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Thought ESTA Was Closed for Good? It's Still Open! Discover 'ESTA Obihiro,' Directly Connected to Obihiro Station
In August 2023, the beloved "ESTA" shopping center closed its doors after a 45-year history, a departure mourned by many. While this was widely reported on TV and in newspapers, it's a little-known fact that an ESTA still exists in Hokkaido. Locals are certainly in on the secret, but what's the full story?
The Last Remaining ESTA is in Obihiro
The ESTA that is still in operation is "ESTA Obihiro," located inside Obihiro Station. The one that recently closed was "ESTA Sapporo." A visit to the ESTA Obihiro website reveals the familiar "ESTA" logo still in use, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
Image source: ESTA Obihiro
After exiting the ticket gates at Obihiro Station, you'll find the "East Building" and "West Building" at opposite ends of the concourse. The "West Building" is home to "Tokachi Shoku Monogatari," an area where you can purchase famous Obihiro souvenirs, including products from Cranberry, known for its sweet potatoes, and Butahage, famous for its butadon (pork bowl). The "East Building" has more of that classic "ESTA feel." At the entrance, I found the familiar and somewhat colorful "ESTA" sign.
Entrance to ESTA Obihiro East Building
The Tumultuous History of "ESTA Obihiro"
ESTA Obihiro began in 1966 as the "Obihiro Station Building," attached to the main station. It later started operating as the commercial facility "ESTA Obihiro" in 1996. For reference, "ESTA Sapporo" opened on September 1, 1978, and was run by a different parent company. ESTA Obihiro has had its share of ups and downs, including the bankruptcy of its former operator, Obihiro Station Building Co., Ltd., in 1998. It is now directly managed by JR Hokkaido.
What Kind of Shops Are Inside?
The tenants in ESTA Obihiro's East Building are geared more towards daily life, including a watch shop, clothing stores, and a 100-yen shop. The coffee shop closest to the station concourse, "THREE STANDARD COFFEE," offers free Wi-Fi and has power outlets at the counter seats, making it a great spot to spend time between trains.
The "ESTA" sign still stands in Hokkaido. Why not stop by when you visit Obihiro?
