What to Eat in April

Strawberries are in season across Japan from March until early May and are guaranteed to be much sweeter and juicer than those typically found in Europe and America. April is the best time to eat strawberries in Japan. It fits perfectly with the reoccurring pink theme as cherry blossoms are forecast to bloom this month. With many local supermarkets starting to sell a wide variety of strawberries from different prefectures, check out where to get your sweet fix of strawberries in Niseko.   

Running for over 10 years by an elderly couple, Cafe If is located in a small cottage in Hirafu. It's fresh cream cheesecake is one of the most popular items on the menu. The dish is made to order to guarantee its consistency and is made using Hokkaido milk and seasonal strawberries. Surprisingly light and not too sweet.  

Location: Cafe If, 167-22 Yamada, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081

The idea may sound rather odd at first but the sweet filling between two thick plain white slices of breads really works! Serving as lunch and dessert, this Japanese snack can be found in convenience stores like Lawson, Seicomart and 7/11 dotted around Niseko. 

Using flour made only from Hokkaido, Za Hotcake Shop is a popular destination in Kutchan. Strawberry salt condensed milk pancakes is one of the most ordered dishes on the menu. Between each layer of fluffy pancakes is a generous filling of fresh strawberries. Topped with condensed milk and walnuts, this sweet treat is definitely worth the long wait. 

Location: Za Hotcake Shop, 3 - 1 Chome, Minami 1 Jonishi, Kutchan, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido

A seasonal dessert enjoyed by the locals during spring. Strawberry daifuku are small rice cakes stuffed with a sweet filling such as red bean paste with a whole strawberry in the centre. The chewy snack can be found in the local supermarkets such as Lucky or MaxValue and in convenience stores.  

Hungry for more? Check out our restaurants listing.