Discover the Heart of Hokkaido’s Countryside at Urahoro
Nestled along National Route 38, just halfway between the bustling cities of Tokachi and Kushiro, Urahoro roadside station offers a serene escape into Hokkaido’s natural beauty. Set on a gentle hillside surrounded by lush forest and adjacent to the expansive Urahoro Forest Park, the station blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Crafted with warm alpine cedar wood, the building exudes a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the region.
Visitors can savor local flavors with signature treats like the seasonal Ura-ben rice box—featuring fresh local salmon, ikura, kombu, and free-range eggs—and indulgent desserts such as rich milk cream puffs and 100% local red bean mochi. With a variety of fresh produce, handmade snacks, and a nearby restaurant serving regional favorites like seafood ramen and beef stew, Urahoro is a true celebration of local craftsmanship and taste.
Why Visit
Visit Urahoro roadside station for two standout experiences found nowhere else. First, savor the limited-edition Ura-ben lunchbox—featuring local autumn salmon, ikura, kombu, and free-range eggs over Hokkaido rice—available only on weekends and holidays from April to July and October to December. Second, sample the region’s only artisanal Urahoro Big Fuku made with 100% local azuki beans, paired with a rich, cow’s milk-based cream puff. These unique, hyper-local treats are the heart of Urahoro’s culinary identity.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Urahoro roadside station, where fresh, regional ingredients meet creative recipes.
Urahoro Dining
うらほろ亭
Specialty
Local seafood and hearty comfort food
A nearby restaurant offering a variety of dishes including seafood ramen, pork spaghetti, and beef stew, all made with regional ingredients.
Shopping Highlights
Discover authentic local goods and seasonal treats at Urahoro’s vibrant marketplace.
Local Produce Market
物産販売コーナー
Sells fresh local agricultural and marine products from Urahoro.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh local vegetables
Light Snack Corner
軽食販売コーナー
Offers ready-to-eat snacks and light meals made with local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Gyōja nininiku sausage hot dog
Café & Light Food Shop
喫茶・軽食
A café serving local dairy-based desserts and light refreshments.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rich cream-filled choux pastry
Featured Products
Try signature items like seasonal seafood bento and rich, locally made desserts.
Urahoro Bento
浦弁
A special limited-edition lunch box made with local ingredients including autumn salmon, ikura, kombu, free-range eggs from Urahoro, and Hokkaido rice.
Rich Choux Pastry
濃厚シュークリーム
A creamy choux pastry made with fresh Urahoro milk and rich cream.
Urahoro Dango
うらほろ大福
A traditional sweet made with 100% Urahoro red beans, wrapped in soft mochi.
Gyōja Nininiku Sausage Hot Dog
ギョウジャニンニク入りソーセージ
A hot dog featuring a spicy sausage made with local gyōja nininiku (garlic chives), known for its unique flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax with comfortable rest areas, accessible toilets, and convenient amenities.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 74 regular cars and 5 large vehicles. There are also 2 parking spaces designated for people with disabilities.
Adjacent to the roadside station building
Restroom
The restroom includes a warm water toilet, a toilet for people with disabilities, and an ostomy-friendly toilet. There is also a diaper changing station available.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The information center provides road information through terminals and offers tourist pamphlets for Uraboro Town and nearby municipalities.
Inside the roadside station building
Play Area
The nearby Uraboro Forest Park features a field athletics course and walking trails, offering recreational opportunities for children and families.
Adjacent to the roadside station, within Uraboro Forest Park
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available at the roadside station.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Pet Area
A dog run (dog park) is available at the adjacent Uraboro Forest Park, allowing pets to exercise and play.
Uraboro Forest Park, adjacent to the roadside station
Insider Tips
Visit on weekends for limited-edition treats and plan ahead for forest park access.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure one of the 10 daily servings of the limited-time Meatsukatsusando, available only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays at the snack counter
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to find the last remaining copies of the seasonal Uraben lunchbox, sold only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from April to July and October to December
- Weekend Special: Order the Gyokujaniiniku-wiener hot dog at the snack counter between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the staff prepares the fresh batch using locally grown garlic chives
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the thickly filled Uraho-Ohakuri (Uraho Big Mochi) at the gift shop before 1:00 PM, as the daily batch of 50 units often sells out by midday
- Optimal Snack Break: Eat at the outdoor terrace between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM when the temperature is warmest and the view of the Uraho Forest Park is most enjoyable
- Information Tip: Use the information terminal at the info corner between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to access the most current road condition updates for Route 38, especially during winter months
- Parking Strategy: Reserve a regular parking spot near the entrance by arriving before 10:00 AM, as the first 74 spots fill quickly on weekends and holidays due to high demand from visitors to Uraho Forest Park
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flower fields peak in late April.
Summer (June–August): Limited-edition "Uraben" bento sold weekends and holidays from June to August.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn salmon and ikura featured in seasonal Uraben bento; harvest season for local produce.
Winter (December–February): Closed December 31 to January 3; no seasonal offerings during closure.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a spacious forest park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. Features a dedicated children's play zone, stroller-friendly paths, and kid-friendly food like soft cream rolls and themed sandwiches.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including signature dishes like gyokujanikku sausages, local seafood ramen, and seasonal limited-edition bento. Offers fresh produce and artisanal sweets made with regional ingredients.
Car Camping Review
Adjacent to a large forest park with dedicated camping and bungalow facilities. Offers restrooms, vending machines, and quiet surroundings, though overnight parking is not explicitly permitted.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located in a tree-lined hillside surrounded by the expansive Urahoro Forest Park. Offers panoramic views, seasonal landscapes, and well-designed viewpoints ideal for photography.