Nikka Whisky Signboard ニッカウヰスキー看板

A massive neon sign standing at the Susukino intersection, depicting a mustachioed gentleman known as the "King of Blenders," said to be modeled after W. P. Lowrie — a legendary master blender celebrated in 19th-century Scotland. The sign was installed in 1969 alongside the Susukino Building, ahead of the Winter Olympics, and has since watched over Susukino's nightlife for more than half a century.

Its stark black-and-white design stands out with striking boldness amid the surrounding neon glow. The owner of the Susukino Building is said to have declared that "the King of Blenders will never be changed — it is here to preserve the atmosphere of Susukino," and true to those words, the design has remained entirely unchanged to this day. In 2019, the lighting was updated to LED, but the sign's iconic appearance is as timeless as ever.

More than an advertisement, this sign has become a landmark woven into the memory and culture of the city, beloved by residents and visitors alike as the defining image at the gateway to Sapporo's most celebrated entertainment district.