6 Must Try Soft Serve Ice Creams in Hokkaido – MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON

08.February.2020 | FEATURES / FOOD

Hokkaido is home to some seriously sumptuous desserts, not to mention their matcha range. Today we’re looking at 6 unmissable ice creams you can try around Sapporo, because if Hokkaido is known for anything, its the soft serve ice cream.
We are joined once again by Kei, a Japanese Instagrammer who posts enticing pictures of the delicious desserts and drinks he has tried at cafes around Hokkaido. He has kindly provided us with his incredible pictures along with a descriptions, which we have translated into English.

UMIERE 2nd in Tanukikoji

UMIERE is credited with lighting the fire on the popularity of mokomoko, or ‘fluffy,’ soft serve ice cream. Their second branch, UMIERE 2nd, recently reopened after a revamp. As part of their renewal, they have introduced a number of new menu items like shiratama white flour dumplings.
Macaron Soft Parfait – ¥718
I ordered the Macaron Soft Parfait, which is a tower of organic soft serve ice cream, macarons, chocolate sauce, and sponge cake filled with sliced strawberries. The ice cream itself is both refreshing yet rich. As you continue to scoop up mouthfuls from the ice cream cup, the other ingredients gradually reveal themselves: the fresh cream, the strawberries, and the sponge, just like a parfait.
The cafe enjoys a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to pop into if you’re looking for a hideaway.
▼Umiere 2nd (ウミエール)
Address: Marufuku Bldg. Floor 2F, 4-Chome-9, Minami 2 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 11:00-18:30
No Fixed Holidays
Enquiries: 011-211-4738

JB ESPRESSO MORIHICO in Shindohigashi

When talking about coffee in Hokkaido, the name that’s likely to pop up is Morihico. And when talking about their most popular menu item sold at their chain cafe JB ESPRESSO, it’s their variety of cute ice creams.

JB Soft Cream Pudding à la Mode – ¥450
Based on the Japanese “purin à la mode,” a type of Japanese custard pudding served with an assortment of other desserts, this ice cream is custard pudding flavoured and is drizzled in caramel, topped with whipped cream, and crowned with a cherry. And the caramel isn’t just sauceーit’s crunchy like caramel chocolate, giving the ice cream a variety of scrumptious textures.
JB Soft Cream Mix – ¥420
The mixed ice cream is one of the specialities of JB, combining milk and chocolate flavours. The milk ice cream is made with milk from Jersey cattle, so is rich in flavour while still being smooth and refreshing. The chocolate is also rich, made from three types of Spanish chocolate.
▼JB ESPRESSO MORIHICO (ジェービー エスプレッソ モリヒコ)
Address: 16-1-1 Kita 34 Johigashi, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 9:00-22:00
No Fixed Holidays
Enquiries: 011-788-2133

Kinotoya Bake (Pole Town Branch) in Odori Park

Kinotoya Bake is located in Pole Town, accessed by walking towards Tanukikoji from Odori Park. They don’t sell cooked confections or take like the Kinotoya brand is known for, but rather tarts, apple pies, and ice creams.

Gokujo Milk Soft – ¥410
The name of this ice cream alone screams Hokkaido, as the prefecture is known for its Gokujo, or “first-rate” milk. It’s pretty big as you can probably tell from the photo! This full-bodied milky cream, which is smooth like fresh cream, is the one I’d recommend from the various different ice creams made with Hokkaido milk. And because of its size, your belly is sure to be satisfied afterwards!
▼Kinotoya Bake
Address: Pole Town, 3-Chome, 2 Minami Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
No Fixed Holidays
Enquiries: 0120-24-6161

TEA SIGN in PARCO Odori Park

TEA SIGN is famous in Sapporo for its tapioca, and at the PARCO branch, they sell it with milk tea flavoured ice cream.
Tapioca Milk Tea Soft Cream – ¥520
You can really taste the flavour of the tea leaves. The ice cream is moderately sweet with a strong black tea taste. The ice cream means it offers a different kind of tapioca experience from your usual tapioca milk tea.
▼TEA SIGN (ティーサイン)
Address: PARCO (Floor B2F), 3-Chome-3, Minami 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
No Fixed Holidays

TSURU CAFE in Miyanomori

TSURU CAFE is a stylish little cafe in Miyanomori where they serve cooked confections, cakes, and many popular ice cream flavours. As well as the cafe side of TSURU, they also sell artwork and other things by creators.

