🩸🥩 Whiskey, Street Meat & Techno Beats in Susukino
There’s something about a midweek night in Sapporo — the snow might be falling (or melting), but the city glows. Neon signs flicker across wet pavement, steam rises from street grills, and deep bass pulses under the surface.
Here’s how I spent a perfect Wednesday night in Japan’s northern capital — slow sipping, smoky skewers, and a deep dive into the city’s underground music scene.
🥃 First Stop: The Nikka Bar (Yes, that Nikka)
A ritual in itself. I always begin the night here — a shrine to Japanese whisky, tucked into the heart of Susukino.
Inside, it’s warm, polished, and quiet in that classic bar kind of way. Order a Yoichi single malt if you want the local experience. Better yet, ask the bartender to guide you — it’s what they live for.
🕯️ Vibe: Elegant. Quiet. Classic.
🩸 Next: Street Meat on Fire
There’s nothing quite like juicy, grilled wagyu under the stars. I made my way to a local yakiniku street food spot — you’ll smell it before you see it.
If you’re craving red meat and the drama of an open flame, here are a few go-to joints:
🍢
My Top Picks:
- Wagyu Shabu-Shabu FujiYama
Dip high-quality beef into bubbling broth with crunchy veg. - Beef Shabu Sukiyaki Zen
A4 wagyu + leafy greens = divine. - Bistro CinqCes
Buffet-style meat, wine, and surprisingly solid veggie sides.
🕒 Pro tip: Don’t rush. Eat slow. Let the fire warm your fingers. The night’s just starting.
🎧 Then: Into the Techno Underground
Sapporo may be quiet on the surface, but beneath it lies a pulsing underground scene. Minimal, raw, and sometimes surprisingly international.
Here are the top places for a proper techno night out:
Venues You Should Know
- Precious Hall
The holy grail of Sapporo techno. Best sound system in town, and always a heavy lineup. - ACID ROOM (a.c.i.d sapporo)
Your go-to for underground techno and house nights. Watch for the “RYTHM CAFE” series. - Club Ghetto
Multi-genre, grungy, and fun. Catch the “1620” party if it’s on — legendary local energy.
🎶 Keep an ear out for OCCA, Ken Ishii, and Kuniyuki Takahashi — they’re the heartbeat of Sapporo’s scene.
🔥 Bonus Bar-Hopping Tips
If you’re winding down (or winding up), Susukino’s side streets are full of character. Here’s where I like to drift:
🍸 Top Bars After Dark:
- the bar nano. gould. – Botanical cocktails with a creative twist
- Bar Forest – Old malts, intimate atmosphere
- SHOT BAR BR – Hand-cut ice & fruit-forward drinks
- Bar 20.1 – Highballs with precision and style
- BAR 108 / ReCalm / 北海道産酒BARかま田 – Neighborhood gems with soul
For non-drinkers: check out Ten to Ten, Beer Inn Mugishutei, or Bar Lounge at Hotel Sosei — great non-alcoholic options and good company.
💡 Your Night, Your Flow
Whether you’re in the mood for velvet bar seats and slow sips…
Grilled wagyu and street laughter…
Or pounding bass and sweat-streaked dance floors…
Sapporo delivers. Even on a Wednesday.
🗺️ Want the Map?
Just ask — I’ll send you a local’s Google Map link with every spot pinned: bars, BBQ, techno temples, and quiet corners for winding down.
Ready to explore the other side of Sapporo?
Tag me @yourhandle or use #SapporoByNight — I’d love to see where the night takes you.