Sapporo, the vibrant northern city of Japan, beckons visitors to enjoy its lively drinking culture. A local bar hopping tour provides the perfect opportunity to experience this quintessential aspect of the city. Travelers can savor Japanese dishes, sip refreshing drinks, and learn about the history and traditions of Sapporo’s watering holes from a knowledgeable guide. With seamless transportation and dietary accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable evening for those seeking to explore the heart of Sapporo’s social scene.

Good To Know

Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo - Good To Know

  • Sapporo bar hopping tour highlights vibrant drinking culture, visiting 3-4 hand-picked bars and restaurants to sample Japanese dishes and drinks.
  • Tour begins at Sapporo TV Tower and ends at Ōdōri Station, with guide assistance for transportation and accessibility to accommodations.
  • Tour makes efforts to accommodate dietary restrictions, but full compliance cannot be guaranteed, and responsibility rests with individual travelers.
  • Itinerary includes a traditional izakaya, craft beer bar, hidden whisky bar, and lively club or live music venue.
  • Tour involves walking between bars/restaurants and may not be accessible for those with mobility limitations or serious medical conditions.

Tour Highlights

Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo - Tour Highlights

Although the tour covers multiple bars, it highlights the local, neighborhood feel of Sapporo’s vibrant drinking culture.

Travelers will visit 3-4 hand-picked bars and restaurants, sampling a variety of Japanese dishes and one alcoholic drink at each stop.

The tour provides an intimate look into the city’s lively nightlife, led by a knowledgeable guide who offers insights into the history and traditions behind the local watering holes.

Guests can expect to enjoy a full meal’s worth of food and a trio of cocktails or beers, all while immersed in Sapporo’s convivial bar scene.

Meeting Point and Transportation

Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo - Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Sapporo TV Tower, a prominent landmark in the city’s downtown Chuo Ward.

The tour guide will assist participants with transportation to the end point at Ōdōri Station. This may include:

  • Providing directions for walking or using public transportation
  • Arranging private transportation, such as a van or taxi
  • Ensuring accessibility to accommodations near the end location
  • Answering any questions about the route or logistics

At the conclusion of the tour, the guide will facilitate the group’s departure, making the transition from the experience seamless for travelers.

Dietary Accommodations

How does the tour handle dietary accommodations?

The tour will make efforts to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions, but can’t guarantee full compliance. Participants are advised to check the ingredients at each stop and ultimately make informed decisions about what to consume.

The tour guides can provide information about the dishes and options available, but the responsibility for managing one’s dietary needs rests with the individual traveler.

While the tour aims to be inclusive, those with highly specialized diets may need to plan accordingly or communicate specific requirements in advance to ensure their needs can be properly addressed.

Tour Itinerary

The Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo kicks off at the Sapporo TV Tower, where the tour guide meets the group.

From there, they embark on a night of local exploration, visiting:

  • A traditional izakaya for izakaya-style dishes and drinks
  • A craft beer bar featuring regional brews
  • A hidden whisky bar with an extensive collection
  • A lively club or live music venue to cap off the evening

The guide handles all transportation, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

The tour culminates at Ōdōri Station, where the guide assists with finding the best way back to accommodations.

Bar Hopping Experiences

Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo - Bar Hopping Experiences

As participants embark on the Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo, they can expect an immersive experience that showcases the city’s vibrant bar scene.

The tour visits 3-4 carefully selected bars and restaurants, where travelers will savor local dishes and enjoy one alcoholic beverage at each stop.

Led by an English/Japanese-speaking guide, the group will navigate Sapporo’s lively nightlife, experiencing the unique atmosphere and hospitality of each hotel.

Private transportation ensures a seamless journey, while the tour’s maximum of 8 participants allows for an intimate and personalized experience.

Tour Guide and Language Support

An essential component of the Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo is the role of the tour guide. They provide invaluable language support, navigating the evening with expertise:

  • Fluent in both English and Japanese, the guide seamlessly translates between the two languages.

  • They share insights into local culture and customs, enhancing the overall experience.

  • The guide coordinates transportation, ensuring a smooth transition between bars and restaurants.

  • Their knowledge of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene helps curate a memorable itinerary tailored to the group’s preferences.

The tour guide’s skill and attentiveness are integral to the success of this Sapporo bar hopping adventure.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to change their plans. The cancellation policy is as follows:

Time Before ExperienceCancellation Fee
24+ hoursNo fee
Less than 24 hours100% of total cost
No-show100% of total cost

Refunds are issued to the original payment method. It’s important to review the policy carefully and cancel in a timely manner to avoid penalties. The tour provider aims to offer a seamless experience, so flexibility is built into the cancellation terms.

Participant Requirements

Local Bar Hopping Tour in Sapporo - Participant Requirements

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Most travelers can participate, but certain locations may not accommodate strollers.

This tour involves:

  • Walking between bars/restaurants
  • Navigating stairs and uneven terrain
  • Consuming alcoholic beverages
  • Exposure to late-night crowds and noise

Ultimately, participants are responsible for making informed decisions about their ability to safely participate in this experience.

It’s advised to carefully consider any personal health conditions or mobility limitations before booking.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

No, participants cannot bring their own alcoholic beverages on this tour. The tour includes 1 drink at each of the 3-4 bars/restaurants visited, so all alcohol is provided as part of the experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the tour, but participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Casual attire is recommended, as the focus is on experiencing the local bars and dining. Ultimately, guests can dress as they’d like to feel at ease.

Can I Take Photos at the Bars?

Yes, you can take photos at the bars during the tour. However, it’s recommended to be mindful and respectful of other patrons and the hotel’s policies. The tour guide can provide guidance on appropriate photo-taking etiquette.

Is Tipping the Tour Guide Expected?

Tipping the tour guide is generally expected, though the amount is discretionary. Most tour participants tip the guide 10-20% of the tour price to show appreciation for their expertise and service.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The minimum age requirement for participants is not explicitly stated in the tour details. However, as this is a bar hopping tour, it’s reasonable to assume the minimum age is 20 or 21 years old, in accordance with local drinking laws.

The Sum Up

This bar hopping tour in Sapporo offers an immersive experience into the city’s vibrant drinking culture. Travelers will visit 3-4 hand-picked bars and restaurants, sampling local dishes and drinks while learning about the history and traditions of the area’s watering holes. The tour concludes at Ōdōri Station, providing a convenient transition for travelers to their accommodations after an unforgettable evening.