Flavour Soft Strawberry – ¥830
The “Flavour Soft Strawberry” is a speciality of TSURU CAFE. This towering dessert is layered with ice cream, fresh strawberries, meringue, and strawberry sauce. The milky ice cream is refreshing, and the sweet taste of the strawberries is divine. The flavours are simple, but every thing in the dessert is delicious. The strawberry sauce is served on the side so you can pour over the amount that suites your taste.
▼TSURU CAFE (ツルカフェ)
Address: 5-2-8 Miyanomori 2 Jo, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: [Mon-Sat] 10:00-20:00 / [Sun & Holidays] 10:00-19:00
Closed: Wednesdays

COCOBON in Shin-Sapporo

COCOBON is a super popular fruit and ice cream shop that opened in Shin-Sapporo just last year. The ice cream and fruits are mixed together as soon as you put your order in.

Walnut Chocolate – ¥400
I ordered the Belgian chocolate ice cream with walnuts and chocolate cereal. The Belgian chocolate is sweet and its texture is amazing together with the walnuts. If you love chocolate, you’ll love the rich flavour of this ice cream.
The shop actually closes when all the stock is sold out, so if you’re planning a trip here, be sure to arrive nice and early so as to not miss out.
▼COCOBON (ココボン)
Address: 8-7-30 Aobacho, Atsubetsu Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 11:00-17:00
Closed: Mondays & Tuesdays
Enquiries: 011-887-8984
Did you enjoy these ice cream scoops? We hope you get to try some of them, and if you want even more dessert recommendations from Hokkaido, be sure to follow Kei on Instagram.

 

Photos & Original Text: Kei / 敬 (@607keih)

Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

 

*Information written in this article is correct at the time of publishing. For more details on each shop, please visit their official websites and social media pages.

*Food names are translated from Japanese into English where appropriate.

RELATED ENTRIES

  • Snow Miku Collaborates with Sanrio’s Kuromi to Promote Hokkaido Tourism

    21.December.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT

    Snow Miku has teamed up with Sanrio’s popular character Kuromi to promote the beautiful prefecture of Hokkaido! A new collection of goods went on sale starting December 14, 2022.    Goods

    Clear Folder

    Pen with Clip

    Mini Sign Board

    Mini Towel (Set of 2)

    Pin

    Framed Magnet with Stand

    Sticker

    T-Shirt

    Tapestry

    Acrylic Stand

    Acrylic Keychain

    Rubber Keychain

    Silver Foil 2-Layer Magnet

    　Snow Miku debuted during the Sapporo Snow Festival in 2010 when an incredible snow sculpture of Hatsune Miku was unveiled. Ever since then, Snow Miku festivals have popped up in Hokkaido each winter, and the character dons costumes designed by popular internet creators. Kuromi is back this year, with Miku’s outfit dyed black and tons of adorable art featuring the rock ‘n roll character. The life-size version of Miku was designed by illustrator PiPi, and the chibi character was designed by illustrator Yoi. Between Miku's cute idol energy and Kuromi's edginess, this is the perfect collab for all audiences!    The items are available in two versions: Day, featuring Hokkaido’s beautiful landscapes covered in snow, and Night, featuring twinkling winter lights.    Don't miss out on these exclusive items!

    Information

    Hokkaido Exclusive – Snow Miku x Kuromi Hokkaido

    Available: December 14, 2022

    Official Site: https://snowmiku.com/

  • Hirosaki and Hakodate to Begin Winter Tourism Campaign with Snow Miku Starting December 2022

    26.November.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT

    The cities of Hirosaki and Hakodate in Hokkaido have announced that they will team up with Hatsune Miku’s popular iteration Snow Miku to promote tourism in the area this winter. A number of activities will begin in December 2022.   [Snow Miku x Hirohako] Collaboration Project■Hirohako Winter Tourism Campaign Poster Featuring Snow Miku・Period: Mid-November~February 28, 2023・Locations: Facilities in both cities, tourist facilities, hotels, shopping areas   ■Snow Miku Illustration Contest Exhibition EventOver 50 illustrations have been submitted under the theme of Snow Miku and Hakodate / Snow Miku and Hirosaki. These will be on display through the winter! ・Running: December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2022 ・Venues: Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center (Hirosaki)                     Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse (Hakodate)   ■Snow Miku Photo SpotSnow Miku panels featuring shamisen and apples from Hirosaki will be on display, while the Hakodate version will include references to squid fishing and footbaths. ・On Display: December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2022・Locations: JR Hirosaki Station, Chuohirosaki Station (Hirosaki)                         JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate Airport (Hakodate)■Digital Stamp Rally Using the Mikunavi AppA number of panels will be installed at five checkpoints in Hirosaki and Hakodate. A total of 1,000 people–500 in each city–will win original merch including a Snow Miku mask case and decorated masking tape. All you need to do is check in!・Available: December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2022・Locations: (Hirosaki) Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center, Hirosaki City Machinaka  Information Center,                          Hirosaki Tourist Information Center, Hirosaki Castle Information Center, Tsugaru-han Neputa Village　　　　　　(Hakodate) Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, Yunokawa Hot Spring Footbath, Goryōkaku Tower, Hakodate Green Plaza C Block (Hakodate Lumi-Pop), Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward   ■Hirohako Winter Tourism Campaign Theme Song and Music Video The tourism theme song will get a new music video that will be broadcast on YouTube, at local tourist facilities, and on TV and radio!・On Air: December 1, 2022~・Theme Song: Mahou no Keshiki (Lyrics/Composition: ryuryu)   ■Snow Miku Welcome Announcements to be Broadcast at Tourism Facilities, etc. A one-minute welcome announcement by Snow Miku will air at tourist facilities!・Running: December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2022・Locations: Tourist areas in both cities   ■Snow Miku Filters Using ARWhen each barcode is scanned with a smartphone, Snow Miku will appear on the screen! Visitors can take pictures with Snow Miku to commemorate their winter trip to Hirosaki and Hakodate.・Available: December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2022

