Kitami Shopping Street - Full of Hokkaido's Eastern Style

#September2025
Want to experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a small town in eastern Hokkaido? When you visit Kitami City in Hokkaido, you can't miss the nostalgic Kitami Shopping Street. Once the bustling commercial center of the Showa era, it still retains its retro charm, interspersed with stylish cafes and unique souvenir shops. It's a great place for strolling, taking photos, and finding delicious food.

🌟 Highlights
🍜 Kitami Shio Ramen: Known as the "soul food of Kitami people," it offers a refreshing flavor with a hint of onion sweetness.
🥟 Original Kitami Gyoza: Made with Hokkaido onions, it's fragrant and perfect with alcohol.
🍷 Kitami Mint Souvenir Shop: Kitami was once Japan's largest mint producer, and its mint candies, fragrances, and hand creams are all popular.
☕ Nostalgic Cafe: This small shop tucked away in an alleyway exudes a retro Showa era vibe, perfect for photo opportunities.

🚶♂️ Walking Guide
From Kitami Station, it's about a 5-minute walk to the entrance of the shopping arcade. Stroll along the arcade, flanked by a variety of snacks and long-established shops. Try local desserts and onion dishes. In winter, the street is illuminated, creating a particularly cozy atmosphere.

📍 Useful Information
Location: Odori West, Kitami City, Hokkaido
Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR Kitami Station
Best Season: November to March, when the winter illuminations are at their most romantic; summer festivals bring even more excitement.

💡 Tips
✅ Most shops are long-established, and some may close early after 6 PM.
✅ The roads can be icy in winter, so wearing non-slip shoes is recommended.

✨ Stepping into Kitami Shotengai is like stepping back in time to the Showa era, experiencing the unique warmth and ambiance of a small town. It's a must-see stop on your Eastern Hokkaido trip. 🌟

#KitamiShotengai #HokkaidoEast #JapaneseOldStreetWalk #HiddenFood