Sapporo, Japan: A Dreamy Romantic Getaway

Discover love in the snow-capped beauty of Sapporo, Japan.

03 May 2023

Sapporo, Japan is the perfect romantic destination, boasting beautiful parks, delicious cuisine, and cultural experiences. Couples can visit the stunning Odori Park for a scenic stroll or take a hot air balloon ride for a stunning view of Mount Teine. For a unique dining experience, try the local Hokkaido crab or explore the Sapporo Beer Museum and taste some of the regional brews.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Romantic Getaway

  • Stay at the Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo a charming boutique hotel with a European flare and perfect for a romantic escape.
  • Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum learn about the history of Sapporo beer and sample some of the city's famous brews.
  • Explore the stunning Odori Park a sprawling urban oasis complete with a botanical garden, a fountain and delicious food stalls.
  • Indulge in a luxurious dinner at the Michelin-starred Kita No Gourmet an intimate dining experience that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Cap off the evening with a romantic stroll along Nakajima Park a beautifully lit park with stunning night-time views.
Day 2

Cultural Immersion

  • Start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kumagera a cozy, family-run eatery serving up delicious rice bowls.
  • Visit the Hokkaido University Museum discover the fascinating history of the university and explore their impressive collection of natural history exhibits.
  • Take a scenic walk through Maruyama Park a picturesque park surrounded by forests and home to the iconic Maruyama Zoo.
  • Stop by the Hokkaido Jingu Shrine a peaceful, atmospheric shrine nestled in the heart of the city.
  • Wrap up your day with a delicious bowl of Sapporo-style ramen at Ramen Yokocho a lively food street where you can experience the best of local food culture.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Sapporo by plane is to fly into New Chitose Airport, which is located approximately 45 minutes outside of the city center. There are direct flights to New Chitose from many major cities in Japan, as well as from other countries in Asia. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a train or bus into the city.

Car

If you plan on driving to Sapporo, the most common route is to take the Hokkaido Expressway from Tokyo. The journey can take up to 17 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. You can also take the ferry from Aomori to Hakodate and drive from there.

Train

There are several train options for getting to Sapporo, but the most popular is the JR Hokkaido Limited Express from Tokyo to Sapporo. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and includes a transfer in Hakodate. Alternatively, you can take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto station and transfer to a local train to Sapporo. This option takes approximately 5 hours.

Boat

The ferry is a popular option for getting to Hokkaido from other parts of Japan. The most popular ferry route is from Aomori to Hakodate, which takes approximately 3 hours. From there, you can drive or take a train to Sapporo. Another option is to take the ferry from Niigata to Otaru or Tomakomai, which takes approximately 19 hours.

Bus

There are several bus options for getting to Sapporo from Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities in Japan. The journey can take up to 24 hours depending on your departure point and the bus company you choose. The most popular bus companies for traveling to Sapporo are Willer Express and Hokkaido Access Network. Both offer comfortable seats and amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and power outlets.

More travel plans

Sapporo on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

A trip to Sapporo, Japan on a limited budget can be done with careful planning. There are affordable budget accommodations available, as well as cheap and delicious street food options. Activities such as visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum and exploring Odori Park are inexpensive and offer unique Japanese experiences.

Romantic Long Weekend in Sapporo, Japan

A romantic trip to Sapporo, Japan will take you to a city filled with natural beauty, culture, and delicious food. From exploring the famous Ishiya Chocolate Factory to taking a stroll through the scenic Odori Park, there are plenty of romantic activities to indulge in. Finally, indulge in the local cuisine such as Sapporo-style ramen and fresh seafood, and end the day with a relaxing dip in one of the city's hot springs.

Sapporo in 5: The Ultimate City Adventure

Visiting Sapporo as a tourist allows you to explore the urban metropolis of Hokkaido's largest city, with its bustling shopping districts, modern architecture, and excellent dining scene. Visitors can also experience the city's rich cultural heritage by exploring its numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites, such as the famous Sapporo Clock Tower and the Meiji-era Hokkaido Shrine. Finally, you can't visit Sapporo without indulging in its world-famous beer and attending the annual snow festival, where you can witness enormous snow sculptures and enjoy traditional winter activities.

Sapporo on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun!

Sapporo is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers who are looking for an authentic Japanese experience. Visitors can explore the vibrant city and visit landmarks such as the Sapporo Beer Museum and the Hokkaido Shrine without breaking the bank. Eating affordable and delicious local cuisine like ramen and sushi is also a must while experiencing the lively nightlife scene.