Sapporo marks 150 years with Hong Kong pop-up

The activation features fresh draught beer, manga storytelling and limited-edition collectibles. The experience is designed around Sapporo's brewing history, which dates back to 1876 in Hokkaido.

Sapporo is marking its 150th anniversary with a manga-inspired Japanese tachinomi pop-up at Hysan Place in Hong Kong's Causeway Bay, bringing its brewing heritage and Japanese standing-bar culture to consumers through an experience created by BBDO Hong Kong.

BBDO Hong Kong brings Sapporo history to life

The experience centres on the story of Seibei Nakagawa, the brand's founder, whose journey brought brewing knowledge from the West to Japan. Original manga content retells his story and connects Sapporo's brewing heritage with a contemporary cultural experience for Hong Kong audiences.

At the centre of the pop-up is a circular timber pavilion inspired by a Japanese tachinomi standing bar. Paper lanterns and overhead manga panels create the setting, while visitors can follow The Story of Seibei Nakagawa through illustrated panels and a QR code featured on collectible manga paper cups.

Sapporo combines heritage with collectible culture

Steven Wong, Marketing Director, Hong Kong & Taiwan, Carlsberg Brewery: "Reaching 150 years is a rare milestone, but we didn’t want to celebrate Sapporo’s heritage by looking backward or simply telling our history. We wanted people to live it. Sapporo was born from a relentless pioneering spirit in 1876 when Nakagawa Seibei brought authentic brewing craft to Japan, and that same dedication lives in every pour today. By transforming Causeway Bay into Hong Kong’s first manga-style Japanese bar, we’ve taken the story directly off our limited-edition anniversary cans and turned it into an immersive urban playground. It’s our way of proving that a 150-year-old brand can remain modern, culturally vital, and creatively daring."

Sapporo has also developed a collection of 150th-anniversary lifestyle collectibles, including graphic apparel, a Sapporo Katana Opener and a washed denim tote bag. The merchandise draws on the brand's brewing heritage and manga narrative while connecting the campaign with streetwear and collectible culture.

Campaign extends across Hong Kong culture and lifestyle

The activation is supported by KOL engagement, on-site activities and social content targeting culture, lifestyle, fashion and food and beverage communities.

Visitors aged 18 and above can follow Sapporo's official social channels and show their device to on-site promoters to redeem a fresh draught beer during the pop-up, subject to event terms and availability.

The campaign launched on 25 September 2026 and runs through 8 October 2026.

www.sapporobeer.jp

www.bbdo.com

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