HIGASHI-YAMA Tokyo

In this eighth edition of FOOD NIPPON, we delve into the food culture of Donan, or Southern Hokkaido, as shared with us by local growers, makers and craftsmen. We will be introducing selected food ingredients, sake and tableware, specifically chosen for their ability to convey the richness and appeal of the region.

In Makkarimura, situated in the foothills of Yoteizan, we came across vegetable growers who really make the most of this region’s unique natural environment with its plentiful spring water, rich volcanic soil offering excellent drainage, and extremely heavy snowfalls. Here, local wisdom has created a method whereby vegetables are stored beneath the deep snow to maximize their sweetness.

With its exotic streetscape, Hakodate was the backdrop for several fascinating encounters. The Tachikawa Family House, built more than 100 years ago, was fashioned on a warehouse with thick mortar walls. Today it is home to the TACHIKAWA CAFÉ, where Chef Murai offers wild game cuisine, serving dishes of duck and Ezoshika Hokkaido venison that he has hunted himself. Deer-hunting with Chef Murai was an incredible opportunity to reflect again on the importance of coexisting with nature.

We also met with some incredibly enterprising artists in Hakodate. We will be showcasing some truly unique pieces of tableware they have created incorporating ideas from various cultures.

There is so much to offer this winter, from the deliciously sweet vegetables of Makkarimura to deer hunted in the Komagatake region, and the plentiful catches of shellfish from Funka Bay brought in to port at Morimachi.

We invite you to come and enjoy the rich food culture offered by the wise people who call this incredible region home.

We are looking forward to your visit.