Sapporo on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun!

Sapporo adventures on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Central Sapporo

  • Hotel: Toyoko Inn Sapporo Susukino Kosaten a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Sapporo's entertainment district, Susukino.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn about the history of beer making in Japan
  • Take a stroll through Odori Park, which is beautiful in any season but especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival in February
  • Indulge in Hokkaido's seafood at the Nijo Market, where you can try fresh sushi, crab, and other local delicacies
  • Visit the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower, built in 1878 and a symbol of Sapporo's development into a modern city
  • Head to Tanukikoji Shopping Street for some retail therapy and try some Hokkaido milk soft serve ice cream
  • End the day with a hot bowl of Sapporo-style ramen at one of the many ramen shops in Susukino
Day 2

Day trip to Otaru

  • Take a scenic train ride to the charming port town of Otaru, known for its glassworks and picturesque canal
  • Visit the Otaru Glassworks and make your own glass souvenir
  • Take a walk through the historic Otaru Canal and enjoy the view of the sea and boats
  • Sample some of Otaru's famous sweets such as the LeTao cheesecake or Kitakaro's cream puffs
  • Visit the Music Box Museum and feel nostalgic with the beautiful and delicate music boxes
  • Head back to Sapporo for a final dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden, where you can enjoy their famous jingisukan (grilled lamb dish) and wash it down with a cold Sapporo beer
  • Sapporo may be a bustling metropolis but its charm lies in its balance of urban development with beautiful nature and rich cultural heritage. With this 2-day itinerary, you'll get a taste of both the city and the nearby towns, all while staying within budget.

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.

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