Mitsukoshi Department Store Sapporo

The Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store occupies a massive city block, recognizable by the distinct, interconnected buildings that stretch along the street. This site began as a small drapery shop opened by Imai Toshichi in eighteen seventy-two, just four years after Sapporo was founded. While other businesses struggled in the harsh northern climate, Imai adapted by importing western goods and clothing to meet the needs of the growing frontier city. It grew into the first full-scale department store in Hokkaido, defining the local retail landscape.