Hokkaido’s izakaya scene offers a unique blend of fresh local ingredients, hearty portions, and warm hospitality that perfectly captures the spirit of Japan’s northernmost island. These traditional Japanese pubs serve as social hubs where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy drinks, small plates, and lively conversation. From Sapporo’s bustling entertainment districts to Hakodate’s historic quarters, here are the top 10 izakaya that showcase the best of Hokkaido’s culinary culture.
1. Umi Hachikyo (海味 はちきょう) - Sapporo
Located just a minute’s walk from Susukino Station, Umi Hachikyo has become legendary for its theatrical “Tsukko Meshi” presentation. The staff dramatically pour soy-marinated salmon roe over rice while chanting “Oisaa!”, creating one of Hokkaido’s most Instagram-worthy dishes. The fishing-hut décor and boisterous atmosphere make this a perfect introduction to Hokkaido’s izakaya culture. The generous portions of ultra-fresh seafood justify the slightly higher prices, and the interactive dining experience creates lasting memories.
Location: 1F Miyako Building, Minami 3-jo Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Access: 1 minute walk from Susukino Station (Municipal Subway) / 83m from Susukino Station
Hours: Mon-Sat 18:00-24:00, Sun/Holidays 17:00-23:00
Regular closing day: Year-end and New Year holidays
2. Aburiya Sohonten (炙屋 総本店) - Sapporo
For those seeking premium charcoal-grilled seafood in stylish surroundings, Aburiya Sohonten delivers an upscale izakaya experience. Located in the basement of ANA Holiday Inn Susukino, this establishment combines robatayaki grilling with a full sushi counter. The extensive Hokkaido sake list makes this an excellent choice for international visitors wanting to sample premium local ingredients. The skilled chefs prepare each dish with precision, from perfectly grilled seafood to expertly crafted sushi.
Location: B1 ANA Holiday Inn Susukino, Minami 5-jo Nishi 3, Sapporo
Access: 3 minutes walk from Hosui-Susukino Station (Toho Line) and Susukino Station (Namboku Line)
Hours: 17:00-22:00 daily
Regular closing day: Year-end and New Year holidays
3. Jingisukan Daruma (成吉思汗 だるま) - Sapporo
No Hokkaido izakaya experience is complete without trying Genghis Khan (grilled lamb), and Daruma has been perfecting this local specialty since 1954. The main store’s 14-seat counter fills up quickly with both locals and tourists eager to experience authentic Sapporo soul food. The smoky, lively atmosphere and no-reservation policy mean you might have to queue, but the tender meat, sweet onions, and secret sauce make the wait worthwhile. This is unpretentious dining at its best.
Location: Crystal Building 1F, South 5 West 4, Sapporo
Access: 7 minutes walk from Susukino and Nakajima-koen Stations (Namboku Line), 5 minutes from Higashi-honganji-mae and Shiseikan-shogakko-mae Streetcar stops / 199m from Susukino Station
Hours: 17:00-05:00 daily
Regular closing day: None
4. Izakaya Furusato (居酒屋ふる里) - Sapporo
With over 100 seats and an extensive menu featuring Hokkaido comfort food, Furusato serves as a one-stop shop for regional specialties. The sake-centric tavern atmosphere attracts groups looking to sample multiple dishes in a lively setting. The impressive selection of 11+ local sakes pairs perfectly with hearty dishes like ramen salad and grilled herring. This is where locals go for reliable quality and generous portions at reasonable prices.
Location: 4F Sapporo Chuo Building, Kita 1-jo Nishi 3, Sapporo
Access: 3 minutes walk from Underground Walkway Exit 7 (Odori Station), 316m from Odori Station
Hours: Mon-Sat 17:00-23:30, Sun/Holidays 17:00-22:30
Regular closing day: Irregular holidays
5. Shuan Godai (酒庵 五醍) - Sapporo
A legendary robata-grill izakaya operating in Susukino since 1963, Shuan Godai exemplifies traditional Hokkaido hospitality. The 46-seat restaurant centers around a counter-style robata grill where master chefs use bincho-style charcoal made from Hokkaido hardwood to perfectly cook fresh local seafood and seasonal vegetables. The six-decade refinement of their grilling technique brings out the natural flavors of premium ingredients in a way that few establishments can match.
