Mini Travel Observations from Hokkaido, Part 1: STARLUX, Water Quality, CoCo Ichibanya, and Hotel Breakfast
(Photo taken at Hokkaido University’s ginkgo avenue)
In September 2024, I embarked on a spontaneous trip to Hokkaido, coordinating with family and energy levels. Though not a detailed itinerary, this immersive experience may offer readers some insight into the region.
(These travel notes are written spontaneously during breaks, and I only organize them when I have the energy. Thank you for your understanding, and feel free to check back for more updates! 😇)
Flight Experience:
Airline: STARLUX
Aircraft: A330neo, seat layout 2-4-2. I chose an aisle seat, but the person ahead kept reclining, reducing the benefit 😅. Still, aisle seats are essential for frequent bathroom breaks—worth the cost for occasional travelers.
The flight included Taiwanese tour groups, yet everything remained orderly and quiet. The plane’s Snoopy-themed decor lifted my spirits 💖, and the in-flight meals were delightful.
(The signature Hutong beef yakiniku rice is incredibly delicious.)
(The Oriental Beauty tea ice cream, a collaboration with NINAO Gelato, showcases a unique Taiwanese flavor.)
(The matcha ice cream served on the return flight is made in Hokkaido and is of excellent quality.)
Water Quality:
During my five-day stay in Sapporo, I boiled tap water daily, and I quickly noticed how soft and smooth the water tasted. It was easy to drink, and I didn’t feel bloated. Surprisingly, I didn’t buy any bottled water throughout my stay as the hotel water sufficed.
I washed my hair every day, and it became smoother, but upon returning to Taiwan, my hair texture reverted to being coarser. Hokkaido's water left a great impression on me—pure, nourishing, and refreshing!
I suddenly remembered that when I visited Tokyo five years ago, the water quality there didn’t leave much of an impression on me, even though I went twice in one year. This makes me confident in my current judgment. In contrast, Hokkaido’s water has left a great impression—it feels pure and nourishing. Drinking it throughout my stay kept me hydrated and refreshed after long days of walking.
(The milk here tastes light and refreshing, possibly due to the high water quality, which is quite different from Taiwan.)
Quick and Filling Chain Restaurant: CoCo Ichibanya, Hokkaido University Store
On the day I arrived in Hokkaido, it was already late, and I was both hungry and tired. I stumbled upon CoCo Ichibanya near the hotel and decided to give it a try, thinking it would be a safe choice. The curry was, as expected, delicious. You can customize everything, from rice portions to curry spiciness and toppings. The highlight of this branch was its warm and cozy ambiance, created by the soft yellow lighting, leaving a memorable impression. I hadn’t visited other CoCo stores in Japan, but at that moment in Sapporo, I felt a unique warmth and charm of the north. 💓
Famous and Lavish Hotel Breakfasts:
I had heard that hotel breakfasts in Hokkaido are famously abundant and unique, and my experience was no exception. The sashimi was fresh and delicious, the salmon had little fat but a fantastic flavor, and the marinated half-raw mackerel was superb. Octopus was tender and flavorful, and the endless supply of cod roe was delightful. Locally grown rice was impeccable, accompanied by various seafood side dishes, which changed daily over my three-day stay. Each dish was impressive, offering surprises for travelers to enjoy.
PS:
Although the hotel provided excellent service, there is still room for improvement in terms of its facilities, and the partner booking website had some oversights, so I won’t discuss it further.
Travel period: Early to mid-September 2024 in Sapporo and Otaru, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C.
Hokkaido holds a unique charm for me, and recording my observations can’t be completed in one go. Therefore, I’ll pause for now and continue next time 😊.
Bringing good vibes with skincare/makeup/essentials/food/pets stored here🍀
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