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

The only one left in Hokkaido is "Esta Obihiro"

The only Esta still in operation is "Esta Obihiro" located inside Obihiro Station. The one that closed the other day is "Esta Sapporo". If you look at the Esta Obihiro website, you will see that the familiar "ESTA" logo is still in use, which makes you feel a bit nostalgic.

Image source: Esta Obihiro

There are an "East Building" and a "West Building" at the east and west ends of the concourse after exiting the ticket gates at Obihiro Station. The "West Building" is an area where you can purchase famous Obihiro souvenirs, such as the famous cranberry sweet potato from "Tokachi Shokumonogatari" and Butahage pork bowl. The "East Building" has a more "Esta" feel. At the entrance, there is a colorful and familiar "ESTA" sign.

Entrance to Obihiro Esta East Building

The history of Esta Obihiro, with its twists and turns in operation

Esta Obihiro began as the Obihiro Station Building, which was built in 1966 adjacent to Obihiro Station. It then began operating as a commercial facility called Esta Obihiro in 1996. By the way, Sapporo Esta opened on September 1, 1978, and is operated by a different company. Esta Obihiro has had many twists and turns, including its former operator, Obihiro Station Building Co., Ltd., filing for bankruptcy in 1998, and is now operated as a facility directly managed by JR Hokkaido.

Which tenants are you interested in?

The tenants in the East Wing of Esta Obihiro are stores related to daily life such as watch shops, clothing stores, 100 yen shops, etc. The coffee shop "THREE STANDARD COFFEE" closest to the station concourse is equipped with free WiFi and has power outlets at the counter seats, so it is recommended for passing the time between trains.

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