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.
Travel plan
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- 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.
- 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.
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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.