Where the Stars Meet the Road
Nestled along National Route 38 in Ashibetsu, Star Plaza Ashibetsu shines as a celestial gateway to Hokkaido’s heart. Inspired by the town’s nickname, "The Village Where Stars Fall," the station is adorned with star-themed touches from its glowing signage to its whimsical star-shaped restrooms.
More than just a pit stop, it’s a celebration of local culture, offering farm-fresh produce, the famed Gatatan soup, and hands-on experiences like pizza baking in a stone oven. With panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and access to the immersive Star Dome at the nearby Centenary Memorial Hall, this roadside station blends nature, history, and flavor in a uniquely Hokkaido way.
Why Visit
Visit Star Plaza Ashibetsu to savor authentic Gatatán, a rich, hearty local soup, and explore the unique star-themed station nestled in the heart of "The Town Where Stars Fall." Enjoy farm-fresh produce, panoramic views from the second-floor restaurant, and the immersive Star Dome at the adjacent Centenary Memorial Hall.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor regional flavors with scenic views at Star Plaza Ashibetsu's restaurant.
La Fleur
ラ・フルール
Specialty
A restaurant offering a diverse range of Japanese and Western cuisine
A dining spot on the second floor of the michinoeki, offering meals with views of the majestic natural scenery of Ashibetsu. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, ideal for enjoying a leisurely meal while taking in the surrounding landscape.
Shopping Highlights
Discover local treasures and fresh produce at the vibrant market stalls.
Kachan Market
かあちゃん市
A direct farm market selling fresh local produce from Ashibetsu.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local vegetables
Tsubasa Farm
つばさ農園
A farm market offering fresh, locally grown agricultural products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local vegetables
Local Specialty Store
物産販売コーナー
A shop selling various local specialties from Ashibetsu.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ashibetsu Melon
Featured Products
Taste signature treats like Gatatam and seasonal specialties from Ashibetsu.
Ashibetsu Melon
あしべつメロン
A sweet and juicy melon grown in the fertile soil of Ashibetsu, known for its exceptional flavor and freshness.
Yuri Root Zenzai
ゆり根ぜんざい
A traditional sweet made with yuri root and red bean paste, offering a unique texture and natural sweetness.
Ashibetsu Cheese
横市チーズ
A creamy, high-quality cheese produced in the Ashibetsu region using local milk.
Ashibetsu Butter
横市バター
Rich and smooth butter made from fresh local cream, perfect for spreading or cooking.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including star-themed restrooms and Wi-Fi access.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 12 spaces, ordinary vehicles: 114 spaces. Includes covered parking.
Adjacent to the main entrance
Star-shaped Toilet
Unique star-shaped public toilets located in the parking area, themed after the "Town of Falling Stars." Includes wheelchair-accessible toilets and changing tables.
Near the parking lot
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the facility.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Located on the first floor of the tourist and product center, offering local tourism information and assistance.
First floor, tourist and product center
Kids Space
Outdoor kids' play area available for children to enjoy.
Outside the main building
Nursing Room
Private room for nursing mothers, equipped with changing facilities.
Inside the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station available on-site.
Near the parking lot
ATM
ATM available for cash withdrawals.
Near the entrance
Dog Park
Dog run area available for pets to exercise.
Adjacent to the facility
Activities & Experiences
Explore hands-on experiences and seasonal events in the heart of nature.
Pizza Making Experience
ピザ作り体験
Participants will make their own pizza using a stone oven at the on-site pizza shop.
Duration
60 min
Tofu Making Experience
豆腐作り体験
Participants will experience making traditional tofu using local ingredients and traditional methods.
Duration
90 min
Star-shaped Toilet Tour
星型トイレ
Explore the uniquely designed star-shaped public toilets, a signature feature of the station inspired by the theme 'a town where stars fall'.
Duration
15 min
Ashibetsu Summer Festival
星の降る里・芦別健夏まつり
A vibrant summer festival where participants carry a kaki mountain (a large wooden frame) and race to celebrate the arrival of summer in Ashibetsu.
Duration
180 min
Best enjoyed during clear, warm summer days.
Ashibetsu Star Marathon 2025
あしべつスター☆マラニック2025
A fun run event held in Ashibetsu, promoting the town's star-themed identity and community spirit.
Duration
120 min
Event may be rescheduled due to snow or extreme weather.
Agricultural Festival
星の降る里・芦別 農業まつり
A seasonal agricultural festival celebrating local farming, featuring fresh produce, farm activities, and community events.
Duration
240 min
Outdoor activities may be affected by rain.
Insider Tips
Find local insights and hidden gems for a seamless visit to Ashibetsu.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:00 AM during summer months (July–August) to secure parking and avoid the midday crowds, especially around the restaurant and food stalls.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the rural farm corner near the rear of the building, where local farmers occasionally set up pop-up stalls with seasonal vegetables and handmade dairy products not listed in official guides.
- Weekend Bonuses: On Saturdays and Sundays from June to August, the on-site café offers free hot drinks to visitors who show their stamp book at the counter.
- Photo Opportunities: The star-shaped public toilets, located near the main entrance, are ideal for group photos; visit at golden hour (just before sunset) for soft lighting and fewer people.
- Money Savers: Purchase the "Local Food Combo Pack" at the produce counter—includes a small container of local cheese, pickled vegetables, and a slice of regional melon—for 600 yen, saving 150 yen compared to buying items separately.
- Avoiding Crowds: Skip the restaurant during lunch hours (11:30–13:30) and instead eat at the deli counter, which has shorter lines and offers the same regional dishes at similar prices.
- Closure Alerts: Check the official website or call 0124-23-1437 before visiting on Thursdays, as the station may close early or shut down entirely if the day is a public holiday.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Enjoy fresh strawberries and spring vegetables. Mild weather suits outdoor exploration.
Summer (June–August): Savor peak-season corn and local fruits. Join the lively Star Festival.
Fall (September–October): Experience harvest festivals and vibrant foliage. Try seasonal yukidori and melons.
Winter (November–March): Visit for serene snowy landscapes and cozy dining. Warm up with local ramen.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a kids' space, stroller access, and family food options with engaging local themes.
Food Lover Review
Features local specialties like Gata-tan, fresh produce, and diverse dining choices.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking and basic facilities, suitable for short stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts scenic views, star-themed design, and a peaceful natural atmosphere.