Sapporo on a Budget: Culture, Cuisine & Adventure!

Discover the wonders of Sapporo without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Sapporo, Japan on a limited budget is definitely possible with careful planning. One can stroll around the city's scenic beauty, try Sapporo beer at the famous beer garden, and indulge in delicious yet cheap street food like soup curry and ramen. Additionally, exploring sights such as the Clock Tower, Sapporo Beer Museum, and Odori Park are highly recommended to make the most of a budget-friendly trip to Sapporo.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get Acquainted with Sapporo

  • Welcome to Sapporothe land of snow is dotted with shops, restaurants, and historical buildings.
  • Start with the odori park, a peaceful park located in the heart of the city.
  • Stop by the clock tower, a symbol of Sapporo, to learn about its history.
  • Visit the Sapporo beer museum and learn about one of Japan's oldest brewing companies.
  • Sample some sapporo ramen at one of the many ramen restaurants in the city.
  • Head back to your hotel, snack on some street food, and top off the day in the Onsen (hot spring).
  • Hotel suggestion The Hotel Resol Trinity: A comfortable yet affordable hotel, nestled between old world charm and modern-day luxury.
Day 2

Explore the Culture of Sapporo

  • Sapporo is home to many museums, parks, and theaters.
  • -Visit the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, to get an insight into the modern art of Hokkaido.
  • Explore Moerenuma Park; the green space that inspired Isamu Noguchi's artwork.
  • -Experience authentic Japanese theater with a visit to the Hokkaido Kitami Enbukan Kabuki Theater.
  • -Refuel with a steaming bowl of Japanese curry at the Chaya restaurant in Odori park.
  • -Stroll down Sakaimachi Street, a historic street lined with shops and restaurants.
Day 3

Day Trip to Enjoy the Outdoors

  • Sapporo boasts of picturesque parks and gardens, geothermal baths, and outdoor activities.
  • -Visit the Bankei Ski resort for a skiing or snowboarding adventure.
  • -Experience breathtaking views of Sapporo from Mount Okura, and enjoy a thrilling sled ride down the slope.
  • -Visit Shikotsu-Toya National Park for an unforgettable hiking experience.
  • -Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and cake at the Maruyama Tea Garden.
  • -Catch the the night life entertainment at clubs and bars in Susukino, Sapporo's shopping district.
  • In conclusion, Sapporo offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor escapades. The city is the perfect getaway destination that leaves a lasting impression.

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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Sapporo on a Budget: Culture, Cuisine & Adventure!

A trip to Sapporo, Japan on a limited budget is definitely possible with careful planning. One can stroll around the city's scenic beauty, try Sapporo beer at the famous beer garden, and indulge in delicious yet cheap street food like soup curry and ramen. Additionally, exploring sights such as the Clock Tower, Sapporo Beer Museum, and Odori Park are highly recommended to make the most of a budget-friendly trip to Sapporo.