In Shiroishi Ward, Sapporo, there is a complex government building that was just built in 2016. It is a familiar place that Shiroishi residents have visited at least once, including the ward office and health center. I heard that there is a space for residents to gather and relax in this facility, so I went there right away.
The true identity of the relaxation space was a cafe called "Genki Cafe Blanc" (hereafter "Blanc") on the first floor of the building. What's interesting is that it's on the same floor as the ward office.
Right in front of the cafe space, as shown in the photo, is the counter for the Resident Registration and Residency Division. This kind of scene in a ward office is not something you often see in other places, so it's kind of interesting.
You order at the order counter and pay in advance. Blanc has a wide variety of snacks, sweets, and drinks! I was told about some recommendations, so I'd like to introduce them to you.
First up are "Shiroppy Cookies" and "Kuroppy Cookies" (160 yen each, tax included).
Shiroppy , who also appears in the top photo this time, is the official mascot character of Shiroishi Ward. His rival Kuroppy was later born. He is quite popular, and the cookies are cute and well-received for their light, crunchy texture.
"Shiroppy Pudding" and "Kuroppy Pudding" (260 yen each including tax) are also selling well. Shiroppy Pudding has a gentle flavor with just the right firmness, while Kuroppy Pudding is smooth and has the richness and flavor of sesame. Both are delicious!
The freshly baked bread is also popular. Not only the dough but also the red bean paste is handmade. The photo above is the "Pumpkin Red Bean Bread" (160 yen including tax), and the photo below is the "3-piece Bread" (160 yen including tax). The 3-piece bread is a combination of three different flavors - plain, sweet potato, and sesame - in one loaf, and is also available in a set with soup.
If you're craving something a little sweet, we recommend the "Anmitsu Zen" (400 yen including tax). It comes with a cup of hot roasted green tea, which will warm your heart and make you feel relaxed.
The "Shiraishi White Coffee" (370 yen including tax), a cafe mocha topped with whipped cream, is also something you'll want to drink, especially on cold days.
On the day we visited for our interview, many customers were coming and going from one place to another. It seemed as though people would stop by after taking care of business at the ward office.
It's truly a place of relaxation for the people of Shiroishi Ward. The complex is also conveniently connected to Shiroishi Station on the subway, which makes me a little envious.
<Genki Cafe Blanc>
Location: 1-8-1 Minami Nango-dori, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo City, Shiroishi Ward Complex Building 1F, next to the waiting area of the Family Registry and Resident Affairs Division
Phone: 011-863-5855
Official site:
http://www.cafe-blanc.jp/
<Interview cooperation>
Shiroishi Ward, Sapporo City
Address: 1-8-1 Minami Nango-dori, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Phone: 011-861-2400
Official website:
https://www.city.sapporo.jp/shiroishi/
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Hokkaido Tourism Camera Writer
Team Buchineko
Team Buchi Neko has many connections to Hokkaido's tourist spots and facilities. There are many wonderful resources in Hokkaido that we take for granted when we live there. We will spread the word about the charms of this wonderful place.