Susukino Nightlife 2025: Explore Sapporo’s Premier Drinking District
Hokkaido is located at the northernmost part of Japan, offering attractive vast landscapes and beautiful nature that changes with the seasons. In winter, snow covers the landscape, while summer brings a cool, refreshing climate. The region is also famous for its gourmet cuisine.
Sapporo, the prefectural capital of Hokkaido, is renowned as one of Japan's top food destinations and ranks among the most popular tourist spots in the country. Because of its excellent cuisine and drinks, it's also popular as a nightlife destination.
Among Sapporo's attractions, "Susukino" stands out as an entertainment district filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs), bars, and nightclubs where visitors can fully enjoy food and drinks. The Susukino Guide 2025 offers comprehensive information about this vibrant area and provides specific examples of how to enjoy your time there.
Susukino: Hokkaido's Largest Entertainment District in Sapporo
Susukino is one of Japan's premier entertainment districts, serving as the center of nightlife popular with both locals and tourists. Various dining establishments including izakayas, bars, and nightclubs line the streets.
As Hokkaido's largest entertainment district, Susukino is an essential stop for enjoying Sapporo's nightlife, where you can indulge in excellent food and drinks. According to the Susukino Guide 2025, there are numerous restaurants serving dishes made with local ingredients and fresh seafood, as well as charming bars where you can spend an unforgettable evening.
One of Japan's Three Major Entertainment Districts with the Famous Nikka Whisky Sign
Susukino is recognized as one of Japan's three major entertainment districts, alongside Kabukicho in Tokyo and Nakasu in Fukuoka.
The giant Nikka Whisky sign at the intersection in the center of Susukino serves as its iconic symbol.
Nikka Whisky is a Japanese whisky brand established in 1934 with a distillery in Hokkaido. It produces high-quality whisky using traditional Scottish methods, and its unique flavor profile is highly regarded both domestically and internationally.
The "bearded gentleman" on the sign is the character depicted on the whisky label. As highlighted in the Susukino Guide 2025, the neon colors of this sign change periodically, which is worth checking out during your visit.
Known as One of the Japan's Safest Entertainment District
While Susukino is one of Japan's busiest entertainment districts, it's also known as the safest. Public safety is maintained through cooperation between local police, government, and community members, allowing visitors to walk safely even late at night. It's considered safe even for women visiting alone.
This area is not only frequented by locals on weekends but is also a popular tourist destination and perfect for enjoying nightlife. The Susukino Guide 2025 recommends numerous restaurants and bars where you can easily enjoy casual meals and drinks in a safe environment.
History of Susukino
Susukino is located in central Sapporo and has developed since the pioneering era around 1870. Its history began with the establishment of an officially recognized red-light district in this area.
This district was originally created to keep men who came for development work in Sapporo, and significantly contributed to the city's growth.
Following post-war economic growth, Susukino evolved into the entertainment district filled with restaurants and nightclubs that we know today.
Although it originated as a red-light district, which might create an impression of being male-oriented, the Susukino Guide 2025 emphasizes that it's now a place where everyone can safely enjoy dining, with many female groups visiting regularly.
Access to Susukino
The most convenient way to reach Susukino is via the Namboku (North-South) Line subway from Sapporo Station. Susukino Station is just the second stop from Sapporo Station, with a travel time of approximately 3 minutes.
You can also walk from Sapporo Station to Susukino through an underground passage, which takes about 20 minutes.
Another option mentioned in the Susukino Guide 2025 is taking a limousine bus from New Chitose Airport directly to the Susukino area.
Susukino Guide 2025: Two Things to Enjoy When You Visit Susukino
Susukino is one of Japan's three major entertainment districts, known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere as well as its good safety, allowing visitors to enjoy themselves with peace of mind.
How should you best enjoy Susukino? Here, according to the Susukino Guide 2025, are two things you should definitely experience when visiting this exciting district.
