Station Yamada

Discover the Heart of Sanriku: Where Sea and Mountain Meet

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Iwate Prefecture, Yamada Oisuta roadside station stands as a vibrant gateway to the natural and cultural riches of Yamada Town. Located just minutes from the Sanriku Expressway’s Yamada Interchange, this modern hub offers travelers a seamless blend of relaxation, local flavor, and scenic beauty. Surrounded by sweeping views of the Sea of Japan and lush mountain landscapes, it’s more than a rest stop—it’s an invitation to experience the soul of the region.

At the heart of Yamada Oisuta lies a celebration of local bounty. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, including succulent oysters, scallops, and abalone, harvested from the nutrient-rich waters of Yamada Bay. The on-site restaurant, Umippuku, features seasonal menus highlighting regional fish, while the signature Oisuta Ramen and Amazon Cocoa Soft Serve—crafted with ingredients from the Amazon—offer unique culinary adventures. With a dedicated children’s play area, a bustling farmers’ market, and expert-guided tours to nearby attractions like the Whale and Sea Science Museum, every visitor finds their own reason to stay.

Visit Yamada Oisuta roadside station to experience the unique taste of the region’s pristine waters. Only here can you savor freshly harvested Akagai clams and Hoya sea squirts, harvested from the nutrient-rich waters of Yamada Bay, along with the only artisanal amazons cocoa soft cream in Japan, crafted using rare Amazonian cacao. The station’s signature Oisuta Ramen, made with locally caught fish broth, offers a flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM to secure a seat at the restaurant "Umiippuku" before the lunch rush, as it often fills up by 11:00 AM when the daily seafood special is served
• Hidden Gems: Visit the "Yamada Kaki Koji" (Yamada Oyster House) counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to sample fresh oysters and ask about the daily catch, as they are restocked from the morning harvest
• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, stop by the "Amazons Cocoa Soft Cream" booth between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to try the limited-time Amazons Cocoa & Milk Soft Cream, which sells out quickly after 1:30 PM
• Must-Try Food: Order the "Oisuta Ramen" at the ramen counter between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to experience the full flavor of the locally sourced fish-based broth, which is only available during lunch hours
• Kids' Activity: Take children to the "Kaki Kuke Park" playground located just outside the main building, which is open from 9:30 AM until 5:00 PM and features a large oyster-shaped play structure
• Souvenir Tip: Purchase the "Yamada Sea and Mountain Collection" gift box at the shop before 4:00 PM, as it includes seasonal seafood and vegetable items that are only available during the summer months
• Information Desk: Visit the tourist information desk between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to receive a free map of the nearby "Kujira to Umi Science Museum" and "Ura no Hama Beach" with entry discount coupons

Spring (March–May): Fresh sea urchin and abalone available from April, with seasonal seafood markets featuring local catches.

Summer (June–August): Peak oyster season from June to August, ideal for tasting fresh raw oysters and enjoying seaside activities.

Autumn (September–November): Abundant harvest of seasonal vegetables and seafood, including late-season oysters and local fish.

Winter (December–February): Limited fresh seafood, but warm dishes like oyster ramen and seasonal soft serve are available year-round.