Tanukikoji Shopping Street, commonly referred to as “Raccoon Dog Alley,” takes its name from the Tanuki — a mythical raccoon-dog spirit associated with good fortune and prosperous business in Japanese folklore. This cultural reference gives the street a charming personality, reflected in decorative motifs, themed signs, and traditional good-luck charms sold in various shops. Founded in 1873, Tanukikoji is one of Hokkaido’s oldest commercial districts and today stretches approximately 900 meters across seven distinct blocks covered by a weather-proof arcade, ensuring comfortable exploration in any season.

Each of the seven “chome” has its own character. Blocks 1 through 5 form the main shopping zone, home to large drugstores, cosmetics outlets, electronics shops, fashion boutiques, souvenir stores offering famous Hokkaido sweets like Shiroi Koibito and Royce’, as well as Gachapon (capsule toy) corners and lively arcades. Many of these larger retailers provide Duty-Free services, making Tanukikoji a prime location for international visitors seeking tax-exempt shopping.

Blocks 6 and 7 shift into a more local, culinary atmosphere filled with izakayas, craft beer pubs, retro diners, and hidden bars. Visitors can enjoy signature Sapporo dishes such as aromatic soup curry, flavorful Sapporo miso ramen, and the city’s famous shime parfait tradition — ending the night with a luxurious parfait instead of a drink. The popular Tanuki COMICHI area features small, curated restaurants in a nostalgic, lantern-lit setting perfect for food lovers.

The entire arcade is easy to navigate and welcoming to all travelers. It is barrier-free, flat, stroller-friendly, and fully sheltered. Signage is clear, bright, and multilingual, which helps visitors explore with ease.

• Subway: About a 5-minute walk from both Odori Station and Susukino Station.

• Streetcar (Tram): The Sapporo Streetcar stops near the west end at Tanukikoji Station.

• Underground Walkways: Connected to the Sapporo underground shopping network, allowing visitors to walk from JR Sapporo Station without going outdoors — ideal in winter.

• Visit in the late afternoon or evening when shops and restaurants are busiest and most atmospheric.

• Duty-Free counters often require passports — keep them accessible.

• Explore side alleys for hidden ramen shops, bars, and retro cafés.

• Winter travelers should use the underground walkway for the warmest, smoothest access.

• Gachapon corners and arcades are great for families and casual entertainment.

Admission Fee:

• Free entry (public shopping street).

Opening Time:

• Arcade accessible 24 hours.
  Most shops open 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, with restaurants and bars open later into the night.