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.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Sapporo Parks
morning:Start your day with a relaxing stroll through Maruyama Park, taking in the serene beauty of the Hokkaido Shrine. Don't miss the chance to try some delicious local pastries at the nearby bakery.
afternoon:Head to Moerenuma Park for an afternoon of outdoor art and activities. Be sure to visit the iconic glass pyramid and enjoy a delightful lunch at the park's cafe.
evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife at Susukino district, filled with bustling bars and restaurants that offer a mix of traditional and modern entertainment.
Cultural Immersion in Sapporo
morning:Immerse yourself in Hokkaido's history with a visit to the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art followed by a delightful breakfast at a nearby traditional Japanese teahouse.
afternoon:Explore the Historic Village of Hokkaido, where you can wander through restored buildings and artifacts that showcase the region's heritage. Enjoy a cozy lunch at one of the on-site cafes.
evening:Discover the local dining scene in the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, offering an array of restaurants and izakayas for a memorable evening of culinary adventure.
Sapporo Snow and Ice Activities
morning:Embrace the winter wonderland at the Sapporo Snow Festival, marveling at the intricate ice sculptures and enjoying a hot beverage from the cozy cafes in the area.
afternoon:Delight in a visit to the Shiroi Koibito Park, where you can learn about the art of making the famous Hokkaido sweets. Indulge in a tasty lunch at the park's charming restaurant.
evening:End the day with a night skiing or snowboarding experience at Sapporo Teine, a perfect way to enjoy the snowy landscapes under the starry sky.
Culinary Exploration in Sapporo
morning:Embark on a foodie adventure in Nijo Market, where you can sample a variety of fresh seafood and satisfy your appetite with a sumptuous breakfast at one of the local eateries.
afternoon:Join a cooking class at a local culinary school to learn the art of making your own Sapporo-style ramen. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delightful lunch feast.
evening:Take a stroll through the Susukino district and discover the hidden gems of the famous Ramen Alley, where you can savor delectable bowls of steaming hot ramen amidst the lively atmosphere.
Sapporo Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Miso Ramen
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!
Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)
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.
Soup Curry
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Nijo Market
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.
Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
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.
Things to do in Sapporo
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Sapporo
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!