Hokkaido is surrounded by the sea on all sides and is a treasure trove of seafood. As its main city, Sapporo serves as a focal point for the freshest catches from around the island. The Nijo Market (二条 市場, Nijō Ichiba) is said to have developed in the early Meiji period, when fishermen from Ishikari Bay started selling fresh fish there. The market is famous for its fresh seafood restaurants and colorful stalls selling various kinds of crab, salmon, tuna, shrimp, scallops and various high-value seafood.
The market's convenient location has made it popular with both locals and tourists who come here to shop for a variety of fresh seafood products, buy souvenirs, and immediately enjoy the food. Fresh and delicious dishes are prepared directly at many restaurants and eateries located inside the market.
Most of the shops in the market have their own operating hours, but in general, they usually operate from about 7 a.m. to about 6 p.m. on all days of the week. Shops display and sell Hokkaido's fresh seafood of the day, in addition, there are also some shops selling dried fish and other processed seafood products; as well as selling local fruits and vegetables and beverages.
Along the arcades of the market, there is a dining area known as Noren Yokocho (or “Curtain Alley”) and here you will find a variety of small restaurants, bars and casual eateries offering delicious dishes. Fresh seafood meals and snacks. Many restaurants and eateries also prepare menus in English to cater to international tourists and to help you choose your favorite dishes.
Many of the shops have display stalls out front and have a relaxing sitting area inside where you can enjoy some dishes like fresh scallops, crab or oysters that can be prepared for you on the spot. Besides sushi being a popular choice, the dish you should try when coming here is kaisendon, a bowl of rice topped with fresh sashimi of your choice.
Hours of Operation:
- Store: 7:00 - 18:00
- Restaurant: 6:00 - 21:00