Hokkaido is what your stomach dreams about pretty much every day. The Japanese island has numerous reasons as to why you should visit, but its cuisine is high, if not at the top of that list. From fresh winter oysters out of Lake Saroma and sliced octopus from the Wakkanai region to the popular sushi train restaurants and the rural potato rice cakes, Hokkaido makes every meal one your stomach, nor you, will ever forget.
With more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve tracked down the best Hokkaido destinations for foodies. What about accommodation? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the most popular hotels, and heck, let’s throw in some top restaurants as well.
Why You Should Stay near Ganso Ramen Yokocho
Do you love ramen? Ganso Ramen Yokocho says it all in its name, as this narrow alleyway in Sapporo has been housing some of the city’s best ramen shops since the 1950s. It’s also surrounded by a variety of family-run restaurants and is a short walk from Nijo Market, where you can purchase fresh seafood.
Must-Visit Ganso Ramen Yokocho Restaurants
- Ramen Shingetsu
- Nanda Seafood Buffet
- Sai Kaku Sushi
Top Hotels near Ganso Ramen Yokocho
Mercure Hotel Sapporo
Literally around the corner from Ganso Ramen Yokocho, Mercure Hotel Sapporo brings a slightly different flavour to the city with its authentic French cuisine at Bordeaux Restaurant. You can also sip wine and cocktails at Le Cepage or work out in the fitness centre. The hotel also caters to business travellers with its five meeting rooms.
The modern rooms offer the Mercure standard of comfort with plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, work desks and large windows. For extra perks, upgrade to the Privilege Queen, which includes bathrobes, a late check-out and complimentary soft drinks. Groups of up to five people can enjoy ample space in the Superior Triple.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Ganso Ramen Yokocho (260 metres)
- Nijo Market (500 metres)
- Daruma Main Shop (500 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 146 – USD 398
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 2-4 Minami 4-jo Nishi 2-chome Chuo-ku, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Japan
APA Hotel Sapporo Susukino Ekimae
The contemporary furnishings give the budget-friendly rooms at APA Hotel Sapporo Susukino Ekimae an exceptional level of comfort. These no-fuss holiday abodes cater to a range of travellers, with cosy single rooms for solo travellers and rooms with two double beds or a double and a single for families and groups. All the rooms also have sunlit windows and work desks.
The on-site restaurant, Kanazawa, features a blend of Japanese and Western dishes, such as grilled fish, sashimi, scrambled eggs and green tea. You’re also a short walk from scenic picnic areas on the Toyohira River and about 850 metres from the Sapporo Clock Tower and Sapporo TV Tower.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Ganso Ramen Yokocho (230 metres)
- Nijo Market (400 metres)
- Tanukikoji Shopping Street (650 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 83 – USD 158
Guest Rating: 7.5
Address: 2-2-5, Minami-4-jo Nishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Japan
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay near Hakodate Asaichi
You’ll find Hakodate Asaichi in the centre of the port city of Hakodate. This morning marketplace is open from 5am until midday most days of the year and covers about four city blocks with various stall holders selling straight-off-the-boat seafood along with treasured summer-time melons and sweets. You might even be able to convince the kids to get up early when you tell them about the squid fishing.
Must-Visit Hakodate Asaichi Restaurants
- The entire Donburi Yokocho Ichiba restaurant arcade
- Hakodate Bukkake Seafood Restaurant
- Sushi Hakodate
Top Hotels near Hakodate Asaichi
Hotel New Ohte
Stay across the street from Hakodate Asaichi at Hotel New Ohte, which has a variety of Western and Japanese-style rooms. The rooms accommodate a range of travellers. Solos can crash in the Single Room, while groups or families have multiple options, such as the Triple Room or five-person Family Room.
The Japanese-Style Rooms add a bit of local flavour with tatami mats and futons and can also accommodate up to eight people. Don’t miss dining on-site at the hotel’s breakfast restaurant, which is known to serve sea urchins, salmon roe and live squid on certain days. There’s also a Family Bath that can be reserved for some well-earned relaxation.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Hakodate Asaichi (200 metres)
- Lucky Pierrot Hakodate-Ekimae (350 metres)
- Sushi Kin Hakodate (550 metres)
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 64 – USD 222
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: Wakamatsu-cho 8-8, Hakodate, Japan
Hotel Resol Hakodate
HotelsCombined visitors love staying at Hotel Resol Hakodate, thanks mainly to its central location and stunning views of the city’s port and bay. These water vistas flood into the on-site restaurant, which serves a sumptuous buffet of Japanese and Western dishes. You can also practise your swing on the golf simulator, work out on the exercise bikes or play pool or table tennis.
