Sapporo to Noboribetsu Day Trip 2025: Complete Itinerary Made by Locals (Hell Valley, Onsen, Dining & More)
Noboribetsu is a town where you can enjoy Onsen, bathing facilities that use warm water gushing from underground, and it's accessible as a day trip from Sapporo, the gateway to Hokkaido.
This area is full of attractions, including Jigokudani where you can feel the earth's energy firsthand, Onsen boasting a variety of spring qualities, and Hokkaido's fresh seafood as well as the local specialty dish Jingisukan.
In this article, we'll introduce a model course for fully enjoying a one day trip itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu from a local's perspective.
From access information to sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and Onsen, we'll explain everything in an easy-to-understand way even for first-time visitors.
Table of Contents
-Things to Enjoy in Noboribetsu
-Access Information from Sapporo
-One Day Trip Itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu: How to Fully Enjoy Noboribetsu
What is Noboribetsu?
Noboribetsu is one of Japan's premier Onsen towns, located in the southwestern part of Hokkaido.
With approximately 10,000 tons of hot water gushing out daily and nine different types of spring qualities available including sulfur springs, salt springs, and iron springs, it's called the "Department Store of Onsen."
Onsen refers to bathing facilities that use warm water naturally gushing from deep underground, and in Japan, they have been cherished since ancient times as places to heal the mind and body.
Noboribetsu has a long history, and it's said that it was used as medicinal water since the time of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido.
Today, it's one of Hokkaido's representative tourist destinations, attracting more than 3 million visitors from Japan and abroad annually.
Things to Enjoy in Noboribetsu
The greatest attraction of Noboribetsu is Jigokudani, where white steam from the Onsen constantly rises.
The crater from a volcanic explosion, approximately 450 meters in diameter, is a powerful spot where you can truly feel the pulse of the earth.
Walking paths are well-maintained, allowing you to observe traces of volcanic activity up close. Additionally, day-trip bathing facilities are abundant, and being able to enjoy different spring qualities at each facility is another attractive point.
The gourmet food you can enjoy in Noboribetsu includes Kaisendon, where Hokkaido's fresh seafood is served over rice, and Jingisukan, where lamb is grilled on a special iron pot, allowing you to savor flavors unique to this region.
Furthermore, there are tourist facilities that families can enjoy, such as an Edo-period theme park and a bear ranch.
The Best Time to Visit Noboribetsu
If you're visiting Noboribetsu, the autumn foliage season from late September to mid-October is most recommended. The contrast between the trees colored in red and yellow and the white steam rising from Jigokudani is breathtakingly beautiful.
This spectacular scenery can only be seen during this period, so please do visit.
Recommended Points and Precautions for Each Season
- Spring (April to May): The fresh greenery is beautiful, and you can stroll in the refreshing air after the snow melts. However, mornings and evenings can be cold, so bring a jacket.
- Summer (June to August): Hokkaido is cooler compared to mainland Japan, making it an ideal summer retreat. However, since this is a busy tourist season, early action is recommended.
- Autumn (September to October): The best season for autumn foliage. The temperature is comfortable, and it's a pleasant season to enjoy Onsen.
- Winter (November to March): Onsen amid snowy scenery is an exceptional experience. However, some walking paths may be closed, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Access Information from Sapporo
There are mainly three ways to access Noboribetsu from Sapporo for your one day trip itinerary:
- Limited Express Train
- Highway Bus
- Rental Car
Learn the characteristics of each and choose according to your travel style.
Limited Express Train: Recommended for Those Who Want to Travel Comfortably
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cost: Approximately 4,500 to 5,500 yen (one way)
- Comfort level: ★★★★★
Board the limited express "Suzuran" or "Hokuto" from JR Sapporo Station and get off at JR Noboribetsu Station.
With reserved seating, you can travel in comfort and enjoy Hokkaido's magnificent scenery from the train window.
The attractive points are that it's punctual and less tiring. It's recommended for business travelers, those who prioritize comfort, and first-time visitors to Hokkaido.
Highway Bus: Recommended for Those Who Want to Save on Travel Costs
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours
- Cost: Approximately 2,000 to 3,500 yen (one way)
- Comfort level: ★★★☆☆
Highway buses operate directly from Sapporo city to Noboribetsu Station and Noboribetsu Onsen.
