8August

2011

CONTENTS

FREE

© Pacific Music Festival

www.hokkaido-pedia.jpwww.hokkaido-pedia.jpwww.hokkaido-pedia.jp

As the end of Hokkaido’s short summer approaches, a refreshing breeze arrives to turn the leaves into a kaleidoscope of reds and yellows. Seafood such as salmon, saury, crab and sea urchin, and delicacies from the land, including apples, pears, grapes and melons are at their peak as the harvest season unfolds. Hokkaido’s most delicious season – autumn is calling!

As Honshu and the rest of Japan struggle to stay cool while attempting to save energy in a bid to help recovery efforts in the areas affected by the earthquake of March 11, Hokkaido continues to be the best place to be this summer. Why not switch off your air conditioner and head north, where fresh breezes, cool water and delicious food will help you beat the summertime blues.

Save energy – come to Hokkaido

What’s on .............................2

Living Hokkaido ....................3

The Great Outdoors .............4

Walk Talk ..............................5

Luxury Zone .........................6

Dining Hokkaido ...................7

Sports ...................................8

Time Travel Hokkaido.........10

Information .........................12

Radiation Monitoring in Hokkaidohttp://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/sm/gat/zenndoumonita_eng.htm

Savor the delights of autumnSavor the delights of autumnSavor the delights of autumn

12 Information

Contactc/o Event Convention Pro Inc. Kitaguchi Yoshiya Bldg. 7F, Kita 7-jo Nishi 4-chome 8-3, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0807 Japan Tel: +81-11-299-5910 Fax: +81-11-299-5911 hokkaido-pedia@ec-pro.co.jp http://www.hokkaido-pedia.jp

PublisherEvent Convention Pro Inc.

Editor in ChiefShinichi Hisamatsu

Contributing EditorDavid Barnett

TranslationToshiyuki YamaguchiKaori Yamada

WebmasterNoriko Kodaira

DesignTeruya Fujioka

Editorial AssistanceGaku Shoji

PrintingHokkaido Printing Planning Co., Ltd.

Support & CooperationAssoc. Prof. Mitsuhiro Kawamoto (Sapporo International University)Phred KaufmanCara Steinbergintelligent Link Inc.and Others

Commissioned byHokkaido Government

8August

2011

What is HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia?

HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia is a monthly web magazine, whose title is based onthe meaning of a “walking encyclopedia of Hokkaido.” This tourism information booklet introduces the abundant nature, excellent environment, safe food and charming citizens of Hokkaido, an Asian resort area for high-end travelers from around the world. The tourism-related information is collected and released by members of Hokkaido’s international community.

Consulate-General of the United States of AmericaKita 1-jo Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0821 JapanTel: +81-11-641-1115 Fax: +81-11-643-1283http://sapporo.usconsulate.gov/

Consulate-General of the Republic of KoreaKita 2-jo Nishi 12-chome 1-4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-0002 JapanTel: +81-11-218-0288 Fax: +81-11-218-8158http://jpn-sapporo.mofat.go.kr/languages/as/jpn-sapporo/main/index.jsp

Consulate-General of the Russian FederationMinami 14-jo Nishi 12-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0914 JapanTel: +81-11-561-3171 Fax: +81-11-561-8897http://www1.odn.ne.jp/ruscons_sapporo/

Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of ChinaMinami 13-jo Nishi 23-chome 5-1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0913 JapanTel: +81-11-563-5563 Fax: +81-11-563-1818http://sapporo.china-consulate.org/jpn/ (Japanese)

Australian ConsulateSapporo Center Bldg. 17F, Kita 5-jo Nishi 6-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-0005 JapanTel: +81-11-242-4381 Fax: +81-11-242-4383http://www.australia.or.jp/en/consular/sapporo/

Consulate-Generals

Information

Police

110

Emergency

119

Tourist Information

Sapporohttp://www.welcome.city.sapporo.jp/english/access/information.html

Hokkaidohttp://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/

JNTOhttp://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/regional/hokkaido/

Emergency Hospital

Sapporo City General Hospitalhttp://www.city.sapporo.jp/foreign/index.html

Hokkaido University Hospitalhttp://www.huhp.hokudai.ac.jp/english/med01.html

Domestic Airlines

Japan Airlines (JAL)http://www.jal.co.jp/

All Nippon Airways (ANA)https://www.ana.co.jp/

Hokkaido International Airlines (AIR DO)http://www.airdo.jp/ap/index.html

Skymark Airlines (SKYMARK)http://www.skymark.co.jp/ja/

International Airlines

Air China internationalhttp://www.airchina.jp/en/index.html

Korean Airhttp://www.koreanair.com/?rgn=jp&lang=jpn

Continental Airlineshttp://www.staralliance.com/en/

Cathay Pacific Airwayshttp://www.cathaypacific.com/cpa/en_JP/homepage

Asahikawa Museum of Arthttp://www.dokyoi.pref.hokkaido.jp/hk-asamu/

Hospitals

Sapporo City General Hospitalhttp://www.city.sapporo.jp/city/english/index.html

Hokkaido University Hospitalhttp://www.huhp.hokudai.ac.jp/english/med01.html

Sapporo Medical University Hospitalhttp://web.sapmed.ac.jp/byoin/

Library

Sapporo Chuo Libraryhttp://www.city.sapporo.jp/toshokan/english/english.html

Foreign Currency Exchange

North Pacific Bankhttp://www.hokuyobank.co.jp/

Hokkaido Bankhttp://www.hokkaidobank.co.jp/service/foreigncash/index.html

Post Office

Sapporo Central Post Officehttp://www.japanpost.jp/

International Telephone

http://hokkaido.jp.currentlocaltimes.com/dialingcode.html

International Community

Sapporo International Communication Plazahttp://www.plaza-sapporo.or.jp/english/index_e.html

Major Conferences and Events

Jul. 23 to Aug. 20 Toyako Onsen Summer FestivalAug. 5 to 7 International Symposium on Information Technology in

Medicine and Education (ITME2011)Aug. 6 to 7 Date Musha FestivalAug. 27 to 28 Noboribetsu Hell FestivalSept. 6 to 10 XIII International Congress of Bacteriology and Applied

MicrobiologySept. 6 to 10 XIII International Congress of MycologySept. 11 to 16 XV International Congress of VirologyOct. 3 to 6 The 4th International Conference on Human-Environment

System (ICHES2011)Nov. 8 to 10 17th Small Engine Technology Conference (SETC2011)Nov. 25 to Dec. 24 German Christmas Market in SapporoDec. 1 to 25 Hakodate Christmas FantasyDec. 14 Hokkaido Festival of the Loyal Retainers in Sunagawa

(Gishi Sai)Dec. 20 to Mar. 31 Diamond Dust in KAWAYU

HOKKAIDO

Asahikawa● ●Abashiri

●Mombetsu

●

●

●

●

●

●

Obihiro●

Hakodate●

●Sapporo

China Southern Airlineshttp://www.cs-air.jp/

Sakhalin Airlineshttp://www.satairlines.ru/index.php

Eva Airhttp://www.evaair.com/html/b2c/english/

International Airport

New Chitose Airporthttp://www.new-chitose-airport.jp/en/

Trains

JR Hokkaidohttp://www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/index.html

JR Information DeskJR Sapporo Station West Exit (8:30 – 19:00)New Chitose Airport Station (8:30 – 19:00)

Buses

Hokkaido Chuo Bushttp://www.chuo-bus.co.jp/sightseeing.en/

Ferry

Shin Nihonkai Ferryhttp://www.snf.jp/pdf/english.pdf

Taiheiyo Ferryhttp://www.taiheiyo-ferry.co.jp/english/index.html

MOL Ferryhttp://www.sunflower.co.jp/english/index.shtml

Tourist Agency

JTB Hokkaidohttp://www.jtb.co.jp/hokkaido/

Kinki Nippon Tourist Hokkaidohttp://www.knt.co.jp/kokusai/about.html

Nippon Travel Agencyhttp://www.nta.co.jp/hokkaido/

Car Rentals

JRhttp://www2.tocoo.jp/?file=rentcar_inbound/branch&id=82008&prefecture=1

Nippon Rent-A-Carhttp://www2.tocoo.jp/?file=rentcar_inbound/branch&id=23019&prefecture=1

TOYOTAhttp://www.toyotarentacar.net/english/

Art Galleries and Museums

Hokkaido Museum of Modern Arthttp://www.aurora-net.or.jp/art/dokinbi/

Historical Museum of Hokkaidohttp://www.hmh.pref.hokkaido.jp/

Historical Village of Hokkaidohttp://www.kaitaku.or.jp/info/info.htm

Migishi Kotaro Museum of Art, Hokkaidohttp://www.dokyoi.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/hk/mkb/

Wakkanai

Sarobetsu

Rebun

Rishiri

Yoichi

Niseko

© Tokachi Mainichi Newspaper, Inc.

This month, HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia talks to Bok Ryong Joo, consul of the Republic of Korea, about life in Hokkaido. Mr. Joo has been a consul for 31 years and served in a number of countries including Thailand, Canada, Morocco, France and Poland, where his French and English speaking skills were put to good use. Now in the third year of his post as consul here in Hokkaido, Mr. Joo feels more at home after his time in Europe and North America, thanks to the proximity of Hokkaido to his homeland, both physically as well as in the characteristics of the people.

INTRODUCTION

INTERVIEWBok Ryong Joo, Consul General,

Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Sapporo

When you were growing up, what images did you have of Hokkaido?

I didn’t really have any; I don’t even think I knew it existed as a

region. I was born in Kongju, Chuncheongdo, which was

known for the Baekje kingdom and its close relationship with

the Yamato people of Japan, and of course we learnt about Japan

at school, but it wasn’t until I went to high school in Daejeon or

even university in Seoul that I learned about Japan being made

up of the four main islands, and about the indigenous Ainu here

in Hokkaido. I first visited Hokkaido in ’99, for three days in

December, and I remember it being very cold but once I arrived

here to live I found it a very comfortable place. I don’t know

much about Tokyo or Osaka or other places in Honshu but my

first impression here was that the people of Hokkaido and

Sapporo are very open – maybe it’s because it doesn’t have the

same history as Honshu and people from all different regions

have gathered here.

