One of the true joys of traveling to Hokkaido is picking out unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of Japan’s northernmost island. Sure, the region’s ski resorts and hot springs are world-class, but Hokkaido’s locally-made sweets, fresh seafood, and trending gourmet treats are equally unforgettable—and perfect for remembering your trip or gifting to someone special.

At the top of the list is Shiroi Koibito, a beloved confection from Ishiya that has become a must-buy for both domestic and international visitors. Its signature blend of buttery langue de chat cookies and white chocolate has earned it a place as one of Japan’s most iconic souvenirs.

In this guide, curated by a Hokkaido native, we’re ranking the best souvenirs you can bring home from your trip. From department stores to New Chitose Airport, we’ll show you exactly where to find them and how to choose gifts that won’t disappoint. If you want to make souvenir shopping a stress-free part of your Hokkaido adventure, this list is for you.

1. Shiroi Koibito (Ishiya) – The Classic Hokkaido Sweet

1. A Beloved Classic with Unmatched Taste and Quality: With its delicate layers of crisp langue de chat cookies and smooth white chocolate, Shiroi Koibito offers a refined yet comforting flavor that appeals to just about everyone. It’s no surprise that reviews often call it “delicious every single time” and praise it as a timeless favorite.

2. Widely Recognized, Yet Uniquely Local: As one of the most iconic souvenirs from Hokkaido, Shiroi Koibito is a name people trust—and a treat that sparks joy. Because it’s primarily sold in Hokkaido, gifting it adds a sense of exclusivity and makes it feel extra special.

3. Beautiful Packaging and a Range of Options: Whether you’re picking up a small 9-piece box or going big with 54, there’s a size for every occasion. Individually wrapped and elegantly packaged, it’s ideal for sharing—and presenting as a gift. The author has received it many times in the office, and it’s always a welcome gesture.

Tips for Choosing the Right Souvenir Without Regret

1. Compare Prices and Buy from Trusted Sellers: You can find Shiroi Koibito at airports and souvenir shops across Hokkaido, and even online. Just be sure to steer clear of imitation products—stick with official retailers or well-known online stores. One trusted option is BIG EAST, a specialty shop offering authentic Hokkaido souvenirs shipped straight from the source.

2. Make It an Experience: If you’re visiting Sapporo, don’t miss Shiroi Koibito Park. There, you can watch the treats being made, take part in hands-on workshops, and even shop limited-edition products available only on-site. It’s a sweet stop that adds even more meaning to your souvenir.

2. Jaga Pokkuru (Calbee) – A Crunchy Hokkaido Potato Snack

1. Locally Grown, Expertly Crafted: Each piece of Jaga Pokkuru starts with carefully selected Hokkaido-grown potatoes, sliced with their skins on and cooked using a unique method that locks in flavor and delivers a satisfying crunch.

2. Perfectly Seasoned with Sea Salt: Flavored with roasted salt from the Okhotsk Sea, the seasoning is just right—enhancing the natural taste of the potatoes without overpowering them.

3. Individually Wrapped for Easy Sharing: Each pack contains several smaller bags, making Jaga Pokkuru ideal for gifting to coworkers, friends, or family. It’s shelf-stable, too—perfect for taking home after your travels.

4. A Taste You Can’t Get Anywhere Else: Exclusively available in Hokkaido, Jaga Pokkuru carries a sense of exclusivity and specialness that makes it a truly memorable souvenir.

Tips for Choosing the Right Souvenir Without Regret

1. Where to Buy: Pick up your pack at locations like ANA FESTA inside New Chitose Airport.

2. Choose the Right Size: Options range from 6 to 10 packs per box, so you can select what suits your needs best.

3. Explore Flavor Variations: While the classic Okhotsk salt flavor is a staple, limited-edition options like scallop salt and Hokkaido corn also appear seasonally.

4. Shop Online if You Missed It: Can’t grab it in person? Trusted specialty shops like BIG EAST offer Jaga Pokkuru online, shipped directly from Hokkaido.

3. Shiroi Black Thunder (Yuraku) – A Limited-Edition Crunchy Chocolate Bar

Craving a snack that’s both satisfyingly crunchy and luxuriously creamy? Shiroi Black Thunder combines the bold textures of cocoa cookies with the smooth sweetness of white chocolate, creating a flavor experience that’s hard to resist. Made with rich Hokkaido milk, each bite offers a creamy, indulgent taste of Japan’s northernmost island. For an extra treat, try chilling it—many fans say it’s even better cold!

Perfectly Packaged for Sharing: Shiroi Black Thunder comes in individually wrapped, bite-sized pieces, making it a perfect souvenir to share at the office or with friends. The packaging features a sleek, blue-themed design that echoes the cool, refreshing vibe of Hokkaido.

Tips for Choosing the Right Souvenir Without Regret

Who you’re gifting to matters:

1. For coworkers or classmates: Its affordable price and easy-to-share packaging make it ideal for group gifting.

2. For close friends or family: Go the extra mile with a special-edition box or assorted gift set for a more memorable touch.

