二条市場
(Nijo Ichiba)
Nijo Market (often spelled “Nijyo Market”), one of the three major markets in Hokkaido, is a traditional market located in Chuo Ward (中央区), Sapporo.
It is home to shops and restaurants that sell fresh seafood, vegetables, and grains harvested in Hokkaido and nearby areas, and it has long supported the dining tables of local residents, earning the nickname “the kitchen of Sapporo.”
With its lively atmosphere starting early in the morning, it is also a popular destination among tourists. In particular, the fresh seafood rice bowls (kaisendon) are especially famous, making it a popular spot for breakfast.
The market itself is open year-round from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but operating hours may vary depending on each shop. The busiest time is from early morning to late morning.
Nijo Market: Freshness and Energy in Sapporo
Nijo Market, which I visited early in the morning for breakfast, was already bustling with people in search of fresh seafood, filled with the fragrant scent of the sea.
From freshly caught crabs and oysters to scallops and sea urchin, the market offers a wide variety of seafood that draws both locals and tourists every day.
As a seafood lover, I couldn’t help but think that if I lived nearby, I’d visit every day for something fresh.
Kaisendon of Hokkaido: A Bowl of Ocean Freshness
While looking for a good place to enjoy kaisendon, I decided to step into a small shop called “Koguma Shoten (小熊商店)”.
The interior was tiny and cozy, but it had the kind of charm only a long-standing market stall can offer—it made me feel like a true local.
In front of the counter, various fresh seafood ingredients were neatly arranged, and the thought of tasting them soon made the wait feel exciting.
I chose a bowl topped with tuna, salmon, sea urchin, and crab meat, served with a cup of warm tea and a clear seafood soup.
Just as I had hoped, the seafood was fresh and delicious, and the clear seafood soup that came with it had a rich ocean flavor that paired perfectly with the kaisendon.
The bowl may look large in the photo, but it’s actually smaller in real life—though the portion was just right for a morning meal.
If you’re visiting Sapporo in Hokkaido, why not start your day with a fresh kaisendon breakfast at Nijo Market?
Tips for Visiting Nijo Market
1. Visit Early in the Morning
Nijo Market opens at 7:00 a.m., so visiting between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. allows you to enjoy the freshest seafood in a relatively calm atmosphere. It’s also easily accessible, about a 20-minute walk from Sapporo Station and right next to Susukino.
2. Bring Cash
While some shops accept credit cards, many small vendors only take cash, so it’s best to be prepared.
3. Compare Prices Before You Buy
Even for the same type of seafood, prices and portion sizes may vary between shops, so it’s a good idea to browse a few stalls before purchasing. Some vendors also offer shipping, so don’t hesitate to ask if you need it.
4. You Can Choose Your Kaisendon Toppings
Most kaisendon shops offer a wide variety of combinations, and some allow you to customize your bowl by choosing the toppings you like.
– Recommended Reading –
■Sapporo Nijo Ichiba Official Website
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