Welcome to the World of Ultra-Authentic Asian & Vietnamese Supermarkets in Hokkaido!
In Hokkaido, the number of long-term residents from Asian countries, including Vietnam, is steadily increasing. These include technical interns working in agriculture and fisheries, as well as international students studying at universities. This growing community has led to a quiet boom in ‘authentic’ Asian grocery stores and Vietnamese supermarkets in urban areas like Sapporo and Obihiro, supporting their daily lives and culinary needs.
These stores are treasure troves where you can find fresh cilantro, shallots, whole frozen chickens, and a wide array of chili sauces and fish sauces – all at local prices, items you’d never find in a regular supermarket. This time, we’ve carefully selected some deep, locally-infused spots that feel as if the vibrant energy and unique aromas of Southeast Asia have been directly imported. Experience the sensation of a trip to Southeast Asia, right here in Japan.
HASU FOOD (Asia Foods ASIAFOOD)
📍 Address: CSK Minami 8-jo 1F, 758-13 Minami 8-jo Nishi 9-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0808, Japan
Located within walking distance of Nakajima-Koen Station in Sapporo, ‘HASU FOOD’ is a grocery store specializing in Vietnamese ingredients, established by graduates of a Sapporo language school. Vietnamese international students and trainees residing nearby flock to this store, filling the air with local languages and a vibrant, authentic atmosphere.
The shelves are lined with pho dried noodles, rice paper, and even rare frozen Vietnamese chili peppers, while the refrigerated section offers fresh cilantro at a great price. What’s even better is that despite the strong local vibe, the staff speak fluent Japanese. They’re happy to answer questions like ‘How do I use this seasoning?’ There’s no dedicated parking, so if you come by car, use a nearby coin-operated parking lot.
Asia Foods Rakuichi, Kita-ku Store
📍 Address: Hanatoyo Bldg 1F, 2-20 Kita 15-jo Nishi 4-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 001-0015, Japan
Located right near Hokkaido University, ‘Asia Foods Rakuichi, Kita-ku Store’ is always bustling with international students from various nationalities. It’s garnered immense popularity as a huge local supermarket offering a wide range of ingredients not just from Vietnam, but also from China, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, and other Asian countries.
Inside, tall stacks of cardboard boxes are a common sight, but the way inventory rapidly diminishes daily speaks to an incredibly high turnover rate. Beyond authentic cuts of meat and unfamiliar frozen fruits, you’ll find niche items like Mid-Autumn Festival mooncakes, Gado-Gado sauce, and ginseng. What’s more, there’s hospitality too, with explanatory pop-ups in Japanese for many products. They even have a point card where you earn 1 point for every 1,000 yen spent, making it a place you’re sure to revisit.
Asian Mart Nishitomi
📍 Address: 57-1 Nishi 23-jo Minami 1-chome, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-2473, Japan
‘Asian Mart Nishitomi’ emanates a powerful exotic atmosphere in the Obihiro area. The moment you open the door, the distinct aroma of Southeast Asian spices and herbs instantly evokes that thrilling sense of stepping into a local market during an overseas trip (or perhaps a delightful culture shock).
It’s an oasis for people from Vietnam and Thailand working in farms and factories around Obihiro, so much so that groups travel by JR from distant locations just to shop here on Sundays. If you time it right, you might even find Vietnamese shallots and other fresh vegetables rarely seen in Japan. The selection of chili-based seasonings is truly impressive, making it a must-visit spot for spice lovers. Two parking spaces are available in front of the store.
Viet Food Hokkaido
📍 Address: Stella911 Room E 2F, 1-5 Minami 9-jo Nishi 11-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0809, Japan
Quietly nestled on the second floor of a commercial building in Sapporo’s Chuo-ku, ‘Viet Food Hokkaido’ is a hidden gem of a Vietnamese supermarket known to those in the know. The entrance can be a little tricky to find; after climbing the stairs, open the door on the left, then proceed further left to find the store. This slightly ‘deep’ approach only adds to the sense of adventure.
Inside, pho noodles, various seasonings, popular local snacks, and fruit juices are packed tightly together, and you can even discover niche products rarely seen in other stores. The appeal lies in its high-quality yet low-priced selection, and the staff’s enthusiastic and friendly service is highly praised. It’s a reliable ally for long-term residents looking to buy in bulk.
Hanoi Food
📍 Address: 2-3-2 Nishi 5-jo Minami 21-chome, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-0015, Japan
Located in Obihiro city center, ‘Hanoi Food’ is a local grocery store beloved by residents and immigrants who seek authentic Vietnamese flavors daily. Upon entering, a distinct aroma reminiscent of a small shop in an Asian alleyway fills the air, and this uniquely charming atmosphere makes you want to visit again and again.
It’s a valuable spot for fresh cilantro, and with its abundant supply of local spices and affordable meats, it’s essential for anyone wanting to try authentic Vietnamese cooking at home. The rustic and local display, from the color schemes of product arrangements to handwritten signs, feels as though the local sensibility has been directly imported, offering an invigorating experience.
Tips for Enjoying Your Shopping at Local Supermarkets
When visiting the ‘authentic’ Asian and Vietnamese supermarkets introduced here, a little preparation and mindset adjustment can make your shopping experience even more enjoyable.
First, since you’ll often be buying fresh produce, large cuts of meat, and bulk frozen foods, it’s a golden rule to bring a large insulated bag. Many local seasonings come in glass bottles, so choose a sturdy reusable bag.
Furthermore, inventory can change dramatically depending on container arrivals and local holidays (such as the Mid-Autumn Festival or Lunar New Year). It’s common for something you saw last time to be unavailable now, but enjoying these unique, one-time encounters is part of the charm of local supermarkets. If you find an unfamiliar vegetable or spice and aren’t sure how to use or cook it, be brave and ask the staff. They’ll likely be delighted that you’re interested in their country’s food culture.
