#Japan #Hakuba #Shinshu #Courtyard Marriott

Introduction to the Shinshu Blessings Dinner

Courtyard by Marriott Hakuba, located in the scenic Hakuba village of Nagano Prefecture, has introduced an exciting dining experience called the "Shinshu Blessings Dinner -Spring-". This specially curated dinner will take place from April 1 to May 31 in 2026, highlighting the seasonal flavors of Hakuba as it transforms into spring. This dinner emphasizes local ingredients unique to the region, incorporating flavors that are reflective of the land, including Shinano from the area such as snow mackerel, mountain vegetables, and fermented foods.

Embracing Spring in Hakuba

As the snow melts away, the village of Hakuba bursts into a tapestry of colors, symbolizing life and renewal. Each dish in this exclusive dining experience is crafted to evoke the refreshing essence of spring, allowing guests to savor a remarkable time that appeals to their senses. The chef’s highlight for this spring is the 'PRESTIGE' course, which combines luxurious ingredients like lobster and locally sourced Shinshu Alps beef.

A Symphony of Flavors

The appetizer features lightly smoked Shinano snow mackerel paired with a salad of mountain vegetables and drizzled with honey mustard sauce made from local cherry blossom honey. This dish blends the sweet and subtle bitterness of seasonal greens, reminiscent of the aromas of Hakuba's spring landscapes. The soup, a comforting concoction of Nagano-produced sake lees and sweet snow-carried carrots, creates a rich taste that conveys the local bounty. For the fish course, guests will enjoy grilled lobster in harmony with steamed abalone, complemented by a floral cream sauce infused with cherry blossoms and garnished with seasonal bamboo shoots and wasabi.

Meat Dish and Desserts

The meat course boasts Shush Alps beef slow-cooked in herb oil, served with a turmeric-flavored potato purée and a fresh green vegetable salad sprinkled with locally sourced black pepper and cherry blossom salt. Finally, the dessert brings a local twist with a roll cake filled with Nagano's wild ginger miso and matcha, beautifully paired with strawberries and matcha ice cream from Hakuba. Coffee or tea is included, rounding out this delightful culinary journey.

Words from the Chef

Chef Koichi Sugiyama of Courtyard by Marriott Hakuba expressed, "Spring in Shinshu is a season where the strength of locally sourced ingredients wildly blooms as the snow melts. By focusing on seasonal fare such as mountain vegetables and Shinshu-style sake, we aim to express the beauty of spring through layered flavors and textures. It is our hope that diners feel the essence of the land with each dish, experiencing the unique change of seasons that only Hakuba can offer."

Details of the Shinshu Blessings Dinner

• - Period: April 1, 2026, to May 31, 2026
• - Pricing: LAVAROCK: 9,500 JPY, PRESTIGE: 12,000 JPY
• - Time: 18:00 to 22:00 (Last order 21:00)
• - Location: Dining & Bar LAVAROCK

All prices include service charges and tax. Please note that menu items may change and certain courses may be discontinued without notice due to ingredient availability.