When heading to the Onsen area, you don't need to transfer to another bus from the JR station, making it convenient for those with a lot of luggage.
It's also recommended for students and backpackers who want to keep costs down. However, travel time may vary depending on road conditions, so plan your schedule with some buffer time.
Rental Car: Recommended for Those Who Want to Visit Other Sightseeing Spots Along the Way
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: Approximately 5,000 to 8,000 yen per day + expressway tolls
- Comfort level: ★★★★☆
For those who want to create a flexible itinerary, a rental car is recommended. You can stop by sightseeing spots along the way and enjoy coastal scenery while making detours.
For group travel, you can split the cost, which may be more economical than other transportation methods. Note that careful driving is required on snowy roads in winter.
One Day Trip Itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu: How to Fully Enjoy Noboribetsu
Here, we will introduce a model course for a one day trip itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, departing from Sapporo in the morning and enjoying Noboribetsu as a day trip.
This plan allows you to efficiently visit sightseeing spots, relax at an onsen, and return to Sapporo in the evening to enjoy the nightlife.
10:00AM: Arrive at Noboribetsu
Once you arrive at JR Noboribetsu Station, take a bus to the onsen area. The ride takes about 15 minutes. When you get off the bus, you will notice a faint sulfur scent in the air, making you realize you have arrived in an onsen town.
There is a tourist information center and coin lockers near the bus stop, so you can store your luggage and start exploring hands-free.
10:00AM: Explore Jigokudani, the Symbol of Noboribetsu
Once you have stored your luggage and are ready to explore, head first to Jigokudani, the highlight of Noboribetsu sightseeing.
Jigokudani is an explosive crater formed by volcanic activity. It is called "Jigoku" (meaning "hell") because of the boiling hot water and rising white steam.
You can reach Jigokudani in about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Admission is free, and from the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire explosive crater. Walking paths are well maintained, but we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Highlight 1: The Spectacular Explosive Crater Known as "Hell Where Demons Dwell"
⇧This is what oni (demons) look like in Japanese folklore
Jigokudani is a valley with a diameter of approximately 450 meters, formed by volcanic activity about 10,000 years ago.
This area is characterized by white steam rising from everywhere and the smell of sulfur drifting through the air.
In Japan, rugged volcanic regions have long been called "Jigoku" (meaning "hell"), and there is a legend that oni, horned and fearsome creatures from Japanese folklore, dwell here.
The contrast between the reddish-brown rocky surface, white steam, and blue sky creates a truly otherworldly scene that will surely overwhelm you. The view from the observation deck is breathtaking, allowing you to feel the power of nature firsthand.
Highlight 2: Surrounding Nature That Shows Various Expressions Throughout the Seasons
The charm of Jigokudani lies in its different expressions throughout the four seasons.
In spring, fresh green buds emerge, spreading a landscape full of vitality. In summer, the area is enveloped in deep green, and even in the heat, the occasional cool breeze is refreshing.
The most recommended time to visit is during the autumn foliage season. During this period, the contrast between trees dyed in red and yellow and the white steam creates a spectacular view.
In winter, a mystical landscape covered in snow spreads out, and you can enjoy the mysterious sight of steam rising in a monochrome world.
No matter what season you visit, there are new discoveries to be made, so visiting in different seasons is also recommended.
Highlight 3: Tourist Spots Related to Hot Springs Along the Way, Such as "Geysers" and "Sanzu no Kawa"
Jigokudani has many attractive spots scattered throughout.
The first place you should stop by is the geyser in Sengen Park. This natural geyser erupts vigorously about every 3 hours, and the moment of eruption is truly impressive.
It is a precious spot where you can experience the powerful energy of the earth up close, so if the timing works out, please take a look.
Further ahead is Oyunuma. This is a huge hot water marsh with a circumference of about 1 km and a depth of about 22 m, with a surface temperature reaching about 50 degrees Celsius.
White steam constantly rises from the surface, and the powerful sight is worth seeing.
Also, the river along the walking path nearby is named "Sanzu no Kawa." In Buddhism, "Sanzu no Kawa" is the river that people are said to cross after death as the boundary between this world and the next, making it a unique name that evokes the worldview of "Jigoku."