The custom-made beds in the guest rooms offer valued comfort for affordable prices. The Single, Twin and Semi-Double rooms all have flat-screen TVs, work desks, fridges and bidet toilets. The JR Hakodate Station is three minutes’ walk away and has regular services to Tokyo, Hakodate Airport and Sapporo.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Hakodate Asaichi (300 metres)
- Horan Ramen (400 metres)
- Uni Murakami (350 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 70 – USD 213
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: 6-3 Wakamatsu-Cho Hakodate-City Hokkaido 040-0063 Japan, Hakodate, Japan
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay near Sapporo’s Nijo Market
Seafood lovers might find themselves returning daily to Nijo Market in Sapporo for the latest catch of the day. Locals covet this seafood market, which is known for selling crustaceans, salmon eggs and various fresh and prepared fish. Nijo Market also has about 30 restaurants serving expertly prepared seafood.
Must-Visit Restaurants in Sapporo’s Nijo Market
- Oiso
- Kitchen Nagamori
- Daiichi Kaisenmaru
Top Hotels near Sapporo’s Nijo Market
Hotel Hashimoto
You’ll feel truly immersed in Japanese culture while staying at Hotel Hashimoto, which has single-sex public baths, Japanese buffet breakfasts and Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futons. If you feel a little homesick, you can opt for one of the many Western-style rooms, which come in Single, Twin and Triple configurations.
The buffet restaurant also serves a European-style breakfast with croissants, brioche, salads and coffee. This budget-friendly hotel has a number of convenient on-site facilities, including a laundry and business corner. Nearby attractions include the Tama Morita Birthplace, Hokkaido Shikigekijo theatre and United Cinemas Sapporo.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Nijo Market (100 metres)
- Ganso Ramen Yokocho (900 metres)
- Tanukikoji Shopping Street (800 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 42 – USD 67
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: Chuo-ku Minami 2-jo Higashi 2-chome, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Japan
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay near Otaru Sushi Street
The coastal city of Otaru has about 100 sushi restaurants and only about 120,000 people, and most of those restaurants are found along the Otaru Sushi Street. Stretching for 200 metres alongside a canal, this popular dining strip houses large and small sushi shops taking advantage of Otaru’s prominent fishing industry to serve fresh ingredients.
Must-Visit Restaurants near Otaru Sushi Street
- Hatta Sushi
- Masa Zushi
- Sushi Dokorohikime
Top Hotels near Otaru Sushi Street
Authent Hotel Otaru
The highlight of Authent Hotel Otaru might be the Authent Suite, which is furnished by items collected from around Europe and overlooks Otaru Port through wide windows. The Japanese Tatami Room brings the local flavour with rice paper screens, tatami mats and futons, while the standard rooms come in Triple, Twin, Double and Semi-Double variations.
A feast for all the senses, the hotel’s breakfast buffet is a glamorous spread of local and Western treats, such as sashimi, scrambled eggs, tofu and yoghurt. Come nightfall, the same restaurant is transformed into a fine-dining haven with fine cuts of meat, specialty cocktails and tempting desserts. Start your day with a pastry from the on-site bakery and finish with a soak in the communal bath.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Otaru Sushi Restaurant Street (290 metres)
- The COMSEN Otaru canal cafeteria (700 metres)
- Naruto Honten (550 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 124 – USD 413
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 2-15-1 Inaho, Otaru, Japan
Plum House
Plum House is a charming bed and breakfast surrounded by many of Otaru’s sushi shops and family-run restaurants. This intimate retreat is surrounded by manicured gardens and comprises only six cosy rooms. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the sun terrace, while the library and garden area promote holiday relaxation.
The six rooms include a Style Twin Room, Double Room and Triple Room, which all have views over the gardens. The Double and Triple also have traditional futon beds. Families wanting to save money can book the Budget Triple Room, while the Mini Double Room is ideal for couples on a tight budget.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Otaru Sushi Restaurant Street (170 metres)
- New Sanko (270 metres)
- The Coast Pizzeria & Bar (170 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 88 – USD 227
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: 047-0024 Hokkaido, Otaru-shi, Hanazono, 1 Chome−2−2,PlumHouse, Otaru, Japan
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay near New Chitose Airport
You might be wondering how on earth an airport made it onto this list. However, New Chitose Airport has cemented itself as one of Hokkaido’s foodie destinations with a sprawling food court serving everything from ramen and gyoza to gourmet sandwiches and seafood. It also offers some excellent hotels for those just stopping over in Sapporo, which is 50 minutes away.
