InterestsJapan

Entertainment and Nightlife around Sapporo

1. What are some must-visit bars in Sapporo for a night out?


1. Paseo Bar: A cozy and welcoming bar famous for their wide selection of locally brewed craft beers.

2. Swing Time: A lively jazz bar with a vibrant atmosphere and tasty cocktails.

3. Bourbon Street: A New Orleans-style bar known for their live music performances, delicious southern food, and extensive drink menu.

4. TK6: This popular bar has a retro vibe, offering craft beers, unique cocktails, and live music.

5. Sapporo Beer Garden: This iconic beer garden is a must-visit for any beer lover. They offer all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan lamb BBQ and unlimited Sapporo beer.

6. Jack & Betty’s Bar: One of the oldest bars in Sapporo, Jack & Betty’s offers a laid-back atmosphere with a great selection of drinks.

7. CARAVAN ARTS Craft Beer & Jazz Bar: With its trendy interior design, live jazz music, and craft beers from around the world, this bar attracts a hip crowd.

8. Sassaby’s CocktailBar: Known for its creative cocktails made with seasonal fruits, Sassaby’s is perfect for those looking for a more upscale night out.

9. ZYX Music Lounge: This unique bar combines music, art, and innovative cocktails to create a one-of-a-kind experience.

10. Albatross Pub Sapporo: Considered by many as the best pub in Sapporo, Albatross serves up delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices in a casual setting.

2. Are there any popular live music venues in Sapporo?

There are several popular live music venues in Sapporo, including:

1. Zepp Sapporo – This is a multi-purpose concert hall that hosts a variety of live music performances, including rock, pop, and electronic music.

2. PENNY LANE 24 – Located in the Susukino entertainment district, this venue features a bar on the first floor and a live music stage on the second floor.

3. Sound Lab mole – This intimate venue has a relaxed atmosphere and frequently hosts indie bands and solo artists.

4. Cube Garden – Cube Garden is another popular concert hall in Sapporo featuring both Japanese and international artists.

5. Cafe Absinthe – This casual cafe/bar also doubles as a live music venue, with regular performances by both established and up-and-coming musicians.

6. Lady Bird – A well-known jazz bar in Sapporo that hosts live performances almost every night.

7. Cocoon Sapporo – This nightclub features various genres of live music throughout the week, including rock, hip hop, and techno.

8. MIDORI no GALLERY & Public JAM Bar Dub Liner – Located near Odori Park, this cozy gallery space often hosts small live music events with local artists.

9. Clearwater Records + MUSIC BAR JADE – This record store also has an attached bar where they host occasional live performances by independent bands/artists.

10.Vortex Sapporo Underground Club – This underground club specializes in showcasing alternative and underground music acts from Japan and around the world.

3. What are the most happening nightclubs in Sapporo?


As a language model AI, I do not have personal experiences but here are some of the most popular nightclubs in Sapporo based on online reviews and ratings:

1. Club Sound Lab Mole: known for its wide selection of music genres and energetic atmosphere.

2. Club Oro: popular for its EDM and techno music scene.

3. Vortex: a multi-level dance club with a different theme each night.

4. TK6 Bar & Nightclub: known for its variety of drinks and international crowd.

5. Kaito Rooftop Bar: offers stunning views of the city while enjoying cocktails and live music.

6. Red Entertainment Lounge: a high-end club with VIP service, great music, and luxurious atmosphere.

7. Whisky Bar Sapporo MAXX: perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed vibe with great selection of whisky and cigars.

8. Media Lab Spacebar: a popular spot among university students, offering cheap drinks and electronic dance music.

9. ON Air Jamming Lounge GIOIA: famous for its karaoke rooms, live DJs, and delicious bar food.

10. Whiskey & Cigar BAR KUWANA HORDS Volte Plaza Odori Store: another great spot for whiskey lovers with a cozy atmosphere and cigar selection.