Estimated Time Required for Sightseeing at Jigokudani
The time required for sightseeing at Jigokudani varies depending on how much you want to see.
- Round trip along the walking path to the observation deck: About 20-30 minutes
- If extending to Oyunuma: About 1 hour
- If fully enjoying the "Ashiyu" (foot bath) where you can soak your feet in natural onsen water overflowing from Oyunuma: About 2 hours
If you have time, please enjoy the natural ashiyu to the fullest. You can experience the pleasure of walking through the forest and the luxurious experience of soaking your feet in a natural onsen.
12:00PM: Enjoy Local Gourmet Food in the Noboribetsu Onsen Area
After working up an appetite exploring Jigokudani, enjoy lunch time in the onsen area. We recommend savoring fresh seafood unique to Hokkaido and locally beloved gourmet foods.
Onsen Ichiba
Source:Google Maps
This is a popular seafood restaurant representing Noboribetsu Onsen. The restaurant is equipped with a large UV-sterilized tank containing a total of 24 tons of seawater, keeping fish, crabs, and shellfish fresh.
Since they prepare the seafood after receiving orders, the freshness is outstanding.
Popular menu items include carefully shredded hairy crab with spicy sauce topped with egg yolk, and seafood rice bowls overflowing with seafood.
You must also try the scallops and oysters grilled boldly over charcoal. After your meal, we also recommend the rich soft serve ice cream made from low-temperature pasteurized natural milk.
You can also purchase Noboribetsu souvenirs here. The atmosphere allows you to enjoy conversations with locals.
Address: 50 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 10:30-21:00 (Dining area 11:00-21:00)
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 0143-84-2560
Official Website: http://www.onsenichiba.com/index.html
PIZZERIA ASTRA
Source:Tabelog
Founded in 2016, this is a popular restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza in the onsen town.
The owner is a pizza artisan who trained in Italy. Starting with mobile sales from a food truck, they opened a store in Noboribetsu in response to fan requests.
The dough, handmade daily, is characterized by a crispy exterior and chewy texture inside.
There are over 10 types of pizza on the menu, and even basic options like Margherita reflect the owner's attention to detail.
My top recommendation is the one with wasabi sauce. "Wasabi" is a Japanese spice characterized by its distinctive spiciness. Please take this opportunity to try it.
Address: 60 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 11:00-16:00 (L.O. 15:00) / 17:00-21:00 (L.O. 20:00)
Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Phone: 070-5605-7702
Official Website: https://pizzeria-astra.com/
Nobojin
Source:Official website
This is a barbecue specialty restaurant on the main street of the onsen area where you can enjoy various types of meat.
The restaurant has about 30 counter seats, and each person is provided with their own charcoal grill. You can enjoy meat at your own pace and cook it to your preferred doneness.
The signature menu is Jingisukan made with carefully selected fresh lamb. They take pride in their expertise in selecting lamb and carefully prepare high-quality meat before serving.
The meat quality is said to be higher than other restaurants. You can enjoy lamb with two types of special sauces.
In addition to Jingisukan, they also offer locally produced beef and brand-name meats from various regions of Japan, allowing you to compare different types of meat.
For those trying Jingisukan for the first time, staff will kindly teach you how to grill and control the heat, so you can feel at ease.
Address: 76 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 11:30-21:00 (L.O. 20:30)
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 0143-83-6611
Official Website: https://nobojin.com/
1:00PM: Enjoy Noboribetsu Attractions That Match Your Interests
After lunch, explore sightseeing spots that match your interests. On this one day trip itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, you'll discover that there are many fascinating spots beyond Jigokudani.
Demon Hunting
Noboribetsu Onsen is dotted with spots related to "oni," horned monsters from Japanese legends, making it fun to explore while strolling around the area.
At Sengen Park, located in the heart of the hot spring town, you can watch a geyser that shoots up to 8 meters high approximately every 3 hours.
Inside the park, there are 9 kanabo (club-like weapons) belonging to "Yukijin," the demon deity who protects the hot springs. Each weapon is believed to bring different blessings such as business prosperity and good health, making this a popular power spot.
At "Enmado" on the main street, a mechanical puppet of "Enma," the king who judges the dead in hell, performs 6 times daily. His usually calm expression transforms into a terrifying demonic face during the "Judgment of Hell" performance. Be sure to time your visit to catch this show.
