Nijo Market | Sapporo

Nijo Market (二条市場, Nijo Ichiba) is a popular public market located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. It is a great destination for those looking to experience local food culture, particularly fresh seafood and other Hokkaido specialties. The market is a wonderful spot for both tourists and locals who want to try the region’s fresh products and explore its culinary offerings.

1. Overview of Nijo Market

Location: Nijo Market is located in the central area of Sapporo, just a short distance from Odori Park and Sapporo Station. It’s conveniently located, making it easy to visit while exploring Sapporo.

Opening Hours: The market is typically open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with some shops closing earlier, especially on Sundays and holidays.

Atmosphere: The market has a lively, bustling atmosphere, with vendors offering their goods in small stalls or shops. The space is relatively compact, so you can easily walk through the market while browsing the offerings.

2. What to See and Do at Nijo Market

Nijo Market offers a great variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and Hokkaido specialties, making it a must-visit for food lovers. Here are some things to check out while you’re at the market:

1. Fresh Seafood

Hokkaido is known for its abundant seafood due to its proximity to the sea. At Nijo Market, you’ll find a wide variety of fresh fish such as salmon, mackerel, and squid, as well as premium seafood like crab, sea urchin (uni), and scallops.

You can enjoy sashimi (raw fish), grilled seafood, or take home some fresh seafood to cook yourself. Many market vendors offer ready-to-eat seafood dishes or allow you to have your purchases prepared and cooked right at the market.

2. Hokkaido Specialties

• In addition to seafood, Nijo Market also sells a wide range of Hokkaido specialties, including:
  • Hokkaido melons: Known for their sweetness and juiciness, these melons are a popular treat in the summer months.
  • Hokkaido dairy products: You’ll find fresh milk, cheese, butter, and even ice cream made from locally sourced dairy.
  • Potatoes: Hokkaido is famous for its potatoes, and you can purchase some of the best varieties for home cooking or enjoy dishes made with potatoes in the market.
  • Sweets: Hokkaido is also known for its dairy-based desserts, so you may find pastries and sweets made with fresh cream or cheese.

3. Local Vegetables and Fruits

• Nijo Market offers a range of fresh, local produce, including seasonal vegetables and fruits. You can find Hokkaido-grown produce like corn, carrots, cabbage, and tomatoes. During the summer and autumn months, you might also find fruits like apples and berries.

4. Dine-in Options

• Several stalls and small restaurants inside the market offer a chance to sample fresh seafood right on the spot. For example, you can try kaisen-don (海鮮丼), a bowl of rice topped with fresh raw seafood, or enjoy grilled seafood right at the market. There are also sushi restaurants that offer some of the freshest sushi you’ll find in Sapporo.

5. Souvenirs

• While the primary focus is on food, you can also find a variety of local products to bring home as souvenirs. Some shops sell local sauces, pickles, dried fish, and other food-related items. You may also come across some traditional handicrafts and artisanal goods.

3. Notable Products to Try at Nijo Market

King Crab: Hokkaido is famous for its crab, especially king crab, which is known for its sweet, tender meat. At Nijo Market, you can purchase whole crabs or have them cooked to order.

Uni (Sea Urchin): Hokkaido uni is a delicacy, known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Many stalls serve uni as sashimi or on top of rice.

Hokkaido Salmon: Hokkaido salmon is highly prized for its fresh, rich flavor. Try it raw as sashimi or cooked in various ways.

Scallops: Fresh scallops are a must-try when visiting Nijo Market, and you can enjoy them grilled, steamed, or served raw.

4. How to Get to Nijo Market

By Subway: The market is accessible via the Sapporo Subway system. The nearest subway station is Nijuyon Chome Station (徒歩5分), which is a short walk from the market.

By Bus: Several bus routes stop near the market, making it convenient to get there from other parts of the city.

By Car: If you’re driving, there are parking lots available nearby, but parking can be limited, especially during busy times.

5. Best Time to Visit

Morning: The best time to visit Nijo Market is in the morning when the seafood is at its freshest. Arriving early allows you to see the vendors setting up their stalls and ensures you get the best selection.

Weekdays vs Weekends: Nijo Market can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so if you prefer a quieter experience, it's better to visit on a weekday.

Seasonal Specials: Depending on the season, the market will have different seasonal offerings. For example, in winter, crab season is in full swing, while in summer, you'll find more fresh fruits and vegetables.

6. Conclusion

Nijo Market is a must-visit destination for anyone in Sapporo looking to enjoy the finest fresh seafood, local delicacies, and Hokkaido’s agricultural products. Whether you want to shop for ingredients to take home, enjoy a bowl of kaisendon, or just explore the lively atmosphere, Nijo Market is a great way to experience the region’s culinary culture. It’s a vibrant and lively spot that gives visitors an authentic taste of Sapporo and Hokkaido.