Recently, many Korean tourists come to visit Hokkaido; what do you think makes Hokkaido so appealing to people from Korea?

Korea has had connections with Hokkaido for a long time, and

in fact Korean Air was the first overseas airline to fly in and out

of Hokkaido. At the moment, Taiwan sends the largest number

of tourists but I see the number of Korean tourists growing more

and more. I think the biggest appeal is the natural environment

and the food – especially the seafood such as crab. Maybe the

food is a little more expensive than that in Korea but the quality

is excellent, and that’s one of the reasons people come to

Hokkaido.

How about you personally, what do you like about Hokkaido?

I like the fact that there’s lots of natural environment that

remains undeveloped. As well as the places that are popular

with Korean tourists such as Otaru and Noboribetsu, I also like

the Kushiro Wetland and looking at the sea from Japan’s most

northerly point near Wakkanai – there’s a sort of romance about

those places. I think it’s similar for other people, too – not just

Koreans but also Japanese people from Honshu.

I love the onsens and sometimes go to Jozankei, but I also

enjoy driving and Hokkaido has some great places to drive. It

sometimes reminds me of when I used to drive in Europe. I like

2 What’s on 3Living Hokkaido

going to Lake Toya and love the view from the Windsor Hotel.

There aren’t many places like that in Korea.

Are there any similarities between Hokkaido and your homeland?

One thing that’s similar is the fact that there are lots of

mountains and most of the people live on the plains. But the

population density is very different: Hokkaido has a population

of about 5 million, whereas the Republic of Korea’s population

is close to 50 million, but Korea’s land area is only 15% more

than that of Hokkaido.

As consul, what do you foresee with regards the relationship between Korea and Hokkaido?

The relationship is good now, but I can see it getting better and

better. Most of the major cities in Hokkaido have sister-city

relationships with Korean cities – only last year I helped forge

the ties between Sapporo and Daejeon. The number of flights

between Korea and airports in Hokkaido is increasing, and

government and private sector ties in business and tourism are

becoming stronger. Thanks to music, fashion and TV dramas,

the people of Korea and Japan are closer than they’ve ever been,

and it can only be good for both countries. I often say that if we

could add the Koreans’ speed at developing things to the

Japanese caution, and divide it by two, we would have the

perfect combination!

Maybe Hokkaido is the farthest place in Japan from Korea,

and the flights are the most expensive, but I recommend Koreans

to come here at least once – even for just three or four days – I

know they will not be disappointed.

AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement

2 What’s onWhat’s onWhat’s on

Primed for Summer Fireworks Primed for Summer Fireworks Primed for Summer Fireworks

Blossoms brighten cotton kimonos ... a

family searches for space on the grass ... a

sunset picnicker unpacks a hamper ... and

the first thud hits! Bursts brighten the face

of a child. Her brother clings to their

mother in surprise. Explosions reflect off

the river. Fireworks have come to

Hokkaido again.

The fireworks here are among hundreds

of such summer events in Japan, a tradition

that originated in 12th century China and

arrived in Japan in the 17th century. The

loud percussions and bright lights were

originally intended to dispel evil spirits.

The technology advanced differently in

Japan versus Europe. The round shells

developed in Japan produce a spherical

burst, whereas the traditional European

cylindrical shell generates a more

two-dimensional explosion. The very

largest shells today can be 90 centimeters

in diameter and weigh as much as 200

kilograms. They’re shot as high as 500 m

and explode into patterns dozens of meters

in diameter.

The key to enjoying the fireworks is to

come prepared. Bring drinks, bug spray

and a ground seat or windbreaker to sit on.

Most importantly, arrive early to find a

space.

As well as the Doshin UHB Fireworks

Display held in Sapporo on July 29 (Aug.

12 in case of rain), there are several other

spectacular fireworks displays around

Hokkaido in August.

The Hokkaido Shimbun Press

newspaper company also sponsors the

Doshin Cool Summer Fireworks Show

(Asahikawa, August 4). This event is set

off by the dramatic Taisetsu Mountains,

which adjoin the city. The event starts

at 7:45 p.m. at the Ishikari riverside, but

arrive early as attendances typically

each 130,000.

If you find yourself in the Tokachi

district in August, there is the Kachimai

Fireworks Show (Obihiro, August 13).

Music and a laser light show

accompany the explosions. Attendance

typically reaches 80,000 spectators.

But the most famous and reliable

display is the Lake Toya Long-Run

Fireworks (Toyako Onsen, April 28 to

October 31). Every night at 8:45,

fireworks light up this lovely caldera

lake and the hot-spring resort on its

south side. Any point around the lake

will give you a spectacular view, but

enjoying the fireworks from the

comfort of one of the hotels’ open-air

bathtubs is particularly recommended.

Summer, fireworks, hot springs ... the

perfect combination.

© Toyako Onsen Tourist Association

This month, HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia talks to Bok Ryong Joo, consul of the Republic of Korea, about life in Hokkaido. Mr. Joo has been a consul for 31 years and served in a number of countries including Thailand, Canada, Morocco, France and Poland, where his French and English speaking skills were put to good use. Now in the third year of his post as consul here in Hokkaido, Mr. Joo feels more at home after his time in Europe and North America, thanks to the proximity of Hokkaido to his homeland, both physically as well as in the characteristics of the people.

INTRODUCTION

INTERVIEWBok Ryong Joo, Consul General,

Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Sapporo

When you were growing up, what images did you have of Hokkaido?

I didn’t really have any; I don’t even think I knew it existed as a

region. I was born in Kongju, Chuncheongdo, which was

known for the Baekje kingdom and its close relationship with

the Yamato people of Japan, and of course we learnt about Japan

at school, but it wasn’t until I went to high school in Daejeon or

even university in Seoul that I learned about Japan being made

up of the four main islands, and about the indigenous Ainu here

in Hokkaido. I first visited Hokkaido in ’99, for three days in

December, and I remember it being very cold but once I arrived

here to live I found it a very comfortable place. I don’t know

much about Tokyo or Osaka or other places in Honshu but my

first impression here was that the people of Hokkaido and

Sapporo are very open – maybe it’s because it doesn’t have the

same history as Honshu and people from all different regions

have gathered here.

Recently, many Korean tourists come to visit Hokkaido; what do you think makes Hokkaido so appealing to people from Korea?

Korea has had connections with Hokkaido for a long time, and

in fact Korean Air was the first overseas airline to fly in and out

of Hokkaido. At the moment, Taiwan sends the largest number

of tourists but I see the number of Korean tourists growing more

and more. I think the biggest appeal is the natural environment

and the food – especially the seafood such as crab. Maybe the

food is a little more expensive than that in Korea but the quality

is excellent, and that’s one of the reasons people come to

Hokkaido.

How about you personally, what do you like about Hokkaido?

I like the fact that there’s lots of natural environment that

remains undeveloped. As well as the places that are popular

with Korean tourists such as Otaru and Noboribetsu, I also like

the Kushiro Wetland and looking at the sea from Japan’s most

northerly point near Wakkanai – there’s a sort of romance about

those places. I think it’s similar for other people, too – not just

Koreans but also Japanese people from Honshu.

I love the onsens and sometimes go to Jozankei, but I also

enjoy driving and Hokkaido has some great places to drive. It

sometimes reminds me of when I used to drive in Europe. I like

2 What’s on 3Living Hokkaido

going to Lake Toya and love the view from the Windsor Hotel.

There aren’t many places like that in Korea.

Are there any similarities between Hokkaido and your homeland?

One thing that’s similar is the fact that there are lots of

mountains and most of the people live on the plains. But the

population density is very different: Hokkaido has a population

of about 5 million, whereas the Republic of Korea’s population

is close to 50 million, but Korea’s land area is only 15% more

than that of Hokkaido.

As consul, what do you foresee with regards the relationship between Korea and Hokkaido?

The relationship is good now, but I can see it getting better and

better. Most of the major cities in Hokkaido have sister-city

relationships with Korean cities – only last year I helped forge

the ties between Sapporo and Daejeon. The number of flights

between Korea and airports in Hokkaido is increasing, and

government and private sector ties in business and tourism are

becoming stronger. Thanks to music, fashion and TV dramas,

the people of Korea and Japan are closer than they’ve ever been,

and it can only be good for both countries. I often say that if we

could add the Koreans’ speed at developing things to the

Japanese caution, and divide it by two, we would have the

perfect combination!

Maybe Hokkaido is the farthest place in Japan from Korea,

and the flights are the most expensive, but I recommend Koreans

to come here at least once – even for just three or four days – I

know they will not be disappointed.

AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement

2 What’s onWhat’s onWhat’s on

Primed for Summer Fireworks Primed for Summer Fireworks Primed for Summer Fireworks

Blossoms brighten cotton kimonos ... a

family searches for space on the grass ... a

sunset picnicker unpacks a hamper ... and

the first thud hits! Bursts brighten the face

of a child. Her brother clings to their

mother in surprise. Explosions reflect off

the river. Fireworks have come to

Hokkaido again.

The fireworks here are among hundreds

of such summer events in Japan, a tradition

that originated in 12th century China and

arrived in Japan in the 17th century. The

loud percussions and bright lights were

originally intended to dispel evil spirits.

The technology advanced differently in

Japan versus Europe. The round shells

developed in Japan produce a spherical

burst, whereas the traditional European

cylindrical shell generates a more

two-dimensional explosion. The very

largest shells today can be 90 centimeters

in diameter and weigh as much as 200

kilograms. They’re shot as high as 500 m

and explode into patterns dozens of meters

in diameter.

The key to enjoying the fireworks is to

come prepared. Bring drinks, bug spray

and a ground seat or windbreaker to sit on.

Most importantly, arrive early to find a

space.

As well as the Doshin UHB Fireworks

Display held in Sapporo on July 29 (Aug.

12 in case of rain), there are several other

spectacular fireworks displays around

Hokkaido in August.

