Hokkaido is known for its rich culinary culture and unique food offerings that have drawn food enthusiasts from all over the world. This northernmost island of Japan is home to a diverse range of dishes that are influenced by the region’s climate, geography, and history.
From seafood delicacies to hearty meat dishes, Hokkaido has something to offer for everyone’s taste buds.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 delicious foods to try in Hokkaido. These dishes are not only popular among the locals but also loved by tourists who visit the island.
We will provide a brief overview of each dish, highlighting its key ingredients, preparation methods, and cultural significance.
Whether you are a foodie or just curious to explore new cuisines, this article will give you a taste of Hokkaido’s culinary delights.
Key Takeaways
- Hokkaido’s culinary culture offers a diverse range of dishes influenced by climate, geography, and history, including Sapporo-style ramen, Genghis Khan, Hokkaido Milk, seafood donburi, soup curry, Ishikari Nabe, and melonpan.
- Sapporo-style ramen is an iconic dish originated in Sapporo and served with various toppings like pork, bamboo shoots, and corn.
- Soft serve culture in Hokkaido is deeply ingrained in the culinary landscape, with numerous shops specializing in sweet desserts and popular flavors like matcha, lavender, and Hokkaido milk.
- Hokkaido produces some of the richest and creamiest ice cream in Japan, with must-try flavors like Hokkaido Premium Milk and charcoal-infused soft serve, and must-visit shops like Milkissimo and Soft Cream Factory.
Sapporo-style Ramen
Sapporo-style ramen, one of Hokkaido’s most iconic dishes, is characterized by its rich, miso-based broth and chewy, curly noodles. This type of ramen originated in Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, and has since gained worldwide popularity.
The broth is made by simmering pork bones and vegetables for hours, resulting in a creamy, savory flavor that is enhanced with miso paste. The noodles, on the other hand, are made with a special technique that involves kneading and twisting the dough to create a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the broth.
Sapporo-style ramen is often served with various toppings, such as slices of pork, bamboo shoots, green onions, and corn. Some variations even include butter or cheese, which add a unique richness to the dish.
The popularity of Sapporo-style ramen has led to the establishment of numerous ramen shops all over Japan and even in other countries. However, the best way to experience this delicious dish is by trying it in its place of origin, Hokkaido.
Whether you prefer a rich, hearty broth or a lighter, more refreshing one, Sapporo-style ramen is definitely a must-try for any food lover visiting Hokkaido.
Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)
Grilled lamb is a staple dish in Hokkaido, and one popular variation is Genghis Khan, which consists of thinly sliced lamb seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and other spices, grilled on a convex skillet, and typically eaten with vegetables and rice.
The lamb used in Genghis Khan is typically sourced from Hokkaido, where the cold climate and vast pasturelands provide an ideal environment for raising high-quality lamb. The meat is thinly sliced, and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and other spices, which give it a savory, umami flavor.
The meat is then grilled on a convex skillet, which allows the juices to collect in the center and creates a crispy exterior. The dish is typically served with a variety of vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, which are grilled alongside the meat and add a fresh, crunchy texture to the dish.
The dish’s name is derived from the legendary Mongolian warrior, Genghis Khan, who is believed to have eaten grilled meat during his military expeditions. The dish is said to have originated in Hokkaido in the mid-20th century, and has since become a popular dish throughout Japan.
Overall, Genghis Khan is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Hokkaido, and a testament to the region’s culinary prowess.
Hokkaido Milk
Hokkaido Milk is a highly prized dairy product that is widely recognized for its exceptional quality. The milk is known for its rich, creamy texture and exceptional taste, which come from the unique climatic and environmental conditions of Hokkaido. The region’s cool climate, clean air, and abundant natural resources create the perfect conditions for producing high-quality milk.
Hokkaido Milk is used in various confectioneries and desserts, such as ice cream, chocolate, and butter. It is also used in many traditional Japanese dishes, such as hot pot and rice pudding. The milk is so highly regarded that some people even travel to Hokkaido specifically to try it.
The demand for Hokkaido Milk is so high that it has become a major industry in the region, with many companies producing and selling the product both domestically and internationally. Overall, Hokkaido Milk is a must-try dairy product for anyone visiting the region, as it offers a unique and delectable taste that cannot be found anywhere else.
