“A century-old culinary landmark in the heart of the city, renowned for its legendary "Kaisendon" and the freshest catches of the day sourced directly from Hokkaido’s pristine waters.”
Nijo Market stands as a symbol of Hokkaido’s coastal bounty, having served the city of Sapporo for over 100 years. Located just a short stroll from the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, this is not merely a wet market but a "seafood paradise" for gourmets. Every morning, the stalls are stocked with high-grade ingredients delivered straight from fishing ports across the island, ensuring a level of freshness that is rarely matched.
Apa yang membezakan Pasar Nijo ialah budaya makan segar (Fresh-to-Table) yang sangat pekat. Anda akan melihat deretan gerai yang menjual ketam gergasi Taraba dan ketam bulu (Kegani) yang disusun rapi, di mana banyak kedai mempunyai perkhidmatan mengukus atau membakar untuk dimakan panas-panas di situ juga. Termasuk juga tiram bersaiz besar dan kerang kipas (hotate) yang dibakar dengan sos soya yang aromanya harum semerbak di seluruh kawasan, memberikan pengalaman makan yang unik dan mencapai teras sebenar Hokkaido.
The absolute highlight is venturing into Noren Yokocho, a narrow, atmospheric alley within the market packed with top-tier Kaisendon shops. The "must-try" dish is the Uni-Ikura Don (Sea Urchin and Salmon Roe bowl). The creamy, naturally sweet sea urchin paired with salty, popping salmon roe creates a premium flavor profile that makes the early morning wake-up call entirely worth it.
Beyond the ocean's harvest, Nijo Market is a hub for premium seasonal fruits. It is the ideal place to sample the famed Yubari King Melon, known for its fragrant, juicy orange flesh, or oversized Japanese strawberries. The market offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, combined with the warm hospitality of local merchants who take immense pride in their offerings.
Visiting Nijo Market is more than just a meal; it is a journey into the heart of Japanese food culture. It emphasizes the integrity of ingredients and the beauty of seasonal eating, all set against a backdrop of classic wooden architecture that provides a nostalgic contrast to the modern Sapporo skyline.
How to Get There
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By Subway: Take the Tozai Line to Bus Center-mae Station (Exit 1) and walk for about 3 minutes.
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From Downtown: It is a 5-minute walk from Odori Station or the end of Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade.
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By Taxi: Ask for "Nijo Ichiba." It is roughly a 10-minute drive from Sapporo Station.
Travel Tips
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Best Time to Visit: Arrive between 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM to see the full variety of seafood and avoid the longest queues at popular restaurants.
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How to Choose: When ordering crab, look for live ones in the tanks for the absolute best sweetness and texture.
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Photography: The market is highly photogenic with its rustic wooden stalls. It is a great spot for street photography, but please ask for permission before taking close-ups of products or staff.
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Budgeting: Carry some cash for smaller street food stalls, though larger seafood vendors and restaurants generally accept credit cards.
Admission Fee:
- No Admission Fee
Opening Hours:
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Market Stalls: 07:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Restaurants: 06:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Many shops close early if they run out of fresh stock).