The Hokkaido Shimbun Press

newspaper company also sponsors the

Doshin Cool Summer Fireworks Show

(Asahikawa, August 4). This event is set

off by the dramatic Taisetsu Mountains,

which adjoin the city. The event starts

at 7:45 p.m. at the Ishikari riverside, but

arrive early as attendances typically

each 130,000.

If you find yourself in the Tokachi

district in August, there is the Kachimai

Fireworks Show (Obihiro, August 13).

Music and a laser light show

accompany the explosions. Attendance

typically reaches 80,000 spectators.

But the most famous and reliable

display is the Lake Toya Long-Run

Fireworks (Toyako Onsen, April 28 to

October 31). Every night at 8:45,

fireworks light up this lovely caldera

lake and the hot-spring resort on its

south side. Any point around the lake

will give you a spectacular view, but

enjoying the fireworks from the

comfort of one of the hotels’ open-air

bathtubs is particularly recommended.

Summer, fireworks, hot springs ... the

perfect combination.

© Toyako Onsen Tourist Association

■Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park

Access

4 The Great Outdoors 5Walk Talk in Hakodate

Spread over an area of 241.66 km2,

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park,

which includes the Rishiri and Rebun

islands and the Sarobetsu Plain, is

Japan’s most northerly national park and

a treasure-trove of alpine plants.

The beautiful Mt. Rishiri, often

referred to as Rishiri Fuji, is the

conical-shaped volcano symbolic of the

island of the same name, accessible via a

100-min. ferry ride from Wakkanai or a

50-min. flight from New Chitose Airport.

The 1,721 m-high mountain boasts two

trekking courses, enabling visitors to

enjoy views both of and from the peak.

In autumn, as the kelp harvesting work

reaches its climax, the leaves near Mt.

Rishiri’s summit begin to turn, and

winter too brings its own magnificent

views of the snow-capped peak.

Forty minutes by ferry from Rishiri is

the island of Rebun, where the

undulating terrain is home to the Rebun

Orchid, Rebun Edelweiss and other

precious alpine flowers indigenous to the

island. Rebun’s coastline, with its band

of small islets, sandbanks, marshes and

dunes, and especially the sheer cliffs and

jagged rocks of the western coast provide

spectacular views. With various trekking

courses and the Mt. Rebun trail, the

island is a hikers’ paradise in summer.

Sarobetsu Plain, an expansive peaty

marshland covering approximately 200

km2, is a stopover point for countless

migratory birds – especially geese and

Hakodate is a very walkable city, but to

reach some of the more far-flung sites, or

just if time is short, there is a quite

efficient streetcar system. It’s very

convenient; streetcars come along every

few minutes, with passengers able to pay

per journey or purchase a book of tickets

at the JR Hakodate Station.

Turn right after leaving the main exit

of the station, and it’s just a quick walk

to the Asaichi morning market. Get there

early, the stalls open at 5 a.m. in the

summer and close by noon. Hakodate is

famous for its squid dishes and there are

numerous places within the market to try

these. Kanidon (rice topped with

shredded crabmeat), ikuradon (rice

topped with salmon roe) or unidon (rice

topped with sea urchin) are also popular

and delicious seafood breakfasts.

A twenty-minute walk from the

market will bring you to the Motomachi

area. This area is lined with fascinating

buildings that remain from Hakodate’s

international past. Among the best are

the Russian Orthodox Church, the Old

Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, and the

Old British Consulate.

From here it’s a short walk to the

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, a

legacy of Hakodate’s trading past. These

lovely buildings, situated right on the

waterfront, now form part of a shopping

complex, where souvenirs and local

products are available. There’s also an

office where you can book a tour of

Hakodate Bay, and a beer hall where at

night you can watch the lights on the

squid-fishing boats while enjoying a

relaxing drink.

Continue through the Motomachi

district to the far side of town and you

will eventually reach the Foreigners’

Graveyard, which contains a collection of

graves belonging to traders and other

overseas visitors to Hakodate who died in

the city or on their way here. Check with

the tourist office for opening times. The

hill to the cemetery is quite steep but the

site is evocative and worth the trip, and

the fascinating temples en-route are well

worth visiting in their own right.

If all this walking is tiring, Hakodate

has some great hot-spring baths nearby,

particularly in the Yunokawa Onsen

district. There are options for daytime

bathing, but an overnight stay is best for

the total experience. Some hotels have

open-air baths where guests can enjoy

views of the sea or the city as they soak

away the day’s fatigues.

Speaking of views, Hakodate is famous

for the nighttime view of the city from Mt.

Hakodate. Many people compare it to the

nighttime views of Hong Kong and

Naples. The cable-car to the summit

viewing station is usually busy and queues

can be expected, especially on clear

nights, but the view of the city lights and

the bay waters spread out below is well

worth it. Dress warmly as the night winds

can get cold even in summer, and make

sure to pick up a souvenir postcard of the

incredible view on the way out. As well

as a souvenir shop, the viewing area also

includes a restaurant where the view can

be enjoyed over a meal, and shops where

snacks are available.

A bit further afield but definitely worth

a trip are the ruins of Goryokaku Fort.

Though not in the city center, Goryokaku

is very accessible by streetcar or train.

This was once Japan’s first Western-style

fort, built in an attractive star shape. Now,

it’s a lovely park, including the worthy

Hakodate City Museum and Goryokaku

Tower, from which you can get a

bird’s-eye view of the uniquely shaped

ruins. The Goryokaku area is especially

nice during the cherry blossom season in

the spring, when it’s a deservedly popular

spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

In the summer, the park hosts open-air

theatre productions, and early August

brings the enjoyable Port Festival to

Hakodate.

Sarobetsu Wetland Center Tel: +81-162-82-3232 http://www.sarobetsu.or.jp/center/

By plane: Approx. 1 hr. from New Chitose Airport to Wakkanai or Rishiri airportsBy train: Approx. 5 hr. 45 min. from Sapporo to Wakkanai By ferry: Wakkanai – Rishiri approx. 1 hr. 40 min.Rishiri – Rebun approx. 40 min.By car: Approx. 6 hr. 10 min. from Sapporo to Wakkanai

ducks in spring and autumn. More detailed

information on the nature and history of the

area is available from the Sarobetsu Wetland

Center and Horonobe Visitors Center.

Hakodate International Tourism and Convention AssociationTel: +81-138-27-3535http://www.hakodate-kankou.com/

By plane: Approx. 40 min. from Sapporo (Okadama Airport)By train: Approx. 3 hr. from Sapporo by the Super Hokuto Limited ExpressBy ferry: Approx. 3 hr. 50 min. from Aomori By car: Approx. 5 hr. from Sapporo via the Hokkaido Expressway

■Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

Whisky was first produced in

Yoichi, now considered to be the

Japanese whisky mecca, over 75 years

ago. The region’s cool climate,

appropriate humidity, good quality water

and abundant supply of peat is ideal for

production, and added to the locally

produced barley for the malt, timber for

the barrels and coal for the distilling, it’s

easy to see why delicious whisky

continues to be nurtured here today.

Inside the distillery, the distillation

house and other buildings form a

distinctively European streetscape that

includes the former residence of Nikka

Whisky’s founder Masataka Taketsuru

and his wife Rita. The house was

transferred and restored there and is now

open to the public.

The Whisky Museum housed in a

renovated warehouse includes

fascinating exhibitions related to the

history, production methods and

varieties of distilled spirits and whiskies,

and the Nikka-kan building, in which

photographs and belongings of

Taketsuru’s wife Rita are displayed, is

where whisky tasting and meals can be

enjoyed. Why not sample for yourself

the beautiful amber hue, the fine aroma,

and rich taste of high-quality Nikka

Whisky?

Nikka Whisky’s founder Masataka

Taketsuru was the first Japanese ever to

study the art of whisky making in

Scotland. Based on his belief that

“whisky is nurtured by northern

climates,” he decided that the ideal place

to build his perfect distillery in Japan

would be Yoichi in Hokkaido, where he

found the scenery and climate to be

similar to that of Scotland. Here he built

Japan’s northernmost malt distillery.

Single Malt Yoichi 1990 The blender’s pride, distilled and vatted in 1990, made with only slowly matured malt.

Single Malt Yoichi The original strength of Yoichi malt with a smoother, creamier taste. Experience the Yoichi taste with this more casual single malt whisky.

AccessNikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery Kurokawa-cho 7-6, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, HokkaidoTel: +81-135-23-3131

By train Just over an hour from JR Sapporo Station to Yoichi Station.The distillery is a 2-3 min. walk from the station.

By carApprox. 1 hr. 30 min. (59 km) from central Sapporo, via the Sasson Expressway

http://www.nikka.com/reason/introduction/yoichi/access.html

Hokkaido heritagehttp://www.hokkaidoisan.org/

Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s most dynamic cities, with international roots

digging deep into its past. That makes it an especially fascinating place to spend

a day or two shopping, sampling some of its wonderful food, and visiting some

intriguing sites. It’s a city that rewards aimless wandering; visitors are never far

from something fascinating in Hakodate!

The historical city of Hakodate

■Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park

Access

4 The Great Outdoors 5Walk Talk in Hakodate

Spread over an area of 241.66 km2,

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park,

which includes the Rishiri and Rebun

islands and the Sarobetsu Plain, is

Japan’s most northerly national park and

a treasure-trove of alpine plants.

The beautiful Mt. Rishiri, often

referred to as Rishiri Fuji, is the

conical-shaped volcano symbolic of the

island of the same name, accessible via a

100-min. ferry ride from Wakkanai or a

50-min. flight from New Chitose Airport.

The 1,721 m-high mountain boasts two

trekking courses, enabling visitors to

enjoy views both of and from the peak.

In autumn, as the kelp harvesting work

reaches its climax, the leaves near Mt.

Rishiri’s summit begin to turn, and

winter too brings its own magnificent

views of the snow-capped peak.

