When you think of Sapporo in Hokkaido, you think of “Susukino”. This area is known as Japan’s northernmost entertainment district and has a history of developing from the site of a red light district during the Meiji period. We will introduce how to enjoy the night in the northern country, including Suehirocho in Hakodate, which will brighten up your night trip to Hokkaido.
📍 Sapporo Susukino
Origin/History
Susukino’s history goes back to the Meiji period. It is said that it began in 1871 (Meiji 4) when a red-light district was relocated to land created during river improvement work on the Toyohira River. The place name “Susukino” is said to come from the fact that this area was once covered with pampas grass, and it is also said to come from the Ainu language. After World War II, along with the reconstruction of Hokkaido, it rapidly developed as an entertainment district in northern Japan.
Features
Hokkaido’s largest entertainment district, with over 4,000 restaurants and entertainment facilities. It’s also conveniently located, just one stop from Sapporo Station on the Namboku Subway Line. It is also famous as an area where you can enjoy gourmet food unique to Hokkaido, such as Ramen Alley, Genghis Khan restaurants, and seafood izakayas. It is particularly crowded with tourists during the snow festival period.
Recommended spots
Access
From JR Sapporo Station, transfer to the subway Namboku Line and get off at Susukino Station (about 3 minutes). It takes about 15 minutes on foot from Sapporo Station. From New Chitose Airport, it takes about 37 minutes to Sapporo Station by Rapid Airport.
Precautions
It gets very crowded on weekends and the night before holidays. In winter, the roads can be slippery, so wear comfortable shoes. You may also be approached by scouts (touts), but you can ignore them. We recommend avoiding walking alone late at night and traveling in groups.
📍 Hakodate Suehirocho
Origin/History
Hakodate’s entertainment district is associated with the history of Hakodate, which developed as an opening port during the Meiji period. The area around Suehirocho is an area that developed as a prosperous port town in the past, and spreads out at the foot of Mt. Hakodate.
Features
Hakodate’s largest downtown area, close to tourist spots such as the Orthodox Church of Christ and the Motomachi Church Group. There are many seafood restaurants and izakayas typical of a port town, making it the perfect place to stop by before or after viewing Hakodate’s night view. There are many restaurants along the streetcar route.
Access
About 5 minutes by tram from JR Hakodate Station, get off at Suehirocho tram stop. The Mt. Hakodate Ropeway stop is within walking distance.
Precautions
It gets crowded during the tourist season (especially from May to October). Be sure to pay attention to the last tram times and secure your return transportation.
📝 Summary
Hokkaido’s entertainment district has a unique atmosphere that is different from Tokyo and Osaka. Sapporo Susukino is easily accessible and is the best area where you can enjoy Hokkaido’s gourmet food and nightlife all at once. Suehirocho in Hakodate is perfect for a combined visit with sightseeing. Enjoy the northern night to the fullest.