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Illustrative image — not an on-site photograph

Hokkaido

Michi-no-Eki Odaitō

道の駅 おだいとう

Taste Odaitōnuma scallops and Betsukai milk, then look out over the Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island from the observation tower at this small stop on Route 244.

Updated Michi-no-Eki JournalRead in Japanese

Illustrative image — not an on-site photograph

Location
Betsukai, Notsuke District
Road
National Route 244
Hours
9:00–17:00
Hours are approximate. The station and shop are open 9:00–17:00 from May through October and 9:00–16:00 from November through April. The restaurant is open 11:00–15:30, with last orders at 15:00.
Parking
Cars: 47 / Large vehicles: 7
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How to enjoy

Choose how to enjoy your visit

Eat, shop, play, take in the view or rest. Choose from the station’s strengths to suit your day.

First, on arrival
Choose food or the view

At lunchtime, head to the restaurant first. On a clear day, a climb up the tower after eating can make the visit feel complete.

If you're eating
Make scallops and milk the stars

The jumbo scallop burger, fried scallops, soft serve and milk served in a large mug are characteristic choices. Check what's available that day.

If you're shopping
Look for local dairy and seafood

The shop is small, but browsing for dairy products and goods from Odaitōnuma and Betsukai is part of the fun. Pick up something sweet for the road.

If skies are clear
See Notsuke Bay from the tower

Visibility toward the Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island depends on the weather. If the view is clear, you could take it in before returning for food.

A winter reason to visit
Shiratoridai and the square sun

Swans gather here from December through March, and the area is known for the square sun during severe winter cold. Allow for low temperatures and road conditions.

For a half-day outing
Continue to Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center

Eat at the station, take in the view from the tower, then walk on the Notsuke Peninsula. It is a natural way to make Odaitōnuma your destination.

Illustrative image — not an on-site photograph
Highlights

Michi-no-Eki Odaitō is worth more than a meal if Route 244 takes you through Odaitōnuma. At Shikakui Taiyō restaurant, try the jumbo burger made with Notsuke scallops, fried scallops and soft serve made with Betsukai milk. Then climb the Betsukai Northern Territories Observation Tower for views of the Notsuke Peninsula, Notsuke Bay and, on clear days, Kunashiri Island. In winter, pair the stop with Shiratoridai and the 'square sun,' an optical effect that can flatten the sun's outline. In summer, look for traditional sail fishing boats on Notsuke Bay or continue to the peninsula. Even a short stop captures a little of eastern Hokkaido.

  • #Hokkaido
  • #Betsukai
  • #Odaitōnuma
  • #National Route 244
  • #Notsuke scallops
  • #Betsukai milk
  • #Soft serve
  • #Northern Territories Observation Tower
  • #Shiratoridai
  • #Notsuke Peninsula
Why I like it

Reasons to stop here

01

A clear reason to stop for food

Odaitōnuma scallops and Betsukai milk define this stop. Part of the fun of the jumbo scallop burger is assembling it at the restaurant. For a lighter visit, fried scallops or soft serve still make a distinctly Betsukai break.

02

The tower turns a break into a memory of eastern Hokkaido

The Betsukai Northern Territories Observation Tower is a highlight after a meal. You can see the Notsuke Peninsula, Notsuke Bay and, on clear days, Kunashiri Island. An exhibition about the Northern Territories adds context to the sea view.

03

A different visit in each season

From winter into spring, come for Shiratoridai and the square sun; from early summer into autumn, look for traditional sail fishing boats on Notsuke Bay and explore the Notsuke Peninsula. The changing seasons make this small Route 244 stop a destination in its own right.

Route idea

Ways to plan your stop

Spend your time at the station or add somewhere nearby. These ideas help you plan around your companions and the weather.

A lunchtime drive toward Shibetsu, Rausu or Nemuro

Make a Route 244 lunch break taste of Odaitōnuma

If you can arrive around noon, make scallops the focus at Shikakui Taiyō. The jumbo scallop burger makes a talking point; fried scallops and soft serve still give a lighter stop local flavor.

On Route 244, on the Shiratoridai rise a little outside central Odaitōnuma.

The restaurant mainly serves lunch. If you arrive late, leave room in your plan for the shop and tower instead of relying solely on a meal.

First-time visitors driving through Betsukai and Odaitōnuma

Take in Notsuke Bay and the Northern Territories from the tower

Food is only part of this station. The Northern Territories Observation Tower has an exhibition on the second floor, a lookout on the third and binoculars. In clear weather the Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island come into view, giving this stretch of eastern Hokkaido a stronger sense of place.

Visit the tower before or after eating. Even on a short stop, take the view first if skies are clear.

Sea fog or cloud can hide distant views. On those days, focus on the exhibition, shop and a short walk around nearby Shiratoridai.

Photographers and winter drivers in eastern Hokkaido

Seek swans at Shiratoridai in winter and the square sun in deep cold

The rise at the mouth of the Shunbetsu River where the station stands is called Shiratoridai. Swans gather here from December through March. In the coldest season it is also known as a place to photograph the square sun, changing the stop from a place to eat into one to see the season.