Where and When to Buy: Pick it up at major transit hubs like New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station, or plan ahead and order online. Retailers like Amazon and Rakuten stock it, and specialty shops such as BIG EAST offer free shipping on both Shiroi Black Thunder and Shiroi Koibito—direct from Hokkaido to your door.

Storing and Transporting Your Treats: To keep your chocolate in top shape, store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Traveling in warmer months? Use an insulated bag to prevent melting and keep your treats delicious all the way home.

4. Snow Sand (SNOWS) – A Seasonal Butter & Chocolate Delight

1. Crafted with the Finest Hokkaido Ingredients: At the core of Snow Sand is a commitment to premium, locally sourced ingredients. Its rich ganache is made with pasture-raised milk from Hokkaido, particularly prized in winter for its high fat content, giving the chocolate an exceptionally deep flavor. This is complemented by langue de chat cookies, delicately baked with Hokkaido butter and wheat flour for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

2. A Unique Texture, A Signature Method: Snow Sand’s allure lies in its contrast of textures. The cookies are pressed and baked on a hot iron plate for a satisfyingly crisp bite, while the ganache inside remains smooth and indulgent. This carefully balanced harmony between crunch and creaminess keeps fans coming back for more.

3. A Winter-Inspired Design: Wrapped in packaging inspired by Hokkaido’s serene winter landscapes, Snow Sand is as much a visual treat as it is a culinary one. Each piece is individually wrapped, making it perfect for sharing or gifting—whether as a thoughtful memento or a refined seasonal gesture.

Tips for Choosing the Right Souvenir Without Regret

1. Where and When to Buy: You can find Snow Sand at popular locations like New Chitose Airport and Daimaru Sapporo. It’s a local favorite and sells out quickly, so plan to arrive early. During a recent visit to New Chitose Airport, the author joined the queue to snag a box! For those shopping online, limited quantities are released daily at 10 a.m.—they often sell out in minutes, so it pays to be prepared.

2. Choose Your Flavor: Snow Sand comes in two flavors: white chocolate and milk chocolate. The white version offers a smooth, mellow sweetness, while the milk chocolate is bold and full-bodied. Both are delicious, so you really can’t go wrong—just pick the one that suits your taste.

3. Storage and Shelf Life: With a shelf life of 14 days from production, Snow Sand is best stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. In the summer months, extra care is needed to prevent the chocolate from melting during transport.

5. Wakasaimo (Wakasaimo Honpo) – A Traditional Hokkaido Sweet

1. A Sweet That Looks Like Roasted Sweet Potato—But Isn’t: Despite its name, Wakasaimo contains no actual sweet potato. Instead, this traditional Japanese confection uses white bean paste made from daifuku-mame and tebou-mame to recreate the rich flavor of roasted sweet potato. Even the fibrous texture of kelp mimics the strands found in real sweet potatoes, creating a delightfully authentic look and taste.

2. The Perfect Balance of Crispy Skin and Moist Filling: Each piece features a golden-brown exterior, lightly roasted with an egg-soy glaze for a toasty aroma. Inside, the white bean paste is delicately moist and subtly sweet—satisfying without being overpowering.

Tips for Choosing the Right Souvenir Without Regret

1. A Size for Every Occasion: Available in boxes ranging from 4 to 18 pieces, Wakasaimo suits everything from small gestures to generous gifts. Each treat is individually wrapped, making it ideal for sharing at work or with friends.

2. Keep the Shelf Life in Mind: With a shelf life of around 29 days from the production date, it's best to plan ahead when giving Wakasaimo as a gift—especially if there's a gap between purchase and handoff.

3. Easy Online Ordering: You can buy Wakasaimo through the brand’s official online store, as well as Amazon and Rakuten. Whether you forgot to pick it up during your trip or simply crave it again, getting your hands on more is just a few clicks away.

4. A Taste That’s Gently Sweet: With its understated sweetness and simple, wholesome flavor, Wakasaimo may feel a bit mild for those who prefer rich, sugary treats. Keep the recipient’s taste preferences in mind when selecting your gift.

5. A Unique Touch of Kelp: The inclusion of kelp in the filling adds a distinct umami note that sets Wakasaimo apart—and may not be for everyone. If it's someone’s first time trying it, starting with a smaller pack is a great way to introduce them.

So, what did you think of our curated list of top Hokkaido souvenirs?

From sweet treats crafted with local ingredients to beautifully made handicrafts that showcase traditional craftsmanship, Hokkaido is full of gift-worthy treasures. Each item we introduced has been carefully selected for its quality and charm—perfect picks to remember your journey by.

We hope this guide helps you find that perfect keepsake. Whether you’re gifting a loved one or treating yourself, these souvenirs are brimming with the rich nature and culture of Hokkaido—just waiting to be discovered.

We’ll continue to share more insider insights and local favorites that highlight the best of Hokkaido. Stay tuned for our next blog!

Thank you so much for reading. While English isn’t my first language, I’ve done my best to share everything clearly. If you happen to notice any mistakes, I’d be grateful if you let me know. Wishing you a wonderful journey. 🌿