Roadside Station Ikarigaseki Tsugaru Seki no Sho
Located near the border with Akita Prefecture in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture, "Roadside Station Ikarigaseki (Tsugaru Seki no Sho)" is a spot of history and relaxation, characterized by its atmospheric buildings that recreate an Edo-period checkpoint.
I have organized its appeal and basic information in an easy-to-understand way.
🏮 The Appeal of Roadside Station Ikarigaseki
The free-flowing hot spring "Okariya Goten"
Unusually for a roadside station, there is a full-scale day-trip hot spring facility. In addition to the large public bath filled with the scent of Aomori Hiba wood, the luxurious private "Lord's Bath," where you can feel like a feudal lord, is also popular.
• About the private bath (Lord's Bath): It is popular for its luxurious interior that uses Aomori Hiba wood lavishly, allowing you to feel like a lord or princess. Advance reservations are possible.
• Rentals, etc.: Towels, soap, shampoo, etc., are available for purchase or rent (as shampoo and similar items are often not provided, it is recommended to bring your own or purchase them at the reception).
💡 Useful Information
• Discount coupons: Limited-time discount coupons (e.g., adult 400 yen → 200 yen) may be available on sites like Nifty Onsen. Checking before you go might allow you to use it even more affordably.
• Footbath: The outdoor "Daimyo Footbath" can be used for free (*it may be closed during the winter).
It features soft, free-flowing hot spring water, so please take your time to warm up during your drive 👍
Specialty Gourmet: "Jinenjo" (Japanese Yam) Cuisine
"Jinenjo Ramen" and "Jinenjo Soba" kneaded with local specialty Jinenjo, as well as the fluffy and gooey "Jinenjo Takoyaki," are highly regarded.
Sweets made from the phantom fruit "Quince"
There is a wide selection of souvenirs you can only taste here, such as curry, soft-serve ice cream, and yokan made with fragrant "Quince."
The "Checkpoint Museum" where you can feel history
A museum that restores an Edo-period checkpoint is attached, where you can learn about the travel and history of that time for free.
The "Footbath" where you can easily refresh
There is a "Daimyo Footbath" outdoors that can be used for free, which is perfect for quickly soothing the fatigue of your drive (may be closed in winter).
🕒 Business Hours and Access
Please note that business hours vary by facility when you visit ↓
• Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays (12/31–1/1) *Temporary closures due to facility inspections may occur
• Address: 13-1 Ikariishi, Ikarigaseki, Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture 038-0101
• Access: About 5 minutes by car from the Tohoku Expressway "Ikarigaseki IC" / About 3 minutes on foot from JR Ou Main Line "Ikarigaseki Station"
It is a highly satisfying roadside station where you can enjoy hot springs and gourmet food in the atmosphere of a historic checkpoint.
If you have a chance, please go and visit 👍❤️