4. Is there a bustling nightlife scene in Sapporo?

Sapporo has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment options. The city is known for its beer halls and izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), where people gather to socialize over drinks and food. In addition, there are many live music venues, dance clubs, karaoke bars, and other late-night establishments scattered throughout the city. During major events such as the annual Sapporo Snow Festival or the YOSAKOI Soran Festival, the nightlife becomes even more lively with street performances and special events.

Overall, Sapporo offers something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a low-key night out or an all-night party experience, you’ll be able to find it in this bustling city. However, it’s worth noting that some areas of Sapporo can be quieter at night compared to others, so it’s important to do your research and plan accordingly depending on what type of atmosphere you’re looking for.

5. Can you recommend any unique or themed bars in the city?


1. Smuggler’s Cove – This bar is themed after a pirate ship and offers a wide selection of exotic and rare rums.

2. Bourbon & Branch – Taking inspiration from the Prohibition era, this speakeasy-style bar requires a password for entry and serves classic cocktails.

3. The Interval at Long Now – This bar combines a dedication to long-term thinking with a love for science and history, serving innovative drinks and hosting eclectic events.

4. Novela – Housed in an old bank building, this cocktail bar is decorated like a vintage library, featuring literary-inspired drinks and decor.

5. Whitechapel – Inspired by London’s Victorian-era underground train station, this gin-focused bar has multiple hidden rooms and features an extensive gin collection.

6. Audio Discotech – With a rotating DJ line-up and immersive lighting and sound systems, this club brings together the best of music, technology, and entertainment.

7. Bar San Pancho – Transporting guests to Mexico’s beach towns, this rooftop bar offers tropical cocktails, Mexican street food, and vibrant fiesta vibes.

8. Coin-Op Game Room – A retro arcade game bar that offers craft beers on tap and an extensive collection of classic arcade games for hours of nostalgic fun.

9. Holy Water – This neighborhood watering hole has kitschy religious decor, creative cocktails with biblical-inspired names, and occasional gospel choir performances on weekends.

10. Black Cat SF – A jazz nightclub with elaborate Art Deco interiors reminiscent of 1920s Parisian cabarets, featuring live music performances almost every night.

6. Is there a particular area of Sapporo known for its entertainment and nightlife options?

The area known for its entertainment and nightlife options in Sapporo is Susukino. This bustling district features numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, and karaoke establishments, making it the go-to spot for those seeking a fun night out. Additionally, Susukino is also home to famous landmarks such as the Sapporo TV Tower and Ramen Yokocho, making it a must-visit area for tourists visiting the city.

7. What types of events or festivals happen in Sapporo at night?


Some events and festivals that happen in Sapporo at night include:

1. Sapporo Snow Festival – This world-famous winter festival features beautiful snow sculptures illuminated at night.

2. Yosakoi Soran Festival – This traditional dance festival takes place in the streets of Sapporo at night, with colorful costumes and music.

3. Summer Festivals – Various summer festivals are held throughout the city, often featuring food stalls, live music, and fireworks displays at night.

4. Beer Gardens – Many beer gardens open in the summertime, offering a chance to enjoy local brews and outdoor dining under the stars.

5. Christmas Market – Held annually in Odori Park during the holiday season, this market has festive lights and Christmas-themed events at night.

6. Basement Jazz Festival – This music festival showcases talented jazz musicians from around Japan and is held in various venues throughout Sapporo at night.

7. Night Markets – These markets offer a wide variety of goods, from food to handmade crafts, and are perfect for an evening stroll and shopping experience.

8. Fireworks Festivals – During the summer months, several firework festivals take place on weekends in different locations across Sapporo.

9. Light Illusion Shows – These shows utilize projection mapping technology to create stunning light displays on buildings around the city at night.

10. Nightlife Events – Sapporo has a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and live music venues offering events such as DJ performances or live bands throughout the week.

8. Are there any rooftop bars with a great view of the city?


Yes, there are several rooftop bars in the city with stunning views of the skyline. Some popular options include:

1. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar: This rooftop bar offers a panoramic view of the Empire State Building and the rest of Manhattan.

2. Westlight: Located on the 22nd floor of The William Vale hotel in Brooklyn, this rooftop bar boasts breathtaking views of the city and its iconic landmarks.

