By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, reported by Zhang Yingying

The ultra-popular Spring/Summer Washi Festival is about to arrive！Given the strong interest among Chinese travelers in “Hokkaido” and the region’s unique climate and abundant natural resources that produce a wealth of delicious local specialties and seafood, this year’s SOGO Spring/Summer Japanese Washi Festival is themed around “Hokkaido,” but also features other renowned local specialties from across Japan.

This time, we’ve specially introduced must-try sweet treats in Hokkaido — a famous and popular souvenir established in 1933～Rokkatei Puff Pastry, which is already one of the top destinations for tourists in the area. Such an iconic confectionery shop will be exclusively available at SOGO’s Washi Festival, and with limited quantities, it’s not to be missed！In addition, the milk pudding, cheesecake, and Shiroi Koibito that sell out every year will of course make an appearance again, ready to win over the hearts of dessert lovers once more！Beloved by foodies, live-cooked delights showcase the pride of culinary artisans, served fresh and hot！Must-try items include Sapporo ramen, Hokkaido seafood bento, and this year’s debut offerings like crab shell tempura, miso pork cutlets, and yakitori, all sure to delight your taste buds.

In addition to sampling delicious food, the exquisite craftsmanship of Japanese artisan goods is always highly praised. Artisans will demonstrate their refined techniques on-site, crafting a variety of artworks and everyday items for you to appreciate up close！Making its first appearance and favored by Japanese tea ceremony experts is the Kyoto Tachibana Yoshikawa tea set—both practical and embodying traditional aesthetics, making it a worthy collectible！Want to capture the same beautiful look as the Sakura girls？Try on the various kimonos and yukatas from Tokyo Yamaki for a hands-on experience！While enjoying the food, take in the stunning artistry of exquisite craftsmanship！

The Western-style confections produced and sold by Rokkatei’s confectionery facility in Obihiro City, Hokkaido, have long been a must-buy souvenir for travelers visiting Hokkaido. The most popular item is the “Marusei Butter Sandwich.” Since its launch in 1977, the “Marusei Butter Sandwich” has remained Rokkatei’s star product for 37 years. Its special feature lies in using 100% Hokkaido fresh milk butter combined with California raisins from the U.S. The cookie filling consists of raisins soaked in rum & brandy, along with sweet and smooth Hokkaido butter. It tastes sweet without being cloying, with a subtle hint of alcohol—making it a dessert for “adults”! Rokkatei’s second most popular item is the “Strawberry Chocolate,” featuring bright red freeze-dried strawberries coated in either white or milk chocolate；it gives off a sweet-and-sour “love” vibe！Rokkatei products are only sold in Hokkaido！Because Western-style confections like the Marusei Butter Sandwich have a very short shelf life, they are rarely available overseas. This time, after years of effort through various channels and via air freight importation, SOGO Department Store has secured this exclusive opportunity to offer them overseas！

Other specialty foods include Muroran yakitori, Bibai yakitori, the humble local dish of oyaki, and century-old classic confectionery art—Sakura Konpeito, offering delicious flavors without needing to fly all the way to Hokkaido or other parts of Japan！


◎ More delicious eats and fun in Hokkaido》   

Spring Trip to Hokkaido: 5-Day, 4-Night Itinerary

》》 http://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=9731