Sapporo Beer Garden

The Sapporo Beer Garden occupies the historic red-brick brewery building constructed in 1890 by the Kaitakushi Brewery, making it one of Japan's oldest beer halls and a significant landmark in Hokkaido's brewing heritage. Located in the Higashi district of Sapporo, this sprawling complex stands as a testament to the city's development during the Meiji era, when the government established the region's first modern brewery using German brewing techniques. The distinctive star-shaped logo and red-brick architecture have become iconic symbols of Sapporo's industrial past.

The garden holds cultural importance as the birthplace of Sapporo Beer, Japan's oldest beer brand, which helped introduce beer culture to the country in the late 19th century. The on-site Sapporo Beer Museum traces this history through exhibits showcasing vintage brewing equipment, advertising materials, and the evolution of Japanese beer production. Visitors can explore the preservation of Meiji-period industrial architecture while understanding how Western brewing methods were adapted to Japanese tastes and preferences.

The primary visitor experience centers on the all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan (jingisukan) barbecue, where guests grill lamb and vegetables at their tables while enjoying freshly brewed beer. The main hall accommodates over 1,000 diners in a bustling atmosphere beneath high wooden beams and historical brewing equipment. Multiple restaurant areas offer different dining experiences, from private tatami rooms to casual beer hall seating, with the Kessel Hall being particularly popular for its authentic brewery ambiance.

The facility is accessible via a 10-minute walk from Higashi-kuyakusho-mae Station on the Toho Subway Line, or visitors can take the Sapporo Factory Loop Bus from Sapporo Station. Free shuttle buses operate from major downtown locations during peak seasons. The museum offers free admission, while restaurant visits require reservations during busy periods, particularly weekends and holiday seasons.