One of the specialties of Morimachi in southern Hokkaido is "ikameshi" made by Abe Shoten, which was first sold as an ekiben in 1941 and is now popular as a souvenir and at Hokkaido product fairs. The Mori Tourist Association ( @mori_tourism ) has informed us that the "bench" of such "ikameshi" with its package intact has been renewed.

before ➡︎ after
Have you noticed the ikameshi bench has been cleaned up? 🦑✨#ikameshi #Morimachi #Ekiben #Abe Shoten pic.twitter.com/uoBH05bdx0

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

This bench is located in front of Shibata Shoten, right in front of JR Mori Station. It has long been an icon of Mori-machi and a place of relaxation for tourists and locals alike.

What do you think of #Morimachi?
In my opinion, it is this bench!
This #ikameshi bench has been here since I was a student ✨.
The word "still the same" is the perfect word for this bench! 😊
It's got a nice flavor! pic.twitter.com/jsxPQrdUVl

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

And now, the tasteful benches have been replaced by shiny benches with a Showa-era retro atmosphere!

By the way, you can purchase Abe Shoten's "Ganso Mori Meibutsu Ikameshi" at Shibata Shoten and Lawson Morimachi Fujimi, where the bench is located. In summer, the product is also sold standing on station platforms. Getting off the train and buying directly from the vendor is a rare and precious experience. It is a very quaint experience that will surely make you feel like you are on a trip.

When you visit Donan, why not try the "Ganso Mori Meibutsu Ikameshi" bento at the new "Ikameshi" bench! It will continue to welcome many visitors as the face of Mori Town.

<Image provided by
Mori Town Tourist Association