Winter Wonderland: 4-Day Sapporo Itinerary

Discover the beauty of Sapporo, Japan – where tradition and modernity meet.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Sapporo, Japan, one can embark on a charming winter journey in Japan’s fourth-largest city. Visitors can explore Sapporo’s beautiful snow sculptures, ski down the mountains, and have a taste of the world-renowned Sapporo beer at the historic Sapporo Brewery. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture and delectable cuisine, Sapporo is the ideal getaway for an authentic Japanese experience.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the City

  • Check into your quirky and cozy hotel, Ascent Inn Sapporo, located in the heart of Susukino, the entertainment district
  • Visit Odori Park and view the iconic TV Tower
  • Explore the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn about the history of Japanese beer
  • Grab a bowl of savory miso ramen at Sapporo Ramen Kyowakoku, a food theme park dedicated to the beloved dish
  • Enjoy some retail therapy at the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, filled with unique Japanese souvenirs and street food
Day 2

Winter Wonderland Adventure

  • Take a day trip to nearby Otaru and visit the romantic canal lined with snow-covered trees
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many sushi restaurants in Otaru
  • Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding at the nearby Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
  • Warm up with a hot cup of cocoa at the Sapporo Snow Festival, a magical event where snow and ice sculptures take center stage
  • Attend an evening illumination event at the Moerenuma Park, featuring stunning light displays among the snowy landscape
Day 3

Cultural Immersion

  • Visit the Hokkaido Jingu, a Shinto shrine surrounded by a peaceful forest
  • Learn about traditional Ainu culture at the Ainu Museum, featuring exhibits on traditional clothing, textiles, and crafts
  • Take a stroll through the historic neighborhood of Higashi-Sapporo, home to historic buildings, temples, and shrines
  • Sample Hokkaido's famous dairy products at the Milk Kobo dairy farm, offering fresh milk, ice cream, and cheese
  • Attend a live performance of taiko drumming, a traditional Japanese art form with thunderous beats
Day 4

Relaxation and Farewell

  • Unwind at the Otaru Spa Joule, featuring natural hot springs and stunning ocean views
  • Enjoy a delicious meal at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Miyakozushi, specializing in traditional sushi
  • Take a final stroll through Sapporo's bustling streets and enjoy the warm hospitality of its friendly locals
  • Say your goodbyes to this charming city and make plans to return again soon, filled with unforgettable memories and experiences.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Sapporo Snowscape: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

Sapporo, Japan offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its captivating blend of nature, culture, and entertainment. Embark on a fascinating journey to the enchanting Odori Park, where kids can indulge in refreshing outdoor activities amidst picturesque landscapes. Discover the marvelous Sapporo Snow Festival, where towering ice sculptures, concerts, and thrilling snow slides will leave the whole family in awe. After exploring, relish mouthwatering Hokkaido cuisine, including their famous miso ramen, ensuring that your family's trip to Sapporo is filled with unforgettable memories.

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.

A Romantic 5-Day Getaway to Sapporo, Japan

A romantic trip to Sapporo, Japan promises a mix of urban and nature attractions that are sure to captivate couples seeking adventure and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in romantic walks through parks and gardens dotted with cherry blossoms or soak in natural hot springs for a rejuvenating experience. The trip is incomplete without trying out authentic Hokkaido cuisine, especially the famous Sapporo beer and fresh seafood delicacies.

Savor Sapporo: A Budget Day Trip Guide

A trip to Sapporo, Japan on a limited budget can still be an exciting adventure. Visitors can take advantage of the city's free attractions such as the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park. For accommodation, budget-friendly options like capsule hotels or Airbnb rentals can be found. Finally, enjoying local street food and buying groceries from supermarkets can cut down on expensive restaurant expenses.