Private Tour – A Bar-Hopping Tour to Make the Most of the Sapporo Nightlife

Exploring Sapporo after dark can be a real treat, and this private tour offers a well-rounded way to experience the city’s stunning night views and lively bar scene. From panoramic vistas atop Mt. Moiwa to tasting local craft beers and unique smoked dishes, this experience is crafted for those who want both sight-seeing and authentic food and drink.

What we love about this tour is how it combines breathtaking scenery with intimate, local flavor. You’ll enjoy the best views Japan has to offer, savor craft beers brewed locally, and sample innovative smoked dishes and Japanese sake. Plus, the tour’s flexibility means you can customize your night to suit your pace and interests.

One potential consideration is the need to book an hour before sunset—perfect for catching the city’s glow, but a bit early if you’re arriving later in the evening. This tour suits travelers looking to combine sightseeing with a taste of local nightlife in a private, relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Mt. Moiwa provide a perfect start to the night.
• Private tour format ensures a personalized, flexible experience.
• Diverse culinary stops highlight local craft beers, smoked dishes, and unique snacks.
• Authentic local spots like Soseikawa’s newest district showcase Sapporo’s evolving food scene.
• Cost-effective value for the blend of sightseeing, drinks, and food.
• Adult-only experience ideal for those seeking a lively, mature night out.

Exploring Sapporo’s Nightscape from Mt. Moiwa

The tour kicks off with a visit to Mt. Moiwa, a hilltop near central Sapporo that offers one of Japan’s top three night views. Standing at 531 meters, the summit provides a sweeping vista of the city’s shimmering lights, perfect for photo ops or simply soaking in the scenery. The journey up on the ropeway adds to the experience, with some reports noting that during busy times, the wait to board can extend beyond 30 minutes.

Travelers will appreciate the chance to see Sapporo’s sprawling urban landscape illuminated at night, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months when the city’s glow is even more pronounced. We loved the way the view encapsulates the essence of Sapporo—vibrant, lively, and picturesque. It’s a calming yet awe-inspiring start to your evening, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Since the summit is at an elevation, pack warm clothes—even in summer, it can feel chilly. The view here might be the highlight of the night for many, especially those who enjoy landscapes that double as perfect photo backgrounds.

Sampling Local Brews at Moon Sun Brewing

Next, the tour transitions to Moon Sun Brewing, a cozy spot renowned for its in-house craft beers. Here, you’ll get the chance to taste up to 10 different varieties brewed right next door. This is a real treat for beer lovers, as it offers a rare opportunity to compare flavors from across Japan in one sitting.

The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy to chat with the staff or your private guide about the different brews. Tour reviews mention how the plates served alongside the beers complement the tasting well, turning the experience into a mini beer tour within Sapporo. We appreciated how this stop provides both a social vibe and the chance to appreciate Japan’s craft beer scene—a growing industry that’s quite different from the mass-market beers many travelers are used to.

Expect to spend around 45 minutes here, enough time to sample a good range of flavors without feeling rushed. Since the brewery is connected to the restaurant, you’ll have the convenience of trying freshly brewed beers paired with thoughtfully curated snacks.

Savoring Smoked Delights and Japanese Sake at Choi 2

The next stop, Choi 2, is a small restaurant dedicated to smoked meals and sake. If you’re a foodie, this is a highlight. The menu features a variety of smoked foods—from the classics like cod roe and clams to more unusual options such as capelin and fermented fish roe. The smoked flavors are intense but balanced, making each dish a conversation starter.

The pairing with Japanese sake adds an authentic touch, giving you a taste of Japan’s rich drinking culture. Reviewers have mentioned that the extended lineup of smoked meals makes this place stand out, offering a different experience than typical izakaya fare. The cozy setting and focus on quality ingredients mean you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s smoking traditions and sake craftsmanship.

You should budget about 45 minutes here, enough to savor multiple dishes and enjoy the relaxed, adult-oriented atmosphere.

Unique Takoyaki at Otakosan

For a fun, casual snack, your guide will take you to Otakosan, a dedicated takoyaki shop. These round, flower-shaped snacks filled with octopus are a Sapporo favorite, and this spot offers original flavors you won’t find elsewhere—think salt and avocado, plum, and fermented ingredients. It’s a lively, approachable stop that adds a playful element to your night out.

If you’re new to takoyaki, this is a perfect introduction—hot, crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Many reviewers appreciate the originality of the offerings here, which make for a memorable snack while further exploring local tastes.

This stop usually lasts around 30 minutes, giving you time to try a couple of flavors and soak up the casual vibe.

Practical Details and Considerations

This is a private tour, meaning it’s tailored to your group’s pace and interests. The cost of $93.76 per person includes the guide and their expenses, but travelers should budget extra for food, drinks, and entrance fees—about JPY 3500 or more depending on what you choose. The tour is designed for adults, given the bar-hopping and alcohol tasting elements.

The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation in Sapporo, with the tour ending back at the start. We recommend booking about an hour before sunset—especially during winter months—to catch the city’s beautiful nighttime glow at Mt. Moiwa.

While the itinerary is flexible, keep in mind that during busy seasons or on Wednesdays, some stops like Choi 2 may be closed, and your guide will suggest alternatives. Wear warm clothes, especially for the summit, and be prepared for the possibility of waiting to board the ropeway during busy times.

Authentic Experiences and Local Flavor

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is its focus on local favorites—from the newest district of Soseikawa to craft beers and innovative smoked dishes. These spots are often known only to locals or those in the know, giving you a more genuine taste of Sapporo’s evolving scene.

The views from Mt. Moiwa are consistently praised as breathtaking, with travelers noting how the city lights stretch out into the night sky. Several reviews mention how the tour balances sightseeing with food and drink, making it a well-rounded evening that’s both visual and culinary.

Given the private nature of the tour, your guide can adjust timing or suggest additional stops based on your interests, ensuring you get the most from your night out.

Final Thoughts

This private bar-hopping tour offers a fantastic blend of panoramic views, local craft beers, smoked delicacies, and fun snacks in a relaxed, adult-only setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Sapporo’s best night sights while sampling authentic, lesser-known food and drinks. The tour’s flexibility and focus on quality make it a great value—especially when you consider the personalized experience and insider access.

If you’re after a memorable night that combines scenic beauty with a taste of local life, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s best suited for those who enjoy good food and drinks, aren’t afraid of a bit of early planning, and appreciate customized, intimate experiences.

FAQ

Can I join this tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour focuses on bar-hopping and tasting craft beers and sake, you can discuss your preferences with your guide. They may accommodate non-drinkers or suggest alternative stops.

How long does each stop last?
Stops are typically around 30 to 45 minutes, enough to enjoy the scenery, sample drinks, or taste foods without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees and additional expenses (like food and drinks) are paid separately by travelers. The tour fee covers the guide and their expenses.

Is this tour suitable for families?
No, it’s designed as an adult experience due to the alcohol tasting and bar visits.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking at least 48 hours in advance is recommended, especially to secure the sunset timing and avoid disappointment. Aim for an hour before sunset for optimal views.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss with your guide about making adjustments based on your interests or preferences.

To sum it up, this Sapporo night tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking views, local craft beers, and authentic smoked dishes—perfect for those wanting a genuine, relaxed taste of the city’s nightlife. The personalized approach ensures you get to explore at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for curious travelers eager to discover Sapporo’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a foodie, a view-seeker, or simply looking for a memorable night out, this experience delivers a flavorful, scenic, and intimate look at Japan’s northern city.