There are shops so rooted in the community that locals say, "If you're getting tofu, it has to be from here!" One such beloved establishment is the Shimizu Tofu Shop in Rusutsu Village. It's not just locals, either; many passersby stop in out of curiosity and become instant fans. So, what makes this tofu so special?

Shimizu Tofu Shop was founded over 60 years ago. The current owner, Masashi Shimizu, took over from the previous generation and has continued to make tofu with his wife, Kiyoe, preserving the same traditional methods. Now, their son Kazuhisa has joined them, making it a two-generation family business.
The secret to the tofu that wins over fans at first bite might lie in the large cauldron that has been in use since the shop first opened. While the fuel for heating this well-seasoned cauldron has evolved from firewood to heavy oil and now to kerosene, customers often remark, "The taste is different from other shops because you still cook it over a direct flame."
You'll be surprised the moment you pick up the tofu they make. It's incredibly heavy. We were told that a single block weighs over 800 grams.
This firm momen tofu, with its satisfyingly solid texture, has a wonderfully rustic flavor. It’s the kind of classic, old-fashioned tofu that makes you understand what an unchanging taste for over 60 years truly means.
In addition to tofu, they also make other popular products by hand, such as atsuage (thick fried tofu), aburaage (fried tofu pouches), and konnyaku. Just like their tofu, these items are larger than what you typically find at the supermarket, which adds to the excitement.
Shimizu Tofu Shop has long been cherished by locals, visitors, and connoisseurs of authentic food alike. Once you try it for yourself, you'll understand why.

And before you know it, you might find yourself thinking, "Ah, I'm craving that tofu again."

＜Shimizu Tofu Shop＞
Location: 9 Rusutsu, Rusutsu Village, Abuta District, Hokkaido
Phone: 0136-46-3720