Seafood Donburi
One of the most popular dishes in Hokkaido is the seafood donburi, which features a variety of fresh seafood served over a bed of rice. The dish is a staple in many restaurants across the region, with each establishment offering its own unique take on the classic recipe.
Some of the most popular variations include the chirashi don, which combines sashimi with seasoned rice and vegetables, and the uni don, which features fresh sea urchin as the star ingredient. The seafood donburi is a must-try dish for any food enthusiast visiting Hokkaido.
The abundance of fresh seafood in the region ensures that the dish is always of the highest quality, with each ingredient perfectly cooked to bring out its unique flavor profile. Whether you prefer sashimi, shrimp, octopus, or sea urchin, there is a seafood donburi variation that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
So be sure to add this delicious dish to your Hokkaido food bucket list!
Soup Curry
Soup curry is a unique dish that combines the flavors of Japanese curry with the comforting warmth of soup. Originating from Hokkaido, this dish has become a beloved staple and a must-try for any foodie visiting the region. The dish features a rich and savory curry broth that is filled with a variety of vegetables and meat, such as chicken or pork. Each restaurant has their own twist on the recipe, with some adding seafood or incorporating unique spices and flavors.
One of the key features of soup curry is the ability to customize the dish to your own liking. Most restaurants will allow you to choose the level of spiciness and the type of meat and vegetables you want in your curry. This allows for a truly personalized experience that is both delicious and satisfying. Additionally, the dish is often served with a side of rice or bread, making it a filling and hearty meal that will keep you warm on even the coldest of Hokkaido days.
| Type of Meat | Vegetables | Level of Spiciness | Popular Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Potatoes, Carrots, Onions, Eggplant | Mild, Medium, Hot | Suage+ |
| Pork | Corn, Cabbage, Bamboo Shoots, Asparagus | Mild, Medium, Hot | Picante |
| Seafood | Mushrooms, Bean Sprouts, Bell Peppers, Tomatoes | Mild, Medium, Hot | Ishiya Soup Curry |
The table above highlights some popular types of meat and vegetables used in soup curry, as well as the level of spiciness and some recommended restaurants to try the dish. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer a milder flavor, soup curry has something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you find yourself in Hokkaido, don’t miss out on the chance to try this unique and delicious dish.
Ishikari Nabe
Ishikari Nabe is a traditional hot pot dish that is commonly enjoyed during the winter months in northern Japan. The dish is named after the Ishikari River, which is known for its abundance of salmon, a key ingredient in the dish.
Ishikari Nabe is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for warming up during the cold winter months. The base of the dish is made up of a rich and savory broth that is made by simmering salmon heads and bones for hours.
The broth is then flavored with soy sauce, mirin, and sake, and is filled with an assortment of vegetables such as napa cabbage, daikon radish, and carrots. Thinly sliced salmon fillets are added to the pot just before serving, along with tofu and mushrooms.
The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is full of flavor and texture. If you find yourself in Hokkaido during the winter months, Ishikari Nabe is a must-try dish that will leave you feeling warm and content.
Melonpan
Melonpan, a sweet Japanese bread that is popular among locals and tourists alike, is a must-try treat for those visiting Japan. The name ‘melonpan’comes from the appearance of the bread, which resembles a melon. This unique bread is made by wrapping a layer of cookie dough around a piece of sweet bread dough, creating a crispy and crunchy exterior that contrasts the soft and fluffy interior. The bread is often sold in bakeries and convenience stores, and is a popular snack for people on the go.
Melonpan comes in different varieties, with some bakeries adding chocolate chips, custard, or even matcha filling to the bread. The bread is often eaten as a breakfast item or as a snack during the day. Despite its popularity, the exact origin of melonpan is unknown, with some claiming it originated in Kobe and others saying it came from Nagasaki.
Regardless of its origin, melonpan has become a beloved treat in Japan, and is a must-try for anyone visiting the country. Its unique texture and sweetness make it a delicious and satisfying snack that should not be missed.
