Muslim-Friendly Guide to Sapporo: Halal Food, Mosques & Things to Do

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, has long been a dream destination. Think world-famous powder snow in winter, dreamy lavender fields in summer, and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste in Japan. It’s the kind of city that quietly steals your heart, and once you visit, you’ll understand why so many travellers keep coming back.

But if you’re travelling as a Muslim, there’s always that familiar question in the back of your mind: "Will I be able to find halal food? And where can I pray?"

The good news? Sapporo has come a long way. With the right planning (and the right apps), exploring this northern gem is now easier than ever. Based on the latest 2025–2026 updates and tried-and-tested local favourites, here’s your ultimate Muslim-friendly guide to Sapporo. Pack your bags, let’s dive in.

What application to download for Muslims?

Before you even leave New Chitose Airport, make sure your phone is fully loaded. Japan may be high-tech, but the language barrier is very real, especially when it comes to food labels.

Halal Navi and eHalal Scanner are absolute must-haves. They help you locate verified halal restaurants around the city and scan snack ingredients when you’re browsing convenience stores. Trust me, you’ll be using them a lot.

Google Translate is another lifesaver, especially the camera feature. Point it at menus or ingredient lists, and you’ll get real-time translations. For shopping, Payke is a game-changer. Scan a barcode and instantly see ingredient details in your own language.

For transport and attractions, apps like Klook and Japan Travel make booking trains and discounted tickets incredibly easy, whether you’re heading to Otaru or planning a longer day trip.

Halal foods and restaurants

Hokkaido is often called Japan’s “Food Kingdom”, and Sapporo proudly wears the crown. The best part? Muslim-friendly dining options here are growing fast, and they’re genuinely good.

If ramen is at the top of your list (as it should be), Sapporo Ramen Horyu (Haru-ten) is a classic. They offer a dedicated halal menu and even use separate utensils, so you can enjoy their iconic miso ramen with peace of mind. For something a little different, Fukunoki is famous for its tomato-based “medicine ramen”. The entire menu is halal-friendly, free from pork and alcohol, and made with organic ingredients.

One of Sapporo’s most iconic dishes is soup curry, and Soup Curry Kamui is a local legend. Their halal-certified chicken curry is rich, aromatic, and perfect for warming up on cold days. If it’s your first time, go for spice level 0 to enjoy the herbal flavours, or turn it up if you’re feeling brave.

Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed either. At Donburi Chaya in Nijo Market, staff are familiar with Muslim dietary needs. Simply ask for seafood bowls without mirin or non-halal soy sauce. Their Hokkaido scallops, especially the morning catch, are unforgettable. Some branches even provide a designated prayer space, which is a huge bonus while sightseeing.

For a proper yakiniku experience, Daruma Halal Yakiniku and Gyumon Susukino are fantastic options. Grilling your own halal wagyu in the heart of Sapporo’s nightlife district is an experience you won’t forget, especially after a long day out in the cold.

One newer favourite among Muslim travellers is Halal Wagyu Ramen Shinjuku-Tei. A rising star from 2024–2025, they serve 100% halal-certified wagyu ramen and even have a prayer room inside the restaurant, a rare but very welcome feature.

Top Muslim-friendly attraction in Sapporo

Sapporo is beautiful year-round, but certain sights are simply unmissable. Odori Park is the heart of the city and becomes the main stage for the famous Snow Festival every February. Nearby, the Sapporo TV Tower and Nakajima Park offer classic photo spots with a touch of local history.

For panoramic views, head up to the Mt. Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium. Built for the 1972 Winter Olympics, the view from the top gives you a stunning perspective of the entire city, especially magical at sunset.

If you have a sweet tooth, Shiroi Koibito Park feels like stepping into a chocolate fairy tale. While not everything is halal-certified, many items are Muslim-friendly, and a prayer room is available upon request at the information desk. Just scan ingredients to be safe and enjoy the factory tour.

For day trips, Otaru is an easy favourite. Just 30–35 minutes by train, the canal area is incredibly romantic, and the Otaru Aquarium is great if you’re travelling with kids. If you have more time, Asahiyama Zoo is famous for its winter penguin walks, a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Shopping in Sapporo

Sapporo is a shopping paradise, especially if you love snacks and souvenirs. Tanukikoji Shopping Street is a must-visit, a massive covered arcade that’s perfect for snowy or rainy days. Look out for the Sapporo Drug Store branches here, many of which now have Muslim-friendly souvenir counters featuring halal snacks and alcohol-free cosmetics.

MEGA Don Quijote in Tanukikoji is your one-stop shop for everything from quirky Japanese gadgets to tax-free snacks. Use the Payke app here to scan barcodes, and keep an eye out for halal-marked shelves.

For fashion lovers, Stellar Place and PARCO near Sapporo Station showcase the latest Japanese trends, while NORBESA, the building with the giant rooftop Ferris wheel, is perfect for subculture finds and a quick city view over Susukino.

Don’t forget to pick up Yukatan, a Hokkaido chiffon cake that recently obtained halal certification. It’s light, fluffy, and makes a perfect gift to bring home.

Prayer spaces in Sapporo

Finding places to pray in Sapporo is much easier than it used to be. The Sapporo Masjid remains the main hub for the local Muslim community, but travellers will be glad to know that prayer rooms are now integrated into major tourist areas.

JR Sapporo Station’s Daimaru Department Store has a clean prayer room on the 7th floor with wudu facilities and separate areas for men and women. New Chitose Airport also offers two prayer rooms, one in the International Terminal and one in the Domestic Terminal, both open 24 hours.

Even shopping areas are catching up. The Sapporo Drug Store at Tanukikoji 5-chome has a free prayer room on the second floor, and Shiroi Koibito Park provides one upon request.

Seasonal tips & When to go (2025–2026 update)

If you’re planning around winter festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 is confirmed from 4 to 11 Feb 2026. Odori Park features massive snow sculptures, while the Tsudome site is more family-friendly and often has halal-friendly food stalls.

The Otaru Snow Light Path usually overlaps with the Snow Festival, running from around 7 to 14 Feb 2026. In summer, June to August is perfect for fruit picking in areas like Jozankei, where you can enjoy strawberries and cherries straight from the trees.

If you’re staying overnight, Jozankei Onsen is a peaceful escape. Some ryokans, like Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione, can provide halal-certified meals if booked at least 10 days in advance, a rare but valuable option in Japan.

Is Sapporo Muslim-friendly?

Sapporo is becoming more inclusive with every passing year. With proper planning, a few essential apps, and a flexible mindset, Muslim travellers can now enjoy everything this city has to offer, without stress.

Whether you’re sipping coffee at Morihico Coffee, slurping halal ramen in the snow, or strolling through Odori Park under winter lights, Sapporo feels ready to welcome you with open arms.

And before you go, don’t forget to try everything melon-flavoured. Hokkaido is famous for it, and yes, it really is that good