Forty minutes by ferry from Rishiri is

the island of Rebun, where the

undulating terrain is home to the Rebun

Orchid, Rebun Edelweiss and other

precious alpine flowers indigenous to the

island. Rebun’s coastline, with its band

of small islets, sandbanks, marshes and

dunes, and especially the sheer cliffs and

jagged rocks of the western coast provide

spectacular views. With various trekking

courses and the Mt. Rebun trail, the

island is a hikers’ paradise in summer.

Sarobetsu Plain, an expansive peaty

marshland covering approximately 200

km2, is a stopover point for countless

migratory birds – especially geese and

Hakodate is a very walkable city, but to

reach some of the more far-flung sites, or

just if time is short, there is a quite

efficient streetcar system. It’s very

convenient; streetcars come along every

few minutes, with passengers able to pay

per journey or purchase a book of tickets

at the JR Hakodate Station.

Turn right after leaving the main exit

of the station, and it’s just a quick walk

to the Asaichi morning market. Get there

early, the stalls open at 5 a.m. in the

summer and close by noon. Hakodate is

famous for its squid dishes and there are

numerous places within the market to try

these. Kanidon (rice topped with

shredded crabmeat), ikuradon (rice

topped with salmon roe) or unidon (rice

topped with sea urchin) are also popular

and delicious seafood breakfasts.

A twenty-minute walk from the

market will bring you to the Motomachi

area. This area is lined with fascinating

buildings that remain from Hakodate’s

international past. Among the best are

the Russian Orthodox Church, the Old

Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, and the

Old British Consulate.

From here it’s a short walk to the

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, a

legacy of Hakodate’s trading past. These

lovely buildings, situated right on the

waterfront, now form part of a shopping

complex, where souvenirs and local

products are available. There’s also an

office where you can book a tour of

Hakodate Bay, and a beer hall where at

night you can watch the lights on the

squid-fishing boats while enjoying a

relaxing drink.

Continue through the Motomachi

district to the far side of town and you

will eventually reach the Foreigners’

Graveyard, which contains a collection of

graves belonging to traders and other

overseas visitors to Hakodate who died in

the city or on their way here. Check with

the tourist office for opening times. The

hill to the cemetery is quite steep but the

site is evocative and worth the trip, and

the fascinating temples en-route are well

worth visiting in their own right.

If all this walking is tiring, Hakodate

has some great hot-spring baths nearby,

particularly in the Yunokawa Onsen

district. There are options for daytime

bathing, but an overnight stay is best for

the total experience. Some hotels have

open-air baths where guests can enjoy

views of the sea or the city as they soak

away the day’s fatigues.

Speaking of views, Hakodate is famous

for the nighttime view of the city from Mt.

Hakodate. Many people compare it to the

nighttime views of Hong Kong and

Naples. The cable-car to the summit

viewing station is usually busy and queues

can be expected, especially on clear

nights, but the view of the city lights and

the bay waters spread out below is well

worth it. Dress warmly as the night winds

can get cold even in summer, and make

sure to pick up a souvenir postcard of the

incredible view on the way out. As well

as a souvenir shop, the viewing area also

includes a restaurant where the view can

be enjoyed over a meal, and shops where

snacks are available.

A bit further afield but definitely worth

a trip are the ruins of Goryokaku Fort.

Though not in the city center, Goryokaku

is very accessible by streetcar or train.

This was once Japan’s first Western-style

fort, built in an attractive star shape. Now,

it’s a lovely park, including the worthy

Hakodate City Museum and Goryokaku

Tower, from which you can get a

bird’s-eye view of the uniquely shaped

ruins. The Goryokaku area is especially

nice during the cherry blossom season in

the spring, when it’s a deservedly popular

spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

In the summer, the park hosts open-air

theatre productions, and early August

brings the enjoyable Port Festival to

Hakodate.

Sarobetsu Wetland Center Tel: +81-162-82-3232 http://www.sarobetsu.or.jp/center/

By plane: Approx. 1 hr. from New Chitose Airport to Wakkanai or Rishiri airportsBy train: Approx. 5 hr. 45 min. from Sapporo to Wakkanai By ferry: Wakkanai – Rishiri approx. 1 hr. 40 min.Rishiri – Rebun approx. 40 min.By car: Approx. 6 hr. 10 min. from Sapporo to Wakkanai

ducks in spring and autumn. More detailed

information on the nature and history of the

area is available from the Sarobetsu Wetland

Center and Horonobe Visitors Center.

Hakodate International Tourism and Convention AssociationTel: +81-138-27-3535http://www.hakodate-kankou.com/

By plane: Approx. 40 min. from Sapporo (Okadama Airport)By train: Approx. 3 hr. from Sapporo by the Super Hokuto Limited ExpressBy ferry: Approx. 3 hr. 50 min. from Aomori By car: Approx. 5 hr. from Sapporo via the Hokkaido Expressway

■Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

Whisky was first produced in

Yoichi, now considered to be the

Japanese whisky mecca, over 75 years

ago. The region’s cool climate,

appropriate humidity, good quality water

and abundant supply of peat is ideal for

production, and added to the locally

produced barley for the malt, timber for

the barrels and coal for the distilling, it’s

easy to see why delicious whisky

continues to be nurtured here today.

Inside the distillery, the distillation

house and other buildings form a

distinctively European streetscape that

includes the former residence of Nikka

Whisky’s founder Masataka Taketsuru

and his wife Rita. The house was

transferred and restored there and is now

open to the public.

The Whisky Museum housed in a

renovated warehouse includes

fascinating exhibitions related to the

history, production methods and

varieties of distilled spirits and whiskies,

and the Nikka-kan building, in which

photographs and belongings of

Taketsuru’s wife Rita are displayed, is

where whisky tasting and meals can be

enjoyed. Why not sample for yourself

the beautiful amber hue, the fine aroma,

and rich taste of high-quality Nikka

Whisky?

Nikka Whisky’s founder Masataka

Taketsuru was the first Japanese ever to

study the art of whisky making in

Scotland. Based on his belief that

“whisky is nurtured by northern

climates,” he decided that the ideal place

to build his perfect distillery in Japan

would be Yoichi in Hokkaido, where he

found the scenery and climate to be

similar to that of Scotland. Here he built

Japan’s northernmost malt distillery.

Single Malt Yoichi 1990 The blender’s pride, distilled and vatted in 1990, made with only slowly matured malt.

Single Malt Yoichi The original strength of Yoichi malt with a smoother, creamier taste. Experience the Yoichi taste with this more casual single malt whisky.

AccessNikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery Kurokawa-cho 7-6, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, HokkaidoTel: +81-135-23-3131

By train Just over an hour from JR Sapporo Station to Yoichi Station.The distillery is a 2-3 min. walk from the station.

By carApprox. 1 hr. 30 min. (59 km) from central Sapporo, via the Sasson Expressway

http://www.nikka.com/reason/introduction/yoichi/access.html

Hokkaido heritagehttp://www.hokkaidoisan.org/

Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s most dynamic cities, with international roots

digging deep into its past. That makes it an especially fascinating place to spend

a day or two shopping, sampling some of its wonderful food, and visiting some

intriguing sites. It’s a city that rewards aimless wandering; visitors are never far

from something fascinating in Hakodate!

The historical city of Hakodate

6 Dining HokkaidoLuxury Zone 7

～

http://www.princehotels.com/zh-cn/sapporo/

∼

http://www.princehotels.com/zh-tw/sapporo/

Sapporo Prince HotelWith Odori Park only a 3-minute walk

away, this 28-story high-rise hotel

makes an ideal base for both business

and sightseeing. Sapporo Prince Hotel

boasts stunning nighttime views from its

guest rooms and top-floor restaurant,

with the suites commanding views of the

TV Tower, JR Tower and the Norbesa

Ferris wheel.

As well as the views, suites also

feature direct access to floors by means

of a private elevator, as well as a

king-size beds, LCD TV, humidifier/air

purifier, trouser press and massage chair.

For a fee of ¥450 the hotel’s

second-floor spa provides luxurious

relaxation space with towels and utilities

supplied, where guests can enjoy a

soothing dip in an open-air bathtub.

Relax in the privacy of your room, with

fine nighttime views and a meal served

by room service – just like in the movies.

Breakfast is served in the first-floor

buffet, Hapuna, which also serves lunch

and dinner buffets with Japanese,

Chinese and Western-style cuisine and

desserts made with seasonal Hokkaido

ingredients – many of which are

prepared before diners at stands located

around the restaurant.

Restaurants

French cuisine “Le Trianon”A restaurant with a casual atmosphere,

serving authentic French cuisine and

original French cuisine with a Japanese

twist, created with ingredients produced

in Hokkaido. Take in the view from the

28th floor as you enjoy your meal.

Steak House “Katsura” Select ingredients such as Japanese beef

steak and fresh seafood cooked by the

chef before your very eyes – a

teppan-yaki restaurant with superb

nighttime views of Sapporo from the

counter bar.

Chinese cuisine “Fuyo-jyo” A Chinese restaurant serving a variety

of dishes with an emphasis on cuisine

from Sichuan province. Private rooms

are also available for diners who prefer

relaxing in privacy.

Tower 28th-floor private rooms Enjoy precious time with a meal and

conversation in a 28th-floor private

room overlooking the city – ideal for

weddings, banquets, private parties and

the like.

