When visiting Japan, most tourists flock to Tokyo and Osaka—but don’t miss out on Hokkaido, the northern gem of the country! This vast island is bursting with breathtaking nature, from snow-covered mountains to serene lakes and flower-filled fields. And the food? Simply unforgettable.
Hokkaido is renowned for its incredibly fresh seafood, thanks to the cold, nutrient-rich waters that surround it. Whether it’s melt-in-your-mouth uni (sea urchin), plump scallops, or juicy crab, every bite is a taste of the ocean’s bounty.
🛫 Before You Fly: A Delicious Farewell at New Chitose Airport
After exploring Hokkaido’s wonders, make sure to stop by New Chitose Airport—it’s more than just a gateway home. The airport is packed with gourmet restaurants, local sweets, and souvenir shops that showcase the best of Hokkaido’s flavors and charm.
What is Soraben 空弁
Soraben is a special type of boxed meal designed to be enjoyed on an airplane. The word comes from two Japanese words: “sora” meaning sky, and “ben” from bento, which means a boxed lunch. It’s the perfect way to savor local flavors while cruising above the clouds.
Since Hokkaido is an island in northern Japan, most travelers fly there from major cities like Tokyo or Osaka. And before you board your flight home, there’s one last treat waiting for you at New Chitose Airport—a delicious soraben packed with Hokkaido’s freshest ingredients.
New Chitose Airport is famous for its seafood soraben, featuring delicacies like uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), crab, and more. These bento boxes aren’t just meals—they’re a final taste of Hokkaido’s rich culinary culture.
Let me introduce you to some of the most popular soraben options available in Hokkaido. They’re so delicious, they’ll leave you with unforgettable memories long after your flight has landed.
Kita no Kaihou 北の海宝
One of the most popular soraben at New Chitose Airport is the Kita no Kaihou—literally “Northern Sea Treasure.”
This bento is a seafood showcase, featuring:
- 🦀 Crab meat
- 🧡 Uni (sea urchin)
- 🔴 Ikura (salmon roe)
- 🐚 Scallops
- 🐙 Octopus
All beautifully arranged over fluffy white rice, offering a final taste of Hokkaido’s rich ocean harvest. You can enjoy a variety of Hokkaido’s fresh seafood—all in one beautifully packed bento. It’s an incredible experience. It’s not just a boxed meal—it’s a gourmet farewell to Hokkaido, perfect for enjoying in the sky.
Personal Favorite: Scallop and Sea Urchin Bento
Among all the soraben I’ve tried, this one—Hotate Uni Meshi—was my absolute favorite. The moment I opened the box, the aroma of the sea filled the air. It was like bringing the ocean right into my airplane seat.
The uni (sea urchin) was incredibly soft and rich, with a creamy texture that melted in my mouth. Paired with grilled scallops and salmon roe, every bite was a perfect harmony of flavor and freshness. It truly captured the essence of Hokkaido’s coastal bounty.
If you’re flying out of New Chitose Airport, don’t miss this soraben. It’s not just a meal—it’s a memory you’ll carry long after you land.
Where to Buy Soraben: Sato Suisan at New Chitose Airport
The delicious soraben featured in this post—like the Scallop and Sea Urchin Bento and Kita no Kaihou—are sold by Sato Suisan (佐藤水産), a beloved seafood brand known throughout Japan for its high-quality, fresh seafood and unique gourmet products.
At New Chitose Airport, you can find their shop on the 2nd floor of the Domestic Terminal, inside the Dosanko Direct Market area. The store is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and offers a wide selection of seafood bentos, Hokkaido souvenirs, and even chilled packaging so you can take your goodies home safely.
Whether you’re flying back to Tokyo, Osaka, or beyond, stopping by Sato Suisan is the perfect way to grab a final taste of Hokkaido before takeoff.
You can find more details on 佐藤水産トップ : 北海道高品質海産物・鮭専門店
Curious to explore more of Hokkaido? Check out my other articles for hidden gems, local flavors, and unforgettable experiences!
Summary
I often travel from Osaka to Hokkaido, and no matter how many times I go, New Chitose Airport never gets boring. It’s packed with delicious gourmet food, local sweets, and unique souvenirs that make every visit feel special.
But the highlight for me—every single time—is the seafood soraben from Sato Suisan. It’s my final treat before leaving Hokkaido, and it never disappoints. The flavors, the freshness, the presentation… it’s the perfect farewell.
So if you’re flying out of Hokkaido, don’t forget to grab a soraben! It’s more than just a meal—it’s a delicious memory to take with you into the sky.
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