Hokkaido's iconic souvenir, the "Hokkaido Saikoro® Caramel," has been transformed into a cube-shaped pouch that looks just like the real thing! Let's dive into what this pouch is all about and explore the story behind the famous Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel.

From Meiji Dice Caramel to Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel

Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel is one of Hokkaido's signature sweets, manufactured and sold by Donan Shokuhin Co., Ltd. in Hakodate. Many might remember its predecessor, the "Meiji Saikoro Caramel," which was sold by Meiji Co., Ltd. (formerly Meiji Seika) starting in 1927. However, production of the original Dice Caramel ceased in March 2016.

The catchphrase reflects the hope of spreading it from Hokkaido to the rest of Japan.

In June of the same year, in response to the outpouring of love from fans who missed it, Donan Shokuhin, the company that had been manufacturing the Meiji Dice Caramel, revived it as the "Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel." At that time, some of the ingredients were switched to Hokkaido-sourced ones, and the design for the number 1 side of the die was changed from the Meiji mark to a Hokkaido mark, bringing us the version we know today.

Also available in a 5-pack.

Inside the red and white dice-shaped box are two large, brown caramel cubes. When you pop one in your mouth, the same rich, milky flavor as always fills your senses. And of course, after you've eaten them, the box becomes a die. This very die is famous for being used in the "Saikoro no Tabi" (Dice Trip) segments of the popular TV show "Suiyo Dodesho."

Not Just Red & White! The Many Flavors of Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel

Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel comes in various flavors and variations, available for purchase at souvenir shops and stations throughout Hokkaido.

Hokkaido Melon Saikoro Caramel

Perfect as a Hokkaido souvenir, the "Hokkaido Melon Saikoro Caramel" catches the eye with its orange and white packaging, reminiscent of cantaloupe. It's made with melon powder from Hokkaido, giving it a rich, aromatic flavor.

Hokkaido 179 Municipalities Saikoro Caramel

For the collectors at heart, there's the "Hokkaido 179 Municipalities Saikoro Caramel," featuring the names of Hokkaido's 179 cities, towns, and villages. These are white caramels with a gentle milky taste, made with powdered milk from Hokkaido. They are packed randomly, so you can have fun searching for your hometown or trying to collect all 179!

JR Hokkaido Station Name Sign Caramel

For train enthusiasts, how about the "JR Hokkaido Station Name Sign Caramel"? These feature the station name signs found at JR Hokkaido stations, with as many as 410 station names. You could roll the die and take a train trip to the station that comes up!

The Dice Caramel is Now a Pouch!

And in October 2023, a cube-shaped pouch modeled after the Hokkaido Saikoro Caramel packaging is being released as a capsule toy! This adorable, roundish cube pouch is about 7cm, looking just like a bigger version of the package. It's super convenient for storing small items. There are six types in the lineup. Let's take a look at each one!