When it comes to soft-serve ice cream in Japan – known locally as soft-cream – Hokkaido holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals. With its rich agricultural heritage and countless dairy farms, Hokkaido is known for producing the highest quality milk in Japan. That milk doesn’t just go into cheese and yogurt – it’s also the reason why soft-cream here is so famously smooth, rich, and flavourful.
Unlike in many countries where vanilla is the default, the standard flavour in Japan is milk. This lets you enjoy the pure, creamy taste of the milk itself – especially when it’s Hokkaido milk. Below are some of the best spots across the region to try this beloved treat, popular with locals and travellers alike.
BARNES
BARNES is a local favourite known for producing exceptionally smooth, creamy soft-cream with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The menu keeps things simple with just two flavours at a time – classic milk and a rotating seasonal option. Despite the simplicity, the quality here is consistently top-tier, making it a must-visit.
Located in Sapporo – Google Maps
Chikyu No Ice
This soft-cream shop uses organic milk and is conveniently located near the Mitsui Outlet Park, making it a great stop during a day of shopping. The ice cream is silky-smooth and has a fresh, natural milk flavour that stands out. It's a great example of simple ingredients done exceptionally well.
Located in Sapporo, Kitahiroshima – Google Maps
Gelateria Tsukisappu Noen
Famous for its ultra-light, fluffy soft-cream, this gelateria offers a texture so airy that it’s become a bit of a social media sensation. Some visitors have even snapped photos of the cone held upside down without the soft-cream falling out.
Located in Sapporo – Google Maps
Aichu Land
Though a bit of a hidden gem, Aichu Land is a soft-cream stop that’s worth the detour. Visitors report rich, creamy flavours and generous servings at reasonable prices. It’s a low-key but satisfying place to experience classic Hokkaido milk soft-cream.
Located on the outskirts of Sapporo – Google Maps
Hirose Farm Uemon’s Heart
This charming farmhouse spot is loved for its smooth, rich-textured soft-cream made with local milk. The welcoming, rural setting adds to its appeal, offering a relaxing stop on any trip through Tokachi. It's especially popular with locals and returning visitors.
Located in Obihiro – Google Maps
Hakkou Gakuen Farmers’ Market
Run by Hokkaido Agricultural Technical College, this market is a true local favourite. The students are involved in the entire process – from sourcing ingredients to producing the soft-cream – ensuring farm-fresh quality. It’s one of the best places to try dairy straight from the next generation of Hokkaido’s farmers. There is also a farmers market selling fresh produce which is popular with locals.
Located in Sapporo – Google Maps
Kinotoya
Chitose Airport has no shortage of dessert options, but Kinotoya consistently ranks among the most popular. Their soft-cream is made with freshly sourced Hokkaido milk and is a perfect final treat before boarding your flight. Expect clean, milky flavour and a very smooth finish. This shop is famous for selling very tall soft-cream.
Located in Chitose Airport – Google Maps
Takahashi Bokujo
This well-loved dairy farm serves soft-cream made using milk from their own cows, ensuring traceability and freshness. The quality is unmistakable, with a full-bodied, creamy taste that locals rave about. Bonus – they also sell handmade desserts like puddings, cheesecakes, and chou-cream. Also available is a chocolate flavour using local milk and ethically sourced cocoa - highly recommended. This is a great place to visit any time of the year, but if you’re planning a visit in the area during winter, you can find great options on Niseko accommodation with Japan Ski Experience.
Located in Niseko – Google Maps
Tomita Farm
Famous for its lavender fields, Tomita Farm offers a unique soft-cream experience with their seasonal lavender and melon flavours. The milk used is locally sourced from the Furano area, known for producing high-quality dairy. Melon soft-cream is a regional favourite thanks to Furano’s reputation for growing sweet melons. Open in summer only.
Located in Furano – Google Maps
Lake Hill Farm
Near the scenic Lake Toya, this farm-style gelateria offers rich, flavourful gelato made from fresh, local milk. With a wide range of flavours – including seasonal and fruit varieties – there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect post-onsen or lakeside stroll stop, though be prepared for a short wait on busy days. Soft-cream is available on weekends and public holidays during summer only, but gelato is available all year.
Located near Lake Toya – Google Maps
Milky House
This small, unassuming shop is known for soft-cream that delivers a pure, milky taste. The high quality of the milk really shines through here, making it ideal for those who prefer a smooth, natural flavour. They also offer handmade onigiri, making it a great place to stop for a quick snack.
Located in Hakodate – Google Maps
Final Scoop
Soft-cream is a staple of Hokkaido’s food culture, thanks to the region’s rich dairy tradition and high-quality milk. It’s found everywhere from quiet farm stands to busy airport terminals, and it’s worth seeking out wherever your travels take you. If you're planning a winter trip to Japan, Japan Ski Experience can help you make the most of your time in Hokkaido with expert advice and local recommendations – both on the slopes and beyond.
