Local Guide Nao Takai | MICHIKUSA Guide ~ An Original Japan Travel Guide by Hoshino Resorts' Local Staff

Michikusa Gurus

Nao Takai

Hokkaido Food Writer

She has eaten her way through more than 5,000 restaurants in Hokkaido and visited all 179 municipalities. While running the food site “MOGTRIP,” she also posts daily on Instagram, TikTok, and X. She has appeared in over 50 media outlets, including TV, magazines, and newspapers.
https://mogtrip.jp/writer-nao/

Michikusa no Tatsujin FAQ

What got you hooked on Hokkaido cuisine?: Until I was in high school, I didn’t have any particular interest in food. I was the type who thought, “Eating is a hassle—as long as I’m full, that’s good enough.” But as I visited more and more cafes, I gradually began to realize that “enjoying delicious food is a source of happiness,” and before I knew it, I was completely captivated by the world of Hokkaido cuisine. I left my 15-year career as an office worker and embarked on this path.

What are the points that ordinary people don't notice but are interesting here? What are some of the points that people usually don't notice?: It’s the chance to learn what goes on behind the scenes of great flavors. Every time I talk to a restaurant owner about their dedication to ingredients or cooking methods, I make a new discovery, and when I taste a dish with that knowledge in mind, the same dish tastes even better.Lately, I’ve had more opportunities to talk with producers, and learning about the passion behind how their ingredients are grown has become one of my favorite parts of the experience. I’m also a huge fan of “local specialties”—ingredients you can only taste in that specific region.

Actually, I'm also a "XXX" fanatic!: Actually, I’m also a “kimono” enthusiast. It’s a point of pride for me to wear a kimono whenever possible—not just when exploring Hokkaido’s culinary scene, but also whenever I travel. Lately, my kimono has become something of a trademark, and I’ve been getting more and more comments from people at restaurants and around town saying, “I follow you on social media” or “I’m rooting for you.” It’s amazing how staying true to what you love can lead to unexpected encounters.

What is your "unforgettable travel destination" and why?: This is Okushiri Island, a remote island in the southern Hokkaido region. To be honest, I’ve always been a bit wary of sea urchin, but the sea urchin I ate on Okushiri Island was so delicious that it’s a place I’ll always remember as the first time I thought, “Maybe I actually like sea urchin.”

Is there anything you always take with you on a trip?: My iPhone 16 Pro and portable charger are essential for taking photos and videos (I used to carry a DSLR, but because of the weight, I now stick exclusively to my smartphone).Instead of zori sandals, I pair my kimono with Nike’s “Air Lift” tabi sneakers. Since I tend to get sick easily if my neck gets cold, a stole or scarf is also a must. To move around efficiently, I always keep my belongings compact and organized in a single backpack.