House on Wheels: Beyond the Ocean - Episode 4: Hokkaido's Chilly Evenings, Sushi Shenanigans, and Otaru's Gourmet Paradise
In the heart of Hokkaido's bountiful landscapes, House on Wheels: Beyond the Ocean Episode 4 delivers a perfect blend of heartfelt family moments, culinary triumphs, and scenic explorations. Sung Dong-il, Kim Hee-won, Jang Na-ra, and special guest Gong Myoung transform their mobile home into a haven of fresh local flavors and laughter. From a DIY sushi lesson under the "Sushi King" to a whirlwind Otaru tour packed with ramen queues and Instagram-worthy desserts, this episode captures the essence of summer in Japan's northern gem. Ready for a mouthwatering recap?
Arrival in Yoichi: Chilly Evenings and Home-Cooked Hokkaido Feast
As the Hokkaido summer sun dips below the horizon, the cast rolls up to their cozy yellow house on wheels in Yoichi. The crisp evening air calls for long sleeves, but the warmth of their makeshift family shines through. After a day foraging at local farms, they unload treasures like fresh cucumbers, eggplants, Yoichi onions, and premium wagyu—Hokkaido's pride as Japan's ultimate food pantry.
Dinner kicks off with simple rinses and rummages, but Hee-won steps up in the kitchen, channeling his inner chef. Spotting sushi powder among their hauls, he dives into rice mixing under Dong-il's watchful eye. "Don't lump it too hard—leave some air!" warns the master, evoking Hee-won's past "Sushi King" glory from earlier seasons. With tangy vinegar powder and nervous sprinkles, Hee-won crafts his first batch, earning a tentative thumbs-up.
- Key Ingredients Spotlight: Fatty Hokkaido tuna, plump scallops, and aged kimchi for a Korean-Japanese fusion twist.
- Pro Tip: For home sushi, aim for 280 rice grains per piece—perfect for sake pairings!
Outside, Dong-il mans the griddle like a pro food truck chef, sizzling wagyu steaks with "magic powder" and grilling scallops under a pot lid for steamy perfection. The result? A sizzling hot stone presentation with fried eggs from viable farm-fresh sources. Myoung's eyes widen at the juicy bites dipped in golden yolks—pure "unbelievable" harmony.
Sushi Showdown: Hee-won's Rise as the New Sushi King
Episode 4's culinary climax is Hee-won's sushi debut. Guided by Dong-il's flashy techniques—from wasabi dabs to light rice rolls—Hee-won battles self-doubt but triumphs with three varieties: melting tuna, kimchi-wagyu, and scallop delights. "The tuna just melts in your mouth," raves Na-ra, while Myoung declares it his top recommendation. Even the master approves: "You pass."
"Don't add anything else—just the powder!" – Dong-il's golden rule for foolproof sushi rice.
The feast extends to grilled eggplants slathered in Hokkaido butter and onions charred to perfection. Paired with local fruits like peaches and grapes, it's a farm-to-table masterpiece. As they toast with applause, Myoung admits: "After your meals, Dong-il, nothing else compares."
Morning Rituals and Na-ra's Tent Triumph
Dawn fog blankets the campsite as Dong-il rises for his walk, checking on Na-ra's first tent night. Relieved by nearby snores (Dong-il's own!), she munches snacks and milk for breakfast—her quirky routine earning laughs. "You fatten us up, then work out alone," teases Na-ra. The group savors Myoung's unforgettable coffee amid shade-blocking antics from Hee-won, the ultimate "human shade."
Sleep arrangements spark hilarity: Na-ra opts for the tent (with Dong-il nearby for safety), while the guys pile indoors for rare bro-time. "I might cry when Myoung leaves," confesses Hee-won, underscoring the episode's emotional undercurrent.
Otaru Odyssey: Dong-il's Top-Tier Tour Unleashed
Tenguyama Observatory and Chipmunk Shenanigans
Dong-il, self-proclaimed Otaru expert, charts a packed itinerary: a 25-minute drive to the city's western charm. First stop? Tenguyama Observatory via scientific cable car (Hee-won's quip: "Straight lines and circles!"). Panoramic views of green cityscapes and film spots from Love Letter wow the group. But the real squeals come at summer-exclusive Chipmunk Park—300 yen for sunflower seeds and spoons to lure wary critters. "It peels better than me!" marvels Na-ra at their dexterous paws.
Soy Sauce Ramen Rush and Street Food Frenzy
Hunger strikes at a locals-only soy sauce ramen joint, recommended by the campsite owner. Beating the 10:30 a.m. queue, they devour clear, garlic-infused broths with melt-in-mouth chashu pork. Dong-il's Korean hack? A sprinkle of Cheongyang pepper powder for spicy rebirth. "Best ramen ever," vows Myoung, slurping like a pro.
The tour accelerates: Vanilla cones from a milky ice cream haven, sweet potato-red bean dumplings ("Better than butter!"), and LeTAO's legendary cheesecakes. Na-ra's energy peaks at the retro cafe's melon soft serve—"Real melon meat under creamy scoops!"—a Hokkaido must-try that vanishes photo-free.
- Otaru Eats Ranked:
- Soy Sauce Ramen (Local Legend)
- Melon Soft Serve (Insta Gold)
- Cheesecake at LeTAO (Dessert Royalty)
Canal Strolls and Bittersweet Farewells
Wandering Otaru's fairytale streets—warehouses turned tourist gems, unused railways, and gas lamp glows—the group snaps pics amid crowds. Bird poop on Hee-won? "Good luck charm!" they joke. As 2:45 p.m. nears, Myoung's departure looms. At the steam clock's school-bell chime, hugs and "Go, team!" echo. "Gong-derella" bids adieu, leaving an empty vibe.
Post-farewell, the trio consoles with Jingisukan lamb grills at a terrace bar—sizzling edges and special sauce healing hearts. "We have to eat everything Hokkaido offers," vows Dong-il, teasing tomorrow's tuna extravaganza and Na-ra's first guests.
Why Episode 4 is a Hokkaido Highlight for House on Wheels Fans
House on Wheels: Beyond the Ocean Episode 4 isn't just a travel log—it's a love letter to slow living, bold flavors, and unbreakable bonds. Dong-il's meticulous planning, Hee-won's sushi glow-up, Na-ra's snack-fueled joy, and Myoung's wide-eyed wonder make it binge-worthy. Craving more? Stream now for the full sizzle, and plan your Otaru escape with our Hokkaido Travel Guide.
Tags: #HouseOnWheels #BeyondTheOcean #HokkaidoTravel #OtaruEats #SushiRecipe #TravelVlog