Look around Shiratoridai near the station, then take a break in the car rather than staying outside too long on very cold days.

Early sunset, strong winds and icy roads can change a winter visit considerably. Prioritize warm clothing and road conditions when planning photographs.

Days with extra time or an interest in nature

Add the Notsuke Peninsula for a half-day nature route

After scallops and milk at the station, head to Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center. Todowara's weathered trees, Narawara, wildflower meadows and traditional sail fishing boats offer different highlights by season, making the station a useful starting point.

Michi-no-Eki Odaitō → central Odaitōnuma → Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center; about 25 minutes by car.

The peninsula can be windy. Let the weather decide whether to walk far or stay closer to the nature center.

Visitors to Odaitōnuma Fureai Campground and eastern Hokkaido road trips

Add food and scenery before or after camping

Odaitōnuma Fureai Campground is a nature-rich base beside Notsuke Bay. Lunch at the station before check-in, then soft serve and the tower the next morning or after packing up, make an easy pairing with a camping trip.

The campground is about 10 minutes from the station by car.

The campground's open season, closing days and booking requirements vary. Check its official information before your stay.

Hours

Opening hours

Station and shop
9:00–17:00 / until 16:00 in winter

Generally until 17:00 from May through October and 16:00 from November through April.

Shikakui Taiyō restaurant
11:00-15:30

Last orders are generally at 15:00. Winter hours may change.

Station stamp
During opening hours

The stamp cannot be used on closed days.

Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center
9:00–17:00 / until 16:00 in winter

About 25 minutes by car from the station. The center lists 9:00–17:00 from April 1 to October 31 and 9:00–16:00 from November 1 to March 31; weather may affect its hours.

Family

Visiting with children

Illustrative image — not an on-site photograph

Stars show the editorial recommendation for each age group on a five-point scale. Read the reasons alongside each rating.

Age 1 and under
★★☆☆☆

This is mainly a place for a short break and a view, rather than nursing facilities or extended play.

On windy days, keep time outside short and get ready in the car before setting out.

Ages 2–3
★★☆☆☆

There is little playground appeal, but a quick stop for soft serve or swans can be fun.

Allow for stairs, railings and carrying a child in the tower; take it at an easy pace.

Ages 4–6
★★★☆☆

A short mix of fried scallops, soft serve, the tower and Shiratoridai can hold their interest.

If adding the Notsuke Peninsula, keep walking distances manageable.

Primary school age
★★★★☆

Combine the Northern Territories exhibition, binoculars and nature watching on the peninsula for both learning and food.

Choose the tower in good weather, or focus on the exhibition when the weather turns.

Play area

Think of this stop for views, water and seasonal birds rather than large play equipment.

Food

Arriving during restaurant hours works best. Soft serve or a light bite can suit children.

Rain or strong wind

The outdoor view depends on the weather. In rough conditions, a brief visit to the exhibition and shop is more practical.

Rest

Ideas for a restful stop

  1. 1
    Plan for a modest car park

    The town lists 49 standard spaces, including two accessible spaces, and seven spaces for large vehicles. At busy meal times or events, shifting your meal time may be more relaxed.

  2. 2
    Build the meal around lunchtime

    The restaurant mainly serves lunch. If arrival may be around 15:00, consider the shop, soft serve and tower instead.

  3. 3
    See the view while the weather is clear

    Sea fog and clouds change distant visibility. If skies are clear, go up before or after eating, whichever works first.

  4. 4
    Keep winter visits short

    Swans and the square sun are winter attractions, but wind and road conditions can be tiring. Enjoy a brief look, then return for warm food or a break in the car.

Event

Make an event part of your visit

Permanent spaces and dated events are listed separately. Events can change both the atmosphere and crowds; use the official links for details.

Checking event dates.

Spaces used for events

Shiratoridai

Swans gather on the rise at the Shunbetsu River mouth from December through March, making it a winter destination in itself.

Northern Territories Observation Tower

The exhibition and lookout offer a year-round stop. In clear weather, views toward the Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island are the highlight.

Odaitōnuma Fishing Port area

A setting for local events such as the Odaitōnuma Shrimp Festival. Check each year's event status.

Notsuke Bay and Peninsula

Traditional sail fishing boats, wildflower meadows and birdwatching provide seasonal reasons to extend a station visit.

Local feel

Reasons to return

Practical ideas and things to consider when spending time here.

Soft serve alone can be a reason to stop

Reviews often praise the soft serve, milk and coffee milk. This is not a large farm shop, but it is an easy place to try Betsukai milk even on a short stop.

Source: Jalan and Yahoo! Maps review trends

The tower and Shouting Statue explain the place

Near the entrance are the Shouting Statue, a Northern Territories exhibition and binoculars in the observation room. Views toward the Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island connect with local history. For primary school children and older, allow a little time for the exhibition as well as food.

Source: Hokkaido Michi-no-Eki and Hokkaido Style

Winter brings swans and the sunrise

Shiratoridai draws swans from December through March and is known for photographing the square sun in severe cold. Morning and winter visits can be rewarding; keep them brief and account for cold and road conditions.

