🦀 In-depth Introduction to Nijo Market (Sapporo)

Besides the must-sees of Odori Park, the Clock Tower, and Susukino, the best place to experience the local flavors in Sapporo, in my opinion, is Nijo Market ! One of the city's most iconic traditional markets, it boasts a history spanning over a century. Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, Hokkaido souvenirs, or simply want to soak up the local market atmosphere, Nijo Market has it all. Follow me as we delve deeper into this "Sapporo kitchen"! ✨

🏙️ The geographical location and historical background of Nijo Market

Nijo Market is located in Nijo, Chuo-ku, Sapporo , about a 10-minute walk from Odori Park or Susukino , and its location is very convenient.
The origins of this market can be traced back to the early Meiji era (around the end of the 19th century) , when fishermen and merchants began gathering here to sell Hokkaido seafood, such as salmon, crab, and shellfish, gradually developing into a bustling market. While today's Nijo Market is relatively modest in scale, it retains a rich historical atmosphere and is known as the "Tsukiji of Sapporo."

🛍️ Market characteristics and atmosphere

Walking into Nijo Market, you'll see rows of traditional shops and stalls, with signs and fresh catches hanging from the eaves, and the air filled with the aroma of the sea.

• 🦞 The stalls are filled with lobsters, crabs, and scallops, creating a strong visual impact.
• 🐟 Salmon, salmon roe, sea urchin and other representative ingredients of Hokkaido are sold freshly.
• 🍈 In addition to seafood, you can also find Hokkaido cantaloupe, dairy products, desserts and other souvenirs.
• 👩🍳 Many small restaurants offer seafood bowls and grilled seafood on site, allowing tourists to eat while strolling.

I think the biggest charm of this place is that it is "small and exquisite". Although it is not as huge as Tsukiji Market in Tokyo, it is easier to explore and closer to local life.

🍣 Must-try food experiences

When visiting Nijo Market, you can't miss out on Hokkaido's delicious seafood! Here are a few must-try spots:

• Seafood rice bowl 🍚
  • The whole bowl of rice is covered with various sashimi, and common ingredients include salmon, salmon roe, sea urchin, scallops, and crab meat. It is bursting with sweetness in one bite.
• King crab and hairy crab🦀
  • Hokkaido's crabs are famous far and wide, and the market offers on-site crab cooking, whether steamed or grilled.
• Grilled scallops and grilled squid 🐚
  • The aroma is overflowing, making it the perfect place to eat while strolling.
• Hokkaido Hami melon 🍈
  • A must-try in summer, it’s incredibly sweet and is often enjoyed with soft serve ice cream.
• Draft beer and Japanese sake 🍶
  • It's a perfect match with seafood, and I highly recommend having a glass of Sapporo Beer on the spot.

🎨 Unique charm and shopping fun

In addition to food, Nijo Market is also a great place to buy souvenirs:

• 🎁 Pre-packaged salmon roe, kelp, and dried scallops for easy take home.
• 🧀 Hokkaido cheese and milk candy are very popular.
• 🍫 Shiroi Koibito and Royce' chocolate can also be found here.

My favorite part is chatting with the vendors, who enthusiastically explain the origins of their ingredients and even teach you how to prepare them. This kind of "learning as you go" fun makes the market more than just a place to shop, it's more like a Hokkaido cooking class.

🚋 Basic traffic information

Getting to Nijo Market is actually very simple:

• Subway 🚇
  • Take the Sapporo Municipal Subway and get off at Odori Station . It's about a 10-minute walk away.
  • You can also walk from Susukino Station , which is also about 10 minutes.
• Bus
  • There are many buses in the city that can reach the area around Datong Park, and then you can walk there.
• Self-driving 🚗
  • There are coin-operated parking lots around the market, but as it is a busy place, it is recommended to go early for easier parking.

📸 Editor's Personal Tips

1. It’s best to come in the morning : the seafood is freshest, the selection is the greatest, and the atmosphere is the liveliest.
2. Eat in or take away : If you are worried about the language barrier, you can order directly from the pictures. Almost every restaurant is very friendly.
3. Pay attention to the price : some tourist-friendly shops have higher prices, so we recommend comparing prices at several before deciding.
4. Combined itinerary : After visiting Nijo Market, you can stop by Odori Park or Sapporo TV Tower, which is very convenient.

🌺 Summary

Nijo Market is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sapporo that represents Hokkaido's culinary culture. I believe it's more than just a market; it's a microcosm of food, culture, and human touch . Here, you can:

• Taste the freshest Hokkaido seafood🐟
• Buy authentic local souvenirs 🎁
• Experience the fun of interacting with local vendors 😊

If you come to Sapporo and haven’t tried the seafood donburi at Nijo Market, it’s like you haven’t truly experienced the delicious food of Hokkaido! ✨