When it comes to souvenirs from Hokkaido, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the famous and popular Shiroi Koibito. Most of the popular snacks from Hokkaido are sweet, so what should you do if you dislike sweets and prefer savory items? In this feature, we introduce some of the most-loved savory treats from Hokkaido.
Jagadesuyo
Jagadesuyo (じゃがですよ) is a brand that offers limited-edition snacks in different regions of Japan. From Hokkaido, we recommend the following two options. The first is the scallop butter and soy sauce flavor potato sticks. With its seafood umami and rich, creamy fragrance, this is suitable for people of all ages.
The second is lightly salted potato sticks. A classic, these sticks, although simple in terms of flavor, are something you can never get tired of. What makes them unique is the sea salt used, which is produced in Soya district in the northernmost part of Hokkaido.
Chips and Crackers
You must be familiar with Calbee, which is known for its limited-edition products usually created in collaboration with other regions or companies. The image below is that of potato chips in the Hokkaido butter soy flavor made using potatoes and butter from Hokkaido. Hokkaido produce is of the highest quality, and this is quite evident in the taste.
While the regular shrimp cracker is familiar to those who live in Japan, this version is limited to Hokkaido. It is also in the classic scallop butter and soy sauce flavor. These three ingredients combined create an intense salty aroma, and the flavor of seafood will take you straight to an izakaya serving freshly-cooked scallops on a hibachi.
Hakodate Ikapopo Honpo
Crackers from Hakodate Ikapopo Honpo are super delicious. The most popular flavors are cheddar cheese and sweet shrimp.
These also use salt from the Sea of Okhotsk.
Gotoken
Gotoken, a chain restaurant from Hakodate, is famous for its curry rice. The best part is that you can buy snacks by Gotoken that have the iconic curry flavor. Okaki (mochi cut thin, dried, and baked or fried) is the most recommended item.
The gift box set is suitable for giving to family and friends.
Dried seafood
And finally, we talk about the various types of dried seafood. Since Hokkaido is abundantly blessed with good seafood, this is something that you must try.
Squid jerky, dried octopus, and other items are great party treats as they are an excellent accompaniment to drinks.
While several of these are relatively common with versions available all over Japan, we would specifically like to recommend Kombu Ame (kelp candy).
Although it is called candy, it is just packaged as a candy and is actually pieces of kelp rolled together. There are several variations of this, but most will use authentic Hokkaido kelp. Kombu is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it popular among those interested in healthy treats.
So if you don’t like sweets, check out all these yummy savory snacks on your next trip to Hokkaido..
