Hokkaido – Why is it Always Number One?!
What do you think is the charm of Hokkaido? The vast nature? The delicious food? Or maybe the "It's going to get cold soon!" that turns into a snowstorm before you know it? (Just kidding!) In fact, Hokkaido is a super popular tourist destination, both domestically and internationally, thanks to its magnificent nature and rich food culture. Moreover, it frequently ranks number one in the "Top Places to Visit in Japan" lists! But why is it so popular? That’s because… Hokkaido boasts a lot of "Japan's Number Ones"! Let's dive into the endless list of "Japan's Number Ones" that Hokkaido has to offer.
Hokkaido's "Japan's Number Ones" – They Just Keep Coming!
First off, Hokkaido has the most ski resorts in Japan! Yes, it's a skier's paradise. Whether you go to Niseko, Furano, or Rusutsu, powder snow blankets the slopes, making it heaven for skiers and snowboarders alike! And if you're not a fan of skiing, no worries. Even if you can't ski or fall, the soft snow won't hurt that much (probably). Even if you end up looking like a snowman, no one will mind.
Next, Hokkaido has the most hot spring resorts in Japan! While winters in Hokkaido can be bitterly cold, that just makes the hot springs all the more delightful. Soaking in Noboribetsu Onsen, you'll find yourself murmuring, "This must be heaven..." Once your frozen body warms up in the hot spring, you might never want to leave (though you will have to eventually). And when you see your wrinkled hands and feet, you’ll realize you might have stayed in too long, but it’s all part of the charm!
Hokkaido also boasts the largest forest area in Japan. It's a true "Nature Kingdom"! Walking through the Shiretoko Peninsula, you might even encounter a bear (the editor, who’s from Hokkaido, has actually come across one...). Surrounded by such vast nature, the hustle and bustle of the city feel like a distant memory. Sometimes, you might even feel like the wilderness is almost "too big."
Hokkaido's Cuisine – A Parade of Japan's Number Ones!
Now, when you think of Hokkaido, you can’t help but think of the food, right? Let’s shout it from the rooftops: the food in Hokkaido is seriously delicious! Scallops, Pacific saury, beef… just about everything boasts the highest production volume in Japan. Simply eating in Hokkaido makes you feel like you're experiencing "Japan's Number One." Being in Hokkaido makes you feel like a VIP, enjoying premium "Number One ingredients."
Let’s start with Jingisukan. When it comes to Hokkaido's specialties, this dish is a must! Lamb marinated in a special sauce, grilled with vegetables—Jingisukan is juicy, and every bite fills your mouth with rich flavor. Plus, you can impress your friends by saying, "In Hokkaido, we have a special pan just for cooking Jingisukan!" Paired with vegetables, it’s a dish that pretends to be healthy (key point here), and you can easily eat several plates. Even those who don’t usually like lamb might find themselves loving it here.
Next is Soup Curry. Soup curry is a unique Hokkaido dish that stands out from regular curry! The spicy broth perfectly complements the chunky vegetables and chicken, and the more you eat it, the more you get hooked. Unlike regular curry, where you pour the roux over the rice, with soup curry, you scoop up the rice, then dip the whole spoonful into the soup. You can even customize the spiciness, so whether you're a beginner or a curry pro, everyone can enjoy it. Don’t miss out on savoring the rich flavors!
And we can't forget about the seafood. The fresh sushi and seafood rice bowls at markets in Otaru or Hakodate are on another level compared to what you get elsewhere. Even the affordable conveyor-belt sushi places here are top-notch. You might find yourself thinking that the sushi here is better than at some expensive sushi restaurants. Once you try sushi in Hokkaido, you may not be able to eat it anywhere else. When you visit Hokkaido, eat seafood every day!
The dairy products are also top-tier. Milk, butter, and cheese made from cows raised on Hokkaido's vast farms are creamy and rich. Once you try ice cream in Hokkaido, no other ice cream will compare. In fact, the editor here only chooses between Hokkaido ice cream or Häagen-Dazs (since Häagen-Dazs is delicious worldwide, of course!).
The Luxury of Enjoying All Four Seasons
"But isn't Hokkaido all about winter?" you might be thinking. Actually, Hokkaido offers delights in all four seasons! Winter brings skiing and hot springs; spring is for cherry blossoms and moss phlox; summer showcases Furano's lavender fields; and autumn treats you to stunning fall foliage. No matter which season you visit, it’s a good time! Take Instagram-worthy photos in the lavender fields in summer, feast on seasonal delicacies in autumn, and relax in the hot springs while watching the snow in winter. Thinking about "What should I do in Hokkaido next?" for each season becomes something to look forward to.
In Conclusion – Hokkaido is a Treasure Trove of "Japan's Number Ones!"
So, as you can see, Hokkaido is packed with "Japan’s Number Ones." From nature to hot springs, skiing to food, once you experience Hokkaido, you’ll never forget it. Cold weather? Who cares! Just soak in a hot spring, savor the delicious food, and relax both body and mind. That’s the Hokkaido style. For your next trip, don't hesitate—choose Hokkaido! And don't worry about overeating—just enjoy Hokkaido to the fullest!