    Information

    Hirosaki x Hakodate x Snow Miku Tourism Campaign

    Beginning December 2022

    Details: https://www.hirosaki-kanko.or.jp/edit.html?id=hirohako

  • 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii to Open at Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art in February 2023

    11.November.2022 | FASHION / SPOT

    The word ‘kawaii’ is now commonly used around the world. Sanrio is largely to thank for this, and the beloved company has announced that the 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition will open at the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art from February 11 until April 2, 2023. Advance tickets will include a discount and will be available until November 14 online.    “Sanrio celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2020, and the company continues to share Japan’s character culture with fans around the world,” Sanrio said in a comment. “Kawaii is now a universal language, and this is very much thanks to the over 450 characters that are part of Sanrio’s history, from Hello Kitty to My Melody.    This exhibition traces the history of Sanrio and guests can enjoy seeing rare materials including merchandise, publications, and early designs from the company’s founding. We want to continue to grow and develop our characters while valuing communication with our fans, ensuring that our adorable characters are loved by generations to come.”   The Sanrio exhibition is something that generations of fans can enjoy, so come immerse yourself in this kawaii world! For more details, visit the official website. 

    Information

    60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii

    Running: February 11 – April 2, 2023

    Hours: 9:30 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)

    Venue: Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art (17-chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)

    Official Site: https://stv.jp/event/sanrio

  • 13th BT21 Cafe to Open in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Sapporo

    29.October.2022 | FASHION / FOOD / SPOT

    The 13th iteration of the BT21 Cafe will open at six venues in five cities around Japan. Fans in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Sapporo will want to visit this exclusive event titled ~MAGICAL TIME~. The first cafe opens in Shibuya on November 3. In celebration of BT21’s 5th anniversary, this special cafe is filled with joy and excitement and aims to give fans the best possible experience.  

    Cafe Menu

    Magical Tea Time Set

    Food Plate

    Food Plate (7 varieties)

    Dessert Plate

    Dessert Plate (7 varieties)

     

    Drinks

    Magical Milk Tea

    Black Tea

    Iced Coffee / Hot Coffee

     

    Original Goods

    Acrylic Keychain (7 varieties, Random)

    Acrylic Clip (7 varieties, Random)

    Satin Sticker (7 varieties)

    Clear Folder (2 varieties)

    Handkerchief (7 varieties)

    Tote Bag

    Mug

    Masking Tape / Balloon on a Stick

    Dolomite Coaster (2 varieties) / Mirror (2 varieties)

    [Online Store Exclusive] Acrylic Keychain (7 varieties, Random)

      The cafe’s new menu includes afternoon tea, perfect for warming the body and soul during the cold winter months. The colorful food items and desserts are sure to be a hit on social media, and fans will enjoy the Magical Milk Tea and other dishes inspired by the popular BT21 characters. In addition to new merchandise and bonuses featuring newly-drawn art, a photo spot will welcome guests to the cafe and invite them to celebrate this five-year milestone.  Why not take a break from everyday life to enjoy a magical time with these cute characters?   ©BT21

    Information

    BT21 Cafe #13 ~MAGICAL TIME~

     

    Venue/Dates


    ■Shibuya, Tokyo:

    BOX cafe&space SHIBUYA109

    Running: November 3 – December 10, 2022

    Address: SHIBUYA109 B2F (2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)

    ■Oshiage, Tokyo:

    BOX cafe&space Tokyo Solamachi

    Running: January 13 – February 19, 2023

    Address: Tokyo Skytree Town, Solamachi 1F (1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo)

    ■Yokohama, Kanagawa:

    Collabo_Index Lumine Yokohama

    Running: January 13 – February 5, 2023

    Address: Lumine Yokohama 6F (2-16-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa)

    ■Nagoya, Aichi:

    BOX cafe&space Nagoya LACHIC #1

    Running: December 2, 2022 – February 5, 2023

    Address: LACHIC B1F (3-6-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi)