3. The Press Lounge: Situated on top of the Ink48 Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen, this rooftop bar offers sweeping views of Midtown Manhattan and the Hudson River.

4. Refinery Rooftop: With prime views of the Empire State Building, this rooftop bar at Refinery Hotel is a popular spot for cocktails and cityscape watching.

5. The Skylark: Located in Midtown West, this elegant rooftop lounge offers stunning views of the Times Square and Hudson River.

6. Upstairs at the Kimberly: Perched atop The Kimberly Hotel in Midtown East, this vibrant rooftop bar offers fantastic views of iconic landmarks such as Chrysler Building and United Nations headquarters.

7. Mr. Purple: Situated on top of Hotel Indigo Lower East Side, this trendy rooftop bar provides sweeping views of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn skyline.

8. Gallow Green: This whimsical rooftop garden located on top of McKittrick Hotel serves up delicious cocktails with a side of stunning views over Chelsea.

9. Is karaoke a popular activity among locals and tourists in Sapporo?


Karaoke is a very popular activity among both locals and tourists in Sapporo. In fact, Sapporo has a large number of karaoke establishments, ranging from small, private rooms to larger karaoke bars and clubs. Many locals enjoy going to karaoke with friends or coworkers after work or on weekends. It is also a popular choice for tourists looking for evening entertainment options in the city.

10. Are there any traditional Japanese performances or shows held at night in Sapporo?

Yes, there are several traditional Japanese performances and shows held at night in Sapporo. These include:

1. Sapporo Hokkaido Doll Museum Performance – The museum showcases traditional dolls from different regions of Japan and also holds performances featuring local musicians and dancers.

2. Bunraku Puppet Show at Higashi Kyokai Hall – This traditional form of puppetry originated in Osaka and features elaborate puppets operated by multiple puppeteers.

3. Geisha Performances at Shikotsu Lake Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta – Guests can enjoy a traditional geisha performance while dining on a kaiseki-style meal.

4. Hokkai Bon Odori Dance Festival – Held in Odori Park during the summer, this festival features traditional Bon Odori dances, music performances, and food stalls.

5. Traditional Music Performances at the Hokkaido Ainu Culture Center – The center offers performances of Ainu traditional songs and dances, as well as workshops on traditional crafts.

6. Tsugaru Shamisen Performance at Mt. Moiwa Ropeway Summit Station – Enjoy a beautiful view of the city while listening to the soulful sounds of the Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional stringed instrument from northern Japan.

7. Traditional Tea Ceremony at Maruyama Park – Visitors can experience the serene ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony against the backdrop of Maruyama Park’s beautiful cherry blossoms.

8. National Ainu Museum Theatre Production “Ainupath” – This theater production tells the history and culture of the Ainu people through dance, music, and storytelling.

9. Kabuki Performances at Kitara Concert Hall – Kitara Concert Hall hosts occasional kabuki performances by renowned kabuki troupes from Tokyo and Kyoto.

10. Nighttime Illuminations at Historic Sites such as Hoheikan Hotel or Former Hokkaido Government Office Building – Many historical buildings in Sapporo are beautifully lit up at night, creating a perfect backdrop for traditional performances and shows.

11. Is it easy to find late-night dining options in the city after going out?


This depends on which city you are in. In some cities, there are many options for late-night dining, including 24-hour restaurants and fast food chains. In other cities, the options may be more limited and you may need to research or ask locals for recommendations. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and have a backup option in case your first choice is closed or too busy.

12. What are some popular spots for dancing and partying in Sapporo?

Some popular spots for dancing and partying in Sapporo include:

1. Susukino: Known as the entertainment district of Sapporo, Susukino has numerous clubs, bars, and live music venues to choose from.

2. Sound Lab mole: This underground club is a popular spot for techno and house music lovers.

3. Whiskey Bar Le Poisson: Located in the basement of an old building, this bar is a trendy spot for cocktails and loud music.