Source: Betsukai Town: Shiratoridai

A useful meal stop before the Notsuke Peninsula

Eating before or after a visit to Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center is convenient. Wind and weather affect walking on the peninsula, so a warm meal or sweet at the station can give you some breathing room.

Source: Betsukai Town and Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center
Before your visit

Things to check before setting out

Opening and closure days, individual businesses and facilities for children or dogs can affect your plans.

  • Shikakui Taiyō restaurant mainly serves lunch. If the jumbo scallop burger is your goal, aim to arrive around noon.
  • The station and shop close at different times by season. Plan a brief visit if arriving near 16:00 in winter.
  • Betsukai Town lists Tuesday closure, or Wednesday when Tuesday is a public holiday, except July–September; it also lists December 31–January 5 and weather closures. Check current official notices before a winter, Tuesday or holiday visit.
  • Betsukai Town lists 49 standard parking spaces, including two accessible spaces, and seven for large vehicles. Allow extra time around busy meals or events.
  • Distant views from the tower depend on the weather. See them first when skies are clear; if visibility is poor, focus on the exhibition and food.
  • For trips onward to the Notsuke Peninsula or Shiratoridai, adjust your time outside for wind, cold and road conditions.
Food

Eating and shopping

Specialities, places to eat, sweets and bakeries can all give you a reason to stop. Check individual menus for current prices and availability.

  • Shikakui Taiyō restaurant
    Betsukai Jumbo Scallop Burger and Jumbo Milk Set
    About ¥1,300
  • Shop and sweets
    Milk soft serve made with Betsukai milk
    About ¥350
  • Light meal
    Fried Notsuke scallops
    About ¥350
  • Local specialty
    Betsukai Jumbo Surf Clam Cutlet Rice Bowl
    See the restaurant menu
Food mood

What would you like to eat?

A meal, a sweet treat, market shopping or something to take away: choose a focus for the day instead of trying everything at once.

Illustrative image — not an on-site photograph
The main meal

Betsukai Jumbo Scallop Burger and large mug of milk

The signature set combines Odaitōnuma scallops and Betsukai milk. It is for eating inside, and assembling the burger yourself is part of the experience.

The burger is offered only as a dine-in set, not as a single item or takeaway. Check current official notices for availability, price and quantity.

A lighter bite

Fried Notsuke scallops

A good choice when a full meal feels too much but you still want a taste of Odaitōnuma; it also works as a driving snack.

Fried dishes may involve a wait depending on service hours and crowding.

Something sweet

Milk soft serve made with Betsukai milk

A quick way to taste the dairy character of Betsukai, a major milk-producing town, whether after lunch or on a short break.

It can appeal even in colder months, but check the wind before eating outside.

Take something home

Dairy products, seafood souvenirs and local processed foods

The shop is modest in size, but browsing Betsukai dairy and Odaitōnuma seafood products is enjoyable. Even a sweet for the car is a reason to stop.

Products vary by season and delivery. Enjoy what is available that day rather than counting on a particular item.

If you arrive late

Soft serve, shop and tower

If you miss the restaurant's lunchtime service, a sweet, some shopping and the tower can still make a rewarding Odaitōnuma break.

The station closes earlier in winter; plan only a short visit to the shop and tower if you arrive toward evening.

Access

Location and surroundings

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1
Roadside station
Michi-no-Eki Odaitō

Taste Odaitōnuma scallops and Betsukai milk, then look out over the Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island from the observation tower at this small stop on Route 244.

Open in Google Maps
2
Nature and scenery
Shiratoridai

Watch for winter swans and the square sun at this Odaitōnuma lookout beside the station.

Open in Google Maps
3
Nature and visitor information
Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center

After eating at the station, start here to explore the Notsuke Peninsula's natural landscape.

Open in Google Maps
4
Campground
Odaitōnuma Fureai Campground

Stay beside Notsuke Bay, with the station's scallops and milk before or after your visit.

Open in Google Maps
5
Harbor and local events
Odaitōnuma Fishing Port area

Explore a harbor associated with Hokkai shrimp, traditional sail fishing boats and the Odaitōnuma Shrimp Festival.

Open in Google Maps
Food outlets and the market on the station grounds share the station pin. Nearby places are separate destinations to combine with your visit.
Nearby

Places to visit nearby

Shiratoridai
Nature and scenery
ShiratoridaiJapanese guide
Around the stationA very short walk

Good for a brief winter view of swans and sunrise, paired with the observation tower.

Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center
Nature and visitor information
Notsuke Peninsula Nature CenterJapanese guide
About 22 kmAbout 25 minutes by car

Good for extending lunch and the tower at the station into a half-day visit to the peninsula.

Odaitōnuma Fureai Campground
Campground
Odaitōnuma Fureai CampgroundJapanese guide
About 8 kmAbout 10 minutes by car

Good for adding a station meal, sweet or view before or after campground check-in.

Odaitōnuma Fishing Port area
Harbor and local events
Odaitōnuma Fishing Port areaJapanese guide
About 7 kmAbout 10 minutes by car

A short detour for the port atmosphere, or for events in years when they take place, on the way to the Notsuke Peninsula.

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