Savor local sake on a slightly intoxicating train journey

1.Kushiro’s Fukutsukasa: Starting the journey with an easy-breezy drink

Kushiro Station marks the starting point of the Hanasaki Line. To begin this slightly intoxicating train journey, enjoy a cup of Fukutsukasa, brewed at the only remaining local sake brewery in Kushiro. In this port town—where sake has long been enjoyed—Fukutsukasa has always aimed to create sake that pairs perfectly with local ingredients. The sake is brewed using the same hands-on brewing methods passed down since its founding.

For something easy to enjoy, try the light, clean-tasting Tsukasa Cup sake or Fukutsukasa Amazake, crafted from the brewery’s sake lees. Both feature charming retro illustrations on their packaging. If you have a sweet tooth, desserts such as the Jizake Cake (“local sake cake”), created in collaboration with the local confectioner, Kashidokoro Nakazima, are highly recommended. You can find these desserts at the brewery’s shop, inside Kushiro Station and at Washo Ichiba Market, just a short walk from the station. Being careful not to miss the train, pick up your snacks, hop aboard, and savor the flavors as you watch the scenery roll by the windows.

2.Akkeshi Whisky: Savoring flavors found only here

After being gently rocked along the tracks for an hour from Kushiro, the train pulls into Akkeshi Station. Here, the journey leads to Akkeshi Whisky, produced at the Akkeshi Distillery established by Kenten Jitsugyo. Akkeshi was selected as the site for the distillery due to natural elements, such as peat-rich soil, pristine water from the Bekanbeushi Wetland, and sea fog carried in on coastal winds, that resemble Scotland’s Isle of Islay, the whisky capital of the world. With distillation beginning in 2016, Akkeshi Whisky has since attracted growing attention both in Japan and globally.

One drop not to be missed is Lullaby of the Oyster, a whisky available only in Akkeshi Town. This limited blend was created with the hope that locals could enjoy it too. It is not sold by the bottle and can be tasted only at select restaurants around town. One such place is Oyster Bar Pitresk, located inside Conchiglie at a roadside rest area. With around six different whiskies usually in stock, the bar is also a great place to enjoy a tasting flight. Enjoy a moment to slow down and indulge in delectable whisky as you gaze over views of the waters of Akkeshi.

3.Nemuro’s Kitano-katsu: Enjoying a quick glass paired with seafood

Approaching Nemuro Station, the journey nears its end. To round things off, there’s no better choice than Nemuro’s own sake—Kitano-katsu. Produced by Usui Katsusaburo Shoten, this sake has been shaped by a deep respect for the region’s natural environment. Sake brewing means working in harmony with the climate and relying on pristine water nurtured by rich nature—much like fishing or livestock farming, it is a craft rooted in facing the great outdoors. Each batch is made with careful attention to the changing seasons.

Step into almost any of Nemuro’s izakaya (Japanese bar/restaurant) and you are practically guaranteed to find Kitano-katsu on the menu. Among the lineup, Taikai is the most beloved locally, known for its clean, crisp dryness. It pairs beautifully with Nemuro’s seafood, offering a clear, smooth finish. One glass leads naturally to another as you enjoy it alongside small dishes. Looking back on the day, take your time to savor the flavors of Japan’s northern island.