Tanukikoji Shopping Street

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Description

Tanukikoji Shopping Street in Sapporo is one of those places that just sticks with you long after you’ve wandered through it. It’s a covered arcade stretching across seven blocks, packed with more than 200 shops that somehow manage to balance old-school charm with modern energy. Walking through it feels like flipping through a living scrapbook of Hokkaido’s past and present. You’ll find everything from tiny mom-and-pop stores selling handmade trinkets to sleek boutiques and quirky souvenir shops. And then there’s the food—oh, the food! The aroma of ramen, sizzling yakitori, and sweet taiyaki drifts through the air, teasing you at every turn.

What makes Tanukikoji special isn’t just the shopping (though that’s reason enough to go). It’s the atmosphere. Even on a rainy or snowy day—which, let’s be honest, Sapporo gets plenty of—it’s cozy under that glass roof. You can stroll without worrying about the weather, sip a bubble tea, and people-watch for hours. The street has been around since the late 1800s, and you can feel that history in the creaky wooden signs and the old lanterns hanging above. Yet, there’s this subtle hum of modern life too—LED lights, trendy cafes, and the occasional street performer pulling in a curious crowd. It’s like stepping into a place where time decided to take a break and let old and new coexist peacefully.

Now, I’ve been to my fair share of shopping streets in Japan, but Tanukikoji has this unpretentious charm. It’s not trying too hard to impress you. It just is what it is—a lively, sometimes chaotic, but always welcoming stretch of Sapporo life. Sure, it can get crowded, especially on weekends, and sometimes you’ll bump shoulders with tourists lugging shopping bags bigger than themselves. But honestly, that’s part of the fun. You get caught up in the rhythm of it all. You might even find yourself chatting with locals over a bowl of soup curry or discovering a vintage store tucked behind a curtain that looks like it hasn’t changed in decades.

Key Features

• Seven-block covered shopping arcade, perfect for all-weather exploring.
• Over 200 shops offering a mix of local goods, fashion, souvenirs, and street food.
• Historic roots dating back to the late 19th century, making it one of Hokkaido’s oldest shopping areas.
• Wheelchair accessible entrances, ensuring easy movement for all visitors.
• Home to both traditional Japanese stores and contemporary boutiques.
• Plenty of dining options—ramen shops, izakayas, dessert cafes, and international bites.
• Frequent seasonal events and pop-up stalls that keep the atmosphere lively.
• Located between Odori and Susukino Stations, making it easy to reach on foot or by subway.
• Great spot for souvenir shopping, from local snacks to handmade crafts.
• Safe and lively even late into the evening, thanks to its central location.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask locals, they’ll probably tell you that Tanukikoji is good any time of year—and they’re not wrong. But if you want to experience it at its best, I’d say late autumn or early winter takes the crown. The crisp air outside makes the warm glow of the covered street feel extra inviting. Plus, many shops start rolling out their winter specials, from steaming bowls of miso ramen to limited-edition sweets. During the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, the area around Tanukikoji buzzes with energy, and it’s a perfect base for exploring the city’s winter magic without freezing your toes off.

Spring is another great time to go if you prefer fewer crowds. The cherry blossoms might not be as abundant in central Sapporo as in other parts of Japan, but you can still catch glimpses of pink petals drifting through the air as you walk between Odori Park and the shopping street. Summer, on the other hand, brings a lively festival vibe—street performances, outdoor stalls, and locals out enjoying the longer days. Honestly, it’s hard to pick a bad time, but each season brings its own flavor to the experience.

How to Get There

Getting to Tanukikoji Shopping Street is pretty straightforward, even if you’re new to Sapporo. It’s right between Odori and Susukino Stations on the Sapporo Subway line, so you can hop off at either stop and be there in minutes. If you’re staying downtown, you could easily walk—it’s that central. I remember staying at a small guesthouse near Odori Park once and realizing I could reach Tanukikoji in less than five minutes on foot. It quickly became my go-to place for breakfast crepes and late-night snacks.

If you’re coming from Sapporo Station, it’s about a 15-minute walk or a quick subway ride. The street runs east to west, so depending on where you enter, you might start at the quieter end and gradually move into the busier blocks near Susukino. There are plenty of signs in English, and you’ll probably spot the iconic tanuki (raccoon dog) statues that mark the entrances—they’re kind of the unofficial mascots of the street. And if you’re traveling with luggage or a stroller, the covered walkway makes it super convenient to navigate without worrying about the weather.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where I get real with you—Tanukikoji can be both delightful and overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. So, a few practical tips from someone who’s been there more times than they’d like to admit:

• Go early or late: Midday can get packed, especially on weekends. Early morning strolls or evening visits are much more relaxed.
• Bring cash: While many stores now accept cards or digital payments, some smaller shops still prefer cash, especially for snacks or small souvenirs.
• Try the local eats: Skip the chain restaurants and look for spots where locals are lining up. The ramen joints here are legendary, and you’ll find flavors unique to Hokkaido like miso butter corn ramen.
• Look up and down: Some of the best finds are not at eye level. Check out the second-floor boutiques or basement-level eateries—you’ll often stumble upon hidden gems.
• Take your time: It’s tempting to rush through all seven blocks, but part of the charm is just wandering, people-watching, and soaking in the details.
• Keep an eye out for tax-free signs: Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists, so bring your passport if you plan to spend a bit more.
• Respect the locals: It’s a tourist hotspot, yes, but it’s also a daily stop for many Sapporo residents. Be mindful of space, especially during rush hours.
• Don’t skip the side alleys: Some of the coolest cafes and bars are tucked away just off the main street. If you see a narrow path with a glowing lantern—go for it.

And one last thing—if you’re into photography, bring your camera or at least clear some space on your phone. The combination of neon lights, traditional signs, and the occasional street musician makes for some incredible shots. I remember capturing a photo of an elderly shopkeeper arranging his display of vintage toys under the warm glow of a paper lantern—it’s still one of my favorite travel photos ever.

Tanukikoji Shopping Street isn’t just about shopping. It’s about the experience—the sounds, the smells, the stories tucked behind every storefront. Whether you’re chasing a bargain, craving a bite, or just looking to feel the pulse of Sapporo, this place delivers in its own unassuming, wonderfully chaotic way. So, take your time, explore every nook, and let yourself get a little lost. That’s usually when the best memories happen.

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