Things To Do
in Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, blends urban vitality with northern charm. It’s renowned for the Snow Festival, crisp miso ramen, and a prosperous craft-beer scene. The city sits on the Ishikari Plain, offering easy access to mountains, hot springs, and scenic parks.
Year-round it delivers vibrant neighborhoods, cultural events, and plenty of outdoor possibilities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of the city’s history. After taking pictures, stroll through the nearby Odori Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful greenery and seasonal flowers. Don’t forget to stop by the Sapporo TV Tower for a stunning view of the city.
Head to the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about Japan's beer brewing history and enjoy a tasting session. For lunch, savor a bowl of Sapporo's famous miso ramen at one of the local shops in the Susukino district. Afterward, explore the historic red brick buildings of the former Hokkaido government office.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in Sapporo's vibrant nightlife in Susukino, known for its entertainment and dining options. Enjoy dinner at a traditional izakaya, tasting local delicacies such as fresh seafood and grilled meats. End your evening with a stroll through the neon-lit streets, taking in the lively atmosphere.
Visit Moerenuma Park, a stunning public park designed by renowned artist Isamu Noguchi. Explore the unique sculptures and art installations while enjoying the fresh air and scenic views. Take a leisurely walk along the pathways and appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and art.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, surrounded by the tranquil landscape. After your meal, rent a bicycle to explore more of the park’s expansive trails and hidden gems. Don’t miss visiting the glass pyramid, which houses a café and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot in the park to watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Afterward, head back to the city center for dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in Hokkaido cuisine. Try the seafood, particularly the succulent crab dishes that the region is famous for.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries (per week) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High-quality food and seasonal specialties
- Efficient transit system and easy access to nature
- Very cold winters requiring warm clothing
- Limited English in some areas and menus
- "こんにちは" - Hello (formal)
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いただきます" - Let's eat (before meals)
- "ごちそうさまでした" - Thank you for the meal
Places to Visit in Sapporo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic tower with city views; excellent at sunrise or sunset over Odori Park.
Historic building and a popular retro photo subject near Sapporo Station.
Serene shrine grounds framed by evergreen trees, ideal for seasonal photography.
Panoramic city views reachable by ropeway and a short hike.
Food in Sapporo
Sapporo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic Sapporo specialty with a rich miso-based broth and chashu pork.
Must-Try!
Table-grilled lamb often enjoyed with vegetables and dipping sauces.
Fragrant, spicy curry served as a soupy broth over rice.
A bowl of fresh seafood over rice, best in markets and seaside eateries.
Salmon hot pot with a miso-based broth and seasonal vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market by the Ishikari River offering fresh seafood and regional specialties.
A compact alley near Susukino hosting several classic ramen shops.
A network of shops under the city streets offering quick bites and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in lines and speak softly; avoid loud conversations on public transport.
Remove shoes when entering homes, certain temples, and traditional inns.
Offer money with both hands when presenting payment; use polite phrases like onegaishimasu.
Safety
Tipping in Sapporo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; it is generally not expected in dining, taxis, or services. If you wish to show appreciation, a small gift or a sincere thank-you is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in hotels, larger shops, and nicer restaurants. IC cards (Suica, PASMO) work on most trains and many buses. Some smaller local places may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with early cherry blossoms; expect some rain and cool mornings.
Warm, comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours; occasional humidity. Outdoor festivals and beer gardens are common.
Clear skies and vibrant foliage from late September to early November; ideal photography weather.
Cold with heavy snowfall; perfect for snow festivals, ice sculptures, and winter sports.
Sapporo at Night
Hiking in Sapporo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, rewarding hike with city views; accessible via ropeway and a signposted trail.
Forest trails along the Toyohira River in the hot spring village of Jozankei.
Extensive woodland and lakeside trails north of Sapporo, ideal for easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Sapporo by plane.
Main international airport serving Sapporo; connected by JR Rapid Airport to Sapporo Station; about 40-60 minutes by rail.
Small domestic airport primarily for feeder flights; limited routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large student population due to Hokkaido University and other colleges; a youthful, international-friendly vibe.
Long-established families and communities with strong regional pride.
Growing number of visitors and foreign residents attracted by nature, cuisine, and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nippon-Ham Fighters and local leagues; games at Sapporo Dome and other venues.
J1 League team Consadole Sapporo plays at Sapporo Dome; strong fan culture.
Nearby mountain resorts offer winter sports within an hour or two.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sapporo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options can be limited; look for dishes featuring vegetables, tofu, seaweed, and miso-based soups. Request no fish stock or meat, and consider vegetarian-friendly restaurants or dedicated vegan spots when available.