Sapporo’s drinking scene shines through its excellent guided tours. The standout favorite combines bar-hopping with local food tastings – it’s intimate, informative, and gets you into spots most travelers miss.
I love the hands-on soba and sake experience, where you’ll make noodles and pair them with Hokkaido’s best rice wines.
For beer lovers (and Sapporo has plenty), the craft brewery tours are a must, offering both tastings and behind-the-scenes access to the brewing process.
Let’s look at the best drinking tours that showcase this city’s liquid treasures.
Key Points
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The Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour offers an intimate exploration of hidden underground bars and local delicacies, with high recommendations from past participants.
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The Sake Lovers Private Tour provides a comprehensive experience, including a liquor store tasting and an izakaya visit with an English-speaking guide.
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The Private Local Craft Beer Pub Crawl Tour takes visitors behind the scenes at two renowned Sapporo breweries, with included food and beverage credits.
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The Soba Noodle Making Experience and Tempura, Hokkaido Sake Plan offers a 1.5-hour immersive activity in handmade soba and tempura, paired with limited-edition Hokkaido sake.
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The Luxurious Japanese Food Experience Plan combines soba noodle making, premium tempura, and Hokkaido deer meat shabu-shabu, all paired with limited Hokkaido sake.
Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour
Set out on a culinary adventure through Sapporo’s lively bar scene with the Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour by MagicalTrip Inc. This highly-rated tour (99% recommendation rate) offers an immersive experience, allowing you to explore hidden underground bars and savor local delicacies like ramen and parfaits.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll hop between 3 izakaya bars, indulging in 1 food set, 2 plates, and 3 drinks. The tour accommodates small groups of up to 6 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions. Bring water and dress for the summer heat, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and variety of flavors this tour promises.
Read our full review: Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour Review
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Soba Noodle Making Experience and Tempura, Hokkaido Sake Plan
For those seeking a unique culinary adventure in Sapporo, the Soba Noodle Making Experience and Tempura, Hokkaido Sake Plan offers an immersive opportunity to explore the city’s rich food heritage.
Over the course of 1.5 hours, you’ll learn the art of handmade soba noodles and tempura preparation, all while savoring limited-edition Hokkaido sake.
This private luxury dining experience takes place in a casual setting just a 3-minute walk from Miyanosawa Station. Priced from £1,844 per person, the activity is suitable for adults and features excellent reviews highlighting the pleasant atmosphere and good food.
Flexible booking and easy access make this a must-try for any foodie visiting Sapporo.
Read our full review: Soba Noodle Making Experience and Tempura, Hokkaido Sake Plan Review
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A Japanese Food Experience Plan in Sapporo Where You Can Enjoy Tempura and 3 Types of Hokkaido-Only Sake Along With a Soba Making Experience!
Enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Sapporo with this Japanese food experience plan.
You’ll learn to handcraft soba noodles using buckwheat flour from Hokkaido, then savor delectable tempura prepared by skilled chefs using premium ingredients.
Complement your meal with a tasting of three distinct Hokkaido-exclusive sake varieties, curated by a sake master.
This private tour offers an engaging and authentic experience, with reviews praising the knowledgeable instructors and overall satisfaction.
While not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, though not recommended for pregnant travelers.
With flexible reservations and free cancellation, this is a fantastic opportunity to dive into Sapporo’s culinary wonders.
Read our full review: A Japanese Food Experience Plan in Sapporo Where You Can Enjoy Tempura and 3 Types of Hokkaido-Only Sake Along With a Soba Making Experience! Review
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Sake Lovers Private Tour: Visit Liquor Store and Izakaya
Indulge your passion for sake on this private tour as you explore Sapporo’s vibrant liquor landscape.
You’ll be whisked away in a private taxi, accompanied by an English interpreter, to discover the city’s best sake spots.
Savor the flavors of Hokkaido-exclusive sake during a tasting at a renowned liquor store.
Then, enjoy a delightful Izakaya experience, where you’ll indulge in food and additional sake selections.
With all transportation and entrance fees covered, this tour offers a seamless and immersive sake-centric adventure.
Priced from $167.43 per person, it’s a must for any sake enthusiast visiting Sapporo.
Read our full review: Sake Lovers Private Tour: Visit Liquor Store and Izakaya Review
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In Sapporo! A Luxurious Japanese Food Experience Plan That Includes a Soba Making Experience, Tempura, Hokkaido Deer Shabu-Shabu, and 3 Types of Hokkaido Limited Sake!
Elevate your culinary journey in Sapporo with this luxurious Japanese food experience.
You’ll learn to craft handmade soba noodles, indulge in a tempura platter featuring the highest quality kakiage, and savor Hokkaido deer meat shabu-shabu.
Pair these delectable dishes with three types of limited Hokkaido sake, expertly selected by a sake sommelier.
This 3-hour experience starts and ends at a convenient meeting point, just a 3-minute walk from Miyanosawa Station.
With public transportation access and stroller-friendly accommodations, this private tour offers an immersive and accessible gourmet adventure.
Priced from $177.01 per person, this experience guarantees the lowest price and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: In Sapporo! A Luxurious Japanese Food Experience Plan That Includes a Soba Making Experience, Tempura, Hokkaido Deer Shabu-Shabu, and 3 Types of Hokkaido Limited Sake! Review
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Private Local Craft Beer Pub Crawl Tour in Sapporo
Set out on a private local craft beer pub crawl tour in Sapporo to explore the vibrant craft beer scene. Guided by an English-speaking local, you’ll visit two renowned breweries for behind-the-scenes tours.
Enjoy 2,000 yen worth of food and beverages at a restaurant or beer pub. The tour includes roundtrip transportation and all taxes. At $550.11 per person, this private experience is non-refundable but well worth the cost.
Meet your guide at your hotel or the North Exit of Sapporo Station at 1:00 PM. This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Additional food and drinks outside the included amount are at your own expense.
Read our full review: Private Local Craft Beer Pub Crawl Tour in Sapporo Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Duration of These Drinking Tours?
The average duration of these drinking tours is typically 2-3 hours. Many offer a guided experience, visiting multiple venues and sampling local beverages. The length allows you to explore the highlights at a relaxed pace.
Are Vegetarian or Dietary Restricted Options Available?
Some tours offer vegetarian or dietary restricted options, but you’ll need to check with the tour operator. Many aim to cater to various dietary needs, so don’t hesitate to inquire about your preferences when booking.
Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Preferences?
Yes, you can customize the tour to suit your preferences. Many tour operators are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests. Just let them know your needs when booking, and they’ll work with you to create a personalized experience.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Venues?
Yes, most drinking tours in Sapporo include transportation to and from the venues. This allows you to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about getting to and from each destination.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for These Tours?
The cancellation and refund policy for these tours varies, but most offer full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Some may charge a small fee for last-minute cancellations. Check the tour operator’s policy before booking.
Recap
Sapporo offers a wide range of drinking tours that cater to various tastes. From bar hopping and sake tasting to craft beer pub crawls, you’ll find an experience that suits your preferences. These tours provide an immersive look into Hokkaido’s culinary and beverage culture, allowing you to savor the local flavors and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a foodie or a drinks enthusiast, Sapporo has something to quench your thirst.