Drop by Fujimaru Park for a relaxing breather—Obihiro’s new place to unwind has arrived!

A new “pop-in” spot has appeared in downtown Obihiro.

“Fujimaru Park,” a new base for the revival of the Fujimaru Department Store, which ended its 122-year history, opened on July 6, 2025, just behind the former Fujimaru site. It’s a brand-new place that people of all ages will want to drop by.

This article highlights the appeal of Fujimaru Park, focusing on facility details and shop information.

*The information in this article is current as of the publication date; all prices include tax.

The Birth of “Fujimaru Park” — The department store’s revival project enters a new stage

In January 2023, to set the stage for the revival of the former Fujimaru Department Store, which closed after 122 years, a new facility limited to five years and aiming for a 2030 grand reopening—“Fujimaru Park”—was created on July 6, 2025, on the idle land just behind the former Fujimaru.

By not constructing a building and opting for an open-air facility, the park achieves a welcoming space where you can “drop in and take a breather.”Although it is a commercial facility, it is designed so that people can visit casually even without the purpose of shopping. From students after school and families with children to seniors, everyone is free to spend time here.

To coincide with the park’s opening, the Fujimaru logo was also renewed.

A new design that connects past and future, based on the traditional logo

To honor the feelings of customers who have long been fond of Fujimaru, the new logo inherits traditional colors and typefaces from the previous one. Redesigned while preserving its nostalgia, this logo is, so to speak, a “baton of memories,” linking Fujimaru’s past to its future.

Fujimaru Park is a commercial facility established to nurture connections with the community and solidify the steps toward revival during the five years until the new Fujimaru is completed.

For more on the state of Fujimaru at the time of closure and its 122-year history, see the article below.

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Why not take this opportunity to look back on Fujimaru’s journey so far?

Facility overview of the relaxation hub “Fujimaru Park” — Equipment and store lineup

Image courtesy of Fujimaru Co., Ltd.

Fujimaru Park is an open-air commercial facility aiming to be a “place of relaxation” for visitors. The terrace seating is equipped with free Wi-Fi, allowing students to study, office workers to work remotely, and everyone to spend time as they like.

Open, airy terrace seating. With Wi-Fi, it’s also convenient for studying or remote work

Fujimaru Park features permanent trailer-house-style shops: three food-and-beverage tenants and two directly operated Fujimaru stores, for a total of five. Unlike typical commercial facilities where shops are packed tightly together, the layout leaves generous open space to allow flexible use of the area.

For example, a variety of events such as markets, live performances, and workshops are planned, so it goes beyond a mere commercial facility. It also serves as a hub for community interaction and vibrancy.

Dog run for visitors with pets

A spacious dog run has been built on the grounds so that people walking their dogs can also stop by casually.

A dog run where pups can dash around freely

What makes “Fujimaru Park” appealing is that anyone can visit casually and enjoy it in a way that fits their lifestyle.

[Information | Facility Overview]

A closer look at the five shops in Fujimaru Park’s commercial area

Fujimaru Park has five shops in total, spanning both food and retail.

In the dining area, three tenants were carefully selected from more than ten applicants to fit Fujimaru Park’s concept. In the retail area, Fujimaru Co., Ltd. leverages its department-store expertise and curation to operate two directly managed shops.

Here’s a detailed look at each tenant operating as of July 2025.

1. Konnichiwa (Fujimori Shokai)

Fujimori Shokai—known for the “Curry Shop Indian”—sympathized with the aspirations behind Fujimaru’s revival and opened here as a new step forward. The beloved family-restaurant name “Konnichiwa,” once popular in Obihiro, has been revived after 26 years.

They offer original, Fujimaru Park–exclusive menu items you won’t find at other Fujimori or Indian locations. The signature dish is the “Special Keema Curry,” finished with minced meat and based on Indian’s famous roux.

Enjoy a new deliciousness: the familiar flavor enriched by the depth and texture of minced meat

Also popular is the “Indian-man,” a stuffed bun filled with a sauce made from the same Indian roux as the keema curry, plus Tokachi/Otofuke wagyū “kino e-beef” and Kawanishi onions. The fragrant spices and local ingredients create flavors you can only experience here.

