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.

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Travel plan

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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.

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

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 Splendors: A Family-Friendly Fun Day Trip!

Sapporo, Japan offers a delightful family-friendly trip with something for everyone. Start by exploring the enchanting Odori Park, which comes alive with vibrant flower displays and exciting events throughout the year. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Sapporo Science Center, while the whole family can enjoy a thrilling visit to the Sapporo Snow Festival, where magnificent ice sculptures and snow slides await.

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.

Sapporo on a Budget: Culture, Cuisine & Adventure!

A trip to Sapporo, Japan on a limited budget is definitely possible with careful planning. One can stroll around the city's scenic beauty, try Sapporo beer at the famous beer garden, and indulge in delicious yet cheap street food like soup curry and ramen. Additionally, exploring sights such as the Clock Tower, Sapporo Beer Museum, and Odori Park are highly recommended to make the most of a budget-friendly trip to Sapporo.