As I type, I am sitting in my tatami mat room at a stunning Hokkaido ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn. Recently reconstructed, this Noboribetsu ryokan is a creative blend of East and West built with comfort in mind. Beautiful baths, cozy couches, gorgeous green scenery, what’s not to love? But a ryokan stay would not be complete without an intricate kaiseki dinner. Last night’s food was rich, delicate, and oh so plentiful! It was so good that I forgot to document nearly half the meal. With that in mind, I thought I’d take this opportunity to showcase a May meal from a ryokan in Nagano.
The dauntingly long, yet promisingly delicious menu.
Our appetizers.
Next up, sashimi!
And… one of my favorite spring dishes: mountain vegetable tempura.
Your basic nimono, or simmered dish.
Polished off with pickles and rice.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a true ryokan meal without a, shall we say unusual, fruity desert.