Susukino | Sapporo

Susukino (すすきの) is one of the most famous entertainment districts in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling streets, and variety of entertainment options. Whether you're looking for a delicious meal, a fun night out, or a place to enjoy unique cultural experiences, Susukino has it all. It's often compared to areas like Kabukicho in Tokyo or Dotonbori in Osaka for its lively and bustling atmosphere.

1. Overview of Susukino

• Location: Located in the southern part of Sapporo, Susukino is Sapporo’s main entertainment district, just a short walk from Odori Park and the Sapporo TV Tower.
• Character: The district is famous for its nightlife and is considered the heart of Sapporo’s entertainment scene, featuring an array of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, izakayas, karaoke spots, and host and hostess clubs.

2. Key Features of Susukino

1. Vibrant Nightlife

• Susukino truly comes alive at night. The area is filled with neon lights, creating a colorful and lively atmosphere. This bustling nightlife district offers a variety of establishments, from casual bars to upscale nightclubs. It's popular among both locals and tourists looking to enjoy Sapporo’s vibrant entertainment scene.

2. Drinking and Dining

Izakayas: Susukino is known for its izakayas (Japanese pubs), where people go to unwind after work. These casual, cozy establishments offer a wide variety of drinks, including sake, beer, and whisky, alongside tasty Japanese dishes like yakitori, sashimi, and tempura.

Ramen Shops: The area is also famous for its ramen, with Ramen Alley (ラーメン横丁, Ramen Yokocho) being a particularly popular spot. This narrow street is home to numerous ramen shops serving up various styles of Hokkaido ramen, including the famous miso ramen.

Karaoke: Another major attraction in Susukino is the abundance of karaoke establishments. These range from small private rooms to larger, lively venues, where you can sing along to Japanese and international hits while enjoying drinks and snacks.

3. Entertainment and Clubs

Susukino is also well-known for its nightclubs and host/hostess clubs where visitors can enjoy a night of music, dancing, and mingling. The district offers a wide range of nightlife experiences, from more laid-back lounges to high-energy dance clubs.

Strip Clubs: Susukino is also home to a handful of adult entertainment venues, such as cabaret clubs and strip clubs. These cater to visitors looking for more adult-themed entertainment, though the area also has plenty of family-friendly spots.

4. Shopping and Arcades

During the day, Susukino is a great place for shopping, with department stores, fashion boutiques, and electronics shops scattered around. There are also several arcades and game centers where visitors can enjoy various video games and traditional arcade games.

The Glico sign, similar to the famous one in Dotonbori (Osaka), adds a vibrant touch to the district.

3. Popular Spots in Susukino

1. Ramen Alley (ラーメン横丁, Ramen Yokocho)

• This narrow alley is one of the most iconic spots in Susukino, famous for serving some of the best Hokkaido-style ramen. The alley has a retro, cozy vibe with numerous ramen shops offering unique variations of miso, shoyu, and shio ramen. If you're a ramen fan, it's a must-visit!

2. Susukino Fountain

• The Susukino Fountain is a famous landmark located at the intersection of Susukino Street. The fountain, decorated with colorful lights, adds to the district’s lively atmosphere and is a popular photo spot.

3. Hoheikan

• Hoheikan is an old Western-style building in Susukino that was built in 1910. It once served as the Sapporo Imperial Hotel and now operates as a museum. The building’s architecture is a fine example of the Western influence in early Meiji-era Japan and is a great place to explore the history of the area.

4. Odori Park

• While not directly in Susukino, Odori Park is nearby and offers a contrast to the hustle and bustle of Susukino. It’s a peaceful park that hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Sapporo Snow Festival in winter.

5. Sapporo Snow Festival (Winter)

• Susukino is also an important site for the Sapporo Snow Festival held every February. The festival's Ice Sculpture Competition takes place near Susukino, where impressive ice and snow sculptures are created, illuminating the area in a beautiful winter scene.

4. Susukino in Different Seasons

Winter (December to February): During the winter months, Susukino is a lively spot to experience the Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. The snow and ice sculptures are a major draw, and the area’s nightlife is especially vibrant during this time.

Spring and Summer (March to August): Spring and summer are great times to explore Susukino as the weather is pleasant, and visitors can enjoy outdoor cafes, bars, and the warm evening air. The district is also great for strolling and shopping, with many people enjoying outdoor drinks and meals.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a more relaxed time in Susukino, though the district remains lively. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable to walk around and explore the various attractions without the summer crowds.

5. Getting to Susukino

By Subway: Susukino is easily accessible via the Sapporo Subway. The district’s Susukino Station is on the Nanboku Line and the Tozai Line, making it convenient for tourists to get there from other parts of the city.

By Bus: There are also various bus routes that pass through Susukino, connecting it with other areas in Sapporo.

By Taxi or Car: Susukino is a major district in Sapporo, so it’s easy to reach by taxi or car, though parking can be limited in the area, especially during peak hours.

6. Conclusion

Susukino is one of the most exciting and energetic districts in Sapporo, offering everything from delicious food and drinks to vibrant nightlife and entertainment. Whether you're into karaoke, ramen, shopping, or just exploring the neon-lit streets, Susukino is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Sapporo and its thriving entertainment scene.