Top 8 Hokkaido Sushi Bars & Restaurants
Hokkaido is a dream destination for sushi lovers. The island is famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, prepared by expert chefs who have perfected the art of sushi. From casual conveyor belt spots to fine dining experiences, Hokkaido offers something special for every kind of diner.
Here’s a guide to the top 8 sushi bars and restaurants in Hokkaido that should be on your list.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sapporo with this tour.
1. Sushi Tanabe (Sapporo)
Sushi Tanabe is one of the finest sushi restaurants in Hokkaido, located in the heart of Sapporo. This Michelin-starred establishment offers an unforgettable omakase dining experience. Here, the chef carefully selects each ingredient based on its freshness and quality. The uni (sea urchin) is especially popular, with its creamy texture and sweet flavor. The otoro (fatty tuna) is another highlight, melting in your mouth with every bite.
The intimate setting, with only a handful of counter seats, lets you watch the chef prepare your meal. This personal touch makes the experience even more special. Sushi Tanabe is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an upscale sushi dinner. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance.
Address: 9F Rokkatei Building, 6 Chome Kita 4 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Hours: 5 to 11 pm
Phone: +81 11-219-2202
2. Nemuro Hanamaru
Nemuro Hanamaru is a well-loved conveyor belt sushi chain with locations across Hokkaido. Despite being affordable, the quality of sushi here rivals that of more expensive restaurants. Their extensive menu features fresh seafood like salmon, scallops, mackerel, and crab. Seasonal specials, such as Hokkaido’s famous hairy crab and salmon roe, are must-tries.
The fun conveyor belt system lets you pick the dishes that catch your eye as they pass by. Each plate is reasonably priced, so you can sample a wide variety without spending too much. It’s a lively spot that’s great for families, friends, or solo travelers looking for a casual sushi experience.
Address: 9 Chome−35 Hanazonocho, Nemuro, Hokkaido
Hours: 11 am to 9 pm
Phone: +81 153-24-1444
3. Masa Sushi (Otaru)
Otaru is a charming port town renowned for its fresh seafood, and Masa Sushi is one of its most iconic sushi restaurants. This restaurant has been serving high-quality sushi near the picturesque Otaru Canal for decades.
The chefs are skilled at choosing the best cuts of fish, such as toro (fatty tuna) and hamachi (yellowtail). The fresh uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe) are crowd favorites, offering the rich, natural flavors of Hokkaido.
The warm, inviting atmosphere makes Masa Sushi great for casual diners and serious sushi enthusiasts. After exploring Otaru's historic streets, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.
Address: 〒047-00311-2-1 Ironai, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Tel: 0134-22-0011
Hours: 11:00~15:00
4. Hakodate Asaichi Sushi (Hakodate Morning Market)
Hakodate Asaichi Sushi is located in the bustling morning market of Hakodate. This is where the freshest seafood in town is brought directly from the sea to your plate. Popular options include kaisendon (a rice bowl topped with assorted sashimi), squid (a Hakodate specialty), and crab. The sushi here is simple, fresh, and delicious.
Dining in the market’s lively atmosphere is an experience in itself. It’s a great way to enjoy an authentic and reasonably priced meal while soaking in the local culture. Arrive early to enjoy the freshest sushi and avoid the crowds.
Address: Donburi Yokocho, Hakodate Morning Market, 9-18 Wakamatsu-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
Phone Number: 0138-84-1011
Opening Hours: 06:00 - 20:00
5. Hanamaru Kaiten sushi (Sapporo)
Hanamaru Kaiten sushi is another popular conveyor belt sushi chain, especially loved by locals in Sapporo. The variety of sushi available here is impressive, ranging from classics like salmon and tuna to more unique options like squid and seasonal specialties. The chefs focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create sushi that tastes as good as it looks.
The casual atmosphere and affordable pricing make it a perfect spot for anyone new to sushi or just looking for a fun dining experience. Whether you’re with friends or dining alone, Hanamaru Kaitenzushi offers a laid-back way to enjoy top-notch sushi.
Address: Nishi 2, Kita 5, Chuoh-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido
Phone Number: 011-209-5330
6. Sushiya No Kanroku (Otaru)
This small, family-run sushi bar in Otaru is a hidden gem. Sushiya No Kanroku is known for its simple, traditional approach to sushi. The chefs here take great care in crafting each piece, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients. Dishes like botan shrimp, snow crab, and scallops are favorites among regular customers.
The cozy setting and friendly service make it feel like you’re dining at a local’s home. This intimate atmosphere, paired with excellent sushi, makes Sushiya No Kanroku a must-visit for anyone exploring Otaru.
7. Sushi Shin by Miyakawa (Niseko)
Sushi Shin by Miyakawa is a top-notch sushi restaurant in Niseko, a town known for its ski resorts. This high-end spot offers an omakase menu, meaning the chef chooses the sushi for you based on the freshest ingredients of the day. You’ll often find specialties like abalone, Hokkaido scallops, and sea urchin, all expertly prepared to highlight their natural flavors.
The restaurant’s clean and simple design creates a calm and elegant atmosphere, making it a great place for a special night out. The chefs are incredibly skilled, ensuring each piece of sushi looks beautiful and tastes amazing. Since it’s a popular spot, booking your table in advance is a good idea.
Address: 1F Sansui Niseko, 4-chome-5-32 Nisekohirafu 1 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido
Hours: 12–2 pm, 5:30–7:30 pm, 8–10 pm
Phone: +81 136-56-8560
8. Toriton Kaitensushi
Toriton Kaitensushi is a favorite sushi chain across Hokkaido. It’s a conveyor belt sushi restaurant where plates of sushi move past you, and you can grab what you like. The quality is fantastic, and the prices are very reasonable. Popular choices include tuna, salmon roe, and scallops, with seasonal items like Hokkaido crab often available.
The lively and welcoming vibe makes it perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for a casual meal. With several locations across Hokkaido, Toriton is easy to find and a fun way to enjoy delicious sushi without spending a lot.
Address: 6-1-10 Toyohira 4 Jo, Toyohira-Ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Phone: +81 11-817-7788
Why Hokkaido is Perfect for Sushi
Hokkaido’s location in northern Japan, surrounded by cold, nutrient-rich waters, makes it one of the best places in the world for fresh seafood. The island is famous for ingredients like salmon, scallops, and sea urchin, which are featured prominently in sushi.
Hokkaido chefs are known for their dedication to using the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques, ensuring every piece of sushi is prepared with care.
Unleash your sense of adventure with our Hidden Gems Tour of Hakodate!
FAQs
Are there affordable sushi options in Hokkaido?
Yes! Conveyor belt sushi restaurants like Toriton Kaitenzushi and Nemuro Hanamaru offer fresh, delicious sushi at budget-friendly prices.
What is omakase dining?
Omakase is a style of dining where the chef selects and prepares a personalized menu for you, focusing on the freshest ingredients of the day. Sushi Shin by Miyakawa is a great spot to experience omakase in Hokkaido.
What are the best sushi items to try in Hokkaido?
Popular choices include uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), scallops, crab, and fatty tuna. Many restaurants also feature seasonal specialties.
What makes Hokkaido sushi so special?
Hokkaido’s cold, clean waters provide some of the freshest seafood in Japan, making the sushi here incredibly flavorful and high-quality.
