Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Hokkaido is synonymous with seafood. If you do not know where to start, check out the seafood recommendations here.

When you start eating crab, even the usually quiet Japanese become even quieter!

Japanese people love crab. That's why people from all over Japan visit Hokkaido, where the crab catch is far superior compared to other regions. If fresh, plump crab is affordable, you can't help but eat it in Hokkaido. The crabs that represent Hokkaido are "Hairy crab," "Red king crab," "Snow crab," and "Hanasaki crab." Each has a unique taste, so it's hard to say which is the best. Among them, the "Hanasaki crab" is caught only in the Nemuro region of eastern Hokkaido. Its catching season is limited, and its catch volume is small, making it a precious crab. It is characterized by its spiny surface.

The "Hairy crab" has a strong sweetness and a firm texture, with its roe being a highlight. It is generally boiled with salt or grilled. The "Red king crab" is known for its luxurious sweetness and delicate flavor. Its long legs are also appetizing. The "Snow crab" will surprise you with its size. It is so popular that it is called the king of winter delicacies, known for its elegant and sweet meat. It is usually steamed or briefly dipped in boiling water before eating.

The best way to enjoy crab is to crack open the shell and eat the meat directly. Usually quiet Japanese people become even quieter when they start eating delicious crab. Perhaps even those of you known as chatterboxes might find yourselves speechless when eating crab in Hokkaido. By the way, after extracting the meat, place the shells in a bowl on the table. Throwing them on the floor is considered bad manners in Japan, so be careful.

Health & Taste! Now the World Loves Japan's SUSHI

Sushi, a representative food of Japan, now has fans all over the world. There is no other food in the world that is as artistic as sushi, made with the precise skills of a master. Sushi also serves as a guide to the changing seasons, which is quite surprising. Hokkaido is famous within Japan for its delicious sushi. Just thinking about visiting Hokkaido for this reason alone makes you lucky. So, why is Hokkaido sushi so delicious? One of the main reasons is that the fish, the primary ingredient of sushi, is abundant and fresh. Fresh fish is delivered not only to port cities but also throughout Hokkaido, so it tastes great no matter where you eat it. Some people attribute it to the quality of the water used to cook the rice (called "shari" in sushi). Indeed, Hokkaido's tap water is said to be delicious compared to other regions, so this opinion makes sense. Another reason is the presence of many skilled artisans. A great artisan has the ability to handle ingredients with care and bring out their maximum flavor.

Most sushi ingredients are raw fish. Guests from countries without a culture of eating raw fish may hesitate at first, but once they try it, most become fans! That's how delicious sushi is! Of course, sushi ingredients are not limited to fish. In the late 20th century, unique sushi using vegetables and meat became popular in the United States. Recently, more affordable sushi options like "kaiten sushi" (conveyor belt sushi) have become widespread, offering popular items like "tuna mayonnaise" and "crab mayonnaise," which even children can enjoy, as well as "hamburger steak rolls" with hamburger steak on top of rice. There are various ways to eat sushi, but don't worry about the details and just give it a try. You will surely come to love SUSHI the most!

Are there flavors other than miso, soy sauce, and salt?

Let's head out to try the distinctive and unique ramen in each region!

The soul food of the people of Hokkaido, loved by men and women of all ages.

What do you need to know about Genghis Khan BBQ?

Unique local food culture is one reason why people from all over visit Hokkaido. Each region has its own “local legends,” from pork rice bowls in Obihiro, to shrimp and octopus dumplings in Haboro. More widely known “heroes” like soup curry, Genghis Khan mutton BBQ, and ramen can be found almost anywhere, although each region is going to have its own unique twist on these classics.

Blessed with high-quality milk and wheat, Hokkaido sweets are made from the finest ingredients. Enjoy a moment of bliss!

Farming and agriculture are big parts of life in Hokkaido, and one reason it is so well-loved around Japan. Fresh produce like potatoes, corn, and asparagus; tender and delicious meats like bacon and sausage; and luxurious dairy like milk, butter, and cheese are produced, sold, and shipped all over the country.

The climate of Hokkaido and high-quality hops help produce good beer, and many manufactures establish their factories here because of that. This same climate is what makes the region a producer of wine, sake, and whiskey as well. Each of these alcoholic beverages is celebrated in different ways around the prefecture, and can often be enjoyed on-site at breweries, wineries, and distilleries.

Taste freshly brewed beer in Hokkaido, the home of domestic beer. Compare and contrast unique craft beers filled with local love.