One of the first “local secrets” you’ll notice when visiting Hokkaido isn’t a famous tourist spot, but a bright orange sign: Seicomart. Alongside 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson, convenience stores quietly support your stay in Sapporo, from late-night snacks to winter essentials.

This guide introduces Seicomart, Hokkaido’s original convenience store, and explains how to navigate the convenience and drugstores around Sapporo Station, Odori, and Susukino, offering tips to make your winter trip more comfortable and convenient.

1. Seicomart – Hokkaido’s Local Hero

Secomart, affectionately known as “Secoma,” is a convenience store chain born in Hokkaido. For Hokkaido residents, it’s as essential to their lives as snow and Sapporo beer. It’s easy to recognize by its orange sign and white bird logo.

What makes Seicomart unique compared to other chains?

Hokkaido Products

Many of the products on the shelves are Hokkaido-themed. For example,

Milk, yogurt, and ice cream made with locally produced dairy products

Snacks made with Hokkaido wheat and melon

Coffee and tea labeled “Hokkaido Exclusive”

Just browsing the shelves feels like a little regional gourmet tour. If you’re looking for a quick souvenir, we recommend Seico Mart’s selection of “Hokkaido Exclusive” snacks.

“Hot Chef” – Freshly Prepared in-Store

Seico Mart’s true strength is its Hot Chef corner. While most convenience stores ship their bento boxes from a central factory, Hot Chef bento boxes are prepared in-store.

Popular Hot Chef menu items include:

Pork cutlet bowl

Fried chicken bento

Curry rice and doria

Warm rice balls and sandwiches

On a freezing Sapporo night, buying a freshly prepared pork cutlet bowl or curry at Seico Mart and taking it back to your hotel is a little luxury. Not all stores carry Hot Chef, but if you see a red “Hot Chef” sign, be sure to check out the menu.

2. Other Major Convenience Stores

Of course, Sapporo is also home to the “Big Three” national chains.

7-Eleven

FamilyMart

Lawson

All of these are typically open 24 hours a day and can be easily found near major stations and hotels. While styles vary by brand, you’ll generally find the following:

Rice balls, sandwiches, and bento boxes

Hot snacks like fried chicken and croquettes

Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages

Desserts, sweets, and bakery items

Everyday items like umbrellas, batteries, and cell phone chargers

Japanese convenience stores are renowned for their quality and wide selection. New products and seasonal flavors are introduced almost weekly, so even a short visit to the same store during your trip can be a different experience each time.

If you’re staying near Sapporo Station or Susukino, it’s common to find one or two of these major chain stores within walking distance, in addition to a Seico Mart, making it very convenient.

Winter in Hokkaido is beautiful, but it can also be harsh. The cold air, dry skin, and slippery roads are perfect for relieving fatigue after a long day of sightseeing or skiing. Convenience stores can help you stay comfortable.

Here are some items perfect for winter nights:

Hot Food

Hot Chef Bentos and curry from Seico Mart

Microwave-safe bento boxes from 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson

Pour hot water from the in-store dispenser into cup noodles or instant soup

Drinks

Hot canned coffee or tea from heated shelves

Bottled water or sports drinks to stay hydrated in the dry air

For a more relaxed feeling, try drinks or flavored lattes made with Hokkaido milk

Relaxing Items

Sweets and snacks made with Hokkaido milk or butter

Easy-to-use gloves and socks in case your feet get wet in the snow

Pocket-sized hand warmers

Even if restaurants are closed or full, a quick stop at a convenience store can save the night. Enjoy a relaxing “convenience store dinner” in the comfort of your room.

For those evenings when you want a calm, private place to relax in Susukino, please have a look at our website during your stay in Sapporo.