Romantic Long Weekend in Sapporo, Japan

Discover romance in the snowy wonderland of Sapporo.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Romantic Getaway at Hotel Monterey Sapporo

  • Check into Hotel Monterey Sapporo, located in the heart of downtown Sapporo
  • Indulge in a spacious, English-style room decorated with classic furniture and a four-poster bed
  • Relax in the on-site spa, complete with a Japanese-style hot spring bath
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel's French restaurant, featuring seasonal ingredients and a stunning city view
  • Sip cocktails at the hotel's bar, Piano Bar Raffiné, featuring live jazz music on weekends
Day 2

Discover Sapporo's Culture and History

  • Visit the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, featuring both Japanese and Western-style art
  • Stroll through the historic district of Susukino, with its traditional Japanese architecture and bustling nightlife
  • Explore Sapporo's former red-light district, Tanukikoji Shopping Street, with its unique shops and souvenir stalls
  • Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, built in 1878, to learn about the city's history and see its iconic symbol
  • Enjoy local cuisine at Nijo Market, known for its fresh seafood and Hokkaido specialties
Day 3

Experience Nature and Adventure

  • Take a short trip to Mount Moiwa, offering stunning panoramic views of Sapporo
  • Hike through Odori Park, a large public space featuring a beautiful flower garden and outdoor summer festival
  • Visit the Sapporo Satellite Museum, showcasing the history of space exploration and technology
  • Try out winter sports at Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, featuring world-class slopes and stunning scenery
  • Savor Sapporo-style ramen at Ichigen, one of the city's most famous noodle shops
Day 4

Relax and Unwind

  • Take a scenic train ride to Otaru, known for its romantic canals and glass-blowing traditions
  • Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, featuring a massive collection of music boxes from around the world
  • Take a relaxing dip in an onsen at Jozankei Hot Springs, known for its therapeutic mineral-rich waters
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Hanamaru, known for its exquisite seafood and fresh sushi
  • Catch a traditional Japanese puppet show at the Sapporo Puppet Theater, featuring unique local stories and charming characters.

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 Sampler: A Fun-Filled Day Trip

Sapporo, the capital of Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, is a charming destination for tourists. A winter wonderland, Sapporo is synonymous with the Sapporo Snow Festival, which is held in February highlighting snow and ice sculptures. The city is also known for its delicious seafood, beer and ramen, and its scenic natural landscapes.

3-Day Romantic Escape to Enchanting Sapporo

A romantic trip to Sapporo, Japan will immerse you into the land of enchantment, sweeping you off your feet with captivating sights and scintillating experiences. With its picturesque landscape dotted with snow-capped mountains and gleaming lakes, Sapporo offers the ideal backdrop for amorous adventures. Indulge in the city's famed culinary delights, discover the rustic charm of Hokkaido's rural areas, and take in the beauty of the cherry blossom season with your significant other, all while basking in the warmth of Sapporo's hospitality.

Sapporo Snowscape: A 3-Day Winter Wonderland Adventure

A family friendly trip to Sapporo, Japan offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences and fun-filled attractions. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Sapporo Science Center, visit the enchanting Maruyama Park, and frolic in the snow at the nearby Sapporo Winter Sports Museum. Don't forget to indulge in delicious local food, like the iconic Sapporo ramen and freshly-baked melonpan.

4 Days of Adventure: Sapporo, Japan on a Budget

Sapporo is a great destination for budget travelers in Japan. With a vibrant blend of city life and natural beauty, there are plenty of free or affordable activities available, such as exploring the parks, tasting local food, and visiting the Hokkaido Shrine. Hostels and guesthouses are abundant, which means you can easily find budget accommodation options.