Nijo Market: Sapporo's Kitchen
Experience Sapporo's vibrant culinary heart at Nijo Market: fresh seafood, local produce, and unforgettable flavors await!
Nijo Market is a historic and bustling marketplace in central Sapporo, Hokkaido, offering a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Its origins trace back to the early Meiji period (1868-1912) when fishermen from Ishikari Bay began selling their catches along the Ishikari River. Over time, the market evolved from a small cluster of shops to a thriving hub of commerce and cuisine. Today, Nijo Market spans about one city block and is home to dozens of vendors selling an impressive variety of fresh seafood, including crabs, salmon roe, sea urchin, scallops, and various fresh and prepared fish. You'll also find stalls offering local produce, Hokkaido souvenirs, and other delicacies. The market's lively atmosphere, filled with the calls of shopkeepers and the energy of shoppers, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Hokkaido. One of the most popular ways to experience Nijo Market is to indulge in a fresh seafood breakfast at one of the market's many restaurants. Kaisendon, a bowl of rice topped with fresh sashimi, is a particular favorite. Many shops also offer the chance to sample seafood cooked on the spot. For evening eats, explore the unique restaurants and pubs along Noren Yokocho, a narrow alley within the market. Nijo Market is open year-round, with shops generally operating from 7:00 to 18:00, though individual hours may vary. Admission is free, making it an accessible and enticing destination for all. Whether you're a seafood aficionado, a souvenir hunter, or simply seeking a taste of local life, Nijo Market offers an unforgettable experience. In 1902, a fire devastated the market, but it was rebuilt and has been serving the citizens of Sapporo for over 125 years.
Local tips
- Arrive early for the freshest seafood and a less crowded experience.
- Try the kaisendon (seafood bowl) for a classic Nijo Market dish.
- Explore Noren Yokocho for unique evening dining options.
- Bargaining is acceptable at some stalls, so don't be afraid to try your luck.
- Check individual shop hours, as they may vary.
A brief summary to Nijo Market
- Minami 2 Johigashi, 1 Chome, 南３条東１丁目〜２丁目, Sapporo, 1 Chome Minami 2 Johigashi, Chuo Ward, Hokkaido, 060-0052, JP
- +8111-222-5308
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
Nijo Market is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many downtown Sapporo locations. From Odori Park or the Sapporo TV Tower, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Simply head east, and you'll find the market between Minami 3-jo and Minami 2-jo. There are no specific costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The closest subway station to Nijo Market is Odori Station, which is served by the Namboku, Tozai, and Toho lines. From Odori Station, take Exit 34, and it's about a 5-minute walk to the market. Alternatively, you can take the Tozai Line to Bus Center Mae station, which is about a 3-minute walk to Nijo Market. A single subway ride costs ¥200 for adults. Consider purchasing a one-day subway pass for ¥830 (adults) if you plan to use the subway extensively. IC cards like SAPICA or Kitaca can also be used for convenient payment.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Sapporo. A short taxi ride from Sapporo Station to Nijo Market will typically cost between ¥700 and ¥1000, depending on traffic and the taxi company. The initial fare for a small-sized taxi is ¥670 for the first 1,463 meters, with an additional ¥80 for every 276 meters after that. Be aware that a 20% evening surcharge may apply between 22:00 and 5:00.
