From sardines to mackerel—the evolution of Kushiro Station’s famous Hokkaburi Sushi Bento

Sold at SKIPP inside JR Kushiro Station, Sardine Hokkaburi Sushi is a popular item that keeps customers coming back. Its charm lies in its playful name and shape, which resembles a head covering (hokkaburi), and its delicious flavor, combining fatty sardines with the refreshing taste of sweet pickled daikon radish. Shintaro Hikita, the president of the manufacturing company Hikitaya explains, “It all began in 1987, when my father, the previous president, developed it using sardines. At the time, Kushiro had long boasted the largest sardine catch in Japan.” A mackerel version is available, called Mackerel Hokkaburi Sushi. There is also an assorted set that lets you enjoy both sardine and mackerel, with four pieces of each. The product is also gaining popularity at food fairs across Japan. The sardines are a Hokusen variety from Kushiro and the mackerel is sourced from Kushiro or Hachinohe, depending on the season.

*Information accurate as of July 2025