TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Tanukikoji Shopping Street is a covered arcade shopping street in Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is a historic commercial area that dates back to the Meiji era. It stretches from east to west for a total length of approximately 900m to 1km, and is made up of blocks 1-chome to 7-chome, with a wide variety of stores lined up, including restaurants, souvenir shops, clothing and general stores, drugstores, and discount stores. As it is covered, it is less affected by the weather, and is characterized by being bustling with locals and tourists day and night.
Highlights
- A diverse group of stores: Hokkaido souvenirs (sweets and seafood), cosmetics, fashion, miscellaneous goods, and restaurants are all gathered together, so you can enjoy not only shopping but also eating and walking around.
- Tanuki motif display: In keeping with the name of the town, the arcade is dotted with tanuki-themed objects and signs. There are plenty of photo spots.
- Nighttime Neon Lights and Dining District: After the evening, the neon lights come on and the izakayas and ramen shops bustle around. It's also easily accessible to Susukino, making it a convenient spot for nightlife.
- Availability of large stores: There are large discount stores such as Don Quijote, and some stores are open until late at night.
- Event and seasonal decorations: There may be decorations and sales for the New Year holidays and winter (Snow Festival period).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest subway station:
- Odori Station (Subway Namboku Line, Tozai Line, Toho Line)...A few minutes' walk north of Tanukikoji (Odori side).
- Susukino Station (Namboku Subway Line)... Located near the southern end of Tanukikoji (Susukino side), just a few minutes' walk away.
- From Sapporo Station: Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot. If using the subway, take the subway from Sapporo Station to Odori Station (1-2 stops).
- Bus/Taxi: As it is in the city center, there are many buses from all directions, and it is also convenient to travel by taxi.
- Parking: There are paid parking lots and commercial facilities in the area, but they tend to fill up during peak seasons, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Shopping: 1-2 hours (just enough to buy a few souvenirs)
- Dining + Walking: 2-3 hours (including meals at restaurants and cafes)
- If you want to take your time, it will take 3-4 hours (take your time shopping and eating at multiple stores)
Nearby spots
- Odori Park: Just a few minutes walk away. Seasonal events (such as the Sapporo Snow Festival) are held here.
- Susukino: An entertainment and dining district south of Tanukikoji where you can enjoy gourmet food at night.
- Sapporo Clock Tower and Red Brick Building (Former Hokkaido Government Office Building): A tourist attraction within walking distance or one subway stop away.
- Nijo Market (Seafood Market): Enjoy fresh seafood and meals within walking distance or a short distance.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is especially crowded during Golden Week, the summer tourist season, the New Year's holiday period, and the Sapporo Snow Festival. When crowded, you may have to wait at the cash registers and at restaurants.
- Opening hours: Each store has different opening hours. Souvenir shops may close relatively early, while restaurants and discount stores may stay open until late at night. Be sure to check in advance.
- Payment: More and more stores are accepting credit cards and electronic payments, but some small independent stores only accept cash. It's a good idea to have cash on hand, especially in local souvenir shops.
- Winter Tips: Sapporo experiences snowfall and frozen roads in winter, so you'll need non-slip shoes and cold weather gear (a thick coat, gloves, and a hat). There are covered arcades, but snow may remain around the entrances and on the sidewalks.
- Manners: Please take your trash home with you or dispose of it in a designated container in public places. Please be aware that smoking on the street and littering are often prohibited by local rules.
- Tax-free/Returns: Some stores offer tax-free shopping for foreigners. You will need your passport to complete the tax-free procedure, so please be prepared to show it.
- Security: It is a safe tourist destination, but please be careful with your valuables when it is crowded.
Recommended route: Walk from Odori (north) towards 7-chome, visiting each block and stopping at cafes and restaurants along the way. This route is easy to see and recommended. It is not easily affected by weather, so it is also suitable for sightseeing on rainy or snowy days.