Outline of luxury guest roomsRoyal Suite Rooms (22nd to 27th floors)

Size: 105 m2

Rate: ¥231,000 per night per room (up to two

persons)

Other services LCD TV (overseas broadcasts including CNN

[American], KNTV [Korean], CCTV [Chinese]),

high-sped Internet connections in each room,

morning calls available in 8 languages

(Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese,

French, German, Russian, Spanish)

Access

2 min. walk from Nishi 11-chome Subway Station on the Tozai Line Approx. 8 min. by taxi from JR Sapporo Station Parking for 188 carshttp://www.princehotels.com/en/sapporo/

Luxury fit for a princeLuxury fit for a princeLuxury fit for a prince

UmenoMinami 1-jo Nishi 7-chome, Chuo-ku, SapporoOpen 5 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Mon. to Sat.http://www17.plala.or.jp/umeno

The three most popular sakes among Umeno’s clientele The three most popular sakes among Umeno’s clientele

1. Umeno (Kuriyama) 1. Umeno (Kuriyama) 2. Kunimare Onigoroshi (Mashike) 2. Kunimare Onigoroshi (Mashike) 3. Kuma Korori (Otaru) 3. Kuma Korori (Otaru)

The three most popular sakes among Umeno’s clientele

1. Umeno (Kuriyama) 2. Kunimare Onigoroshi (Mashike) 3. Kuma Korori (Otaru)

Minami 2-jo Nishi 11-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo Tel: +81-11-241-1111

Umeno – traditional Japanese cuisine with aUmeno – traditional Japanese cuisine with a Hokkaido flavor Hokkaido flavorUmeno – traditional Japanese cuisine with a Hokkaido flavor

Chef Umeno

To gain an insight into the ways of

Japanese cooking – the seasonal

touches, the time and detail that goes

into preparing the stocks and sauces, the

order and types of food served and the

drinks to compliment them, not to

mention the dishes on which the food is

served – HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia

visited a Japanese restaurant in Sapporo

to talk to the head chef – and, of course,

sample some of his delights. Hiroshi

Umeno (59), former head chef of

Japanese cuisine at Sapporo Prince

Hotel opened Umeno almost 12 years

ago after 40 years in the trade, many of

which were spent being inspired by

techniques and ingredients from the

adjacent Western and Chinese kitchens of top hotels. Umeno has developed a

menu consisting of literally hundreds of

dishes that bear his own creative

signature. But some traditions never

change. “I go to the wholesale markets

in Sapporo every morning to purchase

my ingredients. Selecting fresh fish

comes with experience. The most

delicious fish is that landed in the

morning and eaten the same evening.

Preparations in the restaurant begin

around noon and we open at five.”

The true taste of JapanThe basis of Japanese cuisine is said to

be the dashi or stock and, as expected,

this is another subject dear to the

master’s heart. “I make the dashi from

dried bonito flakes, but bonito is such a

delicate fish that even the slightest

imperfection in preparation can change

the whole flavor of the stock.”

According to Umeno, one of the most

important factors is the blade used to

shave the flakes. “If the blade is even

slightly blunt, it affects the cut. When

the flakes arrive from the supplier I put

the bag to my nose and smell the aroma.

If the blade was not sharp enough it

leaves a faint charred smell on the

flakes, caused by the friction. This

manifests itself in the taste of the stock.”

Umeno’s location on West 7 of the

streetcar line just south of Odori Park is

reflected in the restaurant’s clientele.

Away from the bright lights of Susukino,

the more traditional shop frontage is

more suited to the businessmen and

women who make up the majority of the

establishment’s regulars. This too is part

of the master’s plan, which aims to serve

delicious seasonal food at prices

affordable by such people on a regular

basis (a budget of four to five thousand

yen per person, including drinks, is more

than adequate). The fact that Umeno has

over 80 types of Japanese sake, 140

types of shochu, and wine from around

the world to choose from is another

reason the restaurant is popular among

the more discerning crowd.

The selections made from the menu

on this occasion did not disappoint. The

blue cheese tofu made with soymilk,

Hokkaido cream and blue cheese was

rich and creamy, while the chilled ayu (sweetfish) was refreshingly simple, yet

full of taste – a result, no doubt, of the

meticulous preparation. “The skin of the

ayu is pierced in several places to stop it

from blistering when it’s grilled. It’s

then chilled overnight to make the flesh

firm before boiling it in dashi, sour

umeboshi plums and vinegar, as well as

capsicum to erase any distinctive smells

the fish might have.”

The white asparagus in spicy miso

were the crispiest we’ve ever tasted and

the Shakotan Bafun uni (sea urchin) that

followed was a perfect match for the

chilled Umeno sake that was served –

the restaurant’s own brand, brewed

under license in nearby Kuriyama.

A variety of delicious skewered treats

served on Arita-yaki dishes with rock

salt from the Uyuni salt flats in the

Andes are also recommended. The

Hokkaido cheese connection turns up in

a few dishes, including the cheese

potato mochi – a fried potato cake

containing camembert-style cheese – as

well as cheese grilled squid, another

favorite among female customers.

Negima Nabe – a dish not to be missedUmeno’s most famous dish is probably

the Negima Nabe, a hotpot containing

leeks and tuna sukiyaki-style, and

finished off as zousui by adding rice to

the soup. Approximately 30 salads and

a wide range of seasonal dishes

depending on the month means that new

delights can be discovered each visit –

even for the regulars. If you’re not so

familiar with Japanese menus, why not

tell the master your budget, your likes

and dislikes, where you’re from and

where you’ve been traveling, and he’ll

plan the dishes to suit your tastes.

“With experience you can tell more or

less what a customer might like, and so

with a few hints I’m usually spot on

with my suggestions.”

e

gestions.

Photos for illustrative purposes only

6 Dining HokkaidoLuxury Zone 7

～

http://www.princehotels.com/zh-cn/sapporo/

∼

http://www.princehotels.com/zh-tw/sapporo/

Sapporo Prince HotelWith Odori Park only a 3-minute walk

away, this 28-story high-rise hotel

makes an ideal base for both business

and sightseeing. Sapporo Prince Hotel

boasts stunning nighttime views from its

guest rooms and top-floor restaurant,

with the suites commanding views of the

TV Tower, JR Tower and the Norbesa

Ferris wheel.

As well as the views, suites also

feature direct access to floors by means

of a private elevator, as well as a

king-size beds, LCD TV, humidifier/air

purifier, trouser press and massage chair.

For a fee of ¥450 the hotel’s

second-floor spa provides luxurious

relaxation space with towels and utilities

supplied, where guests can enjoy a

soothing dip in an open-air bathtub.

Relax in the privacy of your room, with

fine nighttime views and a meal served

by room service – just like in the movies.

Breakfast is served in the first-floor

buffet, Hapuna, which also serves lunch

and dinner buffets with Japanese,

Chinese and Western-style cuisine and

desserts made with seasonal Hokkaido

ingredients – many of which are

prepared before diners at stands located

around the restaurant.

Restaurants

French cuisine “Le Trianon”A restaurant with a casual atmosphere,

serving authentic French cuisine and

original French cuisine with a Japanese

twist, created with ingredients produced

in Hokkaido. Take in the view from the

28th floor as you enjoy your meal.

Steak House “Katsura” Select ingredients such as Japanese beef

steak and fresh seafood cooked by the

chef before your very eyes – a

teppan-yaki restaurant with superb

nighttime views of Sapporo from the

counter bar.

Chinese cuisine “Fuyo-jyo” A Chinese restaurant serving a variety

of dishes with an emphasis on cuisine

from Sichuan province. Private rooms

are also available for diners who prefer

relaxing in privacy.

Tower 28th-floor private rooms Enjoy precious time with a meal and

conversation in a 28th-floor private

room overlooking the city – ideal for

weddings, banquets, private parties and

the like.

Outline of luxury guest roomsRoyal Suite Rooms (22nd to 27th floors)

Size: 105 m2

Rate: ¥231,000 per night per room (up to two

persons)

Other services LCD TV (overseas broadcasts including CNN

[American], KNTV [Korean], CCTV [Chinese]),

high-sped Internet connections in each room,

morning calls available in 8 languages

(Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese,

French, German, Russian, Spanish)

Access

2 min. walk from Nishi 11-chome Subway Station on the Tozai Line Approx. 8 min. by taxi from JR Sapporo Station Parking for 188 carshttp://www.princehotels.com/en/sapporo/

Luxury fit for a princeLuxury fit for a princeLuxury fit for a prince

UmenoMinami 1-jo Nishi 7-chome, Chuo-ku, SapporoOpen 5 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Mon. to Sat.http://www17.plala.or.jp/umeno

The three most popular sakes among Umeno’s clientele The three most popular sakes among Umeno’s clientele

1. Umeno (Kuriyama) 1. Umeno (Kuriyama) 2. Kunimare Onigoroshi (Mashike) 2. Kunimare Onigoroshi (Mashike) 3. Kuma Korori (Otaru) 3. Kuma Korori (Otaru)

The three most popular sakes among Umeno’s clientele

1. Umeno (Kuriyama) 2. Kunimare Onigoroshi (Mashike) 3. Kuma Korori (Otaru)

Minami 2-jo Nishi 11-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo Tel: +81-11-241-1111

Umeno – traditional Japanese cuisine with aUmeno – traditional Japanese cuisine with a Hokkaido flavor Hokkaido flavorUmeno – traditional Japanese cuisine with a Hokkaido flavor

Chef Umeno

To gain an insight into the ways of

Japanese cooking – the seasonal

touches, the time and detail that goes

into preparing the stocks and sauces, the

order and types of food served and the

drinks to compliment them, not to

mention the dishes on which the food is

served – HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia

visited a Japanese restaurant in Sapporo

to talk to the head chef – and, of course,

sample some of his delights. Hiroshi

Umeno (59), former head chef of

Japanese cuisine at Sapporo Prince

Hotel opened Umeno almost 12 years

ago after 40 years in the trade, many of

which were spent being inspired by

techniques and ingredients from the

adjacent Western and Chinese kitchens of top hotels. Umeno has developed a

menu consisting of literally hundreds of

dishes that bear his own creative

signature. But some traditions never

change. “I go to the wholesale markets

in Sapporo every morning to purchase

my ingredients. Selecting fresh fish

comes with experience. The most

delicious fish is that landed in the

morning and eaten the same evening.

Preparations in the restaurant begin

around noon and we open at five.”

The true taste of JapanThe basis of Japanese cuisine is said to

be the dashi or stock and, as expected,

this is another subject dear to the

master’s heart. “I make the dashi from

dried bonito flakes, but bonito is such a

delicate fish that even the slightest

imperfection in preparation can change

the whole flavor of the stock.”

According to Umeno, one of the most

important factors is the blade used to

shave the flakes. “If the blade is even

slightly blunt, it affects the cut. When

the flakes arrive from the supplier I put

the bag to my nose and smell the aroma.