The performance schedule is listed on the website below for your reference.
Reference: Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association
Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village
Source:Official website
This theme park recreates the streets and culture of 1600s Japan in its entirety.
Every day, spectacular stage performances are held, including action shows featuring Ninja in black costumes and elegant dances by "Oiran," the courtesans of this era dressed in gorgeous kimono.
When I visited, I was overwhelmed by the swordplay and acrobatics in the ninja show.
I also had a great time trying to throw "shuriken," the star-shaped weapons that ninja throw, at targets.
My top recommendation is renting period costumes of Japanese samurai or princesses. You can take memorable photos.
Enjoy the feeling of traveling back in time while snacking on "Dango," round rice cake sweets on bamboo skewers.
Address: 53-1 Nakanoboribetsu-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: Summer: 9:00–17:00/ Winter: 9:00–16:00
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 0143-83-3311
Official Website: https://edo-trip.jp/
Noboribetsu Bear Park
This is one of Japan's largest bear parks, home to approximately 100 brown bears living at an elevation of 550 meters. You can also see Ezo brown bears, a species that lives only in Hokkaido.
To reach Noboribetsu Bear Park, take the ropeway from the Onsen area. You can enjoy an approximately 7-minute aerial journey.
My recommendation is the bear feeding experience. The bears are incredibly charming, raising both paws and bowing, and it's absolutely adorable to watch them skillfully catch the food you throw.
There's also an area designed to make you feel like you're the one inside the cage, where massive brown bears approach right up to the glass—it was truly thrilling.
Don't miss "Yukara no Sato," where you can learn about the traditional culture of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, as well as the spectacular views from the observation deck.
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: October 21–April 20: 9:30–16:30/ April 21–October 20: 9:00–17:00
Closed: Approximately 20 days per year (please inquire)
Phone: 0143-84-2225
Official Website: https://bearpark.jp/
Noboribetsu Ropeway
Source:Google Maps
The ropeway to Noboribetsu Bear Park is itself a highlight of your visit.
The 6-person gondola travels 1,260 meters in length and 300 meters in elevation in about 7 minutes. When I rode it in autumn, the gradation of fall colors was so beautiful that I couldn't stop taking photos.
As you approach the summit, the mystical blue surface of Lake Kuttara, a caldera lake, comes into view—I couldn't help but gasp in amazement.
On clear days, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean, so visiting on a sunny day is recommended. The snowy scenery in winter is also magical. A nice bonus is that the round-trip fare is included in the Noboribetsu Bear Park admission.
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: October 21–April 20: 9:30–16:30/ April 21–October 20: 9:00–17:00
Closed: Approximately 20 days per year (please inquire)
Phone: 0143-84-2225
Official Website: None
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
Source:Official website
This aquarium is located inside "NIXE Castle," modeled after a Danish castle. It features approximately 400 species and 20,000 marine creatures.
What personally impressed me the most was the "Galaxy Tank," where 10,000 sardines shimmer like a galaxy. The sight of the sardines moving in unison to lighting and music was magical.
The jellyfish area and the "Aqua Tunnel," where the tank forms a tunnel around you, are also must-sees.
I was absolutely thrilled by the daily penguin parade, watching the penguins walk right past in front of me. You can even take photos with the penguins.
Another plus is the convenient access—just a 5-minute walk from Noboribetsu Station.
Address: 1-22 Noboribetsu Higashi-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–17:00
Closed: Approximately 1 week in early December
Phone: 0143-83-3800
Official Website: https://nixe-aqua.com/
5:00PM: Soothe Your Travel Fatigue at Noboribetsu Hot Springs
After fully enjoying the sightseeing on your one day trip itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, it's finally time for the highlight—bathing at Noboribetsu Onsen.
Experience the "Onsen department store," boasting 9 different spring types, at facilities that accept day-trip bathing. I visited 3 different facilities, and each had completely different spring qualities and atmospheres—I never get tired of visiting.
Here, I've scheduled only evening bathing, but my personal recommendation is to bathe twice—once in the morning and once in the evening.
Takimotokan
Source:Official website
This long-established ryokan, founded in 1858, is considered the birthplace of Noboribetsu Onsen.
