1. What are some popular shopping destinations in Obihiro?
– AEON Mall Obihiro– MIDORI ichiba (fresh food market)
– Dashi Kaijo (souvenir shop)
– KANDAGAWA Main Store (department store)
– Tokachigawa Onsen Gokan (shopping street and hot spring resort)
– Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery Shop
– Shikisai no Oka (flower garden and souvenir shops)
– Don Quijote (discount store)
2. Are there any local markets or farmers’ markets in the area?
Yes, there are several local markets and farmers’ markets in the area. Some of these include:
– Fort Greene Park Greenmarket: located at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn, this market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products.
– Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket: held every Saturday at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, this market features over 100 local farmers and producers.
– Union Square Greenmarket: open four days a week near Union Square Park in Manhattan, this market is one of the largest and most well-known farmers’ markets in the city.
– Smorgasburg: a popular open-air food market with locations in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Prospect Park on weekends.
– Chelsea Market: a food hall with vendors selling fresh produce, specialty foods, and artisanal products from around New York City.
– Essex Street Market: an indoor market on the Lower East Side featuring locally-sourced produce, meat and seafood, as well as prepared foods from various vendors.
3. What types of goods can be found at these markets?
These markets typically sell a variety of goods, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, dairy products, baked goods, snacks, desserts, prepared or cooked foods, craft items, clothing and accessories. Some may also have non-food items such as household products, gardening supplies and electronics.
4. How are the prices at the markets compared to traditional shopping outlets?
Market prices can vary depending on the location and type of market. In general, however, markets tend to offer lower prices compared to traditional shopping outlets because they eliminate intermediary costs and marketing expenses. Many market vendors also sell products directly from their own farms or businesses, which means there are no additional markups for transportation or storage. Additionally, customers can often negotiate prices with market vendors, further lowering the cost of products.
5. Is bargaining common at these markets or is the price fixed?
Bargaining is very common at these markets. Vendors expect customers to negotiate and are often willing to lower their prices to make a sale. However, some items may have fixed prices, especially if they are mass-produced or from more established vendors. It is always worth attempting to bargain, but be respectful and polite in your negotiations.
6. Are there any specialty shops or boutique stores in Obihiro that tourists might want to check out?
1. Obihiro Farmers Market (Obihiro Kanko Ichiba)
This farmers market offers a wide variety of fresh local produce, including vegetables, fruits, meat, and seafood. Visitors can not only purchase these items but also try local delicacies at the food court inside the market.
2. Obihiro Yachili Market
Located in the heart of downtown Obihiro, this modern shopping center offers a mix of local and international stores. From clothing and accessories to household goods and souvenirs, visitors can find a range of items to purchase here.
3. Matsumoto Department Store
A popular department store chain in Japan, Matsumoto offers quality products at reasonable prices. The Obihiro location is home to several floors filled with fashion brands, cosmetics, electronics, home goods, and more.
4. Tokachi Plaza
For those looking for high-end fashion and luxury brands, Tokachi Plaza is the place to go. This shopping complex features famous designer boutiques such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton alongside upscale restaurants.
5. Tsuruha Drugstore
This popular drugstore chain in Japan has multiple locations throughout Obihiro offering a variety of health and beauty products at affordable prices. Visitors can browse through a wide range of Japanese skincare and cosmetic brands here.
6. Sencho Shoten
Specializing in handcrafted leather goods, Sencho Shoten is a boutique store that sells beautiful leather bags, wallets, belts, and other accessories made by skilled craftsmen in Hokkaido.
7. Onsen Manju Honpo
No trip to Hokkaido is complete without trying their famous Onsen Manju (hot spring buns). Onsen Manju Honpo is a specialty shop that sells these steamed buns filled with various flavors such as red bean paste or custard cream.
8. Okamotoya Shokuhojo
This local store is a favorite among tourists for its wide selection of Hokkaido specialty foods such as butter, cheese, and sweets. They also offer food samples for visitors to taste before making a purchase.
9. Kibo no mori Gift Shop
Located within the Kofukuen Garden, this gift shop offers traditional Japanese handicrafts and souvenirs such as wooden crafts, pottery, and other works made by local artists.
10. Tokachi Wine Shop
Hokkaido is known for its excellent wine production, and Tokachi Wine Shop has an extensive collection of local wines that visitors can taste and purchase. The knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on their taste preferences.
7. What are some must-buy souvenirs from Obihiro?
Some must-buy souvenirs from Obihiro include:1. Rokkatei Meltykiss chocolates – These chocolate treats are made with Hokkaido milk and butter, giving them a rich and creamy flavor that is beloved by locals and tourists alike.
2. Butadon (pork bowl) sauce – Obihiro is known for its delicious butadon dish, which consists of char-grilled pork served over rice. The special sauce used in this dish can be purchased as a souvenir to recreate the meal at home.
3. Tokachi wine – The Tokachi region in Hokkaido is known for its wine production, with many wineries offering tastings and tours. Buy a bottle or two of local wine as a unique souvenir to bring back home.