Melonpan is a unique and popular sweet treat in Japan that should be added to any foodie’s list of must-try foods in Hokkaido. Its combination of crispy and fluffy textures, along with its sweetness, make it a satisfying snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
So the next time you are in Japan, make sure to try a delicious and crispy melonpan!
Soft Serve Ice Cream
Soft serve ice cream is a popular treat in Hokkaido, known for its rich and creamy texture. Hokkaido’s soft serve culture is deeply ingrained in its culinary landscape, with numerous shops specializing in this sweet dessert.
Popular flavors include matcha, lavender, and Hokkaido milk, among others. For those looking to indulge in Hokkaido’s soft serve scene, there are many shops to choose from, each offering their own unique take on this beloved dessert.
Hokkaido’s Soft Serve Culture
Hokkaido’s ice cream parlors offer a wide range of unique and flavorful soft serve options. Known for its dairy products, Hokkaido produces some of the richest and creamiest ice cream in Japan. Soft serve is a beloved treat in the region, and locals take their ice cream seriously. Hokkaido’s soft serve culture is defined by using fresh, high-quality cream, and an emphasis on natural flavors. This results in ice cream that is not only delicious but also has a smooth and velvety texture.
One of the most popular soft serve flavors in Hokkaido is milk. The milk used in Hokkaido soft serve comes from cows that graze on lush green pastures, which produces rich and flavorful milk.
Another popular flavor is lavender, which is grown in Hokkaido’s famous lavender fields. The lavender soft serve has a delicate and floral flavor that is both refreshing and unique.
Other popular flavors include chocolate, matcha, and strawberry, each made with the finest ingredients. Hokkaido’s soft serve culture is a must-try for anyone visiting the region, and a perfect way to indulge in Hokkaido’s dairy and culinary delights.
Popular Soft Serve Flavors
The diverse range of soft serve flavors available in Hokkaido’s ice cream parlors showcases the region’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and natural flavors. Hokkaido is known for its dairy products, and this is evident in the creamy and rich texture of their soft serve ice cream. The use of local ingredients such as Hokkaido milk and cream, as well as fruits and vegetables grown in the region, makes their soft serve flavors unique and distinct.
One popular soft serve flavor in Hokkaido is the milk flavor, which is made using Hokkaido’s famous dairy products. The milk flavor is simple yet delicious, with a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness.
Another popular flavor is the lavender flavor, which is made using locally grown lavender flowers. The lavender flavor is refreshing and has a floral aroma that is both soothing and pleasing to the senses.
The diverse range of soft serve flavors in Hokkaido offers a unique culinary experience that is worth trying for anyone visiting the region.
Best Soft Serve Shops in Hokkaido
Renowned for their commitment to quality and flavor, Hokkaido boasts a plethora of soft serve shops that offer a unique culinary experience. From the sweet and creamy to the tangy and refreshing, Hokkaido’s soft serve shops cater to a wide range of taste preferences. One of the most popular shops is Milkissimo, known for their rich and creamy milk-based soft serve. Their signature flavor is the Hokkaido Milk, made with fresh milk from local cows and boasting a smooth and velvety texture. Another must-try flavor is the Berry Berry, which features a mix of juicy strawberries and tart raspberries.
Another highly recommended shop is Soft Cream Factory, located in the heart of Sapporo. They offer a variety of flavors that incorporate local ingredients such as lavender, corn, and pumpkin. Their most popular flavor is the Hokkaido Premium Milk, which is made with milk from cows that are fed a special diet of grass and corn. The result is a rich and creamy soft serve that is unmatched in flavor. For those seeking a more unique experience, Soft Cream Factory also offers a charcoal-infused soft serve, which has a slightly smoky flavor and a striking black color. Overall, Hokkaido’s soft serve shops are a must-visit for any foodie looking to indulge in some of the best desserts Japan has to offer.
| Soft Serve Shop | Signature Flavor | Other Recommended Flavors |
|---|---|---|
| Milkissimo | Hokkaido Milk (milk-based) | Berry Berry (strawberry and raspberry mix) |
| Soft Cream Factory | Hokkaido Premium Milk (made with special diet-fed cows) | Lavender, Corn, and Pumpkin |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the origins of Sapporo-style Ramen and how does it differ from other types of ramen?
Sapporo-style ramen originates from Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island.
