This historic fish market has been part of Sapporo for over 100 years. It was said to have been formed during the Meiji period, when fishermen from Ishikari Bay started selling their fresh catches here. Over 100 years later the market has developed into a veritable oasis for all forms of culinary needs including restaurants and cafés. The market, also known as Nijo Ichiba, is a popular spot for tourists who are keen to sample some of the freshest seafood, get some souvenirs and get a real taste of Japan. The market used to be larger and run both sides of the river but over the years, shops and bars have slowly reduced the market to 2 blocks laying the foundations for today’s Nijo Ichiba.

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There are dozens of shop fronts selling fresh seafood ranging from muscles, scallops, urchin, octopus, oysters to salmon roe and the giant snow crabs that line the shops and are a great photo opportunity for many visitors. The seafood can be bought and packaged to take away, but there are also seats and small tables lining the street allowing customers to eat straight away! Dine on fresh sashimi, sea urchin and muscles or cook up some delicious crab and prawns and wash it down with an ice cold beer! A perfect summer treat!

There are English menus (with pictures) displaying the bounty of seafood that can be ordered at any of the shops. Prices will range from ¥1500 to ¥3500. The giant crabs are popular among groups to enjoy together. Many of the fish markets stock ends up in restaurants so it is OK to haggle over the price and try and get the price down. Its all part of the fun. Across the road, from the market, there is a multi-unit building called ‘Noren Yokocho’ which contains multiple local restaurants and drinking establishments. There is a lot to do and see in this little slice of Sapporo!