Tsukisamu Anpan is a famous Sapporo sweet that has been loved for more than 100 years. It was created in the Tsukisamu district during the Meiji era, when one of Hokkaido’s largest infantry regiments was stationed in the area. Made with smooth red bean paste from Hokkaido’s Tokachi region and wrapped in a moist, thin layer of dough, it has a simple yet deeply satisfying flavor.
Tsukisamu Anpan is closely connected with the history of the local community. In 1911, local residents and the army worked together to build a road connecting Tsukisamu with Hiragishi. As a gesture of gratitude to the soldiers, the town distributed five anpan per person every day during the construction.
The workers reportedly built the road while enjoying the sweet buns, and the route came to be known locally as “Anpan Road.” A monument commemorating the road still stands today. Tsukisamu Anpan is therefore more than a traditional confection—it is a sweet closely associated with the history and development of the neighborhood.
Although it is called anpan, Tsukisamu Anpan is quite different from the soft, fluffy sweet buns commonly associated with the name. Its dough contains a generous amount of egg and relatively little moisture, giving it a dense texture somewhat reminiscent of mooncake.
This lower-moisture dough also gives Tsukisamu Anpan excellent keeping qualities. Its shelf life is approximately one month from production, making it particularly convenient to carry and enjoy as a souvenir from Hokkaido.
The classic Tsukisamu Anpan with smooth red bean paste is made using 100% Hokkaido-grown azuki beans. The refined sweetness of the koshian pairs beautifully with the rich, egg-based dough.
Several variations are also available, including pumpkin, brown sugar, matcha green tea, and black sesame fillings. For an easier-to-eat option, a convenient stick-shaped version is also available.
The maker behind Tsukisamu Anpan was founded in 1906 and is well known for producing this traditional confection of Sapporo’s Tsukisamu district. Through its distinctive texture, familiar sweetness, and connection to “Anpan Road,” the sweet has remained part of the area’s food culture for generations.
For visitors exploring Sapporo, Tsukisamu Anpan offers a delicious way to discover a small but fascinating piece of the city’s history. Its long tradition and easy-to-carry format also make it a memorable Hokkaido souvenir.