Sapporo

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Seafood and Markets

Discover Sapporo's renowned seafood culture and visit bustling markets like those offering fresh crab, sushi, and more.

Sections

1. Local Seafood Specialties in Sapporo

Hokkaido is renowned for its seafood, and Sapporo is the perfect place to experience these delicacies. Here are some must-try specialties:

  • Kaisen-don (Seafood Rice Bowl): A bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood such as uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), crab, scallops, and sashimi. This is a quintessential dish in Sapporo.
  • Hokkaido Crab: The region is famous for its three types of crab: king crab (tarabagani), snow crab (zuwaigani), and hairy crab (kegani). Hairy crab is particularly prized for its sweet and delicate flavor.
  • Uni (Sea Urchin): Hokkaido uni is considered some of the best in Japan, with a creamy and rich taste.
  • Ikura (Salmon Roe): Fresh and bursting with flavor, ikura is often served over rice or as part of sushi.
  • Hotate (Scallops): Hokkaido scallops are large, sweet, and tender, often grilled or served raw as sashimi.
  • Sapporo Soup Curry with Seafood: A local twist on curry, this dish often includes fresh seafood like shrimp or crab.
  • Grilled Seafood: Many markets and restaurants offer freshly grilled seafood, including squid, oysters, and fish.

2. Recommended Seafood Markets in Sapporo

Sapporo has several vibrant markets where you can enjoy fresh seafood, shop for local products, and even dine on-site. Here are the top markets to visit:

Nijo Market (二条市場)

  • Overview: A historic market in central Sapporo, Nijo Market has been serving locals and visitors for over a century. It’s smaller than other markets but offers a wide variety of fresh seafood and dining options.
  • What to Do:
    • Browse stalls selling fresh crab, uni, ikura, and other seafood.
    • Enjoy a kaisen-don at one of the small restaurants inside the market.
    • Purchase vacuum-packed seafood to take home as a souvenir.
  • Average Costs:
    • Kaisen-don: ¥1,500–¥3,500
    • Fresh crab: ¥5,000–¥10,000 (depending on size and type)
  • Tips:
    • Arrive early (around 7:00–8:00 AM) for the freshest selection.
    • Vendors are used to tourists, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or request recommendations.

Curb Market (札幌場外市場, Sapporo Jogai Ichiba)

  • Overview: Located near the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, this market is larger than Nijo Market and caters to both locals and tourists. It’s known for its variety of seafood and produce.
  • What to Do:
    • Explore the many stalls selling fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables.
    • Dine at one of the market’s restaurants, which specialize in seafood dishes.
    • Try grilled seafood skewers or freshly shucked oysters from street vendors.
  • Average Costs:
    • Kaisen-don: ¥2,000–¥4,000
    • Grilled seafood skewers: ¥500–¥1,000
  • Tips:
    • Many vendors offer free samples—don’t be shy about trying them.
    • Bargaining is not common in Japan, but you can politely ask for recommendations or deals if buying in bulk.

Sapporo Central Wholesale Market (札幌市中央卸売市場)

  • Overview: This is the main wholesale market in Sapporo, where local restaurants and vendors source their seafood. While the inner market is for professionals, the outer market is open to the public.
  • What to Do:
    • Visit the outer market for fresh seafood and dining options.
    • Purchase seafood to cook at home or have it prepared on-site.
  • Average Costs:
    • Fresh seafood: Prices vary depending on the season and type.
    • Dining: ¥1,500–¥3,500 per meal.
  • Tips:
    • The market is busiest in the morning, so visit early for the best experience.
    • Some vendors can ship seafood to other parts of Japan or even overseas.

3. Cultural Considerations When Buying or Eating Seafood

  • Politeness: Always greet vendors with a smile and say "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) after making a purchase.
  • Sampling: Vendors may offer free samples, but it’s polite to buy something if you’ve tried multiple samples.
  • Chopstick Etiquette: When eating seafood, avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.
  • Sharing Food: If dining with others, use the opposite end of your chopsticks to take food from shared plates.
  • Freshness: Japanese people value freshness, so seafood is often eaten raw or lightly cooked. Be open to trying sashimi or sushi if you haven’t before.

4. Average Costs for Seafood in Sapporo

  • Kaisen-don: ¥1,500–¥4,000
  • Crab (per crab): ¥5,000–¥15,000
  • Uni (per tray): ¥2,000–¥5,000
  • Grilled seafood skewers: ¥500–¥1,000
  • Sushi (per plate): ¥150–¥500 (conveyor belt sushi) or ¥3,000–¥10,000 (high-end sushi restaurants)

5. Tips for Navigating Seafood Markets

  • Timing: Arrive early (around 7:00–9:00 AM) for the freshest seafood and to avoid crowds.
  • Language: While many vendors speak basic English, learning a few Japanese phrases like "ikura desu ka?" (How much is this?) can be helpful.
  • Cash: Most market vendors prefer cash, so bring enough yen. Some larger stalls may accept credit cards.
  • Packing Seafood: If you plan to take seafood home, ask vendors to pack it for travel. Many offer insulated packaging.

6. Nearby Attractions Related to Seafood or Dining

  • Sapporo Beer Museum: Pair your seafood experience with a visit to this museum, where you can learn about Hokkaido’s beer culture and enjoy a meal at the beer garden.
  • Susukino District: Sapporo’s entertainment district is home to many izakayas (Japanese pubs) and seafood restaurants. Try Hokkaido-style sushi or grilled seafood here.
  • Odori Park: After visiting Nijo Market, take a stroll through this central park, especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter.
  • Otaru (Day Trip): A short train ride from Sapporo, Otaru is a charming port town known for its fresh seafood, sushi restaurants, and the Sankaku Market.

7. Seasonal Seafood Highlights

  • Winter (December–February): Best time for crab, especially hairy crab.
  • Spring (March–May): Fresh scallops and shellfish.
  • Summer (June–August): Uni and squid are at their peak.
  • Autumn (September–November): Salmon and ikura are abundant.

Sapporo’s seafood scene is a feast for the senses, offering a mix of traditional flavors, vibrant markets, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re dining on a luxurious kaisen-don or exploring the bustling markets, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Sapporo!