4. Shiroi Koibito cookies – These white chocolate-filled cookies in the shape of hearts are another popular Hokkaido treat that make for a great gift or personal indulgence.
5. Katsuyama Kashima sake – This sake brand has been produced in Obihiro since 1868, making it one of the oldest breweries in Hokkaido. Bring home a bottle of their award-winning sake as a special souvenir.
6. Furano cheese – While not technically from Obihiro, Furano cheese is produced in nearby Furano town and is known for its rich and creamy flavor. Pick up some cheese or cheese-flavored snacks as souvenirs to take back with you.
7. Local handicrafts – Obihiro has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans creating unique handmade items such as pottery, woodwork, and textiles. These make for great souvenirs that support the local community.
8. Are there any malls or department stores in the city? If so, what brands do they carry?
Yes, there are several malls and department stores in the city. Some of the popular ones include:
1. The Mall at Green Hills – This upscale mall features luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co.
2. Opry Mills – This indoor outlet mall has over 200 stores including H&M, Forever 21, and Nike.
3. CoolSprings Galleria – With more than 150 stores, this mall offers a mix of high-end and mid-range brands such as Apple Store, Pottery Barn, and Sephora.
4. Rivergate Mall – This mall has over 150 stores including Dillard’s, JCPenney, and Old Navy.
5. Hickory Hollow Mall – This mall houses anchor stores like Sears and Macy’s as well as various other clothing and specialty shops.
6. Target – There are multiple Target locations throughout the city offering affordable clothing brands like Mossimo and Merona.
7. Walmart Supercenter – Similar to Target, there are several Walmart locations in Nashville with a variety of brand options for clothing.
8. Kohl’s – This department store chain offers affordable clothing from brands such as Nike, Levi’s, and Under Armour.
9. Where can one find locally made handicrafts and traditional products?
One can find locally made handicrafts and traditional products in local markets, artisan fairs, specialty shops, and souvenir shops in a region known for its indigenous population or traditional crafts. They may also be available in cultural centers, community workshops, and through online platforms that specialize in promoting and selling handmade items from different regions. It is often recommended to visit smaller towns and villages to find unique and authentic handicrafts directly from the local artisans. Additionally, some museums and galleries may also have a selection of traditional products for sale as part of their exhibits.
10. Do any local shops specialize in Japanese snacks or sweets?
Yes, there are a few local shops that specialize in Japanese snacks and sweets. Some popular options include:
1. Japan Super Store: This store offers a wide range of Japanese snacks and candies, including traditional favorites like Pocky and KitKat.
2. Mitsuwa Marketplace: This Japanese supermarket chain has a large selection of imported snacks, as well as an in-house bakery that sells freshly-made pastries and sweets.
3. Tokyo Central & Main: Another Japanese supermarket that carries a variety of Japanese snacks and sweets, including seasonal items like sakura-flavored treats.
4. Little Tokyo Market Place: This market specializes in Asian groceries, but also has a section dedicated to Japanese snacks and candies.
5. Marukai Market: A popular spot for Japanese groceries, Marukai also has a section dedicated to unique and hard-to-find Japanese snacks.
6. Minamoto Kitchoan: This traditional Japanese confectionery shop offers a wide variety of beautifully packaged sweets, including mochi, wagashi (traditional sweets), and fruit jellies.
7. Yoko Matcha: As the name suggests, this cafe sells matcha (green tea) flavored snacks and desserts, such as mochi, cookies, and ice cream.
8. Fugetsu-do: This family-owned shop specializes in handmade manju (Japanese steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste) in various flavors.
9. Mikawaya:A popular spot for delicious mochi ice cream made with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
10. Shirokiya Japan Village Walk: Located inside the Pearlridge Center mall, this store offers an extensive selection of Japanese snacks from various regions of Japan.
11. Are there any famous street food vendors or food stalls in Obihiro that are worth trying?
There are several famous street food vendors and food stalls in Obihiro that are worth trying, including:1. Okashi-no-Kawa: This stall sells traditional Japanese sweets such as mochi and dango.
2. Asahina Kaki-ten: Known for their excellent fried oyster dishes.
3. Tacho Market: A popular market selling fresh produce, seafood, and ready-to-eat snacks.
4. Dai-ni Ichiban Yakisoba: Famous for their yakisoba (fried noodles) served with local ingredients such as Hokkaido pork.
5. Ajibae Turnover Shop: This shop sells a variety of savory and sweet turnovers filled with local specialties like pork and corn.
6. Kitashin Jumonjiya: A well-known food truck offering delicious ramen bowls made with locally sourced ingredients.
7. Yotto Potato: A street food vendor selling freshly baked potatoes topped with a variety of toppings such as butter, cheese, or sour cream.
8. Matsumoto Shell Ramen Shokudo: Specializes in ramen made from broths of clam shells found in nearby Lake Saroma.
9. Jingisukan Mimatsu: Known for their jingisukan (grilled lamb) skewers cooked over charcoal grills.
10. Ganso Butadon Honpo Joearu-honten: Famous for their butadon (pork bowl) made with locally raised pork cooked in a sweet and savory sauce.
