The specialty of Morimachi in southern Hokkaido is Abe Shoten's "Ikameshi". It first started being sold as a ekiben in 1941, and is now popular as a souvenir and at Hokkaido product fairs. Mori Tourism Association ( @mori_tourism ) told us that a "bench" made from the same packaging as this "Ikameshi" has been redesigned.

before ➡︎ after Did you notice that the squid rice bench has been cleaned up? 🦑✨ #SquidRice #Morimachi #Ekiben #AbeShotenpic.twitter.com /uoBH05bdx0

— Mori Tourism Association🌰🌸 (@mori_tourism) October 26, 2022

This bench is located in front of Shibata Shoten, a store located right in front of JR Mori Station. It has long been an iconic part of Morimachi and a popular place of relaxation for tourists and locals alike.

#What comes to mind when you think of Morimachi? I think it's this bench! This #squidmeshi bench has been there since my student days✨ This bench is still the same today! It has a nice flavor! pic.twitter.com/jsxPQrdUVl

— Mori Tourism Association🌰🌸 (@mori_tourism) June 28, 2021

And now, the tasteful bench has been transformed into a shiny new bench with a retro Showa-era atmosphere!

By the way, the places where you can buy Abe Shoten's "Original Mori Specialty Squid Rice" in Morimachi are Shibata Shoten, which has benches, and Lawson Morimachi Fujimi Branch. In summer, they also sell it on the station platform. Getting off the train and buying directly from the vendor is a rare and valuable experience. It's a charming place that's sure to get you in the mood for your trip.

If you visit southern Hokkaido, why not try the "Original Mori Specialty Squid and Rice" bento at the newly renovated "Squid and Rice" Bench? I'm sure it will continue to welcome many visitors as the face of Mori Town.

<Images provided by> Morimachi Tourism Association