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Comprehensive Guide to Nightlife and Bars in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, which offers a mix of traditional Japanese izakayas, modern cocktail bars, themed establishments, and lively clubs. The city’s nightlife is concentrated in a few key districts, each offering unique experiences. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Sapporo’s nightlife scene.

1. Popular Nightlife Districts in Sapporo

Susukino (すすきの)

Overview: Susukino is the heart of Sapporo’s nightlife and one of Japan’s largest entertainment districts. It’s packed with bars, izakayas, karaoke spots, nightclubs, and hostess bars. The area is lively, colorful, and bustling, especially on weekends.
Atmosphere: A mix of locals, tourists, and businesspeople. It’s a great place to experience both traditional and modern Japanese nightlife.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Nikka Bar: Located under the iconic Nikka Whisky billboard, this bar is a great place to enjoy Japan’s famous whiskies.
- Sapporo Beer Garden: While technically more of a dining spot, it’s a must-visit for beer lovers. Enjoy Sapporo’s iconic beer alongside Hokkaido’s specialty, Genghis Khan (grilled lamb).

Odori Park Area

Overview: While quieter than Susukino, the area around Odori Park has a selection of sophisticated cocktail bars and lounges. It’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and upscale experience.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Bar Yamazaki: A legendary cocktail bar known for its skilled bartenders and extensive drink menu.
- Rad Brothers: A lively, foreigner-friendly bar with a casual vibe.

Tanukikoji Shopping Street

Overview: This covered shopping arcade transforms at night, with hidden bars and izakayas tucked away on the upper floors of buildings. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for something off the beaten path.
Must-Visit Spots:
- The Bow Bar: A small, intimate bar specializing in rare whiskies and craft cocktails.

2. Themed Bars and Unique Experiences

Sapporo offers several themed bars that provide a unique twist on the typical nightlife experience:

Ice Bars: During the Sapporo Snow Festival (February), temporary ice bars pop up, offering drinks served in ice glasses. It’s a magical experience unique to Sapporo’s winter.
Hokkaido Craft Beer Bars: Sapporo is home to a burgeoning craft beer scene. Check out:
- Beer Bar NORTH ISLAND: A cozy spot offering locally brewed craft beers.
- M’s Craft: Known for its rotating selection of Hokkaido craft beers.
Otaru Whisky Bar: A short train ride from Sapporo, this bar in nearby Otaru specializes in Japanese whiskies and offers a cozy, old-world atmosphere.

3. Types of Drinks Served

Sapporo Beer: As the birthplace of Sapporo Beer, you’ll find it everywhere. Try it fresh at the Sapporo Beer Garden or local izakayas.
Japanese Whisky: Bars like Nikka Bar and Bar Yamazaki offer a wide selection of premium Japanese whiskies, including Nikka, which has roots in Hokkaido.
Shochu and Sake: Many izakayas serve locally brewed sake and shochu. Hokkaido’s cold climate produces crisp, clean sake flavors.
Cocktails: High-end bars like Bar Yamazaki are known for their creative and expertly crafted cocktails.
Hokkaido Wines: Hokkaido has a growing wine industry, and some bars offer local wines.

4. Costs of Drinks and Cover Charges

Drinks:
- Beer: ¥500–¥800 (approx. $3.50–$5.50 USD)
- Cocktails: ¥800–¥1,500 (approx. $5.50–$10.50 USD)
- Whisky: ¥1,000–¥2,500 per glass (approx. $7–$17 USD), depending on the rarity.
- Sake: ¥500–¥1,200 per glass (approx. $3.50–$8.50 USD)
Cover Charges:
- Many bars and izakayas charge a table charge (otoshi) of ¥300–¥1,000 (approx. $2–$7 USD), which usually includes a small appetizer.
- High-end bars or clubs may have a cover charge of ¥1,000–¥3,000 (approx. $7–$21 USD).

5. Cultural and Societal Expectations

Politeness: Always greet staff with a polite “sumimasen” (excuse me) when entering a bar or ordering.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is the norm and is included in the price.
Smoking: Many bars and izakayas allow smoking indoors. Look for non-smoking signs if you prefer a smoke-free environment.
Quiet Atmosphere: In cocktail bars, keep conversations at a low volume to respect the ambiance.
Dress Code: Most bars are casual, but upscale cocktail bars may expect smart-casual attire.

6. Opening Hours

Izakayas: Typically open from 5:00 PM to midnight or later.
Bars: Most open around 6:00 PM and close between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM.
Clubs: Open around 10:00 PM and stay open until 4:00 AM or later.

7. Transportation Options at Night

Subway: The Sapporo Subway (Namboku, Tozai, and Toho lines) runs until around midnight. Susukino Station is the main hub for nightlife.
Taxis: Readily available but can be expensive. A short ride within the city center costs around ¥1,000–¥2,000 (approx. $7–$14 USD).
Walking: Many nightlife spots in Susukino and Odori are within walking distance of each other.
Late-Night Buses: Limited late-night buses operate, but schedules vary. Check in advance if you plan to use them.

8. Unique Local Experiences

Sapporo Snow Festival Nightlife: If you visit in February, the Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland. Many bars and pop-up ice bars offer special drinks and events.
Ramen Alley (Ganso Ramen Yokocho): After a night of drinking, head to this famous alley in Susukino for a bowl of Sapporo’s signature miso ramen.
Hostess Bars and Host Clubs: These are a unique aspect of Japanese nightlife, where patrons pay for the company of hosts or hostesses. Be aware that these can be expensive, with high cover charges and drink prices.

9. Safety Tips

Stay Alert: While Sapporo is generally safe, be cautious of touts in Susukino who may try to lure you into overpriced establishments.
Know Your Limits: Japanese drinking culture can be intense, so pace yourself.
Cash is King: Many bars and izakayas only accept cash, so carry enough yen with you.

10. Final Recommendations

For a quintessential Sapporo experience, start your evening with a fresh Sapporo Beer at the Sapporo Beer Garden, then head to Susukino for bar-hopping.
Don’t miss the chance to try Hokkaido’s local sake and whiskies.
If you’re visiting in winter, the ice bars during the Snow Festival are a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

With this guide, you’re well-equipped to enjoy Sapporo’s nightlife to the fullest. Cheers, or as they say in Japan, kanpai!