Hokkaido is a gourmet paradise full of dishes made with fresh seafood and the blessings of its rich land. If you’re traveling to Hokkaido, enjoying its amazing local cuisine is definitely one of the highlights. In this article, we introduce 10 must-try gourmet dishes you shouldn’t miss on your Hokkaido trip. Enjoy all of them in Hokkaido!
Jingisukan (Grilled Lamb BBQ)
One dish you absolutely can’t miss in Hokkaido is Jingisukan. Made with lamb, this dish is known for its mild flavor and is typically enjoyed with a savory sauce or just salt. Especially popular are places like “Sapporo Jingisukan,” “Matsuo Jingisukan,” and “Jingisukan no Shirakaba,” which are highly rated by locals. With a rental car, it’s easy and convenient to reach popular spots even outside the city center.
Sapporo Ramen
When it comes to Hokkaido ramen, Sapporo Ramen stands out with its thick curly noodles and rich miso-based broth. In Sapporo city, popular ramen spots like “Sumire” and “Shirakaba Sansou” are favorites among tourists. You’ll also find great ramen in the suburbs—be sure to go exploring!
Kaisen-don (Seafood Bowl)
Hokkaido is overflowing with fresh seafood, and kaisen-don (seafood bowl) is one dish you absolutely must try. At places like Nijo Market in Sapporo or Sankaku Market in Otaru, you can savor bowls loaded with seasonal seafood such as sea urchin, salmon roe, crab, and scallops. Port towns like Otaru and Hakodate are within driving distance from Sapporo, making them great for seafood lovers on the go.
Buta-don (Pork Bowl)
A specialty of Obihiro, Buta-don is a rice bowl topped with thick slices of pork grilled in a sweet and savory sauce. The smoky aroma and juicy pork make for a hearty and satisfying dish loved by locals. In Obihiro, famous spots like “Tonta” and “Butahachi” await. It’s a must-try while exploring the area.
Sapporo Soup Curry
Sapporo Soup Curry is another iconic dish, known for its deep flavor and spicy kick. You can choose from various toppings like chicken, vegetables, or seafood to create your perfect bowl. There are plenty of specialized restaurants throughout Sapporo, so why not do a tasting tour?
Boiled Corn
Sweet corn grown in Hokkaido’s vast farmlands is known for its sweetness and crisp texture. Especially in summer, boiled corn is in season and easily found at roadside stations and local stands. Simply boiled, the corn is juicy and sweet enough to enjoy on its own. Many farms in Furano and Biei sell freshly boiled corn right on-site—perfect for a light snack during your drive.
Melon
Hokkaido’s melons are especially sweet and juicy, peaking in summer. The Yubari Melon is a famous example and is widely available at roadside stations and tourist spots. In Furano and Yubari, you can visit farms during harvest season and enjoy fresh melons on the spot—and with a rental car, it’s easy to go melon-hopping!
Soft Serve Ice Cream
Made with fresh local milk, Hokkaido’s soft serve ice cream is a treat not to be missed. In places like Biei and Furano, farms and dairies serve up rich, creamy cones. Enjoying one during a scenic drive is one of Hokkaido’s simple pleasures. Don’t miss the chance to try cold soft serve even in winter—it’s a surprisingly delightful experience!
Jaga Butter (Potato with Butter)
Hokkaido is well-known for its potatoes, and jaga butter (potato with butter) stands out for its simple yet flavorful taste. Roadside stations and farm markets often sell freshly steamed potatoes with a generous helping of butter. While you’re there, we also recommend trying croquettes made with local potatoes.
Butter Sandwich Cookies
Butter sandwich cookies are a beloved Hokkaido confection, especially those from the famous local brand “Rokkatei.” These sweet treats sandwich rich butter cream between crisp cookies, making them a popular souvenir. While they’re available at airports and tourist spots, the main store also offers exclusive items worth checking out.
Explore Hokkaido’s Local Cuisine by Rental Car!
With a rental car, you can go beyond the usual tourist spots and visit hidden local gems. Driving through Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes while stopping at delicious food spots is one of the biggest perks of renting a car.
In particular, we recommend GO!GO! Car Rental, which has a large inventory and reliable customer support for visitors. Choose the car that fits your style and explore Hokkaido comfortably!
