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Yuri Mochi
Featured Products
Savor signature treats like yuri-mochi and Otobe honey, crafted from local ingredients with authentic regional flair.
Yuri Mochi
ゆり最中
A traditional confection made with 100% yuri root paste, known for its delicate aroma and smooth sweetness. The paste is matured at low temperature for two years to preserve the unique flavor of yuri root.
Otobe Honey
おとべのはちみつ
Premium honey harvested from the fish-forested area of Otobe Town. Known for its mild, smooth sweetness with no aftertaste, especially the acacia variety, often called the 'Queen of Honey'.
Gaivota
Gaivota
A local product available for purchase at the roadside station, representing regional craftsmanship and flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour restrooms, wheelchair access, baby care stations, and free Wi-Fi.
Parking Lot
Provides parking for 40 regular cars and 9 large vehicles. Includes 2 designated parking spaces for people with disabilities.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Toilet
24-hour access available. Includes women's toilets with washbasins in every stall, multi-functional toilets with baby chairs, diaper changing pads, and ostomy-friendly facilities. Public telephone also available inside the restroom area.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station
Information Center
Provides tourist information and assistance. Operates during the roadside station's opening hours.
Inside the roadside station
Play Area
A spacious rest area behind the roadside station with panoramic views of the Japan Sea. Features the monument 'Sho-Flute' and is ideal for photography and relaxation.
Behind the roadside station
Otobe Onsen Ikoi no Yu
A natural hot spring using original spring water. Offers a relaxing experience with an art hall and gallery where visitors can enjoy paintings and sculptures.
Nearby, operated by Otobe Town
Bike Rental
Not available at this roadside station.
Nursing Room & Diaper Changing Area
Equipped with a nursing room and diaper changing facilities, located within the restroom area.
Inside the restroom
EV Charging Station
Not available at this roadside station.
ATM
Not available at this roadside station.
Pet Area
No designated pet area available at this roadside station.
Activities & Experiences
Explore seasonal events, hands-on experiences, and scenic walks with stunning views of the Sea of Japan.
Sea Urchin, Clam, and Scallop Hand-Picking Experience
ウニ・ツブ・ホタテの手づかみ体験
Participants can pick sea urchins, clams, and scallops by hand in the sea pool area during the opening season.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy quiet views, and check for temporary closures before your trip.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive between 9:00–10:00 AM on weekdays to avoid crowds and ensure availability of parking, especially during summer months when the site sees heavy traffic.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the small deli counter near the back entrance to find locally made honey and yuri mochi with a 2-year aged filling—available only at the roadside station and not widely distributed elsewhere.
- Weekend Bonuses: On weekends and holidays between June and August, the sea pool at Motowadai Seihin Park offers free hands-on shellfish collection (urchins, clams, scallops) for children—bring gloves and a small bucket.
- Photo Opportunities: The "Sho-Flute" monument on the seaward side of Route 229 Motowadai offers a striking backdrop with the Japan Sea and coastal highway below. Visit just after sunrise for soft light and fewer visitors.
- Money Savers: Purchase the 500g jar of Otobe Honey (2,600 yen) instead of the 140g version—it’s significantly more cost-effective per gram and perfect for gift-giving or long-term use.
- Avoiding Crowds: Use the 24-hour restroom located just outside the main building during peak times—this area is less frequented than the main lobby, especially in winter and early spring.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call 0139-62-3009 before visiting during the year-end and year-start closure (December 30 – January 3), as the shop and restrooms are fully closed, and the information desk is inactive.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring offers clear views of the Japan Sea from the elevated roadside station, with wildflowers blooming along coastal paths and early access to the sea pool from late April.
Summer (June-August): Summer is ideal for beach activities at the unique sea pool, featuring hands-on clam and sea urchin harvesting on weekends and holidays from June to August.
Fall (September-November): Fall brings crisp air and scenic coastal walks, with the chance to enjoy fresh local honey and seasonal seafood at the roadside station.
Winter (December-February): Winter provides serene views of the Japan Sea, with the roadside station open for quiet visits and access to nearby hot springs despite cold temperatures.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers children's activities, play-friendly environment, and family facilities with accessible restrooms and stroller access.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like yuri mochi and acacia honey, with quality artisanal products and fresh local goods.
Car Camping Review
Provides parking and 24-hour toilet access, suitable for short stops but lacks dedicated overnight camping facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic sea views, scenic lookout with monument, and beautiful coastal landscapes year-round.