Best Things to Eat at Sapporo Winter Markets in 2026
Welcome to Sapporo in 2026. The winter air is cold but the food is hot. You will find many delicious snacks. Here is what to eat at Sapporo winter markets this year.
Fresh Seafood at Sapporo Winter Markets
Hokkaido is famous for its fresh seafood. You must try the giant king crab legs. Vendors grill them over hot coals. They taste sweet and smoky.
Scallops are another local favorite. Chefs cook them in their shells with butter. This snack costs about 800 to 1,200 yen. It is a warm treat for cold days.
Visit the Nijo Market winter seafood specialties for the best quality. You can see the fish caught that morning. The market opens early at 7:00 AM. Many stalls close by the late afternoon.
Sea urchin is also very popular here. It has a creamy texture and rich flavor. Eat it fresh on top of rice. This dish is called a kaisendon.
Warming Bowls of Sapporo Ramen
Miso ramen started in this snowy city. It features a rich and salty broth. The soup keeps you warm in freezing weather. Most bowls cost around 1,000 yen.
Look for stalls at the Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 events. They serve small portions so you can try more. Add butter and corn for extra flavor. These toppings are classic Hokkaido style.
Soup curry is another local spicy dish. It contains large pieces of fresh vegetables. You can choose your own spice level. It is perfect for a cold winter night.
Many shops offer unique seasonal versions. Look for ramen topped with local seafood. These special bowls are only sold in winter. They provide a true taste of the city.
Street Food Snacks and Grilled Treats
Grilled corn is a simple but tasty snack. Farmers grow the corn in Hokkaido fields. Vendors brush it with soy sauce and butter. The smell fills the winter market air.
You should try the steamed jingisukan buns. These contain grilled mutton and local vegetables. They are easy to eat while walking. One bun costs about 400 to 600 yen.
Baked potatoes with butter are very common. Hokkaido potatoes are famous for their sweet taste. They are served hot in paper bags. This snack is very cheap and filling.
Check the food stalls at the Sapporo Snow Festival for variety. You will find many unique local snacks there. Most stalls accept cash or IC cards. Lines can be long during the weekend.
Sweet Desserts and Hot Drinks
Hokkaido dairy is the best in Japan. Try the hot milk or creamy soft serve. Even in winter, people love the ice cream. It is made with fresh local cream.
Melon flavored sweets are also very popular. You can find melon buns and warm tarts. The Yubari melon is a famous local fruit. It has a very sweet and floral taste.
Warm up with a cup of hot amazake. This is a sweet fermented rice drink. It contains no alcohol and tastes very creamy. You can find it at most temple stalls.
Many markets also serve hot chocolate or coffee. These drinks often use local Hokkaido milk. Enjoy your drink while watching the Sapporo White Illumination lights. The lights make the city look magical.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best food to try at Sapporo winter markets?
You should try the miso ramen and grilled king crab first. These are the most iconic local dishes. They are very filling and keep you warm while exploring. You can find more tips on the Sapporo Travel website.
How much does street food cost in Sapporo?
Most snacks cost between 400 and 1,500 yen. Seafood items like crab are more expensive. Small snacks like corn or potatoes are cheaper. Budget about 3,000 yen per person for a full meal.
Do food stalls in Sapporo accept credit cards?
Many small stalls only accept cash. Some larger stalls might take IC cards like Suica. It is best to carry Japanese Yen. This ensures you can buy food at any stall you like.
Sapporo is a food lover's dream in winter. From fresh crab to hot ramen, there is much to enjoy. Plan your visit for the Sapporo Winter Food Festivals 2026 season soon. Enjoy every bite of your winter adventure!