Shiroi Koibito Park, located in Sapporo, Japan, is a theme park operated by the famous confectionery company, Ishiya. The park is well-known for its European-style architecture, beautiful gardens, and the opportunity to see the production process of the popular Shiroi Koibito cookies.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.2/5
TripAdvisor: 4/5
10 Must-Do Activities:
1. Take a Factory Tour
One of the main attractions is the Shiroi Koibito Factory Tour, where you can watch the famous Shiroi Koibito biscuits being made. Through large glass windows, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the production process, from mixing the dough to packaging the biscuits. Interactive displays explain the history of the factory and the making of their iconic sweets.
2. Decorate Your Own Shiroi Koibito Cookie
Get creative by joining the cookie decorating workshop, where you can design your own large Shiroi Koibito cookie with icing and toppings. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that’s perfect for both kids and adults, and you can take your personalized cookie home as a souvenir.
3. Explore the Chocolate Lounge
Indulge in decadent treats at the Chocolate Lounge, where you can enjoy a variety of chocolate-themed desserts and beverages. From rich hot chocolate to beautifully crafted cakes, it’s a delightful way to relax and satisfy your sweet cravings.
4. Wander Through the Beautiful Rose Garden
Outside the park, you’ll find the picturesque Shiroi Koibito Park Rose Garden, which is especially beautiful in the summer when the roses are in full bloom. Stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
5. Visit the Candy Labo
Stop by the Candy Labo, where skilled artisans make colorful, handcrafted candy. You can watch the candy-making process live, and even purchase some freshly made sweets to enjoy or take home as a gift.
6. See the Mechanical Clock Tower Show
Don’t miss the whimsical Mechanical Clock Tower (also known as the "Chocolate Carnival"), which comes to life every hour with a charming show. Animated figures of confectioners and animals appear and move to music, creating a magical moment that delights visitors of all ages.
7. Shop for Exclusive Sweets and Souvenirs
The park’s gift shop is a paradise for sweet lovers, offering a wide variety of Shiroi Koibito products and other exclusive treats that you can't find elsewhere. Be sure to pick up a box of the original Shiroi Koibito biscuits as a souvenir or gift, along with other specialty sweets like chocolates, cookies, and candies.
8. Enjoy a Cup of Soft Serve Ice Cream
Treat yourself to some delicious Shiroi Koibito soft serve ice cream, made with high-quality Hokkaido milk. The creamy, rich texture and sweet flavor make this a must-try treat while exploring the park.
9. Explore the Sapporo Soccer Museum
For sports fans, the Sapporo Soccer Museum located within the park is a fun stop. The park is home to Consadole Sapporo, the city's professional soccer team, and the museum showcases the history of the team and Japanese soccer, along with memorabilia and interactive exhibits.
10. Marvel at the British-Inspired Architecture
The park’s architecture is inspired by European, especially British, themes, with charming buildings, cobblestone streets, and decorative facades. The fairy-tale-like design of the park makes it a great place for photography, and it offers a unique contrast to the modern cityscape of Sapporo.
Official Website: https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=maps
Main Positive Reviews:
The park is beautifully designed with European-style buildings and gardens. The chocolate factory tour is fascinating and the cookies are delicious.
Great place for families and children. The park is well-maintained and the interactive exhibits are fun.
The winter illumination is stunning. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale.
Loved the hands-on experience of making our own Shiroi Koibito cookies.
A must-visit if you love sweets and want to see how they are made. The cafe serves excellent desserts.
Main Negative Reviews:
The outdoor area is very cold in winter, making it difficult to enjoy the park fully.
Prices are the same as in other places in Japan, so there’s no need to buy souvenirs here.
Unless you pay to see the factory, the rest of the park is just okay.
The park can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season, making it less enjoyable.
Not much to do if you're not interested in sweets or the production process.
The souvenirs are overpriced and the service is bad.
The park is boring and there’s nothing special about it.
No need to go unless you specifically want to buy their products.
Overall Analysis
Cost: The average cost to visit Shiroi Koibito Park includes an entrance fee for the factory tour, which is around ¥600-¥800 per person. Additional expenses may include purchases from the gift shop and dining at the on-site cafe.
Shiroi Koibito Park offers a unique and charming experience, especially for those interested in sweets and European-style architecture. However, the park may not be worth the visit for everyone, especially if you are not particularly interested in confectionery production or if you visit during the colder months. The park receives an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars on both Google and TripAdvisor, indicating that while it is generally well-received, there are notable criticisms to consider.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Based on multiple reviews from Google and TripAdvisor, Shiroi Koibito Park receives mixed feedback. While many visitors enjoy the unique experience and beautiful setting, others feel the visit may not be worth the cost unless you are particularly interested in confectionery production.
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