Kitakaro Sapporo Main Store | Review by Linda Liao

New Chitose Airport

This is the largest airport in Hokkaido which spans Chitose and Tomakomai Cities. With the excellent access to the cities, it is called the aerial gate to Hokkaido. On the two 3000m-long runways, international aircrafts take off and land 24 hours a day.

• Chitose and Tomakomai
• Airplanes & Airport

If you have a chance to visit New Chitose Airport, be sure to set aside plenty of time in advance to explore its wide selection of souvenirs and food.

The airport has many Hokkaido-exclusive treats, such as Sapporo Agricultural College's exclusive cheesecake. It has a smooth, dense texture and a rich milky flavor, and it's also quite affordable, making it a great souvenir.

Of course, you shouldn't miss the popular milk soft-serve ice cream either. With its rich Hokkaido milk flavor and smooth yet refreshing taste, it's one of the must-try desserts at the airport. The freshly fried Jagabee potato chips and fries are also popular, and their piping-hot, crispy texture is especially appealing.

Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

This government building served as the base and center of Hokkaido’s politics for almost 80 years until the current municipal office was built. Commonly-known as the Red Brick Building, this architecture was made of 2,500,000 bricks. The window glasses with distortion and American Neo Baroque style architecture radiate the history and nostalgia.

• Sapporo Station, Odori, Susukino
• Museums

My second visit to the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, and this time I finally had enough time to explore the interior. The exterior features a Neo-Baroque design with striking red-brick walls, giving it a unique charm.

I especially liked the interior layout and corridor design. The wooden elements, vintage details, and long hallways create a strong sense of history. The exhibits are also extensive, introducing the culture and distinctive features of different parts of Hokkaido, as well as offering interactive displays that provide a deeper understanding of Ainu culture and Hokkaido's history. There are also many brightly colored paintings related to Hokkaido's pioneer era hanging on the walls at both ends of the corridors. They're well worth slowing down to appreciate!

Hokkaido Shrine

Hokkaido Shrine, one of the most prominent shrines in Hokkaido, is located in Chuo District, Sapporo City. Its history is long, which began in 1869, when the Emperor Meiji directed to enshrine “Kaitaku Sanshin (Developing Three Deities)” here as a place of faith for pioneers.

• Sapporo Station, Odori, Susukino
• Shrines & Temples

Hokkaido Shrine is one of the most iconic shrines in Hokkaido, attracting a steady stream of local residents and tourists. Located near Maruyama Park, the shrine is surrounded by vast forests and nature. The peaceful scenery and solemn atmosphere also make it a well-known spiritual spot in Sapporo.
On the day of our visit, we happened to come across the traditional Japanese celebration of Shichi-Go-San. It was heartwarming to see children dressed in cute, elaborate traditional outfits visiting the shrine with their parents.

After your visit, don't forget to stop by the nearby Rokkatei Jingu Chaya. Not only can you buy Hokkaido souvenirs, but you can also try the Hokkaido Shrine-exclusive Hangan Mochi. Freshly made Hangan Mochi has a soft, chewy exterior filled with sweet red bean paste. Paired with the complimentary hot tea thoughtfully provided by the shop, it was very satisfying.