Kitakaro Sapporo Honkan 北菓楼 札幌本館

The flagship store of Kitakaro, a beloved Hokkaido confectionery brand, housed in a historic building facing Odori Park. Originally constructed in 1926 (Taisho 15) as the Hokkaido Prefectural Library — Sapporo's first full-scale public library — the building served a succession of cultural roles over the decades before being thoughtfully repurposed. The exterior is a fine example of Secessionist-style architecture, featuring geometric relief work and giant-order columns spanning multiple floors, with the original Taisho-era acanthus-leaf entrance hall preserved in all its historic splendor.

In March 2016, world-renowned architect Tadao Ando undertook a careful renovation that preserved and reinforced the original Taisho-era facades and stairwells while reimagining the interior in a contemporary language. The resulting dialogue between historic and modern architecture has made the building a destination in its own right for architecture enthusiasts.

Inside, visitors will find carefully crafted Hokkaido sweets, including the signature "Yume Rokka" cream puffs, "Kaitaku Okaki" rice crackers, and "Hokkaido Sponge Cake." The second-floor salon offers a relaxed setting for enjoying freshly made sweets. Whether stopping in for a souvenir or lingering in a space steeped in history, Kitakaro Sapporo Honkan offers a refined experience for visitors and locals alike.