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Sapporo ice festival
Sapporo ice festival - Photo by Denny Ryanto

Explore the Hidden Wonders of Sapporo, Japan – A Must-

About Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo is the largest city and capital of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. Known for its beautiful parks, skiing resorts, and beer, Sapporo is a year-round destination. Notable attractions include the Sapporo Beer Museum, the historic Shiroi Koibito Park, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival.

Sapporo is a beautiful city located in northern Japan. It is the capital of Hokkaido, Japan's second-largest island, and is known for its snow festivals, delicious food, and stunning natural scenery. In this post, we will explore some of the best things to see and do in Sapporo.

One of the most popular attractions in Sapporo is the Sapporo Snow Festival, which takes place every February. This festival features incredible snow and ice sculptures, many of which are several stories tall. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world and is a must-see for anyone visiting Sapporo in the winter.

Another popular attraction in Sapporo is the Odori Park. This park is located in the center of the city and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. During the winter months, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with ice sculptures and other winter activities.

Sapporo is also known for its delicious food. One of the most famous dishes in Sapporo is the Sapporo Ramen, a delicious soup made with noodles, vegetables, and meat. Other popular dishes include Genghis Khan, a grilled lamb dish, and Jingisukan, a dish made with grilled mutton.

If you are looking for some adventure, Sapporo is a great place to visit. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a great place for hiking and skiing. There are also many hot springs and natural parks in the area, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

In conclusion, Sapporo is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. From its stunning natural scenery to its delicious food and exciting winter festivals, there is something for everyone in Sapporo. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Sapporo is a destination that should not be missed.

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Popular Stays in Sapporo, Japan

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Sapporo, Japan

Sports and Entertainment
Business hotels

Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo

Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo is only 5 minutes walking from JR Sapporo Station. 5 minutes walking to Daimaru department store, Hokkaido University, 10 minutes walking to Steller Place, JR Tower, and 15 minutes walking distance to Odori Park where the snow festival is held in February. Offers delicious and variety of breakfast, free Wi-Fi and selected high-quality amenities. There are Teppanyaki, Traditional Japanese cuisine with private room (reservation required in advance), Sushi restaurants, coffee shop, bakery, and bar in the hotel.　 Gym and indoor pool are available in the hotel (over 16 years old and fee applied).
Lobby
Hotels with spa

Cross Hotel Sapporo

Great care is taken to ensure guests experience comfort through top-notch services and amenities. Stay connected with your associates, as complimentary Wi-Fi is available during your entire visit. When arriving by car, take advantage of the hotel's convenient on-site parking facilities. To ensure the well-being and convenience of all visitors, smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the entire hotel. Smoking is permitted solely in the specified smoking zones allocated by hotel. In order to ensure the utmost level of relaxation, the guestrooms feature an inviting design and are equipped with all basic necessities, creating a delightful stay experience. To experience refined leisure, do not miss the opportunity to drop by the executive lounge. Start your day stress-free at Cross Hotel Sapporo as breakfast is made available for you on the premises. Various excellent meal offerings at hotel ensure that enticing and easily accessible options are constantly available. Throughout the day and night, guests can enjoy light refreshments with the hotel offering vending machines.
General view
Business hotels

Sapporo Grand

Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. This hotel also features a hair salon, wedding services, and a ballroom. Enjoy French cuisine at NORTHERN TERRACE DINER, one of the hotel's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. Full breakfasts are available daily from 6:30 AM to 10 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Make yourself at home in one of the 494 individually furnished guestrooms, featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming provides entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and complimentary bottled water. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Former Hokkaido Government Office Building - 0. 3 km / 0. 2 mi- Sapporo Clock Tower - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Hokkaido Ainu Centre - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Soseigawa Park - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Tanukikoji Shopping Street - 0. 6 km / 0. 4 mi- Sapporo TV Tower - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Odori Park - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Hokkaido Shiki Theatre - 0. 8 km / 0. 5 mi- JR Sapporo Hospital - 0. 8 km / 0. 5 mi- Sankichi Shrine - 0. 8 km / 0. 5 mi- Odori Bisse - 0. 9 km / 0. 6 mi- Hokkaido University - 0. 9 km / 0. 6 mi- Nitori Culture Hall - 1 km / 0. 6 mi- Sapporo Factory - 1. 1 km / 0. 7 mi- Nijo Market - 1. 1 km / 0. 7 mi. The nearest airports are: Sapporo Okadama Airport (OKD) - 11. 4 km / 7. 1 miNew Chitose Intl. Airport (CTS) - 49. 2 km / 30. 5 miThe preferred airport for Sapporo Grand Hotel is New Chitose Intl. Airport (CTS).
General view
Business hotels

Sapporo Excel Hotel Tokyu

Sapporo Excel Hotel Tokyu is a high-rise hotel, located in the center of Sapporo, the central city of Hokkaido. The location is truly satisfactory both to sightseers and business travelers. You can also enjoy the seasonal beauties of the surrounding nature.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Sapporo Prince Hotel

Enjoy recreational amenities such as hot springs and bicycles to rent. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, gift shops/newsstands, and wedding services. Enjoy French cuisine at Le Trianon French Restaur, one of the hotel's many dining establishments, which include 4 restaurants and a coffee shop/cafe. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Event facilities at this hotel consist of conference space and meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Make yourself at home in one of the 587 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment.
General view

