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“Bringing Craft Beer Culture to Tokachi” - THE BEER TOKACHI: A New Spot to Enjoy Beer From Midday
“If there aren't enough beer options, let's make our own.” Born in 2024 from this passionate idea, “THE BEER TOKACHI” is a new hub aiming to establish a craft beer culture in Tokachi. In addition to a carefully selected lineup of domestic and international draft beers, you can relax and enjoy pairings with exquisite local pizza and cheese. Located near JR Obihiro Station, why not stop by and check out this new go-to spot in downtown Obihiro?
THE BEER TOKACHI: Created by Three Classmates to “Increase Beer Options”
A street-level shop on a corner, about a 10-minute walk from JR Obihiro Station
THE BEER TOKACHI was opened in October 2024 by three former classmates, including owner Mr. Fukushima from Honbetsu and Mr. Kurokawa, a brewer at Streetlight Brewing in Sapporo. As wineries, sake breweries, and whiskey and gin distilleries continue to pop up in Tokachi, they were driven by the thought that “there are still few options for beer. If that's the case, let's make our own.”
Both pizza and beer are available for takeout. Looks perfect for an amazing house party.
The day's craft beer lineup is displayed on an electronic board above the counter.
Enjoy at the Bar or at Home! A Wide Variety of Craft Beers
The bar always features a lineup of about 10 types of beer, including craft beers from Hokkaido, Germany, and other parts of Japan. The selection is centered around beers that Mr. Fukushima himself has tasted and found “delicious” on his travels.
They also serve their own original beer, but it's so popular it sometimes sells out. The next original beer is scheduled to be released in mid-April, and the flavor is still a secret! Currently, their original beer is brewed at “Streetlight Brewing” in Sapporo, but they aim to start brewing in Obihiro in the future.
Sapporo's “Streetlight Brewing,” where the original beer is brewed.
For food, we recommend the pizza from “PIZZERIA Hikosen” in Ikeda and the three-cheese set from “Cheese Kobo NEEDS” in Makubetsu. From hearty dishes like pizza and pasta to snacks that pair perfectly with beer, they have a wide range of options! Furthermore, the bar is stocked with a variety of board games, creating a space where conversations naturally spark.
Board games for everyone to enjoy together.
Based on customer feedback, more substantial “carb-heavy” menu items have been added.
A low-alcohol (0.5%) craft beer, BRULO's “LUST FOR LIFE IPA.”
The establishment also sells craft beer and cheese, so you can enjoy it as a shop. With about 30 varieties of craft beer available, you can even have them packed in a gift box, making them perfect for souvenirs or presents.
With the appetizer plate, it's great that you can buy any cheese you particularly like to take home♪
A perfect lineup for a casual drink at home or as a small gift.
Day Drinking or a Bit of Work! Spend Your Time Your Way in a Carefully Designed Space
My personal recommendation is the counter seats, where sunlight streams into the bar.
The bar is open from 14:00 to 22:00 Monday to Saturday, and from 12:00 on Sundays and holidays, featuring a “day drinking” style where you can enjoy a drink from early in the day. The clientele is about half locals and half tourists. Non-alcoholic beer and soft drinks are also available, so those who don't drink alcohol and families with children can also enjoy their time here.
The concept for the space, which Mr. Fukushima DIY-ed himself, is a café. Matching the monochrome logo, the interior is unified with wood grain and monotone colors, creating a simple and comfortable atmosphere. You can relax and enjoy a beer without any fuss in the naturally lit interior. There are also plenty of power outlets, making it suitable for remote work.
In the back, there are also tables for four. Many seats have access to power outlets for charging.
It has been about two years since opening. Mr. Fukushima says, “I believe beer is a communication tool. In a way, I also think craft beer is a bit of a geeky pleasure. I would be happy if a beer community forms around Obihiro and that passion grows.”
Owner Mr. Fukushima. He previously worked as a site foreman.
Connected directly to the keg. Freshly poured beer is perfectly chilled, and even the foam is delicious.
Available in three sizes: S, M, and L. Order according to your mood♪
At a beer workshop they held once, participants mingled and were later seen going out for drinks together. They plan to hold these workshops monthly to foster a craft beer community in Tokachi. The next one is scheduled for around April.
The shop's landmark is its French Bulldog logo.
In the summer, they participate in many events, including last year's “Ganke Fes.” They plan to actively participate in events both within and outside Hokkaido this year, so you can enjoy their beer at various event venues. Whether at THE BEER TOKACHI's store or at an event, if you spot the French Bulldog mark, be sure to stop by and enjoy their carefully selected beers.
THE BEER TOKACHI
■Address: 8-2 Nishi 1-jo Minami, Obihiro, Hokkaido
■Hours: Mon–Sat: 14:00–22:00 / Sun & Holidays: 12:00–20:00
■Closed: Mondays (with occasional irregular holidays)
Click here for details and map information for “THE BEER TOKACHI”
Writer Profile
Shikajo / Editor Maya Nakamura
Originally from Miyagi Prefecture. She transitioned from being an editor at a gourmet media company to a hunter. Known by the nickname “Shikajo Mayamon,” her motto is to savor life respectfully. She handles the entire process from hunting deer to butchering the meat. She is also active as a freelance editor, designing logos and pamphlets, writing, and planning and managing events.
