Page 88 - Jun-Jul 2024

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

It’s been a cult skiing destination almost since 1972 when Sapporo
hosted the Winter Olympics. It was the first time these games were held
outside Europe or North America.
Sapporo’s winter festival where ice sculptors converge on the city in
February has also become a popular event on Hokkaido’s tourist
calendar. One of Sapporo’s most popular spots is a shrine for some of
these skiers – The Okurayama Ski Jump that was built for the Winter
Olympics ranks among the world’s most iconic skiing venues.
Hokkaido’s culinary credentials are a big part of the island’s appeal.
It’s where evolved Japanese foodies head for sushi and one of those rare
destinations in the world where local produce complements unique local
dining experiences.
There’s certainly no evidence that Genghis Khan’s global conquests
ever took him as far as Hokkaido. That hasn’t stopped one of the region’s
famous grilled meat dishes to pay tribute. Locals call this ‘jingisukan’
and believe the origins of this name date back to a time when Mongolian
soldiers used to cook their meat by placing it atop their helmets and then
placing their helmets over open fire.
The helmets have made way for convex metal skillets that are placed at
the centre of each table. Think of it as your own personal, do-it-yourself
meal where you dab some meat fat on to the skillet and keep adding
meats and vegetables.
Dramatic, panoramic views are almost a given in Hokkaido. It’s almost
the first thing I learnt when I arrived at Hakodate, located at Hokkaido’s
southern tip.

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