The clear mountain air whispers of evergreen trees, as the evening light goldenly blankets snow-capped peaks. It's the preamble to an incredible gastronomic adventure, not only a postcard-perfect moment. The northern gem of Japan, Hokkaido invites you to enter a world where human creativity and plenty of nature produce remarkable flavours.
Onlyluxe Travel was invited by Hokkaido Tourism Organisation on an inspection trip to discovery Hokkaido’s culinary experiences.
Yoichi Loop: A Marriage of Wine and Gastronomy
Your gourmet journey starts at Yoichi, a lovely village tucked among undulating vineyards. Perfect for sophisticated gourmands, Yoichi Loop encourages you to start a special wine-matching journey.
Start your day at the energetic Yoichi morning market, slowly falling in sync with a tapestry of events: the lively chatter of vendors, the vibrant palette of fresh produce, and the briny tang of just-caught seafood. Here, you have the opportunity to select the freshest, seasonal ingredients; think plump sea urchins, glistening salmon, and crisp, dew-kissed vegetables–all the ingredients to stage the perfect culinary scene
Back at Yoichi Loop, a gifted chef walks you through the craft of creating regional cuisine. From tasty sashimi that melts like butter and perfectly grilled mackerel with a whisper of smokiness, to seasonal greens kissed by a light soy dressing, every meal is painstakingly created to highlight the abundance of Hokkaido. The real brilliance, though, is the way these superb culinary works marry Yoichi Loop's award-winning wines. Every drink is a symphony of flavours, the well-selected grape varietals enhancing the food in a way that transforms the whole experience into an artistic medium.
Hokkaidian Homestead: A Taste of Life on the Land
Deeper into the stunning scenery of Hokkaido, we reach the Hokkaidian Homestead, a refuge of rustic appeal located within the rolling hills and immaculate countryside. Here, Ian Fong You, the welcoming host, invites you to partake in the rhythms of rural life—not as a visitor, but as a part of the family.
Begin your culinary experience by walking through the homestead’s lush garden, where heirloom tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and sweet Hokkaido corn are ripe for the picking. Ian shares his passion for sustainable farming as you harvest ingredients with your own hands, forging a connection to the land. Together, you both produce a wonderful array of traditional Hokkaido cuisine, each step steeped with the rich cultural legacy of the area.
But the environment of the Hokkaidian Homestead has more actual charm than its cuisine. Envision yourself seated at a shared table surrounded by other guests, laughing and filling the air as you enjoy the results of your effort and tell tales. The amazing views of the surrounding countryside serve as the backdrop for an evening that will be remembered for warmth, friendship, and a great respect for the small joys of living on the earth.
A Journey Beyond the Plate
Hokkaido’s gastronomic encounters provide something far more than simply a good dinner. These intensive trips let you commune with the ground, its inhabitants, and their ancient cooking customs. You will see the painstaking attention to detail farmers and chefs use in their trade—a commitment that shows in every mouthful. Along with recollections of great tastes, you will have a fresh respect for the beauty and abundance of Hokkaido.
Please contact us for a tailor-made Hokkaido itinerary to include unique Food and Wine experiences.
