Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, boasts a distinctive culinary identity shaped by its geographical isolation, abundant natural resources, and a climate that influences the types of ingredients available. What makes Hokkaido truly unique? It’s the region’s dairy, seafood, vegetables, and meats that are renowned for their exceptional taste and quality. Don’t miss out – try the local food treasures and make your trip an unforgettable gastronomic experience!
All-you-can-eat Snow Crab
Sweet and succulent meat. The cold waters of the Sea of Japan, where these crabs are harvested, contribute to the development of tender, flavorful flesh. The unique combination of the crab’s diet, the seawater quality, and the Hokkaido environment imparts distinctive flavors to the snow crab. The result is a delicious and memorable taste that sets it apart.
Hokkaido Buffet Oktober Fest
Contact: +81 136-46-3111
Address: 13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu Village, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1711
Business Hours: Breakfast 06:30 am – 09:30 am(L.O. 09:00 am)
Dinner 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (L.O. 08:30 pm)
Soup Curry
Unlike traditional Japanese curry, which tends to be thicker, Hokkaido Soup Curry is characterized by its soup-like consistency. The curry is more liquid, creating a heartwarming and comforting broth, and is often made from a blend of vegetables, meat (such as chicken or pork), and an array of aromatic spices. This results in a rich, complex flavor profile with layers of depth. Diners can choose the degree of spiciness they prefer, allowing for a personalized culinary experience. This adaptability makes it appealing to a wide range of palates. The curry is typically served with a side of rice, allowing diners to enjoy the interplay of flavors between the savory broth and the rice.
Soup curry GARAKU
Contact: 011-233-5568
Address: Okumura Building B1 North Entrance, 6-1 Minami 2-jo Nishi 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Business Hours: Lunch 11:30 am -03:30 pm (LO 03:00 pm)
Dinner 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (LO 08:30 pm)
Hokkaido Ramen
What makes Hokkaido Ramen unique lies in its distinctive broth, noodles, and toppings, reflecting the region’s culinary preferences and local ingredients. One of the defining characteristics of Hokkaido Ramen is its miso-based broth. Unlike other regional ramen varieties in Japan that often use soy or salt-based broths, Hokkaido Ramen’s broth is rich, hearty, and flavored with fermented miso paste. The noodles used in Hokkaido Ramen are typically egg noodles. These noodles have a slightly chewy texture and a golden color, contributing to the overall richness of the dish. The ramen often incorporates local Hokkaido ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and locally sourced meats. This emphasis on regional produce enhances the freshness and quality of the dish.
Asahikawa Ramen Village
Address: 119-48 Nagayama 11-jo 4-chome, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 079-8421
Contact: 0166-48-2153
Business Hours: 11:00 am – 08:00 pm
Zangi
Zangi is a variation of Japanese fried chicken that is particularly associated with the Hokkaido region. It is similar to Karaage but has its own regional identity. It typically involves cutting the chicken into bite-sized chunks, similar to Karaage. The pieces are then marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It is coated in a mixture of flour or starch before deep-frying. This coating contributes to the dish’s crispy texture. Zangi is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce, enhancing the umami flavors of the fried chicken. The sauce may include soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings.
Torimatsu
Address: 1 Chome Kita 3 JonishiKutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0053, Japan
Contact: +81 136-23-2893
Business Hours: 05:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Hokkaido Uni Ikura Donburi
Uni is the edible part of the sea urchin and is prized for its delicate, briny flavor and creamy texture. Hokkaido is renowned for producing some of the finest uni in Japan, known for its sweet and complex taste. Ikura consists of salmon roe, which are large, orange-red eggs with a burst of salty and oceanic flavors. The roe adds a delightful pop and richness to the dish. The dish is presented in donburi style, which means it is served over a bowl of steamed rice. The combination of uni and ikura creates a luxurious topping for the rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Umihe Tokeidaimae
Address: 060-0001 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Kita 1 Jonishi, 3 札幌MNビルB1F
Contact: +81 112 08 3840
Business Hours: 11:30 am – 03:00 pm
04:00 pm – 12:00 am
Hokkaido Ice Cream
Enjoying Hokkaido ice cream is not just about the taste; it’s a cultural experience. The region’s clean and natural environment provides excellent conditions for dairy farming. The use of fresh, locally sourced milk contributes to the richness and creaminess of Hokkaido ice cream. Hokkaido ice cream often has a higher butterfat content compared to ice creams from other regions. The increased fat content results in a smoother and silkier texture, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Yubari melons and melon-flavored ice cream is an iconic and must-try specialty. The sweet and fragrant Yubari melon is often used to create a refreshing and delightful ice cream flavor.
Yamanaka Dairy Farm
Address: 1-6-18 Ironai, Otaru 047-0031
Contact: 0134-27-5123
Business Hours: 11:00 am – 06:00 pm
