Hokkaido beyond the ski slopes – and why wealthy foreigners are buying homes in Japan’s north
- People flock to Japan’s north for some of the best snow in the world, but it is also known for its woodlands, lakes and beautiful coastline
- More travellers are visiting the area in summer, including wealthy elite seeking second homes
I’m learning to crack open a spiky sea urchin shell and carefully scoop out delicate morsels of buttery, bright orange uni. I then remove white medallions of flesh from scallop shells. Both are eaten chopped over rice – a dish that I’m still dreaming about.
“I grew up in Connecticut, [United States], so I’m used to having nature around,” says Hong Kong native and former banker Ian Fong, who founded Hokkaidian Homestead with his Japanese wife Noriko Matsushita last year. “That is why I wanted my daughters to have the same kind of upbringing.”
Serving a mix of European and Japanese delights, the dining and culinary workshop at Hokkaidian Homestead is an immersive experience for travellers. The concept is farm – and sea – to table, paired with lush wines and sake.
“The beauty of Hokkaido is the changing of the seasons,” says Emilia Lopez, another Hong Kong resident. “I love … to go horseback riding and hiking.”
