At "Shunkaro Hirokoji-ten," tucked away in an alley just off Obihiro's shopping arcade, you can savor Chinese cuisine that makes the most of Hokkaido's ingredients. From familiar favorites like chili shrimp and fried rice to bold new creations, the restaurant's inventive Chinese course menus are captivating a growing number of fans.

The entrance might make you wonder if you're in the right place on your first visit.

At "Shunkaro Hirokoji-ten," you can enjoy Chinese course menus unique to Hokkaido, incorporating seasonal ingredients from the Tokachi region. Two courses are available: a 5,500 yen course and an 11,000 yen course (both including tax). The number of dishes and ingredients vary between the courses, allowing you to enjoy unique Chinese creations like "Oyster Namero" (a Japanese-style tartar) and "Venison Tortillas," which might have you momentarily guessing their culinary origins.

"Venison Tortillas" scented with five-spice powder

The menu changes slightly with the seasons, offering new discoveries with every visit and making it a delightful place to return to time and again. The restaurant has four counter seats and three tables for four, and its cozy size creates a relaxing atmosphere. By the way, first-time visitors might feel a bit anxious, wondering if they've found the right spot, but don't worry. Its slightly hidden location adds to its charm, like a secret hideaway. Occasionally, they offer an à la carte menu, so be sure to check their Instagram frequently if you're interested.

The stylish and comfortable interior features a blue wall as its keynote.

The chef behind this captivating Chinese cuisine is Mr. Suzuki, affectionately known as "Su-san." He's usually a bit shy and doesn't appear much in the front since it's not an open kitchen, but he has a gentle personality and will greet you with a smile if you catch his eye. Su-san is a seasoned Chinese chef, having honed his skills for five years at a hotel affiliated with the Yokaro group in Yokohama Chinatown and at "Yokaro Shinkan" in Chinatown, followed by three years at "Chinese Timber" in Tokyo. He returned to Obihiro at the age of 29, opened his own restaurant as "Shunkaro Chuo-ten," and now showcases his talent at the relocated "Shunkaro Hirokoji-ten."

Chicken Liver Char Siu

Squid and Daikon Radish Cake with Caviar and Amaranth

Spear Squid Appetizer

Cold Shrimp Dish Wrapped in Thinly Sliced Kelp

"Chili Shrimp" with a rich and hearty flavor

Pan-fried shark fin is draped in a piping hot, thick sauce

This is a perfect spot for any occasion, be it an anniversary or a dinner party, and is sure to please anyone you bring. It's especially recommended for a leisurely meal with friends visiting Tokachi from outside Hokkaido. The menu features an abundance of Hokkaido-esque ingredients, such as "Sachi" cheese from Shiawase Cheese Kobo and Apoi Pork from Samani Town, making it the ideal place to truly appreciate the richness of Tokachi's produce.

The cutlery, created by artisans, is also wonderful.

This restaurant is also a must-visit for wine lovers, offering a selection of Hokkaido natural wines by the bottle, including "Ryunosuke" from Aizawa Farm and "Hinode Danke" from Chiba Vineyard. You can fully enjoy Hokkaido through both its food and its wine. As you progress through the course, you'll find yourself falling even more in love with Tokachi...!

An extensive lineup including natural wines from Hokkaido

Also, be sure to try the Annin Tofu (almond tofu), available for an additional 300 yen at the end of your meal. Beneath an almond mousse topped with jasmine jam lies a soft almond tofu. It's a generous portion, but its smooth, gentle texture makes it easy to finish in no time. This is a restaurant where even the final dessert leaves you feeling happy and satisfied.

Surprisingly, Su-san's father is also a Chinese chef. In fact, there are two "Shunkaro" restaurants in Obihiro. The other one, "Shunkaro" (written with a different character: 春華楼), is a classic neighborhood Chinese restaurant run by his father. Alongside quintessential "machi-chuka" (neighborhood Chinese) staples that make you say "This is the fried rice! This is the ramen!", the menu also offers special dishes like "Yakuzen Ramen" (medicinal ramen) and "Samgyetang."

Being able to taste two generations of Chinese cuisine in Obihiro is a true culinary delight! Be sure to also visit the "Shunkaro" run by his father, the root of his culinary journey.

Shunkaro Hirokoji-ten

■Address: 9-3-3 Nishi 1-jo Minami, Obihiro, Hokkaido
■Hours: 18:00 - 22:00
■Closed: Sundays
Click here for details and a map of Shunkaro Hirokoji-ten