Bar Hopping in a City That Comes Alive at Night
Susukino's nightlife is perfect for bar hopping. With distinctive bars and izakayas lining the streets throughout the area, the quintessential Susukino experience involves casually dropping into these establishments, enjoying your favorite drinks, and then moving on to the next venue.
As highlighted in the Susukino Guide 2025, you can savor beer and whiskey while interacting with locals and feeling the night atmosphere of Hokkaido. As the night deepens, the entire district becomes more animated, allowing you to fully enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Food Hopping at Restaurants Serving Exquisite Local Cuisine
In Susukino, you can enjoy many delicious local specialties unique to Hokkaido. The Susukino Guide 2025 recommends trying "Genghis Khan" (lamb grilled on an iron plate), seafood, ramen, and other Hokkaido delicacies.
By sampling these dishes, you can thoroughly experience Hokkaido's food culture. With so many unique restaurants offering a wide variety of menu items, you'll likely have trouble deciding where to eat.
Susukino is the perfect area to indulge in Hokkaido's delicious offerings.
For the Best Izakayas and Bars Truly Loved by Locals in Susukino, Local Tours are Recommended
Susukino has numerous izakayas and bars, but there are so many that first-time visitors might be confused about where to go. If you're making the trip, you'll want to visit izakayas and bars that are genuinely beloved by locals.
According to the Susukino Guide 2025, local tours with English-speaking guides offer bar hopping and food hopping experiences, starting at 18:00 and visiting three izakayas or bars in the Susukino area. These include izakayas where you can enjoy fresh seafood and hidden gem bars—all attractive nightlife spots.
The tours also suggest enjoying ramen or parfait at the end of your meal. Non-alcoholic menu options are available, so even those who don't drink alcohol can have fun.
These tours allow you to visit special establishments that only local guides can introduce you to.
5 Recommended Izakayas and Bars in Susukino
Susukino has numerous dining establishments, so choosing the right ones is important. The Susukino Guide 2025 introduces these recommended izakayas and bars that are popular with locals.
Izakaya Kusachi (Susukino)
Source:Tabelog
Izakaya Kusachi is a popular restaurant that has been operating in Susukino for over 30 years. Seafood dishes are the centerpiece of the menu, with most customers ordering the signature "Kanidaruma."
Kanidaruma consists of red snow crab shells that are peeled one by one, with the meat then stuffed back into the shell. It's popular because you can enjoy fresh, high-quality red snow crab at reasonable prices.
The Susukino Guide 2025 notes that they also offer many other dishes featuring abundant seafood, and they have a wide variety of Japanese sake, including local Hokkaido sake. The pairing of seafood dishes with Japanese sake is exceptional and one of my favorites, so please give it a try.
Another highlight is the calm atmosphere where you can enjoy your meal at a relaxed pace.
- Address: 7F, Minami 3 Nishi 4 Building, Minami 3-jo Nishi 4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Closed: Sundays and holidays
- Phone: 011-232-0204
- Hours: 17:00-22:30 (Last food order 22:00)
- Official website: None
Susukino Guide 2025: Top Bar & Restaurant Recommendations
THE NIKKA BAR (Susukino)
Source:Official website
THE NIKKA BAR is a bar operated by Nikka Whisky. While there are "NIKKA BAR" establishments throughout Japan, only this one has "The" in its name. The reason is that it's the flagship store located in Hokkaido, the birthplace of Nikka Whisky. According to the Susukino Guide 2025, enjoying a drink in the Hokkaido air offers an exceptional taste experience.
The interior has an authentic atmosphere that's dimly lit, with time passing leisurely. There are counter seats and table seats, but it's also recommended to enjoy your drink while gazing at the shelves lined with bottles from the counter seats.
Various tasting sets are available to enjoy different key malts at once, and there's a good selection of light meals. With plenty of distillery-exclusive whiskies available, you can fully enjoy local flavors in the Hokkaido atmosphere.
