While driving from Biei to Asahikawa, consider stopping for a short break at Roadside Station Asahikawa to recharge during your trip. It's a very convenient rest stop for a road trip around Hokkaido. In addition to hot meals, coffee, and other food and drinks, you can buy souvenirs, sweets, and local agricultural products from around Hokkaido. If you're looking for local ingredients or souvenirs, you can browse around before getting back on the road.
Roadside Station Asahikawa (Michi-no-Eki Asahikawa) | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Nagoya Castle
One of the largest castles in Japan, built in the early Edo period on the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate, the five-story castle tower is topped with shining two Kinshachi, one male and one female that has become a symbol of Nagoya.
Stepping into Nagoya Castle feels like being transported back to the Edo period of Tokugawa Ieyasu in an instant! The most impressive sight is the pair of golden shachihoko on the roof, gleaming brilliantly in the sunlight and showcasing the authority and splendor of the Edo shogunate. Walking along the moat, the massive stone walls rise in layers, and the weight of history surrounds you, making it impossible not to admire the extraordinary craftsmanship of the ancient builders.
The most stunning part is the recently restored Honmaru Palace. The moment you step inside, the dazzling gold wall paintings and intricately detailed carvings recreate the luxurious life of the shogun's family. It's breathtakingly beautiful. You may also run into the Nagoya Omotenashi Busho-tai, dressed in armor, whose lively interactions bring history to life. Whether surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring or colorful maple leaves in fall, this is definitely an essential attraction when visiting Nagoya!
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Mojiko Retro
Moji Port was opened in the early Meiji Period and prospered in international trade. Nostalgic architecture, built from the Meiji into early Showa Periods, are still standing today. It is a fun area to meander.
Mojiko Retro is perfect for a leisurely walk. Along the way, you can see many Western-style houses and historic buildings that retain the architectural styles of the Meiji and Taisho periods, including Mojiko Station, the Former Moji Mitsui Club, and the Former Osaka Shosen Building. As you stroll through the area, the retro Western-style buildings and harbor views create the feeling of stepping back in time. If you want to explore all the main attractions, it's best to set aside at least half a day. You can also enjoy curry rice and shop for souvenirs.
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Marukin Soy Sauce Museum
Since its establishment in 1907, Marukin Soy Sauce has been producing soy sauce with a flavor suited to the times while utilizing traditional methods in a natural brewery for more than 100 years. One of the buildings has opened to the public with a memorial commemorating the 80th anniversary of the company's founding in 1987. The gassho-zukuri building, the largest of its kind in Japan, is registered as a national tangible cultural property.
At the Marukin Soy Sauce Factory, you can get a glimpse into the traditional Japanese process of making soy sauce. Soybeans, wheat, and other ingredients are steamed, cooked, and made into koji, then mixed with salt water to ferment and mature. Only after pressing, blending, and other steps does the soy sauce develop its deep color and rich aroma. You can also appreciate the artisans’ many years of accumulated brewing expertise. Everything from the ratio of ingredients to the fermentation time affects the final flavor. After the tour, be sure to try the special soy sauce soft serve! It starts with a smooth, rich, milky flavor, followed by a subtle hint of soy sauce. The sweet and salty flavors are surprisingly harmonious, making this limited treat well worth trying while you’re here.
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