11. Obihiro Beef Okonomiyaki Misake-Ten: Serves up delicious okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancakes) using high-quality Obihiro beef slices on top.
12. What is the best time to visit the markets for fresh produce and seafood?
The best time to visit markets for fresh produce and seafood is typically early in the morning. This is when vendors have just restocked their supplies and you can find the freshest selection of items. It’s also a good idea to avoid peak hours, such as lunchtime or late afternoon, as these tend to be busier and the selection may not be as fresh. Additionally, it’s important to consider the specific market you plan on visiting, as some may have different hours or days of operation for certain products.
13. Are there any flea markets or antique markets held regularly in Obihiro?
Yes, there are several flea markets and antique markets held regularly in Obihiro. Some of the popular ones are:1. Obihiro Central Market: This is a traditional market held every Sunday from 9am to 3pm. It features various vendors selling fresh produce, local products, and antiques.
2. Konan Antique Market: This market is held on the second Sunday of every month from 10am to 4pm. It has over 100 different vendors selling a range of items including antique furniture, handicrafts, and collectibles.
3. Quilquiltantique Market: Held on the third Saturday and Sunday of every month from 10am to 4pm at Sunagawa City Hall parking lot, this market offers a wide selection of antiques, vintage clothing, and handmade goods.
4. Acorn Flea Market: This market is held on the first Saturday and Sunday of every month from 10am to 2pm at Acorn Plaza shopping center. It features a mix of new and used items including antiques, crafts, household goods, and clothes.
5. Sapporo Flea Market in Obihiro: Held on the second and fourth Sundays of every month at Midorigaoka Park Parking Lot from 7am to noon, this market offers a variety of items including antiques, collectibles, plants, and more.
14. How accessible are these shopping areas for tourists without a car?
Most of the shopping areas in Bangkok are fairly accessible for tourists without a car. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, which connect to many major shopping malls and areas.
Additionally, most areas have sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, making it possible to walk between different shops and attractions.
However, it may be more challenging to visit some smaller or less touristy shopping areas without a car, as they may not be located near public transportation routes. In those cases, taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service like Grab may be necessary.
15.Are there any duty-free shops in Obihiro for international travelers?
Yes, there are duty-free shops in Obihiro for international travelers. Some popular duty-free shops in Obihiro include the D’Terre Duty Free Shop located in JR Obihiro Station and the Haneda Duty Free Shop located near Obihiro Airport. These shops offer a variety of duty-free products such as cosmetics, alcohol, and souvenirs. Travelers can take advantage of these duty-free shops when leaving or entering Japan.
16.How many convenience stores can be found around Obihiro and what are their operating hours?
According to a search on Google Maps, there are currently 22 convenience stores located around Obihiro, Japan. These include 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and Sunkus.
The operating hours for these convenience stores may vary, but most are open 24 hours a day. Some may have slightly reduced hours or be closed during certain holidays. It is best to check the specific store’s website or contact them directly for their exact operating hours.
17.What type of clothing items should visitors bring to prepare for the weather conditions in Obihiro?
– Visitors should bring warm winter clothing, such as heavy jackets, snow boots, hats, gloves, and scarves to prepare for the cold and snowy weather conditions in Obihiro.18.Is it common to use credit cards for shopping at local establishments, or is it more cash-based?
It depends on the country and specific local establishments. In some countries, credit card usage is very common for all types of purchases, while in others cash is predominantly used. In general, larger or more tourist-oriented establishments are more likely to accept credit cards, while smaller or local businesses may only accept cash. However, with the increasing popularity of digital payment methods and technology, more local businesses are starting to accept credit and debit cards as well.
19.What is considered a reasonable budget for shopping per day in Obihiro?
It really depends on the individual’s personal spending habits and budget constraints. However, a reasonable budget for shopping in Obihiro would be around 5000-8000 yen per day, which is approximately $45-$75 USD. This should allow for moderate to extensive shopping, including food, souvenirs, and clothing items.
20.Are there any popular events or sales that happen throughout the year dedicated to shopping and dining in Obihiro?
Unfortunately, there are no specific events or sales dedicated to shopping and dining in Obihiro that are particularly popular or well-known. However, there may be seasonal promotions or special menus at certain restaurants or shops during holiday periods such as Christmas or Golden Week.
One event that may be of interest to shoppers and foodies is the Obihiro Winter Festival held in early February. This festival features snow sculptures, ice-skating rinks, and various food stalls offering local specialties such as butadon (grilled pork bowl) and ramen.
Additionally, there are several local matsuri (festivals) throughout the year that include food stands selling traditional dishes and local products. These festivals can provide an opportunity to try different foods and shop for souvenirs.
Overall, while there may not be specific events dedicated solely to shopping and dining in Obihiro, visitors can still enjoy a variety of unique culinary experiences throughout the year.