If the blade was not sharp enough it

leaves a faint charred smell on the

flakes, caused by the friction. This

manifests itself in the taste of the stock.”

Umeno’s location on West 7 of the

streetcar line just south of Odori Park is

reflected in the restaurant’s clientele.

Away from the bright lights of Susukino,

the more traditional shop frontage is

more suited to the businessmen and

women who make up the majority of the

establishment’s regulars. This too is part

of the master’s plan, which aims to serve

delicious seasonal food at prices

affordable by such people on a regular

basis (a budget of four to five thousand

yen per person, including drinks, is more

than adequate). The fact that Umeno has

over 80 types of Japanese sake, 140

types of shochu, and wine from around

the world to choose from is another

reason the restaurant is popular among

the more discerning crowd.

The selections made from the menu

on this occasion did not disappoint. The

blue cheese tofu made with soymilk,

Hokkaido cream and blue cheese was

rich and creamy, while the chilled ayu (sweetfish) was refreshingly simple, yet

full of taste – a result, no doubt, of the

meticulous preparation. “The skin of the

ayu is pierced in several places to stop it

from blistering when it’s grilled. It’s

then chilled overnight to make the flesh

firm before boiling it in dashi, sour

umeboshi plums and vinegar, as well as

capsicum to erase any distinctive smells

the fish might have.”

The white asparagus in spicy miso

were the crispiest we’ve ever tasted and

the Shakotan Bafun uni (sea urchin) that

followed was a perfect match for the

chilled Umeno sake that was served –

the restaurant’s own brand, brewed

under license in nearby Kuriyama.

A variety of delicious skewered treats

served on Arita-yaki dishes with rock

salt from the Uyuni salt flats in the

Andes are also recommended. The

Hokkaido cheese connection turns up in

a few dishes, including the cheese

potato mochi – a fried potato cake

containing camembert-style cheese – as

well as cheese grilled squid, another

favorite among female customers.

Negima Nabe – a dish not to be missedUmeno’s most famous dish is probably

the Negima Nabe, a hotpot containing

leeks and tuna sukiyaki-style, and

finished off as zousui by adding rice to

the soup. Approximately 30 salads and

a wide range of seasonal dishes

depending on the month means that new

delights can be discovered each visit –

even for the regulars. If you’re not so

familiar with Japanese menus, why not

tell the master your budget, your likes

and dislikes, where you’re from and

where you’ve been traveling, and he’ll

plan the dishes to suit your tastes.

“With experience you can tell more or

less what a customer might like, and so

with a few hints I’m usually spot on

with my suggestions.”

e

gestions.

Photos for illustrative purposes only

8 9Sports Sports

© Nidom Classic Course

Originally developed for military use and

said to be unsinkable and puncture-proof,

these virtually indestructible rubber boats

are now used in whitewater activities

throughout the world. Even those with no

experience of rafting can enjoy the raw

excitement of shooting the rapids under

the watchful eye of professional guides

and crewmembers. Hokkaido’s abundant

natural surroundings and wealth of clear

fast-flowing rivers supplied by the

mountaintop snowmelt make it an ideal

location to take part in this great bonding

experience, as everyone pulls together to

harness the strength of nature for their

own enjoyment.

Hokkaido’s most famous areas that

link rafting with tourism are the

Shiribetsu River in Niseko, the Sorachi

River in Furano, and the Mu River in

Shimukappu, Hidaka, which is said to be

one of the top three whitewater rivers in

Japan. It goes without saying that

although the snowmelt-boosted river

water in April and May make the rafting

dynamic, it also means the experience

can sometime get quite cold, with

participants wearing long-sleeved

clothing and long pants under the special

dry suits that are provided – a style of

rafting pioneered by the Niseko

Adventure Centre (NAC). In spring, the

rivers swelled by the snowmelt are not for

the fainthearted, and even the Toyohira

River in the suburbs of Sapporo becomes

a popular rafting spot. However, in

summer, the slightly more sedate rapids in

Niseko make rafting an enjoyable activity

for all the family – kids and grandparents

included – and an ideal way to escape the

mid-August heat of summer.

Rafting

Ducky A great summer rafting experience for

those seeking the thrills of shooting the

rapids – a ducky is a small rubber boat for

one or two people, enabling you to be

responsible for controlling your own craft.

Navigate the same waters as the rafting

teams – but don’t rule out a soaking or

even capsizing! Boats made from the

same tough materials as the rafts ensure

participants enjoy thrilling adventures,

safely.

Niseko’s mountain trails have the added

appeal of there being fewer bears here

than many other areas of Hokkaido,

making it an ideal region for trekking and

mountain biking. From single-track

downhill trails with views of Mt. Yotei, to

cross country routes in its foothills,

there’s something to suit all levels of

ability and fitness.

Not far from Niseko is the Oshoro coast of

Otaru, where the calm, clear waters of the

Sea of Japan invite sea kayakers to enjoy

the marine life from its surface. In the

shallower waters, swimming fish, sea

urchins and starfish seem within touching

distance, and caves and sheer cliffs only

accessible from the sea provide cool shade

and a chance to view the birds that nest

there. There’s no better way to define the

words exploration and adventure!

Mountain biking

Sea kayaking Lake Toya Lake Toya, famous for hosting the G8

Hokkaido Toyako Summit, is less than an

hour away from Niseko. With many hot

springs and the active Mt. Usu volcano,

the area is a popular tourist destination,

but the clear and comparatively warm

water of the lake also makes it a top water

leisure spot. Canoeists and jet skiers can

be seen on the water, and every July one

of Japan’s northernmost open swim meets

is held in the lake, and swimmers from

throughout Japan gather to take part in the

800- and 1,500-m events.

Niseko Annupuri Famous for its powder snow in winter,

Niseko Annupuri’s range of relatively

accessible mountain trails are ideal for

trail running. Piste trails and trekking

courses combine to create courses up to

30 km long, used in the trail running

meeting held every September. Why not

take the gondola and combine a bit of

sightseeing with cheering-on the runners?

But only think about entering the race, with

its vertical difference of 1000 m, if you’re

confident your legs (and lungs) can handle it!

An adventure sports paradise – An adventure sports paradise – there’s something for everyone in Niseko there’s something for everyone in Niseko An adventure sports paradise – there’s something for everyone in Niseko There’s no better way of enjoying the natural surroundings than by

involving them in your activities. Here are a few of the adventure sports

available in and around the Niseko area that will leave you in no doubt that

you’ve experienced Hokkaido at its breathtaking best.

Seicomart

Niseko Tourist AssociationTel: +81-136-44-2420http://www.niseko-ta.jp/en/

Niseko Adventure Centre (NAC)Tel: +81-136-23-2093http://www.nac-web.com/e_index.htm

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

Consadole Sapporo http://www.consadole-sapporo.jp/

Aug. 2 18:00 vs. Chiba Lotte (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 3 18:00 vs. Chiba Lotte (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 4 18:00 vs. Chiba Lotte (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 12 18:00 vs. Softbank (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 13 14:00 vs. Softbank (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 14 13:00 vs. Softbank (Sapporo Dome)

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters http://fighters.co.jp/

Aug. 19 18:00 vs. Orix (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 20 15:00 vs. Orix (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 21 13:00 vs. Orix (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 23 18:00 vs. Rakuten (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 24 18:00 vs. Rakuten (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 25 18:00 vs. Rakuten (Sapporo Dome)

Games scheduled in Hokkaido in August

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (baseball)

Aug. 17 19:00 vs. JEF United (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 21 13:00 vs. Kyoto Sanga (Hakodate)

Consadole Sapporo (football)

Games scheduled in Hokkaido in August

Games in August

© 1996 H.F.C.

8 9Sports Sports

© Nidom Classic Course

Originally developed for military use and

said to be unsinkable and puncture-proof,

these virtually indestructible rubber boats

are now used in whitewater activities

throughout the world. Even those with no

experience of rafting can enjoy the raw

excitement of shooting the rapids under

the watchful eye of professional guides

and crewmembers. Hokkaido’s abundant

natural surroundings and wealth of clear

fast-flowing rivers supplied by the

mountaintop snowmelt make it an ideal

location to take part in this great bonding

experience, as everyone pulls together to

harness the strength of nature for their

own enjoyment.

Hokkaido’s most famous areas that

link rafting with tourism are the

Shiribetsu River in Niseko, the Sorachi

River in Furano, and the Mu River in

Shimukappu, Hidaka, which is said to be

one of the top three whitewater rivers in

Japan. It goes without saying that

although the snowmelt-boosted river

water in April and May make the rafting

dynamic, it also means the experience

can sometime get quite cold, with

participants wearing long-sleeved

clothing and long pants under the special

dry suits that are provided – a style of

rafting pioneered by the Niseko

Adventure Centre (NAC). In spring, the

rivers swelled by the snowmelt are not for

the fainthearted, and even the Toyohira

River in the suburbs of Sapporo becomes

a popular rafting spot. However, in

summer, the slightly more sedate rapids in

Niseko make rafting an enjoyable activity

for all the family – kids and grandparents

included – and an ideal way to escape the

mid-August heat of summer.

Rafting

Ducky A great summer rafting experience for

those seeking the thrills of shooting the

rapids – a ducky is a small rubber boat for

one or two people, enabling you to be

responsible for controlling your own craft.

Navigate the same waters as the rafting

teams – but don’t rule out a soaking or

even capsizing! Boats made from the

same tough materials as the rafts ensure

participants enjoy thrilling adventures,

safely.

Niseko’s mountain trails have the added

appeal of there being fewer bears here

than many other areas of Hokkaido,

making it an ideal region for trekking and

mountain biking. From single-track

downhill trails with views of Mt. Yotei, to

cross country routes in its foothills,

there’s something to suit all levels of

ability and fitness.

Not far from Niseko is the Oshoro coast of

Otaru, where the calm, clear waters of the

Sea of Japan invite sea kayakers to enjoy

the marine life from its surface. In the

shallower waters, swimming fish, sea

urchins and starfish seem within touching

distance, and caves and sheer cliffs only

accessible from the sea provide cool shade

and a chance to view the birds that nest

there. There’s no better way to define the

words exploration and adventure!

