About
When you step away from the bustle of Hyakunincho in Shinjuku Ward, you’ll find a small shop exuding an exotic atmosphere. Its name is “Harukoro.” Meaning “companion” in the Ainu language, this shop is a rare place in the heart of Tokyo where you can feel the breath of Ainu culture.
Upon entering, you’ll see banners and photographs adorned with traditional Ainu patterns covering the walls, giving you the illusion of having set foot on the land of Hokkaido. Ainu folk songs play quietly as background music, making you forget the city’s noise.
Opening the menu, you’ll find unfamiliar dish names. “Ratasikepu” is a pumpkin salad, with a subtle sweetness and the aroma of herbs in perfect harmony. “Imoshitosetto” is a preserved food from frigid regions made with potatoes, pumpkin, and mugwort, offering a simple yet deeply flavorful taste. And “Ohaw” is a miso-based soup, a representative Ainu dish that uses miso obtained through trade with the Japanese.
What particularly stands out are the Ezo deer game dishes. “Ezo Deer Steak” features a moderate chewiness and rich umami, and when enjoyed with wild garlic, you can fully savor the blessings of the mountains. Also, “Venison Bowl” is a hearty dish topped with plenty of healthy venison, with a sweet sauce that blends perfectly with the rice.
The drinks are unique as well. “Haskap Draft Beer” is a fruity beer made with haskap, a specialty of Hokkaido, and is characterized by its refreshing tartness. “Kelp Shochu” has a deep flavor condensed with the umami of kelp, making it an excellent match for the food.
The interior is a cozy space with about 20 seats, creating a homely atmosphere. Many customers make reservations, and it has become a gathering place for those interested in Ainu culture. Although it’s just a few minutes’ walk from Shin-Okubo Station, time seems to flow slowly here.
“Harukoro” is a precious place where you can experience Ainu traditions and flavors while in Tokyo. When you want to escape the city’s hustle and feel the breeze of another culture, you should definitely pay a visit.