The 1,500-tsubo (approximately 4,950 square meters) grand bath, featuring a total of 35 bathing pools for both men and women with 5 different spring types, is truly impressive. Being able to experience different spring types such as sulfur springs and salt springs all at once is rare nationwide—it's truly an "Onsen department store."
My recommendation is the outdoor hot spring bath "rotenburo" overlooking Jigokudani. Bathing while gazing at the spectacular view with steam rising up was absolutely wonderful.
After 4:00PM, discounted rates apply, making it perfect for a stop after sightseeing.
Address: 55 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–18:00
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 0143-84-2111
Official Website: https://takimotokan.co.jp/ja/spa/
Noboribetsu Sekisuitei
Source:Official website
This ryokan is situated on high ground in the Onsen area and boasts spectacular views from the rotenburo on its top floor.
The milky white "nigoriyu" (cloudy hot spring) while overlooking the Onsen town was exceptional. If you bathe after dark, you can also enjoy the starry sky. Visiting during autumn foliage season offers beautiful colored scenery spreading before your eyes, like a painting.
The spring type is sulfur, which leaves your skin smooth. It opens as early as 5:00AM, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy hot springs in the morning.
Towel rental is available for 300 yen, making it easy to drop by casually during your sightseeing.
Address: 203-1 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 5:00–9:00, 11:00–19:00
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 0143-84-2269
Official Website: https://www.sekisuitei.com/charm/
Noboribetsu Grand Hotel
Source:Official website
This accomplished hot spring hotel was selected as the 5th best in Japan in "SAUNACHELIN 2023," a ranking of sauna facilities in Japan.
This is an absolute must-visit for sauna enthusiasts. The highlight is the 110°C high-temperature "Oni Sauna," with a uniquely Noboribetsu oni-themed name.
There's also a garden rotenburo where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, complete with a waterfall, offering a quintessentially Japanese atmosphere. You can luxuriously enjoy 3 different spring types.
The large public bath has a modern Roman-style atmosphere, where you can relax and bathe in a space filled with natural light.
Even if you're not interested in saunas, the quality of the hot springs alone is more than satisfying, so anyone can enjoy it.
Address: 154 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 7:00–10:00, 12:30–20:00
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 0143-84-2101
Official Website: https://www.nobogura.co.jp/hotspring/
7:00PM: Enjoy Local Food Along the Noboribetsu Station Area
After warming up at the onsen, have dinner around Noboribetsu Station before heading back to Sapporo.
Unlike the hot spring resort area, which has many tourist-oriented establishments, the station vicinity is dotted with local gems beloved by residents.
As the perfect conclusion to your one day trip itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, savor the unique flavors of Hokkaido at these hidden restaurants that you won't find in typical tourist guides.
Oshokuji Sakura
Source:Tabelog
This restaurant, located within walking distance from Noboribetsu Station, has been loved by locals for many years.
You can enjoy home-style cooking at reasonable prices, including "teishoku" (set meals consisting of rice, miso soup, a main dish, and small side dishes) and "donburi" (rice bowls topped with various ingredients).
In addition to teishoku-style meals, they also offer à la carte dishes, so you can enjoy your favorite food with drinks.
Rather than being tourist-oriented, this is a place frequented by local regulars, and the atmosphere inside is homey.
When I visited, local residents were happily enjoying their meals.
The generous teishoku menu is perfect for replenishing the calories you burned at the onsen. The atmosphere is welcoming even for solo diners, so feel free to stop by.
Address: 1-12-7 Noboribetsu Higashimachi, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Hours: 17:00–20:00
Closed: Mondays and Sundays
Ishikawa Western Cuisine
Source:Tabelog
This is a long-established yoshoku restaurant that has been loved by locals for many years. "Yoshoku" refers to Western cuisine adapted to Japanese tastes.
Their signature dish, "Indian-style Curry," has an authentic flavor with rich spices, completely different from the sweeter curries typically served at Japanese Western-style restaurants.
With just one bite, complex spice aromas spread in your mouth, creating an addictive deliciousness.
They also offer other classic Japanese yoshoku menu items like hamburger steak and omurice (omelet rice), which evoke a sense of nostalgia.
The interior has a retro atmosphere that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time.