- Address: 2F, 3rd Green Building, Minami 4-jo Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Closed: Irregular (basically open year-round)
- Phone: 011-518-3344
- Hours: 18:00-03:00
- Official Website: https://nikkabar.jp/
Grand tavern Fuji Susukino shop (Susukino)
Source:Tabelog
Grand Izakaya Fuji Susukino Ten is a long-established izakaya that has been operating in Susukino for over 50 years and has been loved by locals for many years. It's commonly used for drinking parties with friends and colleagues, and you can experience the lively atmosphere of a typical Japanese izakaya.
There's an extensive menu using fresh Hokkaido fish and shellfish, with popular items like the 5-piece sashimi assortment that features the day's recommended seafood on a single plate.
All dishes are easy to enjoy with drinks, but my recommendation is "Zangi." "Zangi" is a Hokkaido local dish where chicken is coated with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce before being fried. As the Susukino Guide 2025 notes, its strong flavor makes it perfect to enjoy with beer or highballs.
The restaurant also has spacious table seating, so you can enjoy your meal comfortably.
- Address: Fuji Kaikan Building, Minami 5-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Closed: Sundays and holidays
- Phone: 011-511-7131
- Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 17:00-23:30 (Last order 23:00)
Friday, Saturday, and day before holidays: 17:00-01:00 (Last food order 00:00, Last drink order 00:30)
- Official Website: https://www.grand-fuji.co.jp/
the bar nano gould. (Odori)
Source:Official website
the bar nano gould. is an authentic bar with the philosophy that "cocktails are liquid cuisine," offering a variety of cocktails to enjoy.
It's run by an experienced bartender from Sapporo, and original cocktails using Hokkaido ingredients and botanicals are popular. As featured in the Susukino Guide 2025, you can enjoy unique cocktails that are only available in Hokkaido.
There's also a wide selection of single malt whiskies and dessert wines, allowing you to enjoy various experiences depending on the occasion and your preferences.
The interior incorporates traditional Japanese elements throughout, such as "Shoji," traditional Japanese sliding doors with thin paper. You can spend quality time leisurely enjoying a carefully crafted drink.
- Address: 4F, J-BOX Building, Minami 3-jo Nishi 4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Phone: 011-252-7556
- Hours: 18:00-24:00 (Last order 23:30)
- Official Website: http://nano.sapporo-bar.net/gould/
Izakaya rukku & uohei (Odori)
Source:Tripadvisor
Izakaya rukku & uohei is an izakaya where you can enjoy Hokkaido's seasonal seafood. It's located in "Tanukikoji," Hokkaido's largest shopping street near Susukino.
The restaurant's specialty is tuna sashimi, characterized by its very thick slices. It's incredibly satisfying and allows you to fully appreciate the umami of fresh tuna.
The Susukino Guide 2025 recommends this spot for food hopping, as there's a wide variety of easy-to-eat food menus centered around seafood dishes, making it perfect for enjoying a quick meal before moving on to the next establishment.
Another feature is that the appetizers, which are the table charge, are self-service and you can choose what you like. It's a place where you can enjoy your meal in a lively atmosphere and good spirits.
- Address: Minami 2-jo Nishi 6-chome (West corner of Tanukikoji 6-chome), Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Closed: December 31 to January 3
- Phone: 011-261-5188
- Hours: Closed December 31 to January 3
Monday-Friday: 11:30-14:30 (Food L.O. 14:00, Drink L.O. 14:00)
16:00-23:00 (Food L.O. 22:00, Drink L.O. 22:00)
Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 11:30-23:00 (Food L.O. 22:00, Drink L.O. 22:00)
- Official Website: https://rukku.owst.jp/
3 Renowned Restaurants in Susukino Where You Can Enjoy Hokkaido's Famous Local Cuisine
Hokkaido offers many exquisite local dishes. Enjoying foods that can only be eaten locally is one of the true pleasures of traveling, isn't it?