    ■Shinsaibashi, Osaka:

    Shinsaibashi contact

    Running: November 11 – December 18, 2022

    Address: 1-6-24 Kitahorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka

    ■Sapporo, Hokkaido:

    Cafe Interlude, Coach & Four Shinakawa

    Running: November 3 – December 29, 2022

    Address: 18-chome 3-jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo

    Reservations: https://box-cafe.jp/

    Online Shop

    Open: November 3, 11:00 – December 4, 23:59
    https://box-cafe.jp/online_store/

  • Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022 Announces Second Round of Performers, Additional Details

    29.July.2022 | FES / MUSIC / SPOT

    New performers and events have been announced ahead of the start of Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022 in Tomakomai, Hokkaido on September 17 and 18. The event will be held in one of the most gorgeous towns on the island and excitement is building!   The purpose of this event is to promote the appeal of the Tomakomai region, not only to those living in Japan but to those living abroad. In addition to music, the event will also feature art, food, technology, and more content that can be enjoyed by kids, families, and people of all ages and genders.  

    Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall

    Incredible live performances will be held in a futuristic setting. Along with Awesome City Club, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and Little Glee Monster, guests can look forward to seeing HY, Wednesday Campanella, Taichi Mukai, and Atarashii Gakko!  

    Tomakomai Civic Hall, Parking Lot

    DJ performances and food trucks will welcome guests to the futuristic area, and the illuminations are sure to impress!  

    Kirakira Park

    An AR system accessible by smartphone will allow guests to take pictures of the Tomakomai Mirai Fest logo for a surprise. During the daytime, a food truck area will provide visitors with different types of gourmet offerings and a stage will showcase local dancers and musicians from Tomakomai. A family-friendly picnic area will allow guests to relax and enjoy good food and live music.At night, in addition to impressive illuminations and a live stage showcasing Hokkaido’s best talent, an island bar will amplify the mood.

    O-machi/Nishiki-machi

    During the daytime, a gourmet area will feature Tomakomai's famous curry ramen, local craft beer, craft spices, and more. At night, visitors can enjoy restaurants in the O-machi and Nishiki-machi areas while still enjoying the vibe of the event.

    And More!

    A stamp rally will be held during the event, and guests finding stamps at each location will be eligible to win fantastic prizes. A bus service is also planned.   More performers and details will be announced soon, so stay tuned!

    Information

    Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022

    Dates: September 17 and 18, 2022

    Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall (Admission Fee Required)

    September 17 / Doors Open 16:30, Event Starts 17:30

    September 18 / Doors Open 14:30, Event Starts 15:30

     

    Tomakomai Civic Hall, Parking Lot / Kirakira Park / O-machi, Nishiki-machi (Free Entry)

    September 17: Open at 12:00

    September 18: Open at 11:00

    *May be earlier or later depending on the venue. Detailed event times will be announced at a later date.

    Locations: Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall / Parking Lot / Kirakira Park / Around Omachi, Nishikimachi

    Ticket Agency: Ticket Pia

    [1-day or 2-day Tickets Available]
    Official 2nd Advance Ticket Lottery: July 28, 12:00 – August 7, 23:59

    https://w.pia.jp/t/tomakomaimiraifest22/

    Official Site: http://miraifest-tomakomai.jp/

  • Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022 to be Held in September

    29.June.2022 | FES / MUSIC

    On September 17 and September 18, the Tomakomai Urban Renewal Project Committee will hold Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022, inviting guests to celebrate the area around Tomakomai in Hokkaido.    The purpose of this event is to promote the appeal of the Tomakomai region, not only to those living in Japan but to those living abroad. In addition to music, the event will also feature art, food, technology, and more content that can be enjoyed by kids, families, and people of all ages and genders.The main venue of the event will be the Tomakomai Civic Hall. Musical acts announced so far include Awesome City Club, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and Little Glee Monster.   In the Tomakomai Civic Hall parking lot and the nearby Kirakira Park, guests can enjoy free DJ performances, mini-concerts, art and technology installations, food trucks, picnic areas, and more. In addition, the Nishikimachi and Omachi areas will be decorated with digital art, and food and beverages will be available.   Advanced 2-Day tickets are available now on Ticket Pia by lottery. More performers and additional content will be announced soon, so keep an eye on social media and the official website.

    Information

    Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022

    Dates: September 17 and 18, 2022

    Venue: Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall

    Hours: 

    September 17 / Doors Open 16:30, Event Starts 17:30

    September 18 / Doors Open 14:30, Event Starts 15:30

    *More detailed event times and locations will be announced at a later date.
    Locations: Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall / Parking Lot / Kirakira Park / Around Omachi, Nishikimachi

    Tickets: https://w.pia.jp/t/tomakomaimiraifest22/

    Official Site: http://miraifest-tomakomai.jp/