Sapporo in 5: The Ultimate City Adventure

Experience winter wonderland and cultural harmony in Sapporo, Japan.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and City Exploration

  • Check in at the luxurious JR Tower Hotel Nikko with panoramic views of Sapporo
  • Start the day with a visit to Odori Park, a 1.5 km stretch of greenery in the heart of the city
  • Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the brewing process and indulge in a tasting session
  • Head to the historic district of Susukino, famous for its lively nightlife and delicious food stalls
  • Dine at Ramen Yokocho, a narrow alley lined with over 17 different ramen shops to choose from
Day 2

Day Trip to Otaru

  • Take a scenic train ride to the charming port city of Otaru
  • Visit the beautiful Otaru Canal and take a cruise on a traditional Japanese boat
  • Explore the Kitachi Glass Factory and create your own handmade glass souvenirs
  • Enjoy lunch at a local sushi restaurant and indulge in the freshest seafood
  • End the day with a stroll through the romantic, candle-lit alley of Otaru Canal Plaza
Day 3

Cultural Experiences

  • Start the day with a visit to the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, showcasing contemporary art from local artists
  • Participate in a traditional tea ceremony at the tranquil Daisetsu Jingu Shrine
  • Learn about Ainu culture at the Maruyama Ainu Cultural Center and try traditional Ainu cuisine
  • Take a stroll through Maruyama Park and hike up Mount Maruyama for stunning views of the city
  • Have dinner at Daruma, a local izakaya serving up delicious grilled skewers and Japanese sake
Day 4

Winter Fun in Sapporo

  • Begin the day with a visit to the Sapporo Snow Festival, held annually in early February, and witness magnificent snow and ice sculptures
  • Take a ski lesson or hit the slopes at one of the nearby ski resorts like Sapporo Teine or Kiroro
  • Indulge in a warm bowl of hot pot at the famous Miso Ramen Ichiran (Jozankei Onsen Branch)
  • Relax and rejuvenate with a soak in one of Sapporo's many hot springs
  • End the day with a stroll through the gorgeous winter illuminations at Odori Park
Day 5

Last Day in Sapporo

  • Take a trip to the top of Mount Moiwa for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains
  • Shop for souvenirs and Hokkaido specialties at the Nijo Fish Market, featuring fresh seafood and local products
  • Have a farewell lunch at the historic and iconic Sapporo Beer Garden, serving up classic Japanese pub fare
  • Visit the lush and green Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens and take a leisurely walk through the beautiful grounds
  • Departure from Sapporo, filled with unforgettable memories and experiences.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

Sapporo on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun!

Sapporo is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers who are looking for an authentic Japanese experience. Visitors can explore the vibrant city and visit landmarks such as the Sapporo Beer Museum and the Hokkaido Shrine without breaking the bank. Eating affordable and delicious local cuisine like ramen and sushi is also a must while experiencing the lively nightlife scene.