4. Club XROSS: A large club featuring various DJs playing a mix of electronic, hip hop, and J-pop music.

5. Shots Bar: A lively bar with a wide selection of drinks and a dance floor that gets crowded later in the evening.

6. King Xmhu: One of the largest clubs in Sapporo with multiple floors, each featuring different genres of music.

7. Garage 77: A cozy bar with retro decor, live bands, and various events throughout the week.

8. Sol Lagarto: With live music performances every night, this Venezuelan restaurant turns into a vibrant dance venue after midnight.

9. Club Joule: A sophisticated venue with international DJs playing house and techno music.

10. The Vortex Entropy Bar & Lounge: A popular LGBTQ+ friendly bar with themed parties and drag shows on certain nights.

11. Alife Underground: An intimate club popular among locals for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse lineup of DJs.

12. Maverick Discotheque & Bartok Cocktail Club: This multi-level venue offers two different experiences – an energetic discotheque upstairs and a more relaxed cocktail lounge downstairs.

13. Would you recommend any specific bar-hopping routes or areas to explore for nightlife?


Some suggestions could be:

1. The Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego – this area is known for its vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from.

2. North Park – this neighborhood has a hip and eclectic bar scene, with plenty of craft breweries and cocktail bars.

3. Ocean Beach – this laid-back beach town has a bohemian vibe and offers a range of dive bars, live music venues, and beachfront bars.

4. Pacific Beach – popular among the college crowd, PB has a lively atmosphere with many bars, pubs, and clubs lining the main street, Garnet Avenue.

5. Little Italy – this trendy neighborhood has a mix of upscale cocktail bars and speakeasies, as well as wine bars and breweries.

6. East Village – located near Petco Park, this area has a growing nightlife scene with rooftop bars and trendy restaurants.

7. Encinitas – known for its surf culture, Encinitas also has a thriving bar scene with some great spots for live music.

Note: It’s always a good idea to research specific events or drink specials at different venues before planning your bar-hopping route in order to get the most out of the experience!

14. How lively is the bar scene during weekdays compared to weekends?

The bar scene is typically more lively on weekends compared to weekdays. This is because many people work during the week, so they tend to go out and socialize more on weekends. Additionally, many bars offer special events or promotions on weekends to attract more customers.

15. Are there any budget-friendly nightlife options in Sapporo?

Yes, there are budget-friendly options for nightlife in Sapporo. Some of these include:

1. Susukino: This is Sapporo’s most famous nightlife district, and it offers a variety of affordable bars and clubs.

2. Ramen Alley: This narrow alleyway is known for its cheap but delicious ramen shops, making it a popular spot for late-night eats.

3. Izakayas: These traditional Japanese pubs serve food and drinks at reasonable prices, making them a great option for budget-friendly nightlife.

4. Odori Park: During the winter months, this park transforms into a massive snow sculpture exhibition with free entry, making it a fun and budget-friendly nighttime activity.

5. Sapporo Beer Museum: This museum offers tours and tastings of their famous beer at affordable prices.

6. Bier Garten Moere Park: Located outside of the city center, this outdoor beer garden offers all-you-can-drink deals for a set price.

7. Concerts at Zepp Sapporo: This concert venue hosts both international and local acts, often with affordable ticket prices.

8. Rooftop Bars: While some rooftop bars can be quite expensive, there are some more budget-friendly options that offer great views of the city without breaking the bank.

16 .Is it common for locals to go out alone to bars or clubs, or is it better to go with a group of friends?

It is not uncommon for locals to go out alone to bars or clubs. Many people enjoy going out by themselves and meeting new people, especially in large cities with a vibrant nightlife scene. However, going out with a group of friends can also be a great option as it provides safety and companionship. Ultimately, the decision should depend on personal preference and comfort level. It is always recommended to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings when going out alone or in a group.

17 .Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly establishments in Sapporo’s entertainment district?

Yes, there are several LGBTQ+ friendly establishments in Sapporo’s entertainment district. Some popular options include Bar GLAD, a cozy bar with an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, and Club Xcel, a dance club that hosts regular LGBTQ+ events. Other LGBTQ+ friendly options in the area include Bar Arena, BAaN, and SAUNA MVTN Sapporo.

18 .Do you have any insider tips on getting into exclusive clubs or events?


