Originating from Asahikawa, the long-established confectionery Tsuboya is one of Hokkaido's most iconic sweet shops, soon celebrating its 100th anniversary. With a wide range of Japanese and Western-style sweets, including its signature products "Kibana" and "Chuka Manju," it attracts numerous fans from both within and outside Hokkaido. The "Tsuboya T's KITCHEN Ario Sapporo" store, featured in this article, is appealingly located within a shopping mall for easy access. Be sure to check out the exclusive items available only at the Ario Sapporo store.

The bright and welcoming entrance of Tsuboya T's KITCHEN Ario Sapporo

"Tsuboya T's KITCHEN Ario Sapporo" is located on the first floor of "Ario Sapporo," a shopping mall adjacent to the Sapporo Beer Garden. It's conveniently situated just a 3-minute walk from JR Naebo Station, making it easily accessible by public transport.

A wide variety of "Kibana" sweets on display

"Kibana," inspired by the image of diamond dust, is Tsuboya's most popular product. This treat features white chocolate sandwiched between two crunchy galettes. The fragrant almond flavor and the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth white chocolate are a perfect match.

You can buy Kibana by the box or as individual pieces

In addition to seasonal flavors, they are also sold individually, so you can easily buy just one for yourself or as a snack.

The small and cute "Kibana Petitmo White" (8 pieces, 1,000 yen)

Besides the regular size, there is also a bite-sized version called "Kibana Petitmo" that is easy to eat.

The company's founding sweet, "Tsubo Monaka" (160 yen each)

Founded in Asahikawa in 1929, Tsuboya is a historic shop approaching its 100th anniversary. While Tsuboya is now well-known for its Western-style confectionery, it also has a history of nearly 100 years of making traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi). A long-time favorite among fans is the "Tsubo Monaka" (160 yen each), created shortly after the company's founding. It comes in two varieties, Dainagon (large adzuki beans) and Shiro-ingen (white kidney beans), and can be purchased individually.

"Chuka Manju" (400 yen each), perfect for a small snack

The "Chuka Manju" (400 yen), available year-round, is another treat with many repeat customers. The balance between the moist, chewy skin and the smooth red bean paste (koshian) is excellent, and its generous size makes it very satisfying.

Fresh cakes perfect for taking home as a gift

The refrigerated showcase also features fresh cakes like cream puffs, omelettes, and strawberry shortcakes. Whole cakes are also available by reservation.

Ario Sapporo store exclusive "4-Cookie Set" (680 yen)

While Tsuboya offers a wide range of products, some are exclusive to specific stores. The 4-Cookie Set (680 yen) is a popular exclusive at the Ario Sapporo store.

The Shimaenaga (long-tailed tit) cookie with its cute, rounded shape (180 yen each)

This assortment of charming cookies shaped like the Shimaenaga (long-tailed tit) and bears is perfect not only for yourself but also as a small gift or souvenir.

The "An-Cheese Tart," only available here in Sapporo

My personal recommendation is the "An-Cheese Tart" (200 yen each) found in the showcase next to the register. You can enjoy the rich flavor of cream cheese, the gentle sweetness of homemade red bean paste, and the crisp texture of the tart.

Gently warm it in the microwave to enjoy it as if it were freshly baked!

This tart, made with plenty of Hokkaido ingredients, is delicious whether warmed up or chilled. In the Sapporo area, it is sold exclusively at the Ario Sapporo store.

A Snow Miku panel welcomed us during our visit

Tsuboya Ario Sapporo is also a participating store in the "Hokkaido Happy Sweets Map," a collaborative project between Snow Miku and Hokkaido sweet shops for the "SNOW MIKU 2026" festival, which features the character "Snow Miku (Hatsune Miku)" who supports Hokkaido.

"Nama Chuka Manju ☆ Snow Miku Version" (700 yen)

The popular "Chuka Manju" from the Ario store has been transformed into a special version in collaboration with Snow Miku. It's lavishly topped with a light blue cream inspired by Snow Miku, giving it a gorgeous finish. It's also very filling.

More smooth red bean paste inside than you'd expect

Inside the Chuka Manju, topped with fluffy fresh cream, is a dense filling of custard and smooth red bean paste! Its flavor pairs well with both Japanese tea and coffee, and it's incredibly satisfying.

Take-out packaging for "Nama Chuka Manju ☆ Snow Miku Version"

During our visit, the limited-time "Kibana Petitmo Maple Magic" (8 pieces, 1,000 yen) was also available

There are also seasonal sweets like the limited-time "Kibana," and during our visit, Valentine's chocolates were also available. Tsuboya is a shop where you can find new delights and fun with every visit, while also offering timeless classics. It's a must-visit store for everyday treats, gifts, or when buying souvenirs from Hokkaido.