1. What is Susukino Known For?

When you think of nightlife in Sapporo, you think of Susukino. It’s one of Japan’s three biggest entertainment districts, packed with izakayas, jingisukan (grilled lamb) restaurants, sushi bars, ramen alleys, and more. At night, the neon lights come alive, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with bars, clubs, and snack bars. From tourists to business travelers, everyone comes here to enjoy Sapporo’s nightlife.

2. Best Time to Visit Susukino

You can enjoy Susukino year-round, but it’s especially fun during festival season:

• February – Sapporo Snow Festival: Ice sculptures line the streets from Odori Park to Susukino, creating a magical winter scene.

• Early August – Susukino Festival: The streets turn into a pedestrian paradise, with summer vibes, yukata (summer kimono), and plenty of food and drinks.

• June – Yosakoi Soran Festival: A high-energy dance festival that fills the city, including the Susukino area, with excitement.

These times are perfect for experiencing both the festivals and Susukino’s nightlife.

3. Must-Try Foods in Susukino

Susukino is a foodie’s paradise. Here are the top picks:

• Daruma (Jingisukan) – A legendary grilled lamb restaurant, always with a line out the door.

• Ramen Alley – Famous miso ramen shops, perfect for a late-night bowl after drinks.

• Nemuro Hanamaru (Conveyor Belt Sushi) – Fresh Hokkaido seafood at reasonable prices.

• Soup Curry GARAKU – Spicy, hearty soup curry loved by locals and tourists alike.

With both trendy new spots and long-established favorites, you could easily spend a whole day just eating your way through Susukino.

4. Getting Around Susukino

The heart of the district is Susukino Station on the Namboku subway line. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Odori Station, where you’ll also find the TV Tower and Odori Park. The park hosts events all year:

• Fall – Sapporo Autumn Fest (food festival featuring Hokkaido specialties)

• Winter – Snow Festival & White Illumination

• Summer – Beer Garden

A great plan is to explore Odori Park during the day, then head to Susukino at night for food and drinks.

5. Nearby Attractions

Susukino makes a great base for exploring Sapporo and beyond:

• Jozankei Onsen – A hot spring town about an hour’s drive away, with plenty of day-trip baths.

• ES CON Field HOKKAIDO (Kitahiroshima) – The new baseball stadium where you can enjoy a game and local food.

• Moerenuma Park – A vast park designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, perfect for families and couples.

• Shiroi Koibito Park – A chocolate-themed park where you can tour the factory and try hands-on sweets-making.

6. Renting a Car

For sightseeing within Sapporo, the subway and walking are enough. But if you want to visit places like Otaru, Lake Shikotsu, or Jozankei Onsen, renting a car makes your trip much easier and more flexible. If you’re staying downtown, though, public transit is stress-free and convenient.

7. Final Thoughts

Susukino combines great food, nightlife, and sightseeing all in one place. Spend your days exploring Sapporo’s attractions and your nights enjoying the restaurants and bars of Susukino. With the right plan for the season, you’ll get the most out of your Sapporo trip and experience the best of Hokkaido.