1. Dress to impress: Most exclusive clubs and events have a strict dress code, so make sure you are dressed appropriately. Leave the sneakers and jeans at home and opt for dressier attire.

2. Arrive early: Timing is everything when it comes to getting into exclusive clubs and events. Avoid the peak hours when lines can be long and door policies stricter by arriving early.

3. Know someone on the inside: If you have a friend or acquaintance who is a member or knows someone who works at an exclusive club or event, ask them if they can put you on the guest list or give you a referral.

4. Book VIP tables or bottle service: Some clubs require guests to book VIP tables or bottle service in order to get in. This can be expensive, but it guarantees entry and may even provide perks such as skipping the line.

5. Network: Attend networking events or join social groups where you may meet people connected to exclusive clubs and events. Make genuine connections with these individuals, as they may be able to help you get in.

6. Follow the club/event’s social media accounts: Many exclusive clubs and events announce special promotions or deals on their social media pages, so make sure to follow them for any opportunities to get in.

7. Be polite and respectful: When approaching door staff or bouncers, always be polite and respectful. Being rude or entitled will decrease your chances of getting in.

8. Bring only what you need: Many clubs have strict policies against large bags, outside food/drinks, and other items that can delay entry. Make sure to read up on any rules beforehand and bring only what is necessary to avoid any issues at the door.

9. Have a plan B: If all else fails, have a backup plan in case you are not able to get into your desired club or event. Plan ahead with alternative options nearby so you’re not left disappointed.

10. Try again: Don’t be discouraged if you are not able to get into an exclusive club or event the first time. Some places have different policies on different nights, so it’s worth trying again another time. Remember to always act respectfully and try to make connections for future opportunities.

19 .What is the dress code like for most nightlife venues in Sapporo?


The dress code for nightlife venues in Sapporo is generally casual and relaxed. However, some larger, more upscale clubs and bars may have a stricter dress code, such as no athletic wear or flip flops allowed. It is always a good idea to check the specific venue’s website or social media pages for their dress code policy before visiting.

20 .Are there any nightlife activities that should not be missed when visiting Sapporo?


1. Experience Susukino at Night: Susukino is Sapporo’s main entertainment district, known for its numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. It comes alive at night with neon lights, street performances, and a vibrant atmosphere.

2. Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and Bar Bottega: Sapporo is famous for its beer, so a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must. Here, you can learn about the history of beer in Japan and even sample some local brews.

3. Take a stroll on Tanuki-koji Street: This bustling covered shopping street is a popular spot for nightlife in Sapporo. You can find an array of shops, restaurants, and bars here that are open late into the night.

4. Enjoy live music at Jazz Clubs: Sapporo has a thriving jazz scene with various clubs offering live music every night. Some popular options include Jive Jazz Cafe & Bar, The JAM’s Lounge, and Blue Note Sapporo.

5. Try Japanese-style karaoke: Karaoke is a popular activity in Japan and there are plenty of places in Sapporo to give it a try. Head to a Japanese-style karaoke bar where you can rent private rooms with your friends and sing your heart out.

6. Sample local food at Ramen Yokocho: This narrow alleyway is lined with small ramen shops that serve up piping hot bowls of delicious noodles late into the night. It’s the perfect spot for a tasty midnight snack after a night out.

7. Relax at an izakaya: Izakayas are traditional Japanese pubs where locals often gather to eat and drink after work or on weekends. They offer a variety of dishes to share as well as drinks like sake or beer.

8. Go bar hopping in Kita 24 Jo Nishi: This area just north of downtown Sapporo has a concentration of small but lively bars, making it a great spot for bar hopping. You can find everything from local haunts to trendy cocktail bars here.

9. Take a night cruise on the Sapporo Moiwa Ropeway: For stunning views of the city at night, take a ride on the Sapporo Moiwa Ropeway. It takes you up Mount Moiwa where you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo from an observation deck.

10. Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival: If you happen to be in Sapporo during February, don’t miss out on the annual Snow Festival. This week-long event features impressive snow sculptures, live music performances, and plenty of food and drink stalls.