Hokkaido Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes for Your Trip

Hokkaido: Japan's Northernmost and Largest Region

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, spans an impressive 83,000 square kilometers, making up approximately 22% of the country’s total landmass. Its vast size is comparable to the U.S. state of Virginia or the entire nation of Austria. Surrounded by ocean on all sides, Hokkaido is celebrated for its abundant fishing grounds, earning it a reputation as a haven for fresh seafood. The island’s sprawling plains also support a flourishing agricultural industry, making it a key producer of Japan’s dairy products and vegetables. Known for its position in the Northern Hemisphere at Japan’s northernmost point, Hokkaido is famous for its frigid winters and breathtaking snowy landscapes.

Hokkaido: Japan’s Culinary Treasure Trove

Hokkaido’s greatest allure lies in its outstanding cuisine. Every dish crafted from the region’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients is truly exceptional, making it a sought-after destination even for Japanese travelers who come specifically to indulge in its food. From fresh seafood and pristine produce to mountain delicacies, Hokkaido offers ingredients of unparalleled quality, enhancing every journey. By exploring Hokkaido’s culinary delights, visitors can fully experience the richness of its natural bounty and the essence of its local culture.

Delicious Food from Hokkaido

Ramen

Miso Ramen

Originating in Sapporo, miso ramen is known for its rich, flavorful miso-based broth that pairs perfectly with thick noodles. Common toppings include chashu (braised pork), bamboo shoots, butter, and corn, resulting in a dish full of depth and aroma. This hearty ramen is perfect for warming up during Hokkaido’s freezing winters. Once a local specialty, it has now become popular across Japan and is a favorite of both locals and visitors.

Hakodate Shio Ramen

Hakodate shio (salt) ramen is distinguished by its clear, light, and refreshing salt-based broth, which complements the curly noodles beautifully. Toppings are kept simple—typically chashu, green onions, and bamboo shoots—allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.

Asahikawa Shoyu Ramen

Asahikawa shoyu (soy sauce) ramen stands out with its double-layered broth, a perfect blend of animal-based and seafood-based stocks. A thin layer of lard coats the soup, helping it stay warm in Hokkaido’s cold climate, making it a comforting and satisfying choice.

Kushiro Ramen

Kushiro ramen features thin noodles and a light soy sauce-based broth. This style has been a beloved local favorite for generations, offering a comforting, homey flavor reminiscent of classic Japanese ramen.

Muroran Curry Ramen

Muroran curry ramen is celebrated for its thick, spicy, and flavorful curry broth, which clings deliciously to wavy noodles. Each restaurant offers its unique take on the dish, with some including unconventional toppings like broccoli or potatoes, adding an exciting twist to this regional specialty.

Seafood Cuisine

Hokkaido is celebrated for its exceptionally fresh seafood, making it a top destination for seafood lovers. Many of the ingredients used in Tokyo's high-end sushi restaurants come from Hokkaido. Locally, you can enjoy seafood that’s not only fresher but also more affordable.

Crab (Kani)

Known as the "Kingdom of Crabs," Hokkaido is famous for its abundant crab harvests. Popular species include hair crab (ke-gani), red king crab (Taraba-gani), and snow crab (zuwai-gani). Crabs are prepared in a variety of ways, such as sashimi, hot pot, grilled, or crab miso baked in the shell. Winter, during the crab fishing season, is the best time to enjoy these delicacies at their freshest.

Scallops (Hotate)

Hokkaido scallops are prized for their plump, tender texture and natural sweetness, with umami bursting in every bite. They are delicious served raw as sashimi, grilled with butter, or deep-fried. Many seafood markets even offer freshly cooked scallops prepared right in front of you.

Sea Urchin (Uni)

Hokkaido’s sea urchin is renowned for its rich, creamy flavor. Among the varieties, Short－spined urchin (Ezo bafun uni) is considered a delicacy. During its summer peak, dishes like uni-don (sea urchin rice bowl) are a must-try. Hokkaido sea urchin is also a staple ingredient in many sushi restaurants in Tokyo.

