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10 Must-Try Foods in Hokkaido
Introduction: Hokkaido – Japan’s Northern Culinary Treasure
Hokkaido is not only known for its snowy winters and stunning landscapes, but also for some of the freshest, richest, and most flavorful foods in Japan. Thanks to its cool climate and wide open land, this northern island produces world-class seafood, dairy, and agricultural products.
Whether you’re visiting Sapporo, Hakodate, or Furano, Hokkaido is a dream destination for food lovers.
1. Seafood Donburi – Fresh from the Northern Seas
Hokkaido is legendary for its seafood. One of the best ways to enjoy it is in a kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) loaded with fresh uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), crab, scallops, and tuna.
🟢 Best Place to Try: Nijo Market (Sapporo), Hakodate Morning Market
2. Jingisukan – Grilled Lamb BBQ
Unique to Hokkaido, Jingisukan (named after Genghis Khan) is grilled mutton or lamb served with vegetables. It’s smoky, juicy, and often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.
🟢 Where to Eat: Sapporo Beer Garden or Genghis Khan Daruma
3. Hokkaido Ramen – Three Regional Styles
Hokkaido is home to three famous ramen types:
- Sapporo: miso-based, rich and hearty
- Hakodate: clear salt broth
- Asahikawa: soy sauce base with fish and pork blend
🟢 Don’t Miss: Sapporo Ramen Alley in Susukino
4. Soup Curry – Spicy Comfort in a Bowl
Originating in Sapporo, soup curry is a thin, flavorful broth packed with spices, vegetables, and meat. Served with rice on the side, it’s warming and satisfying.
5. Crab – King, Snow, and Hairy Crab Galore
Hokkaido is famous for kani (crab)—especially king crab (tarabagani), snow crab (zuwaigani), and horsehair crab (kegani). Enjoy it grilled, in hot pot, or as sushi.
🟢 Tip: Winter is crab season!
6. Hokkaido Dairy – Cheese, Milk, and Ice Cream
Thanks to its cool climate and rich farmland, Hokkaido produces Japan’s best dairy. Try soft-serve ice cream, cheese tarts, milk, and butter—all fresher than anywhere else.
🟢 Famous Brands: LeTAO, Milk Mura, Kinotoya
7. Yubari Melon – Sweetest in Japan
These high-end melons are luxuriously sweet and juicy. Even if you can’t afford a whole melon, you can try melon-flavored ice cream or desserts.
8. Ishikari Nabe – Salmon Hot Pot from the North
This local hot pot dish is made with salmon, tofu, vegetables, and miso-based broth—originating from the Ishikari River region. It’s rustic, hearty, and beloved by locals.
9. Zangi – Hokkaido-style Fried Chicken
Zangi is similar to karaage (Japanese fried chicken), but with Hokkaido’s own twist—typically marinated longer and served with special dipping sauces.
10. Butter Corn Ramen – Sapporo’s Signature Dish
Miso ramen topped with sweet corn and a slab of melting Hokkaido butter—simple, rich, and deeply satisfying.
🟢 Try it at: Ramen Shingen or Ramen Republic (Sapporo ESTA)
Where to Eat in Hokkaido
- Sapporo: Ramen, soup curry, and beer garden BBQ
- Hakodate: Morning seafood market and shio ramen
- Otaru: Sushi and fresh seafood near the canal
- Furano & Biei: Cheese, ice cream, and fresh vegetables
Conclusion: Hokkaido’s Cuisine is Pure, Fresh, and Flavorful
Hokkaido offers a true taste of nature—seafood caught in icy waters, dairy from grass-fed cows, and dishes inspired by local life and culture. It’s a food journey that captures the essence of northern Japan.
Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of ramen in a snowy Sapporo alley or savoring uni-don by the coast, Hokkaido is guaranteed to satisfy your appetite and your soul.