Reader’s Question:

I want to go to Lucky Pierrot from Sapporo, but how do I take the train?

If possible, I would like to get there in a short amount of time!

Money is not a concern, so I don’t
mind how much it costs.

I would like to eat there around the time it opens in the morning!

Chasing Burgers: My Journey to Lucky Pierrot from Sapporo

Ah, Lucky Pierrot—Hokkaido’s legendary burger joint that seems to have a cult following. If you’re wondering why I’m so obsessed, it’s because I had heard tales of their mouthwatering flavors and quirky atmosphere. So, when I had the chance to visit Sapporo, I knew I had to make the pilgrimage to this iconic spot. Lucky Pierrot isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience! So, I decided to make it happen and share with you how I got there.

The Itinerary: A Morning Adventure

When I say I wanted to get to Lucky Pierrot around opening time, I mean I was ready to kick off my day early. The restaurant opens at 10:00 AM, and you better believe I wanted to be there right when the doors swung open! Nothing like starting your day with a tasty burger, am I right? First things first, I had to figure out how to get there from Sapporo. Lucky Pierrot is located in Hakodate, which is about 350 kilometers south of Sapporo. Now, I could have flown, but I really wanted to experience the train journey. Japan is famous for its amazing rail system, and I wanted to soak that in. Plus, let’s face it, flying just didn’t feel as exciting for this particular adventure!

The Train Ride: Shinkansen, Baby!

I woke up bright and early, fueled by a cup of coffee that was stronger than my will to sleep in. With my backpack slung over one shoulder, I made my way to Sapporo Station. The bright lights and bustling atmosphere of the station were invigorating; I could already feel the anticipation of my burger quest building. I hopped on the Hokkaido Shinkansen, which is one of the coolest experiences ever. The train glided out of the station like a bullet. Seriously, it’s like being in a sci-fi movie! I settled into my seat and watched the scenery whiz by—fields, mountains, and even glimpses of the ocean. The whole ride is about four hours, but the time flew by (pun intended!). A little side note—if you’re like me and have a thing for snacks, grab some bento from the station. I opted for a seafood bento, and wow, it was fresh and delicious. Just imagine: munching on some sushi while zipping through Japan at record speed. Pure bliss!

Arriving in Hakodate: First Impressions

After what felt like a blink of an eye, I arrived at Hakodate Station. First off, let me just say that Hakodate is charming. It has this laid-back vibe that just makes you feel at home. The smell of the sea and the view of the mountains in the distance made my heart skip a beat. From the station, I could see a bus stop right outside. There are buses that take you directly to Lucky Pierrot. I checked the schedule, and thankfully, one was about to leave. I hopped on, and off we went! The bus ride was short, and before I knew it, I was stepping off and walking toward the restaurant.

Lucky Pierrot: The Arrival

I could see the iconic Lucky Pierrot sign from a distance, and I felt a surge of excitement. It’s like a Disneyland for burger lovers, with its colorful, fun exterior. As I walked closer, I noticed the eclectic decor—everything from funky murals to pirate-themed elements. It’s such a unique place, and you could immediately tell that it has its own vibe. I arrived just a few minutes before 10:00 AM, so I took a moment to soak it all in. There were a couple of patrons already waiting outside, and you could feel the enthusiasm in the air. I chatted with a few locals who were just as excited as I was, and they assured me that I was in for a treat.

The Moment of Truth: Ordering My Burger

When the clock struck 10:00, the doors opened, and I could feel my stomach growling louder than ever. The staff greeted us with cheerful hellos, and I felt this instant sense of warmth. It’s like stepping into someone’s home rather than just a restaurant. Now, deciding what to order was no easy feat! Lucky Pierrot has a menu bursting with options—each burger more tantalizing than the last. I ultimately settled on their signature “Lucky Burger” and a side of their famous fries. The anticipation was palpable! I mean, how often do you get to indulge in something that’s practically a local legend? As I waited for my order, I took in the atmosphere. The restaurant was filled with quirky memorabilia, and the sound of laughter and chatter added to the lively vibe. It was infectious!

The First Bite: Absolutely Worth It

When my burger finally arrived, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. The moment I unwrapped it, the aroma hit me like a wave of happiness. And the presentation? Beautiful! The burger was stacked high, with fresh lettuce, tomato, and, of course, that juicy patty. I took my first bite, and wow! The flavors exploded in my mouth like a flavor bomb. The patty was perfectly cooked, the sauce was tangy, and the bun was soft yet held it all together beautifully. I can’t stress this enough—it was beyond delicious! Each bite was heaven, and I found myself savoring every second. Oh, and let’s not forget the fries! Crispy and golden, they were the perfect companion to my burger. I couldn’t help but think, “Why can’t I have this every day?” Seriously, if you’re ever in Hakodate, don’t sleep on this place!

Wrapping Up My Lucky Pierrot Adventure

After finishing my meal (with a side of regret that I couldn’t eat more), I took a moment to appreciate the experience. Lucky Pierrot was everything I hoped it would be and more. The ambiance, the staff, and, of course, the food made it a highlight of my trip. Before I left, I made sure to take a few pictures to capture the magic of the moment. I also snagged one of their adorable merchandise items—because who wouldn’t want a little piece of Lucky Pierrot to take home? With a full belly and a happy heart, I made my way back to the bus stop and headed back to Hakodate Station. As I sat on the bus, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the adventure I just had. Sometimes, it’s not just about the destination but the journey that gets you there.

Final Thoughts: Make the Journey

So, if you’re in Sapporo and find yourself craving an adventure, I can’t recommend making the trek to Lucky Pierrot enough. The train ride is a breeze, and the experience is genuinely one-of-a-kind. Plus, who doesn’t want to say they’ve tried one of the best burgers in Japan? Remember to set your alarm early, grab a bento for the ride, and keep your camera handy for those Instagram-worthy moments. And trust me, when you take that first bite of a Lucky Burger, you’ll thank yourself for making the journey. Happy travels, and enjoy your burger pilgrimage!