Salmon Roe (Ikura)

Hokkaido’s salmon roe is famous for its freshness and firm, popping texture. Soy sauce-marinated ikura is a classic topping for sushi and seafood rice bowls, offering a bold umami flavor and vibrant red color. Some restaurants even serve "overflowing ikura bowls," with heaps of salmon roe piled generously over rice.

Sushi

Hokkaido’s sushi is among the best in Japan, boasting unparalleled freshness and quality. Sushi made with fish and shellfish caught early in the morning at local fishing ports is exquisite, even at reasonably priced establishments. The quality often surpasses what’s available in Tokyo, attracting visitors from all over the country. Sushi shops in Otaru and Hakodate are especially renowned, offering omakase ( chef’s choice) courses with premium seasonal ingredients.

Sashimi

Freshness is the hallmark of Hokkaido sashimi (sliced raw fish), featuring local catches such as tuna, scallops, salmon, and squid. Sashimi served in coastal towns is particularly noteworthy, as the seafood is delivered straight from the ocean.

Seafood Rice Bowls (Kaisen-don)

A seafood rice bowl ( kaisendon) is a must-try when visiting Hokkaido. Markets in Otaru and Hakodate serve decadent kaisendon made with seafood caught that very morning. Numerous specialty restaurants offer these bowls, which are popular among both tourists and locals. With toppings like salmon roe, sea urchin, scallops, shrimp, and various fish sashimi, these bowls are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Sweets & Desserts

Hokkaido, a vast region in Japan, is famous for its thriving dairy farming and orchards. The area is particularly known for its high-quality dairy products, with numerous farms producing a wide range of delicious treats.

Ice Cream / Soft Serve

Soft serve made with fresh Hokkaido milk is renowned for its rich, creamy flavor. It's available at farm-direct shops and popular tourist spots, often featuring seasonal flavors. The plain varieties that highlight the natural sweetness of the milk, as well as melon-flavored soft serve, are especially popular.

White Lovers (Shiroi Koibito)

A signature souvenir from Hokkaido, Shiroi Koibito consists of crisp butter cookies filled with rich white chocolate. Its delicate sweetness has made it a beloved treat among both domestic and international visitors.

Butter Sand

This indulgent snack features a creamy filling made with Hokkaido butter and rum-soaked raisins, sandwiched between two biscuits. Its moist texture and luxurious flavor make it a highly sought-after gift.

Yubari Melon

Yubari Melon, known for its juicy texture and intense sweetness, is among the sweetest fruits. It’s delightful enough to be enjoyed on its own as a dessert. Ice creams and smoothies made with Yubari Melon are also highly popular.

Foods Unique to Hokkaido

Hokkaido boasts a rich culinary tradition, with a variety of regional dishes that showcase its unique food culture. Here are some standout examples:

Jingisukan

Jingisukan is a signature Hokkaido dish where lamb is grilled on a specially designed iron pan and served with an abundance of vegetables. Hokkaido’s lamb is exceptionally fresh, with minimal gaminess, making it enjoyable even for those who don’t typically like lamb. In Sapporo’s beer gardens, you can savor this dish paired with freshly brewed beer.

Soup Curry

Born in Sapporo, soup curry is a flavorful, spiced soup filled with chunky vegetables and chicken. Unlike traditional curry, it has a thinner, broth-like consistency. Diners can customize the spice level and toppings to their preference. The dish is typically enjoyed by combining the richly spiced soup with tender chicken, fried vegetables, and rice.

Ishikari Hot Pot (Ishikari Nabe)

This classic Hokkaido hot pot features salmon as the centerpiece, simmered in a miso-based broth. Packed with vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, and other wholesome ingredients, Ishikari Nabe is a hearty dish that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days.

Stuffed Squid (Ikameshi)

A Hakodate specialty, Ikameshi consists of glutinous rice stuffed into squid and simmered in a sweet and savory sauce. The tender squid and flavorful rice create a perfect harmony, making it a popular choice as a bento meal.

