Stepping into the Shinise, a warm and inviting atmosphere welcomes you. The traditional sliding doors open to reveal a beautifully adorned space filled with carefully arranged displays of artisanal treasures. Meticulous displays showcase exquisite craftsmanship, embodying the enduring values and community spirit of Japanese culture. Despite modern challenges, Shinise perseveres, preserving tradition and ensuring its continued significance in Japanese society.
Kawoka Kashihonpo Doughnut — Founded in 1918
The Nakagawa District in northern Hokkaido (Kitakita & Teshio Province) was established as an administrative district in 1879 and included a part of what would later become Nayoro City. Currently, it comprises two towns (Bifuka and Nakagawa) and one village (Otoineppu). The district derives its name from being located in the middle reaches of the Teshio River.
Bifuka Town, divided by the Teshio River flowing through mountainous areas, became a town in 1923, previously known as Shimanaoyo Village. Most of the town is designated as a special heavy snowfall area and is predominantly covered in forests. The name "Bifuka" comes from the Ainu word "Piuka," meaning "a place with many stones," referring to the gravel riverbed of the Teshio River near the current Bifuka Station. Local specialties and famous products include Chozame (lake smelt), caviar, Yamabe products, Kuri-jaga (potatoes cooked with chestnuts), Yurine (lily bulbs), strawberries, Bifuka beef, Bifuka beef buns, and others. There were long-established Japanese confectionery shops in the district.
Kawoka Kashihonpo, a Japanese confectionery shop, was founded around 1918 (in the 7th year of the Taisho era) in Bifuka Town, Nakagawa District, Hokkaido. They were known for their popular products such as Marufuku Donuts, cookies, and Chozame-kun.
However, due to the owner's aging, the shop closed down in 2018. The famous product, Marufuku Donuts, was taken over by San'yo Seika in Asahikawa City, which shares the same roots. It has been sold as one of JALUX's "Northern Kiln" series called Hundred-Year An doughnut since 2020. The Hundred-Year An doughnut, as it is now known, has a unique packaging that showcases an illustration of Hokkaido's landscape, adorned with the number "100." This pays homage to the confection's long history and enduring popularity.
The doughnut is renowned for its exceptional quality and taste. It is soft, moist, and meticulously crafted, providing a delightful texture with each bite. Made with premium ingredients like Hokkaido-grown azuki beans, wheat, and eggs, it showcases a dedication to using high-quality local produce.
A notable feature of this doughnut is its an dough filling, which consists of a sweet red bean paste. The an dough strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and richness, creating a delightful flavor profile that is not overly sugary. The combination of the an-dough filling and the outer dough creates a harmonious and satisfying taste experience.
The an-doughnut is carefully prepared, taking health into consideration at every step. Even the choice of frying oil reflects the artisans' attention to detail and commitment to well-being. In line with the health-consciousness of modern individuals, only selected plant-based oils such as soybean oil and rapeseed oil are used for frying. The sugar topping on the surface of the doughnut is a delightful addition that adds just the right touch of sweetness. This thoughtful approach ensures that while enjoying this treat, individuals can also find solace in its gentle sweetness, providing a moment of respite for their weary minds and bodies in today's busy world.
Address: Bifuka Town, Nakagawa District, Hokkaido
photo from: https://bluesky.jalux.com/brand/kitanokama/andonutsu/
Kita No Kama
7/13/2023