There is a section of Hokuetsu Seppu called “Shibumigawa Zaiwatari.” This river is that same Shibumigawa.

In the local dialect, the “Zai” in “Zaiwatari” means to freeze. In the winters when this river freezes over, snow piles up on top of the ice becomes indistinguishable from the surrounding land. So people would walk across the river, which is where “watari” which means to cross, comes into play. But that’s not all there is to it. There are even some people who would spread out a blanket over the snow-covered ice and participate in a “Ice Viewing,” similar to cherry blossom viewings.

So, until now we have introduced 10 different examples of A-Class Gourmet, but this is not where our story ends. The places we will introduce from here on out also boast a cuisine and flavor which is unique to Snow Country and can only be experienced here. So, what kind of dishes await you? We will leave the rest up to you and your tastebuds.