Savor Sapporo: A Budget Day Trip Guide

Discover the beauty of Sapporo without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Sapporo's Delightful Charm

  • Start the day with a stroll through Odori Park, the centerpiece of Sapporo's urban landscape.
  • Experience Hokkaido's rich culinary culture at Nijo Market, from seafood to sweets.
  • Visit Sapporo Beer Museum and Brewery to discover the history of Hokkaido's famous brew.
  • Take a break with a scenic hike up Mount Moiwa, offering stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • Explore Susukino's neon lights and local izakayas for a taste of Sapporo's nightlife.
  • End the day with a delicious bowl of miso ramen from Sapporo's renowned ramen alley, Miso-koji.
  • Sapporo may be known for its winter wonders, but this lively city is just as enchanting in the summertime. From delicious seafood bites at Nijo Market to stunning views of the city atop Mount Moiwa, you'll find a balance of both urban excitement and natural charm. The buzzing atmosphere of Susukino provides the perfect night cap to your stay in Sapporo, but be sure to fuel up first with some of the city's famous miso ramen. Sapporo's delightful charm is sure to leave you wanting more.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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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More travel plans

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.

4 Days of Adventure: Sapporo, Japan on a Budget

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.

Sapporo, Japan: A Dreamy Romantic Getaway

Sapporo, Japan is the perfect romantic destination, boasting beautiful parks, delicious cuisine, and cultural experiences. Couples can visit the stunning Odori Park for a scenic stroll or take a hot air balloon ride for a stunning view of Mount Teine. For a unique dining experience, try the local Hokkaido crab or explore the Sapporo Beer Museum and taste some of the regional brews.

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.