According to the Susukino Guide 2025, here are some renowned restaurants where you can enjoy Hokkaido's local cuisine.
Oga (Ishikari Nabe)
Source:Official website
Oga is a well-established restaurant that has been operating for over 50 years, where you can enjoy seasonal Hokkaido seafood. They have tanks with hairy crabs and squid, and when ordered, craftsmen prepare them on the spot, allowing you to enjoy incredibly fresh ingredients.
You can also enjoy "Ishikari-nabe," a representative Hokkaido local dish. Ishikari-nabe originated in Ishikari City, north of Sapporo, and consists of salmon and vegetables simmered in a miso-based soup. It's a warming dish that allows you to fully taste Hokkaido's flavors.
The restaurant consists entirely of private rooms, so you can enjoy your meal comfortably without worrying about others. You can spend a relaxing time with a rich lineup of local sake.
- Address: 8F, 9F Santhree Building, Minami 3-jo Nishi 3-1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Closed: None
- Phone: 011-242-3328
- Hours: 17:00-23:00 (Last order 22:00)
- Official website: https://oga-sapporo.com/
Sumiyaki Genghis Khan Ishida
Source:Tabelog
Sumiyaki Genghis Khan Ishida is a restaurant specializing in Hokkaido's local dish "Genghis Khan." Genghis Khan is a dish using lamb meat, cooked with vegetables on a specially shaped grill and eaten with sauce.
While many restaurants use lamb imported from outside Japan, Sumiyaki Genghis Khan Ishida characteristically uses Hokkaido's brand lamb "Shibetsu Suffolk." The Susukino Guide 2025 highlights that they purchase whole animals, allowing guests to enjoy various cuts of exceptionally fresh lamb.
This is the only place besides their direct-managed store where you can eat Shibetsu Suffolk, making it a very valuable experience. It was my first time having authentic Genghis Khan, but the staff carefully taught me how to grill it, so I could enjoy it with peace of mind.
- Address: 2F Maruni Hashiba Building, Kita 1-jo Nishi 8-2-9, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 050-5457-2484
- Hours: 11:00-23:00 (Last order 22:00)
- Official website: None
SOUP CURRY GARAKU
Source:Tabelog
Soup Curry GARAKU is a restaurant serving Hokkaido's local specialty "Soup Curry." Soup Curry differs from typical Japanese curry rice; it consists of meat and vegetables slowly simmered with spices, eaten together with rice.
Soup Curry originated in Sapporo, and there are over 200 specialized restaurants in Sapporo. Since opening in 2007, Soup Curry GARAKU has been known as a particularly popular restaurant where lines form.
The soup, which adds Japanese-style dashi using bonito flakes to secret spices, has a rich and umami flavor that can only be enjoyed here. The dish is also visually appealing with large-cut, vibrantly colored vegetables.
As the Susukino Guide 2025 recommends, waiting in line is inevitable, but the taste is worth it. Note that they close once they run out of soup, so it's recommended to visit early.
- Address: 7-1237-21 Sakae-machi, Chitose, Hokkaido
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 0123-25-5006
- Hours:
Lunch 11:30-15:30 (Last order 15:00)
Dinner 17:00-21:00 (Last order 20:30)
- Official website: https://s-garaku.com/
To Fully Enjoy Traveling in Japan, It's Best to Have a Local Guide Who Knows the Area Well!
To truly enjoy your trip to Japan, the best method is to have a local guide who knows the area thoroughly.
With Magical Trip's local tours, English-speaking local tour guides show you hidden gems and unique spots that only locals know about. The Susukino Guide 2025 features many of these authentic local experiences that go beyond typical tourist attractions.
Guides introduce the history, culture, food, and more of the city from their unique perspective, allowing for a deeper experience.
The interaction with local people and special experiences unique to tours that you can't get from just visiting tourist spots listed in guidebooks make your trip even more memorable.
