Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour

Introducing the Tour

If you’re heading to Sapporo and want to experience its nightlife while tasting some of the city’s most beloved local dishes, this Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour might just be your new best friend. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on over 140 reviews, this three-hour adventure combines the fun of discovering hidden bars with the joy of sampling Hokkaido’s culinary highlights. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who speak your language, making it ideal for travelers wary of language barriers or those wanting to skip the tourist traps.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances delicious food, local insights, and fun. The fact that photos are provided afterward makes it easy to remember your night without scrambling for your camera. One thing to consider is the group size — with a maximum of six people, it maintains an intimate vibe, but that also means booking well in advance is recommended as it fills up quickly (on average, 44 days ahead). Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to explore Sapporo’s culinary scene in a relaxed, guided setting.

This tour suits anyone looking to enjoy an authentic, hassle-free introduction to Sapporo’s nightlife and food culture. If you’re curious about local drinking spots, love trying new dishes, and appreciate a guide who can share stories and tips, this experience is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Discover hidden bars and learn about Sapporo’s food scene from a knowledgeable guide.
• Culinary variety: Enjoy a mix of ramen, parfaits, and izakaya tapas, giving you a taste of Hokkaido cuisine.
• Insider tips: Get recommendations on the best local spots to visit after the tour.
• Small group intimacy: With a maximum of six travelers, expect personalized attention and more interaction.
• Photos included: Remember your night with professional photos provided after the experience.
• Good value: For around $101, you get three drinks, food at three venues, and a guided tour—making it a worthwhile splurge for food lovers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Visiting Local Izakayas Recommended by Guides

The core of this tour involves hopping through three carefully selected izakayas. These are not touristy, commercialized venues but places favored by locals. Guides like Midori and Waka have an eye for authentic spots that often fly under the radar. Expect to fill up your stomach with a variety of dishes and drinks, and your guide will tailor the experience based on your interests. Reviewers often mention that their guides go above and beyond, sharing stories and anecdotes that add depth to each venue.

One guest raved that their guide, Midori, “took them to some great places and went above and beyond” to make everyone comfortable. Such personalized touches make a difference when you want to feel more like a local and less like a tourist. The venues are chosen not only for their quality but for their uniqueness — one might be a hidden indoor bar, another a cozy tavern specializing in Hokkaido sake.

Passing by Odori Park

During the walk from bar to bar, you’ll pass by Odori Park, a vast green space in the heart of Sapporo. This park is a favorite for residents and visitors alike, boasting over 4,700 trees and 92 types of lilacs. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate how this lively city balances urban life with nature. The park also hosts major events, making it a lively backdrop for your evening stroll.

Passing Ganso Sapporo Ramen Street

The tour also includes a quick pass-by of the famous Ganso Sapporo Ramen Street. While the tour doesn’t include a dedicated ramen tasting here, this area is renowned for its delicious Hokkaido-style ramen, especially miso-based bowls. Reviewers note that the tour ends with the option to indulge further in ramen or parfaits, making it a natural segue to satisfy your craving for hearty, comforting food.

Ending at a Favorite Spot

Many guests mention that the tour concludes near additional bars or restaurants, allowing you to continue your night if you’re still hungry or thirsty. Some reviews suggest that guides could do an even better job of directing guests to a final spot to keep the fun going, but overall, the experience leaves plenty of room for spontaneous extensions.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes three food sets and two plates, ensuring you’re well fed throughout the evening. You’ll get three drinks—usually sake, beer, or soft drinks—and tour photos that capture your memories. The price of $101.34 per person offers excellent value considering the variety and the guided nature of the experience.

However, additional food and drinks are not included, so if you’re particularly hungry or want to try more sake, be prepared to pay extra. The tour is designed to give a good sampling rather than a full-course meal, which leaves room for personal exploration afterward.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour starts at a central meeting point in Sapporo, close to public transport, making it easy to reach. It’s designed for most travelers over 20 years old, and the small group size (max six) ensures a more intimate experience. Since Japanese summers can be hot and humid, bringing water and a hat is recommended to stay comfortable.

Booking about a month ahead is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, as the tour is popular and fills quickly. The tour’s flexibility means guides can adapt slightly to your preferences, and the local insights shared are highly praised, adding cultural context to every stop.

Authentic Experience & Genuine Feedback

The reviews paint a clear picture: guides like Midori, Seiko, and Waka are friendly, energetic, and full of local knowledge. Guests love the mix of delicious food, fun atmosphere, and insider tips. One reviewer mentioned that the guide “took us to places we would never have found on our own,” which is exactly what makes this tour valuable for adventurous eaters.

Notably, many mention the quality of the food and drinks—from parfaits to yakitori chicken—highlighting that the venues chosen are top-notch. The tour also tends to have a lively, convivial vibe, with guests making new friends and exchanging stories.

One less positive review pointed out that the guide’s explanations were limited and mainly focused on taking orders. However, this seems to be an outlier, as most guests felt the guides were engaging and provided meaningful insights.

The The Sum Up

This Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour offers a balanced mix of local culture, authentic cuisine, and lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend an evening if you want to explore Sapporo beyond the usual tourist spots, especially if you’re eager to try dishes like ramen or enjoy local sake in cozy, hidden venues. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the professional guides are clearly passionate about sharing their city’s culinary gems.

While it may not be ideal for those seeking a comprehensive history lesson, it’s perfect for food lovers and social travelers who want to experience Sapporo in a relaxed, authentic way. The value for money is solid considering the drinks, food, and insider knowledge you gain, making it a worthwhile addition to your Sapporo itinerary.

Overall, if you’re looking for an engaging, tasty, and authentic night out, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers join, and reviews mention that the guides foster a friendly atmosphere that helps guests make new friends.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to six travelers, ensuring an intimate experience and personalized attention.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you receive three drinks as part of the tour, which typically include sake, beer, or soft drinks.

Will I get to try ramen?
While the tour itself focuses on bars and izakayas, it passes by Ganso Sapporo Ramen Street, and guests often end up enjoying ramen afterward.

Can I extend my night afterward?
Absolutely. Many guests report that the tour’s end location is near additional bars or restaurants, allowing you to continue exploring.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The included food is prepared in kitchens outside the tour provider’s control. Substitutions are not guaranteed, so communicate any allergies or dietary needs beforehand.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 44 days ahead is typical, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

Is this tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit, making it easy to get there.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While it’s available year-round, summer’s heat and humidity mean bringing water and wearing a hat is recommended for comfort.

This tour is a fantastic way to see Sapporo through the eyes of locals, taste their favorite dishes, and enjoy a relaxed evening of drinks and lively conversation. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this experience promises authentic memories and plenty of tasty moments.