The Ultimate 2-Day Sapporo Adventure Guide

Discover the unique charm of Sapporo, Japan's winter wonderland.

03 May 2023

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is a vibrant destination that is rich with culture, food, and natural beauty. There is no shortage of things to do, ranging from exploring historic markets and parks, to soaking in hot springs and indulging in delicious seafood specialties. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends or family, Sapporo promises to be a memorable experience for all.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sapporo's Natural Charms

  • Hotel: Stay at the luxurious Sapporo Grand Hotel, a landmark hotel in the city with unmatched service.
  • Start your day at the Hokkaido Shrine, a serene and beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by forest.
  • Next, visit the Ishiya Chocolate Factory to enjoy the sweetest treats in town.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Maruyama Park, home to the Hokkaido Shrine, and take in views of the city from the observation deck.
  • Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn the story of beer in Japan complete with a tasting session!
  • Head to Susukino, the city's entertainment district, and dine on fresh seafood at the bustling Nijo Market.
Day 2

Sapporo's Urban Charm

  • Start the day with a fulfilling breakfast at the historic Sapporo Wholesale Market, where seafood is aplenty.
  • Next, check out the Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of the city and a reminder of its American influence.
  • Take a stroll down the colorful Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, which is home to over 200 shops and charming street food.
  • Hop on the Sapporo TV Tower for sensational bird's eye views of the city, and grab a coffee in the observation deck café.
  • End the day on a culinary high note at the Michelin-starred Kamome restaurant, which serves up delectable Japanese cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Sapporo may be known for its skiing and snowboarding, but it's also a vibrant and charming city that has so much to offer its visitors. For two days, visitors can experience the natural and urban charms of Sapporo while enjoying delicious food and comfortable accommodation.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Sapporo

Welcome to a city where winter coats are a fashion statement all year round and ramen is as ubiquitous as air. Yes, we're talking about the place that brews beer so good, you'll forget you're standing in sub-zero temperatures.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

The Ultimate 2-Day Snowy Adventure in Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan is a vibrant city located in the northernmost island of Hokkaido, perfect for a family-friendly trip. With its unique blend of natural beauty and modern attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From exploring family-friendly museums and parks to tasting delicious local cuisine and participating in the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, this city offers an unforgettable experience that the whole family will cherish.

Experience Sapporo's Romance in One Day

A romantic trip to Sapporo, Japan offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautifully landscaped parks or catch a glimpse of the aesthetically pleasing snow sculptures at the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. Indulge in delicious seafood, try out the iconic Sapporo Ramen, and sip on locally brewed beer at the famous Sapporo Beer Museum.

Sapporo Delight: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

A family-friendly trip to Sapporo, Japan offers a perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and nature. Explore the vibrant Odori Park, home to seasonal festivals like the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, where you can marvel at impressive snow sculptures. Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the city's brewing history, and delight in the fresh seafood markets and delicious Hokkaido cuisine that will surely please the taste buds of the entire family.