Station Tsudoru Plaza Sawara

Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Natural Bounty

Nestled along National Route 278 in the scenic Sandara district of Mori Town, Tsudoru Plaza Sawara stands as a vibrant roadside station where the rugged beauty of Hokkaido’s landscape meets local tradition and flavor. Perched near the base of Mount Komagatake, the station offers sweeping 360-degree views from its panoramic observation hall, where on clear days you can spot the Shirogaki Bridge in Muroran and the majestic peaks of the Ishikari Mountains.

More than just a rest stop, Tsudoru Plaza Sawara celebrates the region’s rich natural heritage through its vibrant offerings. Visitors can savor the famed Sawara Scallop Rice Box, a locally recognized roadside station bento made with fresh scallops from the Iwate Bay and aromatic local rice, or enjoy a scoop of tangy blueberry soft serve crafted from berries grown in nearby fields. The station’s gift shop features handmade jams, blueberry wine, and unique seafood specialties, while the open-air barbecue plaza invites travelers to grill their own catch or provisions using affordable, smoke-free grills. With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning vistas, and authentic local flavors, Tsudoru Plaza Sawara delivers an unforgettable journey through Hokkaido’s rural soul.

Tsudoru Plaza Sawara offers two unmatched experiences unique to this roadside station. First, savor the region's only limited-edition Sawara Scallop Rice Box, crafted daily with fresh baby scallops from the nearby Iwate Bay and a rich broth made from local seafood, available only in quantities of 40 per day. Second, visit the 4th-floor panoramic observatory to witness 360-degree views of the Shikotsu Mountains and, on clear days, the white bridge of Muroran — a vista impossible to find elsewhere along the route.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the daily limited supply of 40 servings of Sawaara Scallop Rice (420 yen), which sells out quickly due to high demand and strict daily production limits.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the seasonal fresh blueberries available from late July to mid-August—these are not available year-round and are a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays from April to October, visit the outdoor "Yatai Village" (food stalls) where local vendors serve dishes made with Sawaara’s fresh scallops and other regional ingredients—this event runs every Sunday and is a great opportunity to taste authentic local cuisine.

• Best View Time: Head to the 4th-floor panoramic observatory between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM on clear days to enjoy the best views of the Shikotsu Bridge in Muroran, visible from the elevated vantage point when the weather permits.

• Barbecue Tip: Reserve the non-smoking barbecue grill at Yasuragi Plaza by arriving before 11:00 AM on weekends, as the 300 yen rental fee is charged per grill, and spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

• Sticker Hunt: Visit the information desk before 11:00 AM to collect the official roadside station stamp, which is only available during regular operating hours (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM), and avoid disappointment during off-hours.

• Local Product Must-Buy: Purchase the Sawaara Scallop Rice (500 yen) at the shop counter before 12:00 PM, as it is only available on-site and is not sold in advance—this popular local bento is designated as a "Hokkaido Michi no Eki Bento" and is a must-have for travelers.

Spring (March-May): Fresh blueberries available for picking from late July to mid-August, with blueberry soft serve sold from April to November.

Summer (June-August): Lavender blooms from June to October, allowing free harvesting; blueberry harvest season peaks in July–August.

Autumn (September-November): Blueberry soft serve remains available through November; autumn foliage enhances views from the 360-degree observatory.

Winter (December-February): Limited access due to closure from December 30 to January 5; no seasonal events or product highlights.