Dive Deep into Sapporo’s Tanukikoji: Hidden Alleys & Local Gems

Meet your guide right under the iconic Sapporo TV Tower. From there, we’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll along a historic path that reveals the story of Sapporo’s fascinating growth. Our destination is the vibrant and bustling Tanukikoji Shopping Street, where hidden alleys, charming shops, and local flavors await your discovery.

【Blocks 1–2 | Streets Alive with Tradition and Craftsmanship】
Located on the eastern side of Tanukikoji, Blocks 1–2 offer a chance to experience Sapporo’s history and artisan culture. The streets are lined with charming shops selling handmade Japanese goods, pottery, and traditional items, with wooden signs and classic storefronts evoking a nostalgic atmosphere. Visitors can watch craftsmen at work, see traditional sweets being prepared, and follow their senses into the shops, fully immersing themselves in Japanese culture. From the sounds of woodworking to the delicate shaping of pottery and the taste of freshly made sweets, this area lets you appreciate the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship and the warm, local spirit of the community.

【Blocks 3–4 | Hub for Gourmet Food and Shopping】
Blocks 3–4 sit at the heart of Tanukikoji and are among Sapporo’s liveliest areas. Connected to the underground “Pole Town,” you can explore comfortably even on rainy or snowy days. The streets are filled with izakayas and ramen shops offering Hokkaido specialties, alongside trendy fashion and accessory stores—making every step a delight. As locals and tourists pass by, you can chat with shopkeepers, sample street snacks, or snap photos of colorful shopfronts. This area is a highlight for visitors, combining gourmet food, shopping, and the vibrant energy of the city.

【Block 5 | Tanuki Shrine and Local Flavors】
Block 5 is home to the small but beloved Tanuki Shrine, where visitors pray for business success and safe travels. A red torii gate marks the entrance, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounding the shrine, you’ll find izakayas and cafés serving dishes made with local Hokkaido ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the local flavors after a visit. Walking along the side streets, you can interact with locals and experience Sapporo’s lifestyle and culture in a relaxed and authentic way.

【Blocks 6–7 | Sweet Shops and Retro Culture】
Blocks 6–7 have a quieter, nostalgic atmosphere compared to the city center. Here, long-established sweet shops invite you to savor traditional Japanese desserts like matcha sweets and anmitsu. The Tanukikoji Market retains a Showa-era (1926–1989) charm, with fresh fish shops and vegetable stores frequented by locals. You’ll also find shops selling second-hand jazz and rock records, old-fashioned cafés, and faded shop signs that let you feel Japan’s retro culture firsthand. Walking through these blocks, you can quietly discover the authentic side of Sapporo and uncover its hidden charms.