In August 2023, ESTA closed its doors after 45 years of history, much to the regret of many people. It was widely reported on TV and in newspapers, but it is not widely known that ESTA is still in Hokkaido. Of course, local people know this fact, but what exactly is going on?

Esta Obihiro" remains in Hokkaido

The one still operating as Esta is "Esta Obihiro" located inside Obihiro Station. It was "Esta Sapporo" that recently closed. Looking at the Esta Obihiro website, the familiar "ESTA" logo is still in use, which makes me feel a bit nostalgic.

Image source: ESTA Obihiro

The "East Wing" and "West Wing" are located at the east and west ends of the concourse at the exit of the Obihiro Station ticket gate, respectively. The West Wing is an area where you can buy famous souvenirs of Obihiro, such as cranberries (famous for their sweet potatoes) and butahage (pork bowl). The "East Wing" has more of an "Esta" feel. At the entrance, there is a colorful and familiar "ESTA" sign.

Entrance to Obihiro ESTA East Wing

The history of "ESTA Obihiro" with its many twists and turns in operation

ESTA Obihiro began as the "Obihiro Station Building" attached to Obihiro Station in 1966. The commercial facility "Esta Obihiro" began operations in 1996. Incidentally, "Sapporo Esta" opened on September 1, 1978, and is operated by a different entity. Esta Obihiro has gone through many twists and turns, including the bankruptcy of Obihiro Station Building in 1998, and is now operated directly by JR Hokkaido.

Which tenants are of interest?

The tenants in the East Wing of Esta Obihiro include stores more closely related to daily life, such as a watch store, a clothing store, and a 100 yen uniform store. The coffee shop Three Standard Coffee, located closest to the station concourse, is equipped with free WIFI and has a power supply at the counter, making it a great place to spend time between trains.

The "ESTA" sign still remains in Hokkaido. Why not stop by when you visit Obihiro?

Check it out as well!