Yama-Oyaji

Simple taste at its finest.

“Sensyuan,” a super long-established store in Sapporo that was founded in 1921 and is celebrating its 100th anniversary, has a confectionery called “Yama-Oyaji,” which is a personal recommendation of mine. I think I was in junior high school when I first ate it, and I remember being shocked by its deliciousness and asking my grandmother, who gave me “Yama-Oyaji,” for the name of the product.

I have been a big fan of Yama-Oyaji ever since, and even now, I am surprised by the simplicity and deliciousness of this confectionery. It is a senbei made of wheat flour, mochiko (glutinous rice flour), butter, and milk, but I wonder how such a delicious snack could be made. It is truly a mystery.

On the front of the rice cracker, there is a picture of a bear carrying a salmon, which is very Hokkaido-like and mischievous. The crackers are thin and easily broken, but I like to break them into small pieces and enjoy them with coffee. Although they are called “sembe”, I feel they are more like biscuits or cookies.

Potential hidden in this rustic appearance. The flavor is unimaginable from the outside. Even the name “Yama Oyaji” seems to be far removed from the flavor.

Eggs, milk and butter flavor. It is always delicious. I have eaten “Yama Oyaji” many times and will continue to eat it, and I give it to people as souvenirs whenever I can. It is my eternal staple.