For any Sapporo resident, the phrase "Let's meet at the Lotteria under the TV Tower" is surely a familiar one. The Lotteria Sapporo Aurora Town store, a symbolic presence in the Sapporo Underground Shopping Center's Aurora Town, will close its doors on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. This beloved location has been cherished for many years. In fact, along with 'that place' that once stood next to it, it was a cornerstone of Sapporo's youth culture.

The last remaining Lotteria in Hokkaido is finally closing

In the past, this corner of the underground mall buzzed with even more cultural energy. Many will remember that right behind the Lotteria, the Kinokuniya Bookstore Aurora Town store had been a fixture since the underground shopping center opened in November 1971.

"Buy the latest magazines and paperbacks at Kinokuniya, then head right behind to Lotteria to sip a shake while turning the pages"—this classic routine was an accessible and easy way for the youth of the day to experience the city's culture.

Although the Kinokuniya Bookstore Aurora Town store closed in 2022 to much regret, there is a place where you can still feel its presence. It's next to the cash register of the apparel shop SHOO・LA・RUE, which now occupies the former bookstore's space.

SHOO・LA・RUE, the tenant that moved in after Kinokuniya Bookstore Aurora Town. What remnant of the past still remains?

Believe it or not, a "Kinokuniya bookshelf" still stands there, displaying recommended books.

The "Kinokuniya bookshelf" next to the cash register at SHOO・LA・RUE

Right next to this shelf that connects to history, Lotteria has continued to operate for many years, like a close companion. Now that the bookstore is gone, Lotteria, too, is about to fulfill its final role.

The closing notice posted at the storefront

As the brand transitions to "Zetteria" nationwide, it has been reported that this Aurora Town store will close without converting. With the closure of the Lotteria inside JR Sapporo Station in December 2025, and the Wakkanai store in March 2026, the departure of the Aurora Town store will mean the "Lotteria" sign completely disappears from Hokkaido. The chance to savor the taste of Lotteria amidst the scenery of this underground mall is quickly running out.

On its final day, March 31, the Lotteria Sapporo Aurora Town store will be open until 3 PM. Why not visit one last time to enjoy that familiar taste, along with the memories of days gone by?