Must-Visit New Chitose Airport Restaurants
- Biei Senka
- Ebisoba Ichigen
- Fukutei
Top Hotels near New Chitose Airport
Air Terminal Hotel
Located at New Chitose Airport, the extravagant Air Terminal Hotel offers a wealth of facilities perfect for relaxing after or before a long flight. The on-site Onsen has indoor and outdoor pools with enriching waters, while the adjoining Schones Wasser restaurant serves a delectable Japanese and Western buffet, along with enticing German-inspired dinners.
Rest comfortably in the contemporary Single, Twin and Double rooms, which have LCD TVs with flight info and a range of bathroom amenities. Opt for a room on the runway side for views of the planes taxiing or upgrade to a Deluxe room for the added luxury of lounge seating.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Tendon Tenya (150 metres)
- New Chitose Ramen Street (220 metres)
- Royce’ Bakery (300 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 143 – USD 236
Guest Rating: 8
Address: New Chitose Airport 3F, Chitose, Japan
Hotel Grand Terrace Chitose
About an eight-minute drive from New Chitose Airport (via a complimentary shuttle), Hotel Grand Terrace Chitose is located next to the sprawling Chitose Aoba Park, which offers walking trails and grassy picnic areas alongside Chitose River. If you want a separate living area, opt for one of the Suites, while the Japanese and Japanese-Western rooms offer traditional touches like tatami mats and futons.
There are also Deluxe rooms with king-size or twin beds, which have comfortable sitting areas. Need to unwind? Take advantage of the free-to-use communal baths or the sauna. The hotel also serves Chinese and Japanese dishes during its breakfast and dinner buffets at Restaurant Yukara.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Taiga Ramen (500 metres)
- Cosmos coffee shop (550 metres)
- Kintaro Sushi (800 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 124 – USD 339
Guest Rating: 7.2
Address: 4-4-4 Honcho, Chitose, Japan
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay near Sapporo Beer Garden
Lovers of beer, fresh Japanese fare and rustic dining will find their home away from home at Sapporo Beer Garden. Not only does it serve the Sapporo specialty, Genghis Khan, it also offers a range of draft beer you’ll rarely find anywhere else. Sapporo Beer Garden is also next to the Ario Sapporo shopping mall, which has its own enticing restaurants and shops.
Must-Visit Restaurants Around Sapporo Beer Garden
- Gyoza no Ohsho
- Marugame Seimen
- Garden Grill
Top Hotels near Sapporo Beer Garden
ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo
Executive living awaits at ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo, which upholds the proud Crown Plaza name with its various leisure and business facilities, including a well-equipped gym and staffed business centre. Treat your taste buds to exquisite Japanese beef and seafood at Teppanyaki Restaurant Ishikari or pair cocktails with jazz music and city views at Skylounge Sapporo View.
Most of the rooms and suites have city vistas, while the suites add extra opulence in the form of separate living rooms. You can save money on the Standard Room, which has a sitting area, flat-screen TV and work desk.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Sapporo Ichiryuan (230 metres)
- Yayoiken (180 metres)
- Picante Sapporo Eki-mae Shop (300 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 112 – USD 620
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: 1-2-9 Kita 3 Jo Nishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Japan
Hotel Monterey Sapporo
Combining age-old elegance with modern comforts, the rooms at Hotel Monterey Sapporo provide the perfect place to rest during your food comas. The Japanese Style Room is quite popular thanks to its traditional tea room, juraku walls and tokoma niche. The Family Room and Luxury Room, meanwhile, have two double beds and sitting areas.
The eye-catching Winter Garden is a unique atrium with a glass ceiling and vibrant flowers that create an English-garden setting. Foodies will appreciate the unique French fare at the on-site restaurant Karentai, which uses fresh seafood and seasonal products in the meals.
Nearby Foodie Hotspots
- Sapporo Beer Garden (1.9 kilometres)
- Rokkatei Sapporo Main Store (850 metres)
- Ishiya Café (1 kilometre)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 124 – USD 935
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: Higashi 1-3 Kita 4 Jyo, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Japan
Hotel Location
Realise Your Stomach’s Dreams in Hokkaido
Hokkaido might not be on your radar, but your stomach has other ideas. This foodie haven has been turning one-time visitors into repeat visitors with its surplus of diverse cuisine, each meal just as memorable as the last. Our advice is to explore as much of the island as possible, ticking off these six culinary highlights and then adding your own while staying at hotels with their own not-to-be-missed restaurants.
Where do you want to stay in Hokkaido? Let us know in the comments below.
