Things To Do
in Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes. It is famous for its annual Snow Festival, which showcases elaborate ice sculptures and attracts thousands of visitors. The city offers a mix of modern urban life and traditional Japanese culture, making it a unique destination.
With its delicious cuisine, beautiful parks, and friendly locals, Sapporo is a must-visit for travelers seeking a memorable experience in Japan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of the city, followed by a stroll through Odori Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and seasonal flowers.
Head to the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the city's brewing history and enjoy a tasting session. Afterward, explore the bustling Sapporo Factory shopping mall.
Conclude your day with a dinner at Susukino, Sapporo's entertainment district, where you can experience local izakayas and enjoy the lively nightlife.
Take a trip to Moerenuma Park, a vast outdoor space designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, where you can walk, bike, or enjoy the various art installations.
Visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido, an open-air museum that showcases buildings from different eras of Hokkaido's history.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to the famous Ramen Alley, where you can indulge in various delicious ramen dishes and soak in the local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Ramen Meal | $8 |
| 🍺Draft Beer | $5 |
| 🍣Sushi Platter | $20 |
| 🏨Hotel Night Stay | $80 |
| 🚍Public Transport Ticket | $1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary scene with diverse local dishes.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Friendly locals and a safe environment.
- Cold winters may deter some visitors.
- Limited English signage in some areas.
- Public transport can be crowded during peak seasons.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "はい" - Yes
- "いいえ" - No
Places to Visit in Sapporo
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture panoramic views of Sapporo from the observation deck of this iconic tower, especially stunning at sunset.
A beautiful park that provides excellent opportunities for nature photography, particularly during cherry blossom season.
Photograph well-preserved buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras set against a backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Food in Sapporo
Sapporo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and hearty ramen served with a miso-based broth, topped with vegetables, pork, and green onions.
Must-Try!
A grilled mutton dish served with vegetables, traditionally enjoyed at outdoor barbecues.
Sapporo is renowned for its seafood, particularly crabs, scallops, and salmon, often served in sushi or sashimi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and various street food stalls.
A vibrant area filled with food stalls serving local snacks and specialties, perfect for an evening stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Japanese culture values personal space, so maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.
Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transportation. Speaking on the phone is generally discouraged.
Safety
Tipping in Sapporo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Exceptional service is included in the overall experience.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) brings beautiful cherry blossoms. The weather is mild, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is warm, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F). It's a great time for festivals and exploring parks.
Autumn (September to November) features stunning fall foliage. The weather is cool and crisp, ideal for hiking.
Winter (December to February) is cold with heavy snowfall. Sapporo is famous for its winter activities, including skiing and the Snow Festival.
Sapporo at Night
Hiking in Sapporo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that provides stunning views of Sapporo and the surrounding area, accessible year-round.
Known as 'Ezo Fuji,' this challenging hike offers breathtaking views of the iconic volcano and the Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Airports
How to reach Sapporo by plane.
Located approximately 45 kilometers from Sapporo, New Chitose Airport is the main airport serving the region, with domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Sapporo's population consists of Japanese locals who embrace their culture and traditions.
Sapporo attracts a diverse range of tourists, particularly during the Snow Festival and summer events, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sapporo is home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, a professional baseball team, and games are a popular summer activity.
Ice hockey enjoys popularity in Sapporo, especially during the winter months when local teams compete in various leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sapporo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sapporo is known for its meat dishes, some restaurants offer vegetarian ramen and vegetable tempura.
Gluten-free options are available at various restaurants, but it's advisable to check with staff regarding cross-contamination.