Location: 2-18 Minami 7-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Access: 313m from Higashi-honganji-mae Station
Hours: Daily 17:00-23:00 (L.O. 22:00), closed Sundays
Regular closing day: Sundays
6. Hakodate Minnano Izakaya Suzuya (すずや) - Hakodate
Suzuya brings theatrical flair to Hakodate’s izakaya scene with its famous live squid sashimi carved tableside. The lantern-filled ceiling and in-house fish tanks create a festive atmosphere perfect for experiencing Hakodate’s seafood culture. Watching the translucent squid “dance” as it’s prepared is quintessentially Hakodate. The extensive menu also includes crowd-pleasers like Shiokara cabbage and local sake selections.
Location: Capitol Building 1F, 6-11 Shofu-cho, Hakodate
Access: 10 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station
Hours: 17:00-23:00 (L.O. 22:30), irregular holidays
Regular closing day: Irregular holidays
7. Hakodate Jingisukan Honten (箱館ジンギスカン) - Hakodate
This is an easy-to-use Jingisukan restaurant located in the new food court “HAKOVIVA” right next to Hakodate Station. The ventilated grills eliminate the typical smoky atmosphere while maintaining authentic flavors. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this spot delivers quality Genghis Khan in a clean, modern setting near the station. The all-you-can-eat option offers excellent value for hearty appetites.
Location: HakoViva Hakodate-Ekimae Yokocho, 12-8 Wakamatsu-cho, Hakodate
Access: Inside Hakodate Station Mae Yokocho, 108m from Hakodate Station
Hours: Mon-Fri 16:00-23:00, Sat/Sun/Holidays 11:00-23:00
Regular closing day: Irregular holidays (Changed to irregular holidays from November 1, 2024. Please call to confirm before visiting)
8. Shoeimaru（ヤン衆漁場 二代目 昌栄丸）- Hakodate
Run by local fishermen, Shoeimaru offers ultra-fresh seafood in an authentic setting. The owner, a former fisherman himself, drives his truck to the port daily to personally select the best catches with his experienced eye. This direct sourcing from the harbor combined with his expert knowledge ensures exceptional quality that offers an intimate glimpse into Hakodate’s fishing culture. The seasonal bluefin tuna, when available, rivals anything found at Tsukiji.
Location: 10-3 Matsukaze-cho, Hakodate
Access: 5 minutes walk from Hakodate Station, 3 minutes from Matsukaze-cho Streetcar Station / 124m from Matsukaze-cho Station
Hours: Mon-Fri, Sun, Holidays 17:00-23:00, Sat & Days before holidays 17:00-00:00
Regular closing day: Irregular holidays
9. Uomasa (魚真) - Otaru
Blending sushi counter quality with izakaya atmosphere, Uomasa makes Otaru’s renowned seafood accessible in a casual setting. The 15-piece “Uomasa Nigiri” showcases local specialties at surprisingly reasonable prices. The large izakaya menu complements the sushi offerings, allowing groups to enjoy various dining styles. The friendly atmosphere makes this perfect for those wanting quality sushi without the formal sushi bar experience.
Location: 2-5-11 Inaho, Otaru
Access: 3 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station / about 403m from Otaru Station
Hours: 12:00-14:00 & 16:00-21:00 (L.O. 20:15), closed Sunday
Regular closing day: Sundays
10. Rakuten (らく天) - Otaru
Rakuten is an izakaya where you can enjoy creative cuisine using local seasonal ingredients. By deepening partnerships with local suppliers and nearby farmers, this restaurant offers meals featuring an abundance of high-quality seasonal ingredients unique to Hokkaido. With 30 seats, this family-run establishment offers a warm, homely atmosphere. The seasonal menu offers fresh discoveries with every visit, making it beloved by Otaru’s regular customers.
Location: 2-13-7 Inaho, Otaru
Access: 10 minutes walk from Otaru Station
Hours: 18:00-23:30, closed Monday
Regular closing day: Mondays
Tips for Enjoying Hokkaido Izakaya
Timing: Most izakaya open around 17:00-18:00. Arrive early or make reservations at popular spots.
Ordering: Start with drinks and 2-3 small dishes, then order more as you go. Share plates family-style.
Etiquette: Say “kanpai!” (cheers) before drinking, and “itadakimasu” before eating. Tipping is not customary.
Language: While some places have English menus, learning basic Japanese phrases enhances the experience. Staff are generally patient with foreign visitors.
Payment: Most accept cash only, though some now take credit cards. Check before dining.
Hokkaido’s izakaya offer more than just food and drink—they provide a window into local culture and hospitality. Whether you’re seeking fresh seafood, hearty grilled meats, or innovative fusion dishes, these 10 establishments showcase the best of what makes Hokkaido’s dining scene unique. From Sapporo’s neon-lit streets to Otaru’s historic quarters, each izakaya tells its own story through food, atmosphere, and the warmth of northern Japanese hospitality.
