Things To Do
in Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido Prefecture in Japan, is renowned for its vibrant annual Snow Festival, showcasing massive ice and snow sculptures that draw visitors from around the globe. The city offers a delightful mix of modern and natural beauty, with its bustling urban center, lush parks like Moerenuma Park designed by Isamu Noguchi, and the nearby ski resorts offering outdoor activities.
Sapporo also boasts a rich culinary scene, including its famous miso ramen and fresh seafood, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Odori Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens and city views. Visit the Sapporo TV Tower for a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Head to the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the history of beer in Japan. Taste some local brews and enjoy a meal at the Beer Garden.
Stroll through Susukino, Sapporo's entertainment district, packed with restaurants and bars. Enjoy a delicious dinner of miso ramen, a local specialty.
Visit Maruyama Park and take a leisurely walk among the cherry blossoms if in season. Don't miss the Maruyama Zoo to see various wildlife.
Explore the scenic trails at Mount Moiwa and take the ropeway for stunning views of Sapporo. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Return to the city and have dinner at a local izakaya for a taste of traditional Japanese bar food. Try some sake to complete the experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and parks, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Famous for its unique and delicious food, especially ramen and seafood.
- Rich cultural experiences, with various festivals such as the Sapporo Snow Festival.
- Well-organized public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city.
- A safe and clean urban environment with friendly locals.
- Harsh winter weather with heavy snowfall, which may be challenging for some.
- Limited international flight options compared to larger Japanese cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regional cities in Japan.
- Bilingual signs and services may be less prevalent, posing challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to other major cities in Japan.
Best Activities in Sapporo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history of beer in Hokkaido and enjoy beer tasting sessions.
Take a leisurely walk or enjoy seasonal events like the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter.
Engage in outdoor activities such as cycling, picnicking, and enjoying the park's unique art installations.
Experience skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sapporo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sapporo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Sapporo city, especially beautiful at night.
A central park that provides various seasonal views and is popular for photography.
Provides a bird's-eye view of the city and surrounding mountains.
Known for its beautiful campus and tree-lined streets, offering picturesque views.
Food in Sapporo
Sapporo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature dish of Sapporo, featuring a rich and savory broth flavored with miso, topped with tender Chashu pork, and served with springy noodles. Look for this iconic dish at Ramen Alley or at renowned shops like Sumire and Santouka.
Must-Try!
A popular barbecue dish made with thinly sliced lamb or mutton, grilled with vegetables on a special skillet. Recommended places to try this dish include Daruma Honten and Sapporo Beer Garden.
A delightful fusion of Japanese curry and soup, offering a lighter and more brothy consistency. Visit places like Tengachaya and Spice Cafe Keiran for a taste of this unique curry experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sapporo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market features an array of fresh seafood stalls, sushi bars, and small eateries offering seasonal seafood delicacies like crab, sea urchin, and scallops. Don't miss trying a bowl of fresh seafood donburi here.
One of Sapporo's oldest shopping streets, Tanukikoji is dotted with food stalls and shops offering a plethora of street food options, including yakitori, takoyaki, and Hokkaido's famous sweets like Shiroi Koibito cookies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sapporo, it is important to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.
When dining in Sapporo, it's polite to say 'itadakimasu' before eating to express gratitude for the meal, and to wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating before beginning your meal.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering a traditional Japanese home, as well as in some restaurants and ryokan (inns) in Sapporo.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sapporo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sapporo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Sapporo, Japan, and is generally not expected in most situations. In fact, tipping may even be considered rude in some cases, as it's believed that good service should be included in the price.
In Sapporo, Japan, cash is still widely used for payments, especially in smaller shops and restaurants. However, credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, particularly in larger establishments and tourist areas. It's always advisable to carry some cash, especially in more traditional and rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sapporo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Sapporo for the Sapporo Snow Festival and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Cherry blossoms bloom in late April and early May, making it a beautiful time to visit.
Mild and comfortable weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Vibrant foliage in October and November, creating picturesque landscapes for visitors to enjoy.
Sapporo at Night
Hiking in Sapporo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination close to Sapporo, offering a relatively easy trail and stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. The hiking trail is well-maintained and features a beautiful forest.
An expansive park with several trails, designed by the famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi. It features walking and biking paths, making it perfect for a leisurely hike amidst art installations and nature.
Known for its breathtaking views of Sapporo and the Sea of Japan, Mount Teine offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. The area is also popular for winter sports.
Located a bit further away from Sapporo, this national park features numerous hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and volcanic landscapes. It is perfect for day trips and nature lovers.
A lesser-known spot for hikers, Kusaie Mountain offers a peaceful atmosphere with moderate trails and opportunities to see wildlife. A great choice for those looking to escape the crowds.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sapporo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sapporo by plane.
The main airport serving Sapporo and the surrounding Hokkaido region. It is located approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Sapporo city center.
An airport located near Asahikawa, about 135 kilometers northwest of Sapporo. It primarily handles domestic flights but also has some international connections.
An airport situated in Hakodate, approximately 310 kilometers south of Sapporo. It serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Kushiro, about 240 kilometers east of Sapporo, this airport offers domestic services with some seasonal international routes.
Situated in Memanbetsu, approximately 270 kilometers northeast of Sapporo. It mainly caters to domestic flights, with limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, comprising over 90% of the population.
A significant minority group, often comprising descendants of those who moved during the Japanese occupation of Korea.
Another prominent minority group, largely consisting of recent immigrants and students.
An indigenous group in Japan, with a smaller population concentrated in certain areas, including Hokkaido.
Includes a mix of various nationalities, such as those from Southeast Asia, the Americas, and Europe, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Sapporo.
The Soul of Sapporo
Discover the essence of Sapporo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sapporo has a strong ice hockey culture, with the city hosting several teams and events, particularly in the context of winter sports.
The nearby mountains and ski resorts make skiing a popular sport during the winter months in Sapporo.
Football has a significant following in Sapporo, with local teams competing in regional leagues and contributing to the sport's popularity.
Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, and Sapporo is home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, a professional team in the Nippon Professional Baseball organization.
Sapporo hosts various running events, including marathons, attracting both local and international participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sapporo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Hokkaido cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Sapporo, especially in the city center, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for izakayas and cafes specializing in plant-based cuisine, and don't hesitate to communicate your dietary preferences.
Finding gluten-free options may require more awareness, but several establishments are becoming attuned to this dietary need. Look for restaurants that emphasize natural and organic ingredients, as they often provide gluten-free alternatives or can customize dishes to accommodate your requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sapporo with these cultural adventures.
