In December 2025, The Popcorn Shop, a specialty popcorn store run by crop farmers, opened in the town of Memuro in Tokachi, Hokkaido. Using popcorn kernels grown by the owner himself and beet sugar from Tokachi, their additive-free, wholesome popcorn is creating a buzz through word-of-mouth. Born from the desire to "give children a snack they can eat safely," this is Tokachi-born popcorn that starts in the fields. Let's explore its unique charm and commitment to quality.

The shop is easy to spot with its popcorn-colored exterior walls. A wonderfully fragrant aroma wafts out as you pass by.

The Popcorn Shop is run by the Takano couple, who are crop farmers. Mr. Ryuji Takano primarily manages the fields, while Mrs. Aya Takano runs the shop. Originally, they sold popcorn only during the winter when farming work slowed down, but its popularity and reputation grew, eventually leading to the opening of their own store.

The Takano couple, who run both their farm and The Popcorn Shop.

One of the driving forces behind the shop is the desire to create "a snack I'd want to feed my own children." Shop manager Aya Takano says that after her child was born, she became more conscious of food additives, which led her to think, "If that's the case, I want to make a snack that I can feel good about." Her years of experience working at Ryugetsu, a renowned confectionery company representing Tokachi, have influenced her approach to selecting ingredients and production, culminating in a taste you can trust.

For those with allergy concerns, you can also order popcorn with no flavoring, no oil, and no butter.

A scene from the popcorn cultivation experience, where participants can try everything from planting seeds to harvesting.

With the hope of "sharing agriculture through popcorn," the shop also hosts food education events, such as a program where you can experience the entire process from planting to harvesting, and pizza-making workshops in the fields using local ingredients. Even with just corn, there are many varieties: dent corn for feed, sweet corn for its sweetness, and of course, the popping kind for popcorn. The shop provides fun opportunities to learn about agriculture through the simple joy of popcorn.

A sweet corn field nearing harvest. They grow other varieties besides popcorn.

The "Popcorn on the Cob" (550 yen) is a very popular souvenir.

Limited-time "Caramel Choco Berry" (from 500 yen for a small size)

The popcorn, so carefully grown in the fields, is prepared using two main types of popcorn makers. One type uses oil to pop the kernels, while the other is a hot-air popper that uses no oil. The hot-air machine, imported from the US, is very healthy. It distributes heat evenly, resulting in beautifully popped kernels. The oil-based method uses 100% coconut oil. They switch between methods depending on the flavor and coating.

From left: A kettle-style popcorn machine, a copper pot for vigorously mixing the caramel, and an air popper (hot-air popcorn maker).

The popcorn comes in a total of five flavors: Caramel, Salt & Butter, Garlic, Curry, and Spicy Curry. Limited-time flavors, such as chocolate, also appear about once every two months. Additionally, the "Mix" is a great value set that lets you choose two of your favorite flavors. The curry flavor is a unique local specialty, made with "Tabi suru Spice" from the town of Kamishihoro.

The most popular item is their signature caramel popcorn. The handmade caramel, perfected by carefully monitoring its color, aroma, temperature, and heating time, creates an exquisite coating that clings perfectly to the popcorn. The contrast between its sweetness and toasted flavor is simply divine.◎

Each kernel is coated thinly and evenly in a large, impressive copper pot.

A key feature is the even heat distribution, which makes the kernels pop beautifully.

There are two tables, complete with mini-games.

In the cafe space, you can also enjoy drinks that pair well with popcorn, such as Sawara Coffee from Obihiro and YATA Craft Cola from Yamagata Prefecture. Both the counter and tables are equipped with electrical outlets. You can relax comfortably on the sofa seats. It's a great spot to drop by for a coffee break while shopping, or just to use as a cafe. They also plan to open the currently renovating second floor as a kids' space by the end of the year. It's a comfortable space for both children and adults.

The sofa area features a variety of corn-related goods.

A delightful popcorn treat that captivates both adults and children.

Bringing a perfect touch of something special to everyday life in Tokachi. The Popcorn Shop is a place frequented not only by tourists but also by locals. This popcorn, which starts in the fields and is nurtured by a family's love and community ties, is a true Tokachi treat. Be sure to stop by on your trip.

*All prices include tax.