It is a unique type of ramen that differs from other types due to a few key elements.
Firstly, the broth is made from a combination of pork bone and chicken stock, resulting in a rich and creamy flavor.
Secondly, the noodles are thick and curly, allowing them to hold onto the broth and flavor.
Finally, toppings such as butter, sweet corn, and roasted pork are commonly added, giving the dish a distinct taste and texture.
Sapporo-style ramen has become a popular dish across Japan and the world, and is a must-try for anyone visiting Hokkaido.
Is Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) a dish that is commonly found outside of Hokkaido?
Genghis Khan, also known as Jingisukan, is a dish that originated in Hokkaido, Japan. It is a grilled lamb or mutton dish that is typically served with vegetables such as onions and peppers.
While it is a popular dish in Hokkaido, it is not commonly found outside of the region. The dish is named after the famous Mongolian ruler, Genghis Khan, due to his fondness for grilled meats.
The dish gained popularity in Hokkaido due to its proximity to Mongolia and the abundance of sheep in the region. While there are variations of the dish found in other parts of Japan and even other countries, the authentic Genghis Khan can only be found in Hokkaido.
Its unique flavor and cultural significance make it a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
How is Hokkaido Milk different from other types of milk, and what makes it so special?
Hokkaido milk is renowned for its high quality and unique taste, which is attributed to the regions cold climate and clean environment.
Compared to other types of milk, Hokkaido milk has a higher fat content and a creamier texture, which make it ideal for producing rich and flavorful dairy products like cheese, butter, and ice cream.
Additionally, Hokkaido milk is often sourced from cows that are raised on natural grass and hay, rather than artificial feed, which contributes to its distinct flavor and nutritional value.
The production and consumption of Hokkaido milk has become an integral part of the regions cultural identity and is celebrated through various food festivals and events.
Overall, the exceptional quality of Hokkaido milk can be attributed to a combination of natural factors and traditional farming practices, which have been passed down through generations.
What types of seafood are typically used in a Seafood Donburi, and how are they prepared?
Seafood donburi is a traditional Japanese dish that typically features an assortment of seafood served on top of a bed of rice. The types of seafood used in this dish can vary depending on the region, but some common choices include tuna, salmon, shrimp, and squid.
These ingredients are often prepared in a variety of ways, such as raw, grilled, or fried. In some cases, the seafood may be marinated or seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, or other traditional Japanese flavors. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that showcases the freshness and quality of Hokkaido’s seafood.
While seafood donburi can be found throughout Japan, Hokkaido’s unique location and abundance of fresh seafood make it an especially popular destination for this dish.
What is the history behind Soup Curry and why is it so popular in Hokkaido?
Soup curry is a popular dish in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its unique blend of spices and ingredients. The dish originated in Sapporo in the 1970s when a local chef, inspired by Indian curry, decided to create his own version of the dish using local ingredients.
The dish quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike for its flavorful broth and variety of vegetables and meats. Soup curry is typically made with a mix of vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and onions, and a choice of meat, such as chicken, pork, or seafood, all simmered in a curry-spiced broth.
The dish’s popularity can be attributed to its versatility, as it can be customized to suit individual preferences, and its ability to warm and comfort during the cold Hokkaido winters.
Conclusion
Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is a paradise for foodies. From Sapporo-style Ramen to Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), Hokkaido offers a wide range of unique dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The island is known for its fresh produce, seafood, and dairy products, making it a food lover’s dream destination.
One of the must-try dishes in Hokkaido is Soup Curry, a fusion of Japanese curry and soup that is light, flavorful, and healthy. This dish includes a variety of vegetables, meat, and a broth made from various spices, making it a perfect choice for those who are health-conscious.
Another popular dish is Ishikari Nabe, a hot pot made with salmon, vegetables, and miso soup. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for those cold Hokkaido winters.
In conclusion, Hokkaido is a culinary wonderland that offers a variety of delicious and unique dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From seafood Donburi to Soft Serve Ice Cream, Hokkaido has something for everyone. If you’re a food lover, Hokkaido should definitely be on your bucket list.
So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey to Hokkaido, where you’ll discover new flavors and experience the ultimate foodie adventure.
