4 Days of Adventure: Sapporo, Japan on a Budget

Sapporo: Affordable exploration of the Land of the Rising Sun.

21 June 2023

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.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Sapporo

  • Breakfast at Lucky Pierrot for their famous burgers
  • Visit the Hokkaido Shrine and admire the colorful torii gates
  • Stroll around Odori Park and enjoy the flowers in spring
  • Head to Sapporo Beer Museum for a free tour and beer tasting
  • Dinner at Ramen Yokocho for delicious and affordable ramen dishes
  • Stay at the Sapporo Classe Hotel for a budget-friendly and comfortable stay
Day 2

Sapporo's Winter Wonderland

  • Breakfast at Soup Curry Garaku for their unique soup curry
  • Take a subway ride to Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Resort for skiing or snowboarding
  • Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival for stunning ice sculptures and hearty winter food
  • Dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden for all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan (grilled lamb)
  • Relax in the hotel's onsen after a chilly day
Day 3

A Day of Culture and Cuisine

  • Breakfast at Bakery & Table by BIEI, known for their freshly baked breads
  • Visit the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building for a glimpse of Sapporo's history
  • Explore the bright and lively Susukino neighborhood
  • Lunch at the famous Soup Curry Suage+ for their signature soup curry
  • Check out the underground shopping center for unique souvenirs
  • Dinner at Kumagera for their affordable yet delicious izakaya-style dishes
Day 4

Nature Escape in Jozankei

  • Breakfast at Otaru Sankaku Market for fresh seafood and dairy products
  • Take a bus to Jozankei Onsen for a relaxing hot spring bath amidst beautiful nature
  • Visit the Jozankei Dam for a stunning view of the surrounding mountains
  • Lunch at Sennaritei for their delicious soba noodles
  • Return to Sapporo for dinner at Izakaya Kura for a wide selection of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
  • Don't forget to try Sapporo's famous soft serve ice cream and buy some Hokkaido milk products as souvenirs!

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

The Ultimate 2-Day Snowy Adventure in Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan is a vibrant city located in the northernmost island of Hokkaido, perfect for a family-friendly trip. With its unique blend of natural beauty and modern attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From exploring family-friendly museums and parks to tasting delicious local cuisine and participating in the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, this city offers an unforgettable experience that the whole family will cherish.

Romantic Long Weekend in Sapporo, Japan

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.

Winter Wonderland: 4-Day Sapporo Itinerary

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.