A familiar taste in a new form. Please savor Konnichiwa’s wholehearted menu, which honors tradition while embracing challenge.

Main Menu & Basic Info

2. STAND Mebunryō (Mebunryō)

The renowned Shimizu Town soba shop “Mebunryō,” founded 35 years ago, has opened at Fujimaru Park as “STAND Mebunryō.” They stone-mill Horokanai buckwheat in-house and serve freshly made, freshly boiled ni-hachi soba (80% buckwheat).

The soba is wonderfully aromatic with an exceptional swallow. The “Gyutoro-don” melts in your mouth the moment it touches your tongue.

In addition to rice bowls like the Shimizu Town specialties “Gyutoro-don” and “Wakatoro-don,” there are sweets such as “Soba Tea Pudding” made with fragrant soba tea. It’s a place you’ll want to stop by whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a quick dessert break.

Enjoy unhurried moments as you savor the aroma of soba within the park’s relaxed atmosphere.

Main Menu & Basic Info

3. Tokachi Döner (Altruism)

“Altruism,” which built popularity through its mobile “Tokachi Kebab,” has opened a permanent shop “Tokachi Döner” at Fujimaru Park. They serve original menus that pair authentic Turkish döner-style kebab with ingredients from Tokachi.

“Döner” means “to rotate” in Turkish. Seasoned sliced meat is skewered, roasted while rotating, then shaved and served in bread.

Tokachi Döner uses carefully seasoned, expertly roasted kebab meat made at its own factory. The staff’s top recommendation, the “Fresh Kebab,” is packed with Tokachi-grown lettuce and tomatoes. The spicy aroma and the tomatoes’ refreshing acidity are appetite-boosting.

With mild heat, it’s enjoyable for both children and adults

Other offerings include unique items that fuse local ingredients with Turkish tradition, such as “Wagyū BBQ” made with Obihiro beef. Be sure to try these new flavors of Tokachi.

Main Menu & Basic Info

4. Food SHOP (Directly Operated by Fujimaru)

The “Food SHOP” is a specialty food store curated with Fujimaru’s discerning eye. The lineup ranges widely from Tokachi/Eastern Hokkaido specialties to buzzworthy items from across Japan.

Among these, the “Tastes of Tokachi” available only here deserve special mention. For example, Heiwaen’s much-loved jingisukan (lamb barbecue) comes in a Fujimaru SHOP-exclusive version, with special attention to seasoning and packaging—one of our top recommendations.

Uemon’s Heart ice cream has long been popular at the former Fujimaru, but in Obihiro today it’s available only at the directly operated shop and the restaurant inside JICA Obihiro. So, being able to purchase it again at Fujimaru Park is great news.

Another big draw is the ease of buying renowned products from all over Japan. Here are three staff picks.

① Mango Pudding from The Peninsula

Sweets from the world-famous luxury hotel “The Peninsula” debut in Hokkaido. This indulgent pudding features a rich mango aroma and a melt-in-your-mouth texture—perfect as a gift or a treat for yourself.

② Sanuki Udon from YAMADAYA

“YAMADAYA,” a famed Kagawa shop, is so popular that up to 4,000 people reportedly queue in a day. It’s known from the TV show “How Do You Like Wednesday?” where Yo Oizumi slurped the noodles with gusto—and he still stops by whenever he visits Sanuki. Though easily prepared in a microwave, the noodles deliver restaurant-level chew and flavor.

③ Tsunokichi’s Nameko Mushrooms

An elegant nameko mushroom relish with sanshō pepper and baby sardines from Kyoto’s long-established tsukudani maker “Tsunokichi.” The crisp enoki texture blends exquisitely with savory dashi and the refreshing fragrance of sanshō—one spoonful and you’ll want it over rice again and again.

5. Lifestyle SHOP (Directly Operated by Fujimaru)

This second directly operated shop carries on the “lifestyle proposal” cherished by the former Fujimaru Department Store. The “Lifestyle SHOP” offers a wide range of quality items that enrich everyday life just a little. Carefully selected goods include the following:

You’ll find ideal items not only for souvenirs and gifts but also as a “treat for yourself.” A select shop that brings a department store’s quality together with a playful spirit to brighten your life.

