Japan’s northernmost region of Hokkaido boasts beautiful seasonal landscapes such as lavender fields, Biei Hills, and the Sapporo Snow Festival, making it a dream destination that many people visit more than once. In a lesser-known area of central Hokkaido, known as “Tokachi,” located near the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range—the roof of Hokkaido—and the Hidaka Mountains, there lies an expansive and fertile plain landscape. It is also the birthplace of Hokkaido’s iconic confectionery, “Rokkatei.”
Irresistible Pork Bowl (photograph by Li Meiling)
Thanks to its natural environment, Tokachi is well known for its dairy farming, agricultural produce, and cuisine. Japanese confectioneries often use Tokachi-grown red beans (azuki), and artisanal bakeries proudly promote the use of Tokachi wheat. Among its local specialties, the most famous dish is the national favorite “Pork Bowl.” The Tokachi pork bowl features succulent local pork grilled over charcoal to bring out a rich aroma, served over gleaming white rice with a secret house sauce and a few small green peas for garnish—quite different from the typical pork bowl seasoned with standard Japanese sauces. It's a must-try when visiting the area. In addition, Tokachi is one of the few regions in Japan that produces its own wine. The grapes, nourished by abundant sunshine and significant temperature variations, are plump and sweet, yielding wines that have earned numerous international awards.
Tokachi Nakashibetsu Art Village.
Even if you can’t travel all the way to the north, you’ll still have the chance to taste locally produced Tokachi delicacies this weekend. To promote tourism and food from Tokachi, the Tokachi City Young Chamber of Commerce (a public interest incorporated association) is holding a special promotional event on Saturday, July 30, 2011, from 11:00 to 14:00 at Taipei Main Station’s concourse and the plaza in front of the station. There will be 3,000 servings of locally sourced pork, chilled Tokachi wine, fresh yam, and popular products from Rokkatei such as cappuccino biscuits available for free tasting, along with information on sightseeing in Tokachi. Whether you’re interested in Tokachi’s cuisine or tourism, you can enjoy the food and experience the charm of the region during the holiday.