2025.10.02
｜ TOURS
ROOT AND PRODUCERS | Savor the Terroir of Hakodate on a Half-Day Tour of Southern Hokkaido’s Artisanal Producers
ROOT AND PRODUCERS | Savor the Terroir of Hakodate on a Half-Day Tour of Southern Hokkaido’s Artisanal Producers
This is a tour to visit the producers pioneering the future of food culture in the Hakodate area. At a winery established by the prestigious de Montille family of Burgundy, you will discover the philosophy behind natural winemaking that truly expresses the land. You will also meet a producer of wild venison who works in deep connection with nature and life itself. Seasonally, you can even accompany a real hunt and observe the butchering process. This is a journey to explore the allure of food cultivated by Hakodate’s unique terroir and to discover what these artisans envision for “the future of food.”
【Highlights of this Journey】
Visit Pioneering Producers：Meet the passionate artisans—a winemaker and a hunter—who are leading Hakodate’s food culture into the future.
Domaine de Montille & Hokkaido ： Learn the philosophy of terroir-driven winemaking and enjoy a special tasting at a winery founded by a renowned Burgundian family.
Into the Wild with an Active Hunter： Understand the Ezo deer ecosystem and witness the cycle of nature and life. An exclusive option to join a thrilling hunt is available in the autumn and winter.
A Culinary Exploration and a Luxurious Stay ： After your tour, enjoy a dinner featuring Hakodate’s local bounty and a refined stay at a historic hotel (with accommodation plan).
【Introducing the Producers You Will Visit: Domaine de Montille & Hokkaido】
For nearly three centuries, Domaine de Montille has been one of the most prestigious family-owned wineries in the Burgundy region of France. Its proprietor, Étienne de Montille, chose Hakodate as “a new frontier of possibility for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.” Paying deep respect to the local terroir—including its limestone-rich soil and cool climate—they practice farming methods that bring out the maximum life force inherent in the land. On this tour, you will hear directly why they chose Hakodate and what philosophy guides their winemaking, all while tasting the wine born from their passion.
【Introducing the Producers You Will Visit: Sauvage de Hakodate】
“Sauvage” is the French word for “wild.” Here, the Ezo deer, sometimes considered a pest due to overpopulation, is regarded as an irreplaceable “gift from the mountains,” and there is a deep passion for maximizing its value. Skilled hunters enter the mountains themselves, taking a life with respect for nature. Through swift and meticulous processing, the meat is transformed into authentic, high-quality game—rich in umami with no gaminess. This is a rare opportunity that will make you reflect deeply on the cycle of nature and the meaning of taking a life for sustenance.
【Plan Details】
Duration： Approx. 5 hours / 2 days, 1 night (with accommodation)
Availability： Generally year-round (the hunter accompaniment plan is unavailable in the summer). Please inquire, as irregular holidays may occur. (Bookings accepted from 3 months to 1 week in advance).
Group Size：Limited to one group of 2-3 guests. (For winery-only tours, group size is flexible).
Tour Escort： A driver-guide or interpreter-guide will accompany you.
【Price Guideline (per person, based on double occupancy)】
Prices may vary depending on the season, group size, and specific tour arrangements.
【Sample Itinerary – Day 1】
【Sample Itinerary – Day 2】
【What’s Included】
Round-trip transportation by private vehicle from the city center to the producers.
Commentary from producers and facility tours.
Wine tasting (3 varieties).
Ecological explanation of Ezo deer and/or accompaniment on a hunt.
Interpreter-guide (for foreign language tours) or driver-guide (for Japanese tours).
〈Included for Accommodation Plans Only〉
Special Ezo deer dinner at NIPPONIA HOTEL Hakodate Minatomachi.
One night’s stay at NIPPONIA HOTEL Hakodate Minatomachi (based on double occupancy).
A supplemental charge applies for single occupancy.
Breakfast at NIPPONIA HOTEL Hakodate Minatomachi.
〈Recommended Attire & What to Bring〉
When accompanying the hunter, please wear dark-colored outdoor clothing for your safety.
We recommend waterproof boots or trekking shoes.
【Accommodation】
NIPPONIA HOTEL Hakodate Minatomachi
Stay in a Red Brick Warehouse, a Symbol of Hakodate
Located within the Red Brick Warehouse district, an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, NIPPONIA HOTEL Hakodate Minatomachi is an intimate 9-room auberge housed in one of the city’s iconic restored warehouses.
Experience a truly refined stay while immersing yourself in the history and culture of Hakodate.
【How to Book】
Step 1: Choose Your Experience
Select your desired experience from our five unique plans. It is also possible to combine multiple experiences.
Step 2: Send an Inquiry
Using the inquiry form, please let us know your desired experience, preferred dates, number of guests, and any other requests.
《Book or Inquire Here》
Step 3: Receive a Proposal
Our dedicated concierge will create a customized travel plan and quote based on your request. (Please note that we may not be able to accommodate all requests due to the schedules of our producers and guides, facility maintenance, etc.)
Step 4: Confirm Your Booking
Once you are satisfied with the proposed plan, we will proceed with the official booking process.
【Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)】
Q. What is your cancellation policy?
A. A predetermined cancellation fee will be charged for any cancellations. For details, please refer to the “Travel Conditions / Before You Apply” section at the bottom of this page.
Q. Can you accommodate dietary allergies?
A. Please inform us of any food allergies at the time of booking. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Q. Is it okay if I don’t speak Japanese?
A. Yes, that is perfectly fine. Many of our plans include an interpreter or a licensed guide, so you can enjoy your experience with peace of mind.