Eastern Hokkaido might not be a top destination for most foodie travelers, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be.

Home to three of the prefecture’s six national parks, this area is known for its untouched nature, vast marshlands, and astounding wildlife. The bounties of nature are reflected not only in its scenery but also in the freshness of its food, with a steady supply of seafood like salmon, scallops, yellowtail, Hokkai shrimps, and more.

For fans of seafood, Hokkaido offers a culinary experience unlike any other, especially in this unspoiled eastern region. It’s a true taste of what makes the iconic “must-try seafood in Hokkaido” experience so special.

Hear it from the locals as they introduce you to regional ingredients and cooking methods in this interactive dining experience. First, visit the Odaito Fishing Port, where fishmongers sell some of the freshest catch. A local fisherman shares insights into the fishing industry and the community’s efforts to preserve it amid climate change and population decline.

Next, visit a restaurant where a local chef welcomes you into the world of seafood. Enjoy a generous course meal made with local ingredients, and learn more about food culture from the chef himself. Menus vary by season but may include seafood salad, assorted sashimi, and seafood shabu-shabu, ending with a dessert made from local dairy.

This immersive dining experience in Hokkaido beautifully ties together food, people, and place, a genuine celebration of seasonality and local pride.

Travelers who take the road less traveled will discover this hidden gem in plain sight on Hokkaido’s Notsuke Peninsula.