Mountain biking

Sea kayaking Lake Toya Lake Toya, famous for hosting the G8

Hokkaido Toyako Summit, is less than an

hour away from Niseko. With many hot

springs and the active Mt. Usu volcano,

the area is a popular tourist destination,

but the clear and comparatively warm

water of the lake also makes it a top water

leisure spot. Canoeists and jet skiers can

be seen on the water, and every July one

of Japan’s northernmost open swim meets

is held in the lake, and swimmers from

throughout Japan gather to take part in the

800- and 1,500-m events.

Niseko Annupuri Famous for its powder snow in winter,

Niseko Annupuri’s range of relatively

accessible mountain trails are ideal for

trail running. Piste trails and trekking

courses combine to create courses up to

30 km long, used in the trail running

meeting held every September. Why not

take the gondola and combine a bit of

sightseeing with cheering-on the runners?

But only think about entering the race, with

its vertical difference of 1000 m, if you’re

confident your legs (and lungs) can handle it!

An adventure sports paradise – An adventure sports paradise – there’s something for everyone in Niseko there’s something for everyone in Niseko An adventure sports paradise – there’s something for everyone in Niseko There’s no better way of enjoying the natural surroundings than by

involving them in your activities. Here are a few of the adventure sports

available in and around the Niseko area that will leave you in no doubt that

you’ve experienced Hokkaido at its breathtaking best.

Seicomart

Niseko Tourist AssociationTel: +81-136-44-2420http://www.niseko-ta.jp/en/

Niseko Adventure Centre (NAC)Tel: +81-136-23-2093http://www.nac-web.com/e_index.htm

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE© NAC NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

Consadole Sapporo http://www.consadole-sapporo.jp/

Aug. 2 18:00 vs. Chiba Lotte (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 3 18:00 vs. Chiba Lotte (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 4 18:00 vs. Chiba Lotte (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 12 18:00 vs. Softbank (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 13 14:00 vs. Softbank (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 14 13:00 vs. Softbank (Sapporo Dome)

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters http://fighters.co.jp/

Aug. 19 18:00 vs. Orix (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 20 15:00 vs. Orix (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 21 13:00 vs. Orix (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 23 18:00 vs. Rakuten (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 24 18:00 vs. Rakuten (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 25 18:00 vs. Rakuten (Sapporo Dome)

Games scheduled in Hokkaido in August

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (baseball)

Aug. 17 19:00 vs. JEF United (Sapporo Dome)Aug. 21 13:00 vs. Kyoto Sanga (Hakodate)

Consadole Sapporo (football)

Games scheduled in Hokkaido in August

Games in August

© 1996 H.F.C.

10 Time Travel Hokkaido

By Yasushi Morikage

From Honshu to the south, the Jomon

culture that had existed over a period of

more than 10,000 years made way for the

Yayoi culture that was based on growing

rice. However, in Hokkaido the Jomon

culture continued to develop; farming did

not exist and, instead, life was based

around the utilization of the blessings of

nature, until the birth of the Ainu culture

in the 13th century.

In this period of pre-Ainu culture, a

completely different culture arrived on

Hokkaido’s coastline from the north – the

Okhotsk culture. This culture was so alien

and mysterious to the Japanese culture at

the time, but recent research has meant

that more and more is slowly being

learned.

The Okhotsk people, as they are

known, lived in Hokkaido’s coastal

regions between the 5th and 9th centuries,

hunting seals and sea lions, and catching

herring and cod. Large dwellings where

several families lived together have been

found, and it is believed the families

worked together with large nets during the

fishing season. The people were also

known to keep dogs and pigs, which they

would use for food. Large amounts of

dental plaque detected in the excavated

skulls of the Okhotsk people suggest a

high calcium diet based on the meat of

marine creatures.

Okhotsk cultureMysterious Okhotsk people from the north

The Okhotsk people also considered

the bear to be an important animal. Bear

worship was not something that existed in

the Jomon culture – a distinctively

northern peoples thing like the totem poles

similar to those of the indigenous peoples

of North America. Eventually the

Okhotsk people disappeared along with

the Hokkaido Jomon culture, signaling the

birth of the Ainu culture, which again

featured bear worship in the form of the

famous “bear sending” rituals. The

Okhotsk culture had an enormous effect

on ending the Jomon culture in Hokkaido,

with mixed breeding cited as being one of

the causes of decline. Recent gene

analysis has revealed a type of gene

unique to the Okhotsk people in some

Ainu but the same gene is not found in

people of the Jomon culture, providing yet

more evidence of Hokkaido’s fascinating

past.

Why not get an insight into the Okhotsk culture?

Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples (Abashiri) A museum featuring exhibits of the world’s northern peoples in areas surrounding the Sea of Okhotsk. See remains unearthed from Okhotsk culture archeological sites, and the famous small icon of a woman known as the Okhotsk Venus. Website in English, Chinese and Korean http://hoppohm.org/index2.htm

Moyoro Shell Mound (Abashiri) The site that triggered the discovery of the Okhotsk culture; conveniently located by the Abashiri River estuary.

Tokoro Iseki-no-Mori (Tokoro) A park that forms part of the Tokoro archeological site where preserved remains of dwellings from the Jomon culture onwards can be found. Facilities in the forest house exhibits of Okhotsk culture from the Tokoro area.

AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement

Kita 5-jo Nishi 2-chome 5, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0005 Japan TEL. +81-11-251-2222 http://www.jrhotels.co.jp/tower/

Esta

Stellar Place

Tokyu

JR Sapporo Sta.

Daimaru

YodobashiCamera

Subway Nanboku Line

next toJR Sapporo Station

Subway Toho Line

next to JR Sapporo Station

11：30 a.m. 2：30 p.m.to ( last admission )

Enjoy a buffet of approximately 30 dishes, includingWestern-style, Chinese, homemade bread, fruits, deserts and soft drinks.( Plus limitless red or white wine for an extra ¥500, or limitless “healthy drinks” for an extra ¥300 )

The relaxation of a resort and convenience of Sapporo Station.Spend a peaceful, stimulating time embraced by beautiful views.

2,200¥ ; 1,100¥Adults elem. school children500¥infants ( from 4 years )

【 Access 】 A 3-min. walk through the JR Sapporo Station complex ( inside JR Tower )

Enjoy a lunch buffet packed with ingredientsEnjoy a lunch buffet packed with ingredientsproduced in Hokkaido!produced in Hokkaido!Enjoy a lunch buffet packed with ingredientsproduced in Hokkaido!For a limited period in August, take in the panoramic view from the 150 m-high 35th floor of JR Tower,the tallest building in Hokkaido, while enjoying dishes made from recipes direct from the chef ofthe Hotel Royal Taipei ( 老爺大酒店 ), which is part of the same Nikko Hotels International group.

RESTAURANT & BAR ［ 35F ］ SKY J“PANORAMA BUFFET”

AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement

10 Time Travel Hokkaido

By Yasushi Morikage

From Honshu to the south, the Jomon

culture that had existed over a period of

more than 10,000 years made way for the

Yayoi culture that was based on growing

rice. However, in Hokkaido the Jomon

culture continued to develop; farming did

not exist and, instead, life was based

around the utilization of the blessings of

nature, until the birth of the Ainu culture

in the 13th century.

In this period of pre-Ainu culture, a

completely different culture arrived on

Hokkaido’s coastline from the north – the

Okhotsk culture. This culture was so alien

and mysterious to the Japanese culture at

the time, but recent research has meant

that more and more is slowly being

learned.

The Okhotsk people, as they are

known, lived in Hokkaido’s coastal

regions between the 5th and 9th centuries,

hunting seals and sea lions, and catching

herring and cod. Large dwellings where

several families lived together have been

found, and it is believed the families

worked together with large nets during the

fishing season. The people were also

known to keep dogs and pigs, which they

would use for food. Large amounts of

dental plaque detected in the excavated

skulls of the Okhotsk people suggest a

high calcium diet based on the meat of

marine creatures.

Okhotsk cultureMysterious Okhotsk people from the north

The Okhotsk people also considered

the bear to be an important animal. Bear

worship was not something that existed in

the Jomon culture – a distinctively

northern peoples thing like the totem poles

similar to those of the indigenous peoples

of North America. Eventually the

Okhotsk people disappeared along with

the Hokkaido Jomon culture, signaling the

birth of the Ainu culture, which again

featured bear worship in the form of the

famous “bear sending” rituals. The

Okhotsk culture had an enormous effect

on ending the Jomon culture in Hokkaido,

with mixed breeding cited as being one of

the causes of decline. Recent gene

analysis has revealed a type of gene

unique to the Okhotsk people in some

Ainu but the same gene is not found in

people of the Jomon culture, providing yet

more evidence of Hokkaido’s fascinating

past.

Why not get an insight into the Okhotsk culture?

Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples (Abashiri) A museum featuring exhibits of the world’s northern peoples in areas surrounding the Sea of Okhotsk. See remains unearthed from Okhotsk culture archeological sites, and the famous small icon of a woman known as the Okhotsk Venus. Website in English, Chinese and Korean http://hoppohm.org/index2.htm

Moyoro Shell Mound (Abashiri) The site that triggered the discovery of the Okhotsk culture; conveniently located by the Abashiri River estuary.

Tokoro Iseki-no-Mori (Tokoro) A park that forms part of the Tokoro archeological site where preserved remains of dwellings from the Jomon culture onwards can be found. Facilities in the forest house exhibits of Okhotsk culture from the Tokoro area.

AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement

Kita 5-jo Nishi 2-chome 5, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0005 Japan TEL. +81-11-251-2222 http://www.jrhotels.co.jp/tower/

Esta

Stellar Place

Tokyu

JR Sapporo Sta.

