Sapporo Delight: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

Discover Joyful Family Adventures in Sapporo, Japan!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Sapporo, Japan offers a perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and nature. Explore the vibrant Odori Park, home to seasonal festivals like the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, where you can marvel at impressive snow sculptures. Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the city's brewing history, and delight in the fresh seafood markets and delicious Hokkaido cuisine that will surely please the taste buds of the entire family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Sapporo Kickoff Extravaganza

  • Start your day with a fluffy stack of pancakes at the charming Cafe Belle-Ville, a haven for carb enthusiasts.
  • Dive into the captivating historical journey at the Sapporo Clock Tower, a unique blend of European and Japanese architectural styles.
  • Waddle with joy at the Odori Park, where you'll find tranquil gardens, perfect for picnics or spontaneous game of Frisbee.
  • Satisfy your shopping urges and snack cravings at the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, a labyrinth of quirky shops and delicious street food.
  • Embrace the vibrant nightlife of Susukino, tucked away in a labyrinth of whimsical alleyways glowing with neon lights and excitement.
Day 2

Snowy Adventures Galore

  • Bundle up and hit the slopes at Mount Moiwa, where you can unleash your inner snow bunny and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Warm your belly with a steaming bowl of miso butter ramen at Ramen Yokocho, an alley filled with cozy ramen joints.
  • Explore the Ishiya Chocolate Factory, a sugary wonderland where you can indulge in Hokkaido's finest sweet treats.
  • Unleash your creativity at the Sapporo Art Park, where you can dabble in various art forms or simply soak up the artistic vibes.
  • Catch a magnificent evening lightshow at the Sapporo TV Tower, where cascades of colors illuminate the night sky.
Day 3

Culture, Gardens, and Soba

  • Immerse yourself in Japanese culture at the Hokkaido Historical Village, with reconstructed buildings and enchanting traditional performances.
  • Soak in the serenity of the glorious Maruyama Park, a vast oasis adorned with cherry blossoms and peaceful ponds.
  • Enjoy a bowl of soba at Soba Noodles Shirakaba Sanso, a rustic restaurant nestled in the heart of the park.
  • Take a stroll through the enchanting Hokkaido University campus, where ivy-covered brick buildings create a whimsical atmosphere.
  • Unleash your inner shopaholic at the Stellar Place Mall, an architectural marvel that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Day 4

Nature's Bounty and Seafood Delights

  • Embark on a scenic day trip to Otaru, a coastal town filled with charming canals, picturesque streets, and delightful seafood markets.
  • Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at Sankaku Market, where you can slurp down the freshest seafood imaginable.
  • Explore the whimsical Otaru Music Box Museum, a treasure trove of enchanting music boxes that will delight both young and old.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the Otaru Canal, lined with century-old warehouses transformed into romantic cafes and boutiques.
  • End the day with a refreshing dip at the Jozankei Onsen, a rejuvenating hot spring nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Day 5

Farewell Sapporo, Hello Memories

  • Savor a delectable breakfast at Petit Margeaux, a delightful bakery offering mouthwatering pastries and aromatic coffee.
  • Discover the hidden gems of the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, where contemporary art from both local and international artists collide.
  • Spend your last few moments in Sapporo at the Nijo Fish Market, feasting on succulent seafood and stocking up on local delicacies.
  • Reflect on your journey at the Hokkaido Shrine, a spiritual haven surrounded by lush gardens and serene atmosphere.
  • Bid farewell to Sapporo with a dazzling evening at the Teine Olympia Ski Jump Stadium, where you can witness stunning ski jump exhibitions.

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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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.