Shiroi Koibito Park was a place that we thought about visiting before changing our minds and then changing our minds back again. We weren't sure we'd have enough time due to the fact that, though in Sapporo, the park is not that close to the downtown area of the city. However, after spending most of the day at the Jozankei Onsen village we got back to central Sapporo with enough time to see the famed factory after all. The first thing one notices upon entering the factory's gates is the beautiful rose garden. It was magical to walk through the gardens and see the beautiful varieties of roses on display, most of which were still in full bloom. A large number of the roses were David Austin breeds which I love and have in my own garden at home so that was a special treat. Once inside the factory building, we opted for the standard tour that allows you to view the production before depositing you in a large gift shop. The production area was absolutely spotless and seemed to run like a well-oiled machine [in typical Japanese fashion]. Even the gift shop was nice, with many special items that could only be purchased at the factory location. Well worth the visit. #givethanks #givethanks