A new hub where people and culture intersect — Art and tourism at Fujimaru Park

Born in the heart of Obihiro, Fujimaru Park is more than a commercial facility; it serves as a “downtown exchange hub” where people and culture intersect. Partnerships with art and tourism content are also underway, offering visitors new discoveries and warmth.

Here are some of Fujimaru Park’s engaging initiatives.

1. Creating a resonant space through collaboration with art

As a “symbol of regeneration,” Fujimaru Park incorporates disability art to create a space that resonates with the community.

On display in the park are works by artist Naoki Shirata (born 1986 / affiliated with Kōbōshū). Delicate yet powerful red-based lines and unique motifs such as plants and feet deliver energy to viewers.

Art functions not only as decoration but also as a symbol of diversity and coexistence, giving vitality and pride to the city. It is one of the key elements that transforms Fujimaru Park into “a comfortable place for everyone.”

2. A new carriage stand for the Horse-drawn BAR

Fujimaru Park also serves as a new carriage stand for the “Horse-drawn BAR.”

The Horse-drawn BAR is a popular activity that follows the former streetcar route by horse-drawn carriage. The carriage is pulled by “Musashikoma,” a retired Ban’ei draft horse. The two-story carriage features an indoor space with Minerva sofas (1st floor) and open-air seating (2nd floor); the 2nd-floor seats can be reserved online.

During the ride, 100% Tokachi barley-malt craft beer and snacks are served, letting you enjoy sightseeing and dining at the same time.

Fujimaru Park — Upcoming Events

[July 18–21] Tokachi Sweets Collective

Four days to discover handmade sweets, with baked treats taking center stage. Don’t miss flavors available only here!

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[July 18 & 19] Tokachi Gyoza Festa 2025

Great news for gyoza and beer lovers in Obihiro! Gyoza made with 100% Tokachi wheat—skins that are delicious in their own right—gather in one place. From pan-fried to boiled and steamed, the variety is rich. Ten popular Tokachi eateries and gyoza makers will show their skills, offering a special lineup available only here.

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[August 10] A special talk event at Fujimaru Park: “Ignite Tokachi’s Gastronomy”

A talk event to rediscover the appeal of Tokachi’s ingredients and food culture, “Ignite Tokachi’s Gastronomy,” will be held on August 10 at Obihiro Fujimaru Park. Guest speakers include Takefumi Hamada, drawing attention as the world’s No.1 foodie, and Kaori Saits, CEO of a travel agency for affluent clients, who will discuss the possibilities and future of local “food” and “inbound tourism.”

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Fujimaru’s history and future prospects in the revival project

Fujimaru is a long-established department store that has grown together with Obihiro since the Meiji era. Long loved as “the face of Obihiro,” it developed as a community-rooted hub of commerce and culture. Here, we look back on that history and also introduce the ongoing revival project and future outlook.

122 years of Fujimaru

Trace the history built by Fujimaru Department Store in a timeline.

And toward the future again | The current status and outlook of the Fujimaru Revival Project

Image courtesy of Fujimaru Co., Ltd.

Although the Fujimaru Department Store closed at the end of January 2023 to much regret, many local residents voiced hopes for its return, and a “revival project” was launched to restore vibrancy to the city center.

At the core of reconstruction are Sora Co., Ltd., headquartered in Obihiro, and Space Co., Ltd. (Chūō-ku, Tokyo), a company strong in planning, design, supervision, and construction for commercial facilities. Under their collaboration, a large-scale redevelopment plan targeting a “2030 opening” is in progress.

Initially, an autumn 2025 reopening using the existing building was considered, but in October 2024 the policy shifted. The plan now is to completely demolish the structure and rebuild it as a mixed-use complex with B1F–2F as a commercial facility and floors 3 and above as a hotel and condominiums.

According to the current schedule, demolition will take about three years starting in summer 2025, with construction of the new facility beginning in autumn 2027. The “fourth-generation Fujimaru,” a symbol of Obihiro’s future, is slated to be reborn around 2030.

Finding everyday “moments of relaxation” at Fujimaru Park

Fujimaru Park was born as a “place of relaxation” that carries on the memories of the Fujimaru Department Store while bringing a fresh breeze to the Obihiro of tomorrow. In this space where nostalgia and novelty gently blend, why not stop by and spend a moment that soothes the heart?

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