Ken-kun: The Shiba Inu Behind Sapporo’s Sweet Potato Stand
Meet Ken-kun, the manager of Inu no Yakiimoyasan, or “Dog’s Roasted Sweet Potato Stand.” Located in a small neighborhood in Sapporo, on the island of Hokkaido in northern Japan, Ken-kun eagerly awaits to assist hungry customers. Despite the popularity of cute things in Japan, this is the only well-known food stand managed entirely by a dog.
Discovering Ken-kun
After learning about Ken-kun’s unique street food stand, a small group of us decided to make the journey to see it for ourselves. We found the neighborhood and parked, but to our surprise, there was no sign of the famous canine vendor.
Just as we began to wonder if we had made the trip for nothing, two tiny paws popped up on the counter, belonging to the most enthusiastic cashier we had ever encountered. Ken-kun greeted us with curiosity, letting us pet him while our excitement for sweet potatoes built up.
The Honor System
The shiba inu as the face of the store is just one of the unique aspects we discovered. Ken-kun’s lack of language skills, math abilities, and opposable thumbs means that the honor system is employed for transactions.
Ken-kun cannot determine if someone pays, and since his owner isn’t always monitoring the stand, it’s left to the customers to ensure honesty in their payments. Nonetheless, Ken-kun positions himself nearby the sweet potato box and cash box, making it tricky for anyone to take a potato without paying.
Placing an Order
The most popular item on the menu is the roasted sweet potato, previously the only item available. Outside the stand, a box is filled with freshly roasted sweet potatoes wrapped in aluminum foil. Customers select their potato and insert 200 yen (less than $2) into the designated change slot. There’s even a sign stating, “Because I’m a dog, I can’t make change.” If you happen to lack 100-yen coins, donations are also welcome.
Comfortable Working Conditions
Ken-kun’s working conditions are cozy. Inside the stand, a space heater provides warmth during chilly days, while an outdoor fan keeps him cool in the summer. Ken-kun’s owner checks in on him throughout the day and takes him on walks after shifts. Whenever customers arrive and voices are heard, Ken-kun eagerly jumps up to take orders or receive affection.
Embracing Fame
Inu no Yakiimoyasan gained popularity after Ken-kun’s photos went viral on Twitter in March, resulting in crowds of visitors flocking to the stand daily. To accommodate the demand, Ken-kun and his owner made some adjustments. Prices increased slightly, but so did the menu, which now includes roasted corn alongside the beloved sweet potatoes and t-shirts featuring Ken-kun’s cartoon likeness.
Visiting Ken-kun’s Stand
Finding Ken-kun’s stand can be challenging, and the best way to access it is by car, with street parking available nearby. If you’re not renting a vehicle, you can take a bus from Sapporo Station Eki Mae bound for Kiyota 2 Jo 1-chome, just a short 45-minute ride from the station. Being a residential area, it’s important to remain quiet and respectful of the community.
On occasion, Inu no Yakiimoyasan may run out of sweet potatoes. In such cases, a sign will inform visitors of the shortage. Early arrivals have the best chance of securing a delicious sweet potato. When I visited, unfortunately, they were sold out, but Ken-kun’s owner graciously came out to chat and offered us a complimentary ear of roasted corn.
To experience Ken-kun and his roasted sweet potatoes, visit his store at 1-chome-15-11 Kiyota 2 Jo Kiyota-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido. The stand operates on weekends and holidays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
