Station Toma

Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Rural Charms at Toma

Nestled along National Route 39 at the gateway to Nakashibetsu Town, Toma roadside station stands as a vibrant cultural and culinary hub set against the majestic backdrop of the Daisetsuzan mountain range. More than just a rest stop, it serves as a welcoming gateway where travelers connect with local heritage, seasonal produce, and authentic community spirit.

At the heart of Toma is the "Densuke’s House" specialty shop, a bustling marketplace showcasing the region’s finest agricultural treasures. Visitors can sample and purchase unique items like the famous Densuke watermelon, seasonal corn, fresh tomatoes, and locally crafted staples such as basil paste and popcorn. The station also features a cozy café offering Toma’s signature blend coffee and a popular summer treat—refreshing watermelon soft serve. With seasonal produce, local sake, and handmade goods, Toma offers a true taste of Hokkaido’s countryside.

Toma roadside station stands at the gateway to Nakasato Town, uniquely positioned along National Route 39 with sweeping views of the majestic Oshikawa Mountain Range. What sets it apart is its exclusive lineup of local specialties, most notably the seasonal "Densuke Melon," a sweet, pink-fleshed variety cultivated only in this region and available here in limited summer batches. The station also features the only retail outlet for "Ryōno Izumi," a premium sake aged within the nearby Nakasato Cave, a designated natural monument. For a true taste of place, try the signature Densuke Melon soft serve—crafted with fresh melon pulp and creamy vanilla, available only during summer months.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the first fresh batch of summer-only Densuke Watermelon from the direct sales counter, as it often sells out by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Check the small display near the entrance for limited-edition Densuke Watermelon-themed merchandise, including hand-painted ceramic mugs and custom stationery only available at the roadside station
• Seasonal Special: Purchase the Densuke Watermelon Soft Serve before 3:00 PM during summer months, as it is only served from noon until 4:00 PM and often sells out by early afternoon
• Specialty Purchase: Buy the Koumori Cave-Aged Pure Rice Ginjo Sake "Ryounzui", available only at the roadside station, in one of three exclusive bottle sizes (180ml, 360ml, 720ml) not sold elsewhere
• Food Truck Tip: On weekends, visit the adjacent MERB café between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM for their Crispy Curry Rice Box, a limited-time menu item that sells out quickly
• Local Product Hack: Request the brown rice by weight at the counter—this unprocessed, locally grown rice is sold only in bulk and cannot be purchased elsewhere in the region
• Timing for Events: Confirm upcoming events by calling the roadside station at 0166-58-8639, as pop-up markets and seasonal tastings (like the Densuke Watermelon Festival in late July) are announced only via phone or the official website

Spring (March–May): Late March to April brings peak canola flower viewing near the station, with fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.

Summer (June–August): The seasonal highlight is the on-site sale of fresh "Densuke" watermelons from late June through mid-August.

Autumn (September–November): No specific seasonal offerings mentioned in the content.

Winter (December–February): The station operates through winter, though the food service closes during the New Year holidays (December 31–January 3).