かつろ
I have tried drinking bottled white birch sap called "Forest Dew" in Biei before. At that time, it didn't leave a strong impression, just a subtle sweetness. However, this time, the refreshing taste was very enjoyable, and I also tried some dishes made with it. I took some photos, but I don't want to share them publicly, so I won't post them this time. If you're curious, you can check their website at http://www.netbeet.ne.jp/~sirakaba/index.html. It seems that the owner started this as a hobby and doesn't want to expand too much. They only collect white birch sap for one month in spring each year, so they keep their promotion and sales within a limited range. "Incarcipe Shirakaba" is a lodging facility focused on cottages, located in a well-maintained white birch forest. There are hammocks in the forest, making it a fun place to relax. Originally, it was created by the owner for personal use, but it became popular, so they had to make more sleeping spaces. Recently, they have opened a dining place called "Forest Stroll" on the same premises. Even if you're not staying, you can easily enjoy white birch sap and dishes there. The shop is small, with two tables and a counter, kept clean and tidy. The sap is collected fresh, so it's more refreshing and less viscous than expected. It tastes like subtly sweet mineral water. It's surprising that this sap is used to brew coffee, marinate meat, and make shabu-shabu (reservation required). I tried the recommended "Genghis Khan set meal (lamb shoulder loin)" this time. It was served hot, moderately cooked, with a hint of sweetness on the meat, delicious and not too gamey. The meal included plenty of vegetables, rice, miso soup, and side dishes with a local touch, giving a homely feel. I'm curious about the Zangi made with local chicken from Nakasatsunai, croquettes made with local vegetables bound with sap, and the shabu-shabu with pork that seems to enhance the umami flavor of white birch sap. I'd like to visit again when I have the chance. Thank you for the meal. Genghis Khan set meal (lamb shoulder loin) 880 yen (lamb slices) 800 yen Rice, miso soup, pickles included. Zangi set meal (thigh meat) 850 yen (breast meat) 780 yen Rice, miso soup, pickles included. Croquette set meal 750 yen Croquette and Zangi set meal 850 yen Pork bowl 850 yen White birch sap 300 yen White birch sap coffee 600 yen Shabu-shabu [reservation required] (whey-fed pork) 2,500 yen (Hokkaido pork) 2,000 yen "Kitchen Forest Stroll" tel/fax 01558-6-5280 Closed on Wednesdays, open from 11:00 to 18:00. A must-visit Hokkaido-style restaurant.