Discover Japan’s Northernmost Gateway
Wakkanai, located at the terminus of National Route 40, stands as Japan’s most northerly roadside station, nestled in the vibrant heart of Wakkanai City. More than a mere stopover, it serves as a cultural and logistical hub where travelers from across the country converge at the edge of the known world. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the historic North Breakwater Dome and the symbolic Ice Snow Gate in Nishi Park, Wakkanai offers a unique blend of natural beauty, regional heritage, and modern convenience.
The station features a vibrant mix of local flavors and crafts, from the famed Hokkaido black beef dishes at Wakkanaiselect Café to handmade dairy ice cream and gourmet souvenir hampers. With 24-hour access to restrooms, Wi-Fi, and real-time travel information, it’s a reliable base for exploring the region. Whether you're savoring a fresh seafood bowl at the nearby port market or capturing the breathtaking sunset at Noshap Cape, Wakkanai is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable journey to the top of Japan.
Why Visit
Wakkanai is Japan’s northernmost roadside station, uniquely positioned at the end of National Route 40. Here, you’ll find the only roadside station in the country offering a direct view of JR Wakkanai Station and the iconic Hokkaido Heritage-listed Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome, a massive arched structure resembling ancient Roman architecture. The station’s standout feature is its exclusive Hokkaido Seafood Ramen Bowl, crafted with fresh catches from the nearby Port Market, and its signature Wakkanai Milk Ice Cream, made from local Jersey cow milk. These are experiences and flavors you can only find at this remote northern outpost.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the flavors of Hokkaido at Wakkanai roadside station, where local specialties like宗谷黒牛 dishes and fresh seafood await.
Wakkanai Select (Cafe)
ワッカナイセレクト（カフェ）
Specialty
Serving Hokkaido's premium Sakhalin Black Beef in Western-style dishes
A cozy cafe offering a modern dining experience with a focus on high-quality Sakhalin Black Beef, blending local flavors with Western culinary techniques. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, ideal for a leisurely meal.
Wakkanai Select (Dining Area)
ワッカナイセレクト（食事処）
Specialty
Traditional Hokkaido cuisine with regional ingredients
A casual dining space offering hearty, locally inspired meals using fresh regional produce and seafood. The atmosphere is warm and authentic, reflecting the spirit of northern Hokkaido.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional treasures and artisanal goods at Wakkanai’s curated selection of local products and crafts.
Wakkanai Select (Shop)
ワッカナイセレクト（ショップ）
A curated selection of local specialty products from Nibetsu City and the broader Hokkaido region, including agricultural, aquatic, and artisanal goods.
Products
Must-Try Item
Sakhalin Pasture's Hamburgers
Featured Products
Experience signature items like宗谷岬牧場 burgers and creamy Wakkanai milk ice cream, crafted from the area’s finest ingredients.
Sakhalin Pasture Hamburgers
宗谷岬牧場のハンバーグ
Handcrafted beef hamburgers made from high-quality beef raised at the Sakhalin Pasture, known for their rich flavor and tenderness.
Wakkanai Milk Ice Cream
わっかない牛乳アイスクリーム
Creamy ice cream made from fresh local milk, offering a smooth and naturally sweet taste.
Four Crab Bento
四大かに弁当
A premium bento box featuring four different types of fresh crab, ideal for gifting or enjoying as a special meal.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour restrooms, Wi-Fi, accessible facilities, and information terminals for seamless travel planning.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 88 standard vehicle spaces and 11 large vehicle spaces.
Adjacent to the roadside station entrance
Toilet
The restroom includes facilities for people with disabilities, an ostomy-friendly toilet, and a bidet toilet with warm water cleaning. It is accessible 24 hours a day.
Inside the roadside station building
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station, providing real-time access to transportation and tourism information.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The regional exchange center provides comprehensive information about Chitose, including tourism, events, transportation, and emergency disaster updates through information terminals and staff.
Regional Exchange Center (Machi-naka Information Corner)
Kids Room
The kids room features a ball pool, rock climbing wall, and allows children to view trains up close. It offers a space for children to enjoy activities not typically available at home.
Regional Exchange Center (Kids Room)
Nursing Room & Changing Table
A dedicated nursing room with a changing table is available for parents with infants.
Inside the roadside station building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the roadside station.
Parking area
Insider Tips
Visit early to avoid crowds, use the 24-hour stamp station, and check seasonal updates for special events and extended hours.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 8:00–9:00 AM to secure a seat at the café before the morning rush, especially for the popular Sakhalin Black Beef Hayashi Rice and the seasonal lemonade.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the fresh Sakhalin Black Beef Hamburgers from the Sakhalin Pasture, which are only available during the summer months and often sell out by midday.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the fish market area between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to catch the fresh Hokkaido Crab Bento being prepared daily, as it’s only made in limited quantities for weekend visitors.
- Best Purchase Time: Buy the Wakkanai Milk Ice Cream before 3:00 PM on weekdays to ensure availability, as it is only restocked once daily and often sells out by late afternoon.
- Must-Visit Corner: Head to the Wakkanai Select Shop on the second floor of the regional exchange center before 4:00 PM to view the rotating seasonal display of local crafts and regional products, which changes every week and includes exclusive items not sold elsewhere.
- Family Tip: Bring children to the Kids Room before 5:00 PM on weekdays to enjoy the climbing wall and ball pit, as it closes at 6:00 PM and is busiest during school holidays.
- Insider Access: Use the 24-hour information terminal located near the entrance to access real-time updates on ferry schedules to Sakhalin and local event calendars, which are not listed on the main website.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh seafood from the副港市場 arrives in early spring; visit in April for the first local fish catches.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the annual 10th-anniversary event in April, and summer seafood dishes at the roadside station.
Autumn (September–November): Late-season seafood and autumn harvests available through November.
Winter (December–February): Experience the winter chill and visit the roadside station’s 24-hour facilities.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station features a dedicated kids' room with a ball pool and rock climbing, plus views of trains. It includes stroller-friendly access, restrooms with changing tables, and family-oriented activities near the station.
Food Lover Review
Offers diverse dining options including local specialties like宗谷黒牛 (Sōya Black Beef) dishes and regional seafood. The selection includes fresh produce, artisanal ice cream, and unique regional souvenirs with strong local identity.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and 88 standard parking spaces. While not designed for overnight stays, it offers 24-hour access and a relatively quiet environment near the harbor.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located at Japan's northernmost point with stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. Features photo-worthy spots like the Noshapp Cape and the unique arch-shaped breakwater, especially beautiful at sunset.