Sapporo’s lively bar scene comes alive on the Local Bar Hopping Tour. This immersive experience takes travelers on a two-hour journey through the city’s vibrant nightlife, visiting three distinct izakaya establishments. Along the way, participants savor traditional Japanese dishes and drinks while gaining insights into the country’s unique drinking culture. With a small group size and private transportation, the tour ensures a hassle-free exploration of Sapporo’s after-dark allure. What discoveries await those who embark on this captivating journey?
Key Points
- Discover Sapporo’s vibrant nightlife on a 2-hour local bar hopping tour, visiting 3 izakaya (Japanese pubs) and enjoying 1 drink and 3-4 local snacks per person.
- Tour starts at 6 PM from the Sapporo TV Tower, with a maximum capacity of 8 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Experience the etiquette and customs of traditional izakaya culture, with insights into local drinking culture and bar history from the knowledgeable tour guide.
- Savor signature Japanese dishes like yakitori, edamame, karaage, and takoyaki, shared family-style among the group.
- Conclude the tour with private transportation to Ōdōri Station, providing a hassle-free end to the evening’s bar-hopping adventure.
Overview of the Tour
The Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo offers travelers a chance to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
The tour lasts around 2 hours, starting at 6 PM. It accommodates a maximum of 8 participants who’ll visit 3 bars and enjoy 1 drink at each.
Along the way, they’ll sample 3-4 local snacks, enough for a full meal. An English/Japanese-speaking guide will lead the group and provide private transportation to the end point at Ōdōri Station.
The tour costs $120.93 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sapporo.
Meeting Point and Start of the Tour
Travelers meet at the iconic Sapporo TV Tower, located at 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan.
Look for the tour guide holding a dark blue board labeled "KAPPO SAPPORO". The tour begins promptly at 6:00 PM.
To ensure a smooth start, guests are encouraged to:
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Identify themselves to the tour guide
- Review the meeting point and end location
- Inform the guide of any dietary restrictions or accessibility needs
From the TV Tower, the group will embark on a lively bar-hopping adventure through the vibrant streets of Sapporo.
Exploring the First Bar
After meeting the guide at the Sapporo TV Tower, the group sets off on the local bar-hopping adventure.
The first stop is an izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub. The guide explains the etiquette and customs of this convivial setting. Patrons sit elbow-to-elbow, sharing plates of savory snacks and chilled beer or sake.
The group samples a few signature dishes, like yakitori skewers and edamame. The guide offers insights into the local drinking culture and history of the hotel.
With full bellies and a lively atmosphere, the group eagerly anticipates the next watering hole on the itinerary.
Visiting the Second Bar
Where does the group head to next on the local bar-hopping tour?
The tour guide leads the group to the second bar, a cozy izakaya with a lively atmosphere.
Once seated, the guide explains the menu and highlights four recommended dishes:
- Yakitori – grilled skewered chicken
- Edamame – boiled and salted soybeans
- Karaage – crispy fried chicken
- Takoyaki – octopus dumplings
The group orders one of each item to share family-style.
With drinks in hand, they enjoy the lively conversations and camaraderie as they savor the authentic Japanese pub fare.
Experiencing the Third Bar
The tour guide then leads the group to the third and final bar, a lively izakaya known for its selection of craft beers and casual atmosphere.
The group settles into a cozy table as the guide introduces the unique regional specialties. Everyone eagerly samples the local brews, comparing their flavors and discussing the brewing techniques.
The guide shares insights about the bar’s history and the rise of craft beer culture in Sapporo.
As the evening winds down, the travelers reflect on the diverse array of bars and the deeper appreciation they’ve gained for Sapporo’s vibrant nightlife.
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Private Transportation to the End Point
As the evening draws to a close, the tour guide efficiently organizes the group for the final leg of the experience.
The guide arranges for private transportation to take the travelers to the end point at Ōdōri Station. This convenient service ensures a smooth and hassle-free conclusion to the bar hopping tour.
The key benefits of the private transportation include:
- Direct transfer to the designated end location
- No need to navigate the public transportation system
- Personalized service for the small group
- Eliminating the worry of finding one’s way back
With the private transportation, the travelers can relax and reflect on the memorable evening of exploring Sapporo’s lively bar scene.
Dietary Considerations and Accessibility
Although the bar hopping tour offers a lively and immersive experience, the organizers recognize the importance of accommodating participants’ dietary needs and accessibility requirements.
Efforts will be made to assist with allergies and dietary restrictions, and ingredients can be checked at each stop. However, full compliance can’t be guaranteed, so participants are responsible for making informed decisions about their food consumption.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Most travelers can participate, but some locations may not accommodate wheelchairs or strollers.
Tour Inclusions and Pricing Information
The Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo provides a comprehensive package that ensures participants enjoy a well-rounded experience.
The tour includes:
- 3-4 dishes of local snacks, enough for a full meal
- One alcoholic beverage at each of the three bars visited
- An English/Japanese speaking tour guide to provide insight and navigation
- Private transportation to the end point at Ōdōri Station
Priced at $120.93 per person, the tour offers excellent value with all taxes and insurance covered.
The tour’s maximum capacity of 8 travelers ensures an intimate, personalized experience.
Since You Asked
Do We Need to Bring Our Own Alcohol?
No, you don’t need to bring your own alcohol. The tour includes one alcoholic beverage at each of the three bars visited, so all drinks are provided as part of the tour package.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no specific dress code for this tour. Participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking around bars and navigating the city. No special attire is required, just dress as you would for a night out.
Can We Split the Bill at Each Bar?
Yes, you can split the bill at each bar on the tour. The tour guide can help facilitate splitting the bill so everyone only pays for their own drinks and snacks.
How Much Time Do We Spend at Each Bar?
Travelers typically spend around 60-90 minutes at each of the three bars on the tour, allowing enough time to enjoy one drink and a few snacks. The guide manages the pace to ensure participants experience the local nightlife.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour?
Unfortunately, there’s no option to extend the tour based on the information provided. The tour has a fixed duration of starting at 6:00 PM and the meeting and end points are clearly specified. Travelers should plan accordingly.
The Sum Up
The Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo offers an immersive experience into the city’s vibrant nightlife. Participants visit three bars, sample traditional izakaya dishes, and enjoy local drinks. With a knowledgeable guide and private transportation, the tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Sapporo’s lively bar scene. Whether a local or a visitor, this tour’s all-inclusive package makes for an unforgettable evening in the city.
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