Pork Bowl (Butadon)

Hailing from Obihiro, Butadon is a rice bowl topped with thinly sliced pork grilled in a sweet and savory sauce. Hearty and satisfying, this dish is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Sweet Corn

Hokkaido-grown corn is renowned for its exceptional sweetness and juiciness. Simply boiling the corn is enough to highlight its incredible flavor. It’s a popular snack available at local food stalls and farmer’s markets.

Potato with Butter (Jaga Butter)

Jaga Butter is a simple yet beloved dish made with fluffy Hokkaido potatoes generously topped with butter. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors of the high-quality potatoes to shine through.

Hokkaido-Style Fried Chicken (Zangi)

Zangi is Hokkaido’s version of karaage (Japanese fried chicken). Marinated in a soy sauce-based seasoning before being fried to crispy perfection, Zangi is juicy and packed with flavor, making it an excellent pairing with beer.

Drinks

Beer

Hokkaido is famous for its beer, with Sapporo Beer standing out as one of Japan’s most iconic brands. The region also offers a wide selection of local craft beers, and venues like the Sapporo Beer Garden and Otaru Beer Brewery are perfect for enjoying a pint alongside a delicious meal while sightseeing. These craft beers and local brews come in a diverse range of styles and flavors, offering something unique for every palate.

5 Recommended Fine Dining Highlights in Hokkaido

Hokkaido, particularly in vibrant urban areas like Sapporo and Susukino, is home to an array of exceptional dining options. Here are five handpicked fine dining experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip to Japan.

1. Sushi Tenchijin (すしてんちじん) / Sapporo / Sushi

1. Japan Restaurant Award, Best 100 (2022)

Sushi Tenchijin is renowned as one of Japan's top 100 sushi restaurants. Specializing in an exclusive omakase experience at the counter, the restaurant offers a menu thoughtfully designed to pair perfectly with sake and other beverages. Signature dishes include a delightful combination of squid and sea urchin, as well as tender steamed abalone. Another highlight is the vinegar-cured mackerel sushi, a specialty so exceptional it could inspire the creation of a dedicated shop.

2. Tachiguizushi Akira Sapporo (立喰い寿司 あきら 札幌店) / Sapporo / Sushi

Tachiguizushi Akira Sapporo is the Sapporo branch of a renowned standing-only sushi bar that attracts long lines in Tokyo. Originally designed as a casual alternative to the upscale sushi restaurant Sushi Shoryu in Shirokane-Takanawa, it offers top-quality ingredients at an affordable price. The menu highlights ingredients unique to Hokkaido, making it a perfect spot to enjoy exceptional sushi in a relaxed, informal setting.

3. Himeshara (姫沙羅) / Sapporo / Sushi

Himeshara, a two-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in Sapporo, offers an exquisite omakase dining experience. The course features a progression of sushi, small plates, and more sushi, with carefully curated individual dishes served between the sushi selections. The restaurant’s signature dish, the "Everything Shrimp," is a visual masterpiece that highlights the full, rich flavors of shrimp in every bite.

4. Kani Sienne Kitanohanare (かにじぇんぬ 北のはなれ) / Sapporo / Crab

Kani Sienne Kitanohanare is a crab specialty restaurant where guests enjoy an exclusive dining experience in private rooms with their dedicated chef. Originally located in Ginza, Tokyo, the restaurant serves premium crabs, including Matsuba crab, prepared in a variety of ways such as sashimi, shabu-shabu hot pot, boiled, and grilled. The course menu features a range of crab dishes, including crab cream croquettes and crab miso with a thick, savory sauce, allowing guests to enjoy an entire crab each.

5. Kokonyamahisa (古今山久) / Sapporo / Japanese

Kokonyamahisa is a Japanese restaurant that earned a Michelin star in the 2017 Sapporo Michelin Guide. True to its name, the restaurant offers a menu that combines traditional dishes passed down through generations with inventive, modern cuisine. The course menu changes monthly, featuring seasonal ingredients, and the pairing of Japanese sake from across the country with the dishes is exceptional.