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Experience Sapporo's nightlife with local bars, izakayas, and crafted beer establishments including Sapporo Beer.

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Comprehensive Guide to Bars and Izakayas in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, warm hospitality, and exceptional food and drink culture. Whether you're looking for a cozy traditional izakaya, a sleek modern bar, or a specialty drink spot, Sapporo offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the city's bar and izakaya scene.

1. Categories of Bars and Izakayas in Sapporo

Traditional Izakayas

Overview: Izakayas are Japanese-style pubs where you can enjoy a variety of small dishes alongside drinks. They are perfect for casual dining and socializing.
Atmosphere: Warm, lively, and often bustling with locals. Many traditional izakayas feature tatami mat seating or wooden counters.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
- Sashimi (raw fish)
- Hokkaido specialties like grilled seafood (crab, scallops, and squid), miso ramen, and jingisukan (grilled lamb).
- Zangi (Hokkaido-style fried chicken)
Examples:
- Kushidori: A popular chain specializing in yakitori with a casual vibe.
- Tsubohachi: A long-established izakaya chain offering a wide variety of dishes and drinks.

Modern Bars

Overview: These bars often have a sleek, contemporary design and focus on cocktails, craft beer, or wine.
Atmosphere: Trendy and relaxed, often catering to a younger crowd or those looking for a more refined experience.
Must-Try Drinks:
- Sapporo Beer: Brewed locally and a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
- Hokkaido Wines: Produced in the region, offering unique flavors.
- Japanese Whisky: High-quality brands like Nikka, which has a distillery in Yoichi, near Sapporo.
Examples:
- Bar Yamazaki: A historic bar known for its extensive whisky collection and classic cocktails.
- Rad Brothers: A lively bar with a mix of locals and tourists, offering a fun and casual vibe.

Specialty Drink Spots

Overview: These establishments focus on a specific type of drink, such as craft beer, sake, or whisky.
Atmosphere: Often intimate and tailored to enthusiasts.
Must-Try Spots:
- Beer Bar NORTH ISLAND: A craft beer bar featuring locally brewed beers.
- Sake Bar Otaru Masamune: Specializing in sake, with a wide selection from Hokkaido and beyond.
- Whisky Bar The Bow Bar: A cozy spot for whisky lovers, offering rare and premium bottles.

2. Average Costs

Traditional Izakayas:
- Budget: ¥2,000–¥4,000 per person (including drinks and food).
- Many izakayas offer nomihodai (all-you-can-drink) plans for ¥1,500–¥2,500 for 90–120 minutes.
Modern Bars:
- Cocktails: ¥800–¥1,500 each.
- Whisky: ¥1,000–¥3,000 per glass (depending on the brand and rarity).
Specialty Drink Spots:
- Craft Beer: ¥700–¥1,200 per glass.
- Sake: ¥500–¥1,500 per glass.

3. Ordering Procedures

At Izakayas:
1. Seating: You may be seated at a counter, table, or tatami mat area. Some izakayas charge a small otoshi (table charge) of ¥300–¥500, which includes a small appetizer.
2. Menu: Menus are often in Japanese, but many places in Sapporo have English or picture menus. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
3. Ordering: Dishes are typically ordered in small portions to share. You can order throughout the meal rather than all at once.
4. Payment: Pay at the register rather than at the table.
At Bars:
1. Seating: Bars are usually first-come, first-served, though some upscale spots may require reservations.
2. Menu: Bartenders are often happy to recommend drinks based on your preferences.
3. Payment: Pay per drink or settle the bill at the end.

4. Etiquette

General Tips:
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is standard and included in the price.
- Noise Level: Izakayas can be lively, but avoid being overly loud or disruptive.
- Sharing: Izakaya dishes are meant to be shared. Order a variety and enjoy with your group.
- Drinking Culture: It’s polite to wait for everyone’s drink to arrive before saying “Kanpai!” (Cheers).
- Smoking: Some izakayas and bars allow smoking, so check beforehand if this is a concern.
Cultural Considerations:
- Respect the staff and other patrons by following local customs.
- If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask politely.

5. Notable Districts for Nightlife and Dining

Susukino District

Overview: Sapporo’s main entertainment and nightlife hub, packed with izakayas, bars, karaoke spots, and clubs.
Highlights:
- Ramen Alley (Ganso Ramen Yokocho): A narrow street lined with ramen shops, perfect for a late-night meal.
- Susukino’s Izakayas: Countless options ranging from budget-friendly to upscale.
- Bars and Clubs: A mix of casual and high-end venues.

Odori Park Area

Overview: A more relaxed area compared to Susukino, with a mix of modern bars and casual izakayas.
Highlights:
- Great for those looking for a quieter evening.
- Close to major hotels and tourist attractions.

Sapporo Station Area

Overview: Convenient for travelers, with many izakayas and bars located in and around the station.
Highlights:
- Ideal for a quick drink or meal before catching a train.
- Many chain izakayas and casual bars.

6. Must-Try Specialties in Sapporo

Sapporo Beer: Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a tasting experience.
Hokkaido Sake: Known for its clean, crisp flavor due to the region’s pristine water.
Hokkaido Whisky: Try Nikka Whisky, produced in nearby Yoichi.
Seafood: Fresh crab, scallops, and other seafood are a must.
Jingisukan: A local lamb barbecue dish often served at izakayas.

7. Insider Tips

Reservations: Popular izakayas and bars can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Make a reservation if possible.
Language: While many places in Sapporo cater to tourists, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way.
- “Sumimasen” (Excuse me) to get the staff’s attention.
- “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” (What do you recommend?) to ask for suggestions.
Seasonal Events: If visiting during the Sapporo Snow Festival (February) or summer beer gardens, expect a lively atmosphere and special menus.

Sapporo’s bar and izakaya scene is a delightful mix of tradition and modernity, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re savoring local seafood at a bustling izakaya or sipping a craft cocktail in a chic bar, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.