Daimaru

YodobashiCamera

Subway Nanboku Line

next toJR Sapporo Station

Subway Toho Line

next to JR Sapporo Station

11：30 a.m. 2：30 p.m.to ( last admission )

Enjoy a buffet of approximately 30 dishes, includingWestern-style, Chinese, homemade bread, fruits, deserts and soft drinks.( Plus limitless red or white wine for an extra ¥500, or limitless “healthy drinks” for an extra ¥300 )

The relaxation of a resort and convenience of Sapporo Station.Spend a peaceful, stimulating time embraced by beautiful views.

2,200¥ ; 1,100¥Adults elem. school children500¥infants ( from 4 years )

【 Access 】 A 3-min. walk through the JR Sapporo Station complex ( inside JR Tower )

Enjoy a lunch buffet packed with ingredientsEnjoy a lunch buffet packed with ingredientsproduced in Hokkaido!produced in Hokkaido!Enjoy a lunch buffet packed with ingredientsproduced in Hokkaido!For a limited period in August, take in the panoramic view from the 150 m-high 35th floor of JR Tower,the tallest building in Hokkaido, while enjoying dishes made from recipes direct from the chef ofthe Hotel Royal Taipei ( 老爺大酒店 ), which is part of the same Nikko Hotels International group.

RESTAURANT & BAR ［ 35F ］ SKY J“PANORAMA BUFFET”

AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement

8August

2011

CONTENTS

FREE

© Pacific Music Festival

www.hokkaido-pedia.jpwww.hokkaido-pedia.jpwww.hokkaido-pedia.jp

As the end of Hokkaido’s short summer approaches, a refreshing breeze arrives to turn the leaves into a kaleidoscope of reds and yellows. Seafood such as salmon, saury, crab and sea urchin, and delicacies from the land, including apples, pears, grapes and melons are at their peak as the harvest season unfolds. Hokkaido’s most delicious season – autumn is calling!

As Honshu and the rest of Japan struggle to stay cool while attempting to save energy in a bid to help recovery efforts in the areas affected by the earthquake of March 11, Hokkaido continues to be the best place to be this summer. Why not switch off your air conditioner and head north, where fresh breezes, cool water and delicious food will help you beat the summertime blues.

Save energy – come to Hokkaido

What’s on .............................2

Living Hokkaido ....................3

The Great Outdoors .............4

Walk Talk ..............................5

Luxury Zone .........................6

Dining Hokkaido ...................7

Sports ...................................8

Time Travel Hokkaido.........10

Information .........................12

Radiation Monitoring in Hokkaidohttp://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/sm/gat/zenndoumonita_eng.htm

Savor the delights of autumnSavor the delights of autumnSavor the delights of autumn

12 Information

Contactc/o Event Convention Pro Inc. Kitaguchi Yoshiya Bldg. 7F, Kita 7-jo Nishi 4-chome 8-3, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0807 Japan Tel: +81-11-299-5910 Fax: +81-11-299-5911 hokkaido-pedia@ec-pro.co.jp http://www.hokkaido-pedia.jp

PublisherEvent Convention Pro Inc.

Editor in ChiefShinichi Hisamatsu

Contributing EditorDavid Barnett

TranslationToshiyuki YamaguchiKaori Yamada

WebmasterNoriko Kodaira

DesignTeruya Fujioka

Editorial AssistanceGaku Shoji

PrintingHokkaido Printing Planning Co., Ltd.

Support & CooperationAssoc. Prof. Mitsuhiro Kawamoto (Sapporo International University)Phred KaufmanCara Steinbergintelligent Link Inc.and Others

Commissioned byHokkaido Government

8August

2011

What is HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia?

HOKKAIDO Walk-a-pedia is a monthly web magazine, whose title is based onthe meaning of a “walking encyclopedia of Hokkaido.” This tourism information booklet introduces the abundant nature, excellent environment, safe food and charming citizens of Hokkaido, an Asian resort area for high-end travelers from around the world. The tourism-related information is collected and released by members of Hokkaido’s international community.

Consulate-General of the United States of AmericaKita 1-jo Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0821 JapanTel: +81-11-641-1115 Fax: +81-11-643-1283http://sapporo.usconsulate.gov/

Consulate-General of the Republic of KoreaKita 2-jo Nishi 12-chome 1-4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-0002 JapanTel: +81-11-218-0288 Fax: +81-11-218-8158http://jpn-sapporo.mofat.go.kr/languages/as/jpn-sapporo/main/index.jsp

Consulate-General of the Russian FederationMinami 14-jo Nishi 12-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0914 JapanTel: +81-11-561-3171 Fax: +81-11-561-8897http://www1.odn.ne.jp/ruscons_sapporo/

Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of ChinaMinami 13-jo Nishi 23-chome 5-1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0913 JapanTel: +81-11-563-5563 Fax: +81-11-563-1818http://sapporo.china-consulate.org/jpn/ (Japanese)

Australian ConsulateSapporo Center Bldg. 17F, Kita 5-jo Nishi 6-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-0005 JapanTel: +81-11-242-4381 Fax: +81-11-242-4383http://www.australia.or.jp/en/consular/sapporo/

Consulate-Generals

Information

Police

110

Emergency

119

Tourist Information

Sapporohttp://www.welcome.city.sapporo.jp/english/access/information.html

Hokkaidohttp://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/

JNTOhttp://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/regional/hokkaido/

Emergency Hospital

Sapporo City General Hospitalhttp://www.city.sapporo.jp/foreign/index.html

Hokkaido University Hospitalhttp://www.huhp.hokudai.ac.jp/english/med01.html

Domestic Airlines

Japan Airlines (JAL)http://www.jal.co.jp/

All Nippon Airways (ANA)https://www.ana.co.jp/

Hokkaido International Airlines (AIR DO)http://www.airdo.jp/ap/index.html

Skymark Airlines (SKYMARK)http://www.skymark.co.jp/ja/

International Airlines

Air China internationalhttp://www.airchina.jp/en/index.html

Korean Airhttp://www.koreanair.com/?rgn=jp&lang=jpn

Continental Airlineshttp://www.staralliance.com/en/

Cathay Pacific Airwayshttp://www.cathaypacific.com/cpa/en_JP/homepage

Asahikawa Museum of Arthttp://www.dokyoi.pref.hokkaido.jp/hk-asamu/

Hospitals

Sapporo City General Hospitalhttp://www.city.sapporo.jp/city/english/index.html

Hokkaido University Hospitalhttp://www.huhp.hokudai.ac.jp/english/med01.html

Sapporo Medical University Hospitalhttp://web.sapmed.ac.jp/byoin/

Library

Sapporo Chuo Libraryhttp://www.city.sapporo.jp/toshokan/english/english.html

Foreign Currency Exchange

North Pacific Bankhttp://www.hokuyobank.co.jp/

Hokkaido Bankhttp://www.hokkaidobank.co.jp/service/foreigncash/index.html

Post Office

Sapporo Central Post Officehttp://www.japanpost.jp/

International Telephone

http://hokkaido.jp.currentlocaltimes.com/dialingcode.html

International Community

Sapporo International Communication Plazahttp://www.plaza-sapporo.or.jp/english/index_e.html

Major Conferences and Events

Jul. 23 to Aug. 20 Toyako Onsen Summer FestivalAug. 5 to 7 International Symposium on Information Technology in

Medicine and Education (ITME2011)Aug. 6 to 7 Date Musha FestivalAug. 27 to 28 Noboribetsu Hell FestivalSept. 6 to 10 XIII International Congress of Bacteriology and Applied

MicrobiologySept. 6 to 10 XIII International Congress of MycologySept. 11 to 16 XV International Congress of VirologyOct. 3 to 6 The 4th International Conference on Human-Environment

System (ICHES2011)Nov. 8 to 10 17th Small Engine Technology Conference (SETC2011)Nov. 25 to Dec. 24 German Christmas Market in SapporoDec. 1 to 25 Hakodate Christmas FantasyDec. 14 Hokkaido Festival of the Loyal Retainers in Sunagawa

(Gishi Sai)Dec. 20 to Mar. 31 Diamond Dust in KAWAYU

HOKKAIDO

Asahikawa● ●Abashiri

●Mombetsu

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Obihiro●

Hakodate●

●Sapporo

China Southern Airlineshttp://www.cs-air.jp/

Sakhalin Airlineshttp://www.satairlines.ru/index.php

Eva Airhttp://www.evaair.com/html/b2c/english/

International Airport

New Chitose Airporthttp://www.new-chitose-airport.jp/en/

Trains

JR Hokkaidohttp://www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/index.html

JR Information DeskJR Sapporo Station West Exit (8:30 – 19:00)New Chitose Airport Station (8:30 – 19:00)

Buses

Hokkaido Chuo Bushttp://www.chuo-bus.co.jp/sightseeing.en/

Ferry

Shin Nihonkai Ferryhttp://www.snf.jp/pdf/english.pdf

Taiheiyo Ferryhttp://www.taiheiyo-ferry.co.jp/english/index.html

MOL Ferryhttp://www.sunflower.co.jp/english/index.shtml

Tourist Agency

JTB Hokkaidohttp://www.jtb.co.jp/hokkaido/

Kinki Nippon Tourist Hokkaidohttp://www.knt.co.jp/kokusai/about.html

Nippon Travel Agencyhttp://www.nta.co.jp/hokkaido/

Car Rentals

JRhttp://www2.tocoo.jp/?file=rentcar_inbound/branch&id=82008&prefecture=1

Nippon Rent-A-Carhttp://www2.tocoo.jp/?file=rentcar_inbound/branch&id=23019&prefecture=1

TOYOTAhttp://www.toyotarentacar.net/english/

Art Galleries and Museums

Hokkaido Museum of Modern Arthttp://www.aurora-net.or.jp/art/dokinbi/

Historical Museum of Hokkaidohttp://www.hmh.pref.hokkaido.jp/

Historical Village of Hokkaidohttp://www.kaitaku.or.jp/info/info.htm

Migishi Kotaro Museum of Art, Hokkaidohttp://www.dokyoi.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/hk/mkb/

Wakkanai

Sarobetsu

Rebun

Rishiri

Yoichi

Niseko

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