Address: 2-13-6 Chuo-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Hours: 11:30–20:30
Closed: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Tuesdays
Phone: 0143-85-8080
Official Website: None
Suimi Hokkaido Genghis Khan
Source:Official website
This aged raw lamb specialty restaurant just opened in January 2025. Jingisukan is a local dish originating from Hokkaido where lamb and vegetables are grilled on a special dome-shaped pan.
At this restaurant, Hokkaido lamb is carefully aged using their unique method, which reduces the distinctive smell of lamb and results in surprisingly tender meat.
I was truly impressed when I visited—the quality here is in a league of its own compared to typical Jingisukan restaurants.
The rich umami of the meat is prominent, and I believe even those who don't usually enjoy lamb will find it delicious. They also offer pairing suggestions with local sake from various regions of Japan.
Counter seating is available, making it easy for solo travelers to stop by.
Address: 2-3-4 Noboribetsu Higashimachi, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Hours: Lunch (weekdays only): 11:30–16:00/ Dinner: 17:00–20:30 (Last order 20:00)
Closed: Every Monday, 2nd Sunday
Phone: 080-9619-2983
Return to Sapporo a Bit Early and Enjoy Bar Hopping with a Local Guide
The journey from Noboribetsu to Sapporo takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by limited express train. If you finish dinner early in Noboribetsu and return to Sapporo, you'll have time to enjoy bar hopping in "Susukino," Hokkaido's largest entertainment district.
The "Sapporo Bar Hopping Night Tour" hosted by Magical Trip takes you to hidden gems that tourists would never find on their own, guided by someone who knows the local scene inside out.
One of the appealing aspects is that you can enjoy Hokkaido's local sake and regional cuisine while also interacting with locals.
English-speaking guides will teach you about Japanese izakaya and bar culture, so you can participate with peace of mind.
Meeting point: Susukino Station
Tour area: 3 izakayas and bars around Susukino
Start time: 18:00
The Author's Favorites! 3 Recommended Nightlife Spots to Fully Enjoy Sapporo
For those staying the night after your one day trip itinerary from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, or for those remaining in Sapporo, here are some nightlife spots beloved by locals.
All of these areas are my personal favorites that I visit repeatedly. Each has its own unique charm, so if you have time, try visiting all of them.
Susukino
Along with Kabukicho in Tokyo and Nakasu in Fukuoka, Susukino is nationally famous as one of Japan's three major entertainment districts. With approximately 4,000 restaurants and bars packed together and a nighttime population said to reach around 80,000 people, it's truly a "city that never sleeps."
Centered around the intersection marked by the iconic giant "Nikka Whisky" billboard (a whisky brand originating from Hokkaido), the area is lined with diverse establishments including izakayas, bars, ramen shops, and clubs.
My recommendation is to experience Sapporo's "shime parfait" culture—a local tradition of eating parfait as a finishing treat after drinking. The cold parfait pairs surprisingly well with alcohol.
Another classic experience is eating miso ramen at "Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho," which stays open late into the night.
Tanukikoji Street
This is Hokkaido's oldest shopping street, boasting over 150 years of history since 1873. Approximately 200 shops line the 900-meter east-west stretch, and since it's entirely covered by an arcade, you can comfortably shop without an umbrella even on rainy or snowy days.
The unique atmosphere where old and new coexist—from long-established souvenir shops to the latest gourmet spots—is one of its charms.
At "Honjin Tanuki Daimyojin Shrine" in the 5th block, rubbing the tanuki (raccoon dog) statue is said to bring eight blessings including business prosperity, making it popular as a power spot.
My favorite area is blocks 6 and 7 at night, where I enjoy bar hopping at hidden popular spots frequented by locals.
Around Sapporo Station
Centered around "JR Tower" directly connected to Sapporo Station, this is a convenient area where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and night views all in one place.
From the observation room "T38" on the 38th floor of the tower, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Sapporo's cityscape, which has been selected as one of "Japan's New Three Major Night Views."
The night I visited, the air was clear, and I was moved by how crisply I could see the silhouettes of distant mountains.
Commercial facilities are gathered within the station buildings, making it convenient for selecting Hokkaido's famous sweets and seafood as souvenirs.
There are also many restaurants around the station that stay open late at night, so even if you don't have time to venture to Susukino, you can still fully enjoy Sapporo's nightlife.
