๐ข Great-in-Tokyo — Great experience you can enjoy in Tokyo.
There are many Hokkaido foods beyond seafood. In this article, I introduce a simple way to enjoy Hokkaido in Jiyugaoka, one of Tokyo’s relaxed and stylish neighborhoods, from izakaya dishes to ramen and sweets.
Last updated: 2026-04-27
Introduction
When people think of stylish neighborhoods in Tokyo, places like Kichijoji and Shimokitazawa often come to mind. However, if you are looking for a more mature and relaxed atmosphere, Jiyugaoka is highly recommended. Lined with cobblestone streets, tasteful cafes, and the latest fashion and lifestyle shops, this sophisticated town is especially beloved by women. In Jiyugaoka, you will also find several restaurants serving dishes with deep ties to Hokkaido.
What to Try
Sapporo Draft Beer
When it comes to beer in Hokkaido, it has to be this. Just seeing the star symbol makes you feel like you are in the northern country. A crisp, cold glass marks the beginning of a fun evening.
Genghis Khan (Mutton BBQ)
While several regions in Japan have a culture of eating lamb, Hokkaido is the undisputed leader. Served on a sizzling iron plate, the savory lamb pairs perfectly with beer when eaten with plenty of bean sprouts and vegetables. An addictive umami will fill your mouth.
Zangi (Hokkaido-Style Fried Chicken)
In Hokkaido, fried chicken is called "Zangi." The big difference from regular karaage lies in the prep work before frying. The chicken is thoroughly marinated in a sauce made of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, allowing the flavor to penetrate deep into the meat. The coating is crispy, and the inside overflows with meat juices.
Shiokara & Potato (Salted Squid & Potato)
This is the ultimate Hokkaido combination. You eat steaming hot, fluffy potatoes topped with shiokara (salted squid). The sweetness of the potato, the saltiness of the squid, and the sticky texture create an exquisite harmony. It is a dangerous dish that makes you want to drink more sake.
* The Hokkaido dishes introduced above can be enjoyed at Hokkaido Bar Lavender Kitchen in Jiyugaoka.
๐ Hokkaido Bar Lavender Kitchen (Tabelog English)
Shio Ramen (Salt Ramen)
In Jiyugaoka, there is a specialty shop that offers a full lineup of Hokkaido ramen. When you think of Hokkaido ramen, miso ramen might immediately come to mind, but there is also Hakodate-style shio (salt) ramen. It is characterized by its clear and elegant soup.
๐ Hokkaido Ramen Miso Kuma Jiyugaoka Ten (Tabelog English)
Milk Pudding
Jiyugaoka is also home to a Hokkaido milk theme park operated by JA (Japan Agricultural Cooperatives). Here, you can enjoy soft serve ice cream and milk pudding. It has a rich, creamy flavor. Why not stop by for a stroll after your meal?
๐ MILKLAND HOKKAIDO TOKYO (Tabelog English)
๐ก Did You Know?
The Meaning of "Jiyugaoka"
Did you know that "Jiyugaoka" literally translates to "Freedom Hill"? (Jiyu = Freedom, Oka = Hill)
In the 1920s, a school promoting liberal education was founded here, and the town was renamed to reflect that progressive spirit. True to its name, the area maintains a free and sophisticated atmosphere today. It even features a beautiful promenade named "Marie Claire Street" (officially named after the French magazine), which is why this town is often called "Tokyo's Little Europe."
Tokyo or Trip?
๐ข Great in Tokyo — Great experience you can enjoy in Tokyo.
Of course, for fresh seafood like sea urchin and crab, flying to Hokkaido and eating it locally is best.
However, the charm of Hokkaido is not limited to seafood. Gourmet foods rooted in the land, such as meat dishes, fried foods, and snacks like the ones introduced today, are also the true face of Hokkaido.
Enjoying Sapporo beer in one hand while picking at dishes that recreate local flavors, all while staying in Tokyo. Discovering that "Hokkaido has so many delicious things besides seafood" might be possible thanks to the depth of the town called Jiyugaoka.
Explore Nearby
- Oimachi Ramen Guide — Authentic & Deep Bowls near Oimachi Tracks ๐
- Sapporo Miso Ramen in Tokyo — Aoba’s Authentic Hokkaido Warmth ๐
- Hokkaido Obihiro Butadon in Togoshi-Ginza — Grilled Pork Rice Bowl ๐ท
- Kura Sushi Tokyo Guide — Stress-Free Ordering & Must-Try Rolls ๐ฃ
- Chicken Nanban in Tokyo — Kyushu Flavor Meets Tartar Elegance ๐
- Korokke in Togoshi-Ginza — Tokyo Shotengai Classic ๐ฅ
Similar Dishes
- Hokkaido Crab & Seafood — King Crab, Transparent Squid, and Fresh Uni ๐ฆ
- Kanburi in Kanazawa — Winter Yellowtail Sashimi, Shabu, and Buri-Daikon ๐
- Hakata Ika Sashimi — Taste Fukuoka’s Transparent Local Specialty ๐ฆ
External Links
About "Taste of Japan"
Hello, I'm Yuta.
Born in landlocked Yamanashi and having lived in the gourmet city of Sendai for 10 years, I now call Togoshi-Ginza home. My frequent business trips across Japan allow me to constantly explore the diversity of regional flavors.
Why Togoshi-Ginza?
This street is Tokyo’s longest shopping arcade (about 1.3 km), but it holds a special history. It was the very first street in Japan to adopt the "Ginza" name—a tradition that later spread across the country—after receiving bricks from the famous Ginza district following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake.
My Wish as a Local
I am not a culinary expert. However, as a Japanese local who knows both the convenience of Tokyo and the origins of regional food, I want to share the "atmosphere" and "personal feelings" that you won't find in standard guidebooks.
The Concept: "Tokyo or Trip?"
Visiting every region of Japan in a single trip is nearly impossible. Some food experiences are worth the travel to the source, while others offer a fully satisfying experience right here in Tokyo.
This blog is a guide to help you make that choice. Based in Togoshi-Ginza, I share my honest experiences and "my personal answer" to help you maximize your culinary journey in Japan.
- ๐ Local-First: Best experienced in its home region. Worth a trip.
- ๐ข Great-in-Tokyo: A nationwide favorite or regional specialty that offers a fully satisfying, authentic experience right here in Tokyo.
- ๐ฃ Tokyo-Do-Must: A unique food culture born in or exclusive to Tokyo.