Station Space Apple Yoichi

Launch Your Journey Among Stars and Strawberries

Nestled along National Route 229 in the heart of Yoichi, Space Apple Yoichi is a roadside station where the wonders of space meet the sweetness of Hokkaido’s orchards. More than just a stop for travelers, it’s a celestial gateway celebrating the legacy of Japan’s first astronaut, Mamoru Mohri, and the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Set beside the Yoichi River, the station blends science, nature, and local flavor in a uniquely immersive experience.

Visitors can explore the interactive Yoichi Space Memorial Hall, featuring a digital planetarium, a 3D theater simulating a mission to the solar system, and a life-sized replica of Japan’s Kibo space module. The station’s highlight is its collection of 10+ types of space food—like astronaut rice and space tamales—offering a playful taste of life beyond Earth. Nearby, seasonal fruits from Yoichi’s famed orchards, including apples, grapes, and cherries, are available fresh, while handcrafted ice cream and apple pie made with local ingredients delight every palate.

At Space Apple Yoichi, step into the world of Japan’s first spaceflight astronaut, Takao毛利衛, through immersive exhibits like the 3D "2041 Solar System Mission" theater and the "Kibo" module, where you can experience life aboard the International Space Station. The roadside station uniquely offers authentic space food—such as astronaut-style mochi and takoyaki—crafted for the journey beyond Earth. Beyond space, savor the region’s famed fruits, including hand-picked apples and grapes from nearby orchards, served in seasonal treats like house-made apple pie and fruit sorbet. This is the only roadside station in Hokkaido where you can taste space-inspired cuisine while exploring the legacy of a true pioneer.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to access the museum shop’s full selection of 10 types of space food, including "rice cake" and "takoyaki," before they sell out by early afternoon.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-edition "apple pie made with locally grown apples from Yūchi" — it's only available from June through October and often sells out by noon.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the "Space Apple Yūchi" roadside station between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to catch the rotating seasonal fruit and wine-based ice cream flavors, which change weekly and are not listed on the menu.

• Museum Access Tip: If you plan to visit the digital planetarium, arrive by 12:00 PM on weekdays to ensure entry to the 1:00 PM show, as the 12:00 PM session is frequently sold out due to high demand.

• Sticker Collection: To collect the monthly roadside station stamp, visit the shop on a non-Monday between April 21 and October 27, when the stamp is available at the roadside station shop instead of the museum shop.

• Foodie Perk: Purchase the "space food" kit at the museum shop before 1:00 PM to receive a free sample of the "apple-based astronaut ice cream," available only to customers who buy a space food product during the same visit.

• Best Viewing Time: Visit the "Kibo – Life in Space" exhibit between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM on weekdays when staff are available to give a brief demonstration of the simulated space toilet and sleeping pod setup.

Spring (March–May): Apple blossoms peak in April, and fresh seasonal produce including strawberries and early vegetables are available at the roadside station.

Summer (June–August): Peak fruit harvest season features ripe apples, grapes, and cherries; local ice cream made from these fruits is a highlight.

Autumn (September–November): Apple picking season runs through October, with fresh apples and cider available; the digital planetarium offers special star-viewing programs.

Winter (December–February): The station closes for winter (December 1–April 17), so visits are not possible during this period.