Grand Park Otaru

Great care is taken to ensure guests experience comfort through top-notch services and amenities. Stay connected with your associates, as complimentary Wi-Fi is available during your entire visit. When arriving by car, take advantage of the hotel's convenient on-site parking facilities. To ensure the well-being and convenience of all visitors, smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the entire hotel. Smoking is permitted solely in the specified smoking zones allocated by hotel. Start your day stress-free at Grand Park Otaru Hotel as breakfast is made available for you on the premises. How about kicking off each day of your getaway with a delicious cup of coffee? At the hotel, relish in the invigorating taste of a freshly brewed, excellent coffee. Throughout the day and night, guests can enjoy light refreshments with the hotel offering vending machines.
Bar
Business hotels

Ana Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo

Situated in Sapporo, one of the biggest cities in Japan, ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo has been a landmark for luxury and relaxation coupled with the best of Japanese hospitality. Each of the 412 guest rooms features natural color toning and a comfortable interior, creating an exquisite environment for a pleasurable experience. ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo features 18 banquet rooms of varying sizes to cater to any application. The unique sky banquet rooms on the 23rd and 24th floors and a Sapporo’s largest authentic sukiya-style tatami room coupled with perfectly synchronized sound and lighting, aim to provide the perfect atmosphere for any event. Restaurants at ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo aim to please even the most fastidious foodie with five different offerings bringing everything from Japanese cuisine to Teppanyaki to the table. Cafe Minamo provides the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the outside world while guests can revel in the panorama at a sky lounge, Sapporo View. All Day Dining MEM is now open. There is a restaurant like a heartwarming maison in the northland welcomes guests with the best hospitality and food. Easily accessible and centrally located, ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo is just a minute’s walk from the Sapporo Subway Station and an additional six minutes from JR Sapporo Station. The airport bus shuttling to and from the hotel and the New Chitose Airport takes about an hour. Please note that 1 Double Bed Standard EV (near elevator) is located next to the elevator. Unfortunately, we cannot change the room type after check-in. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Ana Crowne Plaza Chitose

Choose the stylish ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose hotel, 6km from New Chitose Airport, for doing business in Sapporo or playing golf in Hokkaido’s rolling countryside. Stroll through the grand lobby with sweeping staircase and collect the key to your spacious room or suite at ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose. While we take care of your luggage, you can confirm your tee-off time on the golf course. Then head to our 11th-floor Astral bar to celebrate your arrival with a seasonal cocktail and sweeping city views. ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose is in the centre of Chitose just 15 minutes by taxi from New Chitose Airport. We're 7 minutes’ walk from JR Chitose rail station, where you can reach Sapporo, Hokkaido's capital, in 30 minutes. This is golfing country and you'll find 30 golf courses within half an hour's drive. Let our Crowne Events Director arrange all the details and host a stunning reception or successful conference for up to 600 in our 8 meeting rooms. Exquisite Japanese cuisine featuring seasonal Hokkaido ingredients is on the menu at Haskap and Fujihana restaurants. Fujihana specialises in sushi while Haskap also draws on Western and Chinese cooking traditions. With our prime location close to Sapporo’s main airport, you can make ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose your base for business in the city or for travelling to other parts of Hokkaido, Japan and Asia.

Things to do in Sapporo, Japan

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

Enjoy an efficient, full-day walking tour of Sapporo accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking guide! Your guide will help you explore Sapporo while introducing both modern and traditional sides of this dynamic, ancient city. Sapporo City, on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, may be more famous for its winter activities, but your private guide will tell you that it is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round. Our tours feature a morning pickup at your hotel in Sapporo, then a visit to any number of possible sites. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour, full-day tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. This is a walking tour. You cannot combine tour groups or multiple reservations. Only 10 max per tour.
Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

Enjoy an efficient, half-day walking tour of Sapporo accompanied by a government-licensed, experienced English-speaking guide! Your guide will help you explore Sapporo while introducing both modern and traditional sides of this dynamic, ancient city. Sapporo City, on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, may be more famous for its winter activities, but your private guide will tell you that it is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round. Our tours feature a morning pickup at your hotel in Sapporo, then a visit to any number of possible sites. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour, half-day tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. This is a walking tour. You cannot combine tour groups or multiple reservations. Only 10 max per tour.
Lake Toya and Noboribatsu Hell Valley Private Day Trip
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Lake Toya and Noboribatsu Hell Valley Private Day Trip

This is a full day trip to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley, most visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful atmosphere in Hokkaido. We look at the crystal clear lake and explore the active geothermal area of Mt.Usu. Boiling springs rise up from Jigokudani, known as Hell Valley. We can explore the scenery of the valley with easy trails you can see bubbles forms and steam up close.
One Day Highlights Tour of Sapporo
Digital Voucher360 minutes

One Day Highlights Tour of Sapporo

Enjoy a private tour for the travelers covering Hokkaido’s biggest and most famous city, Sapporo. With a local guide, you will receive local Japanese hospitality.
Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo)
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo)

Enjoy the top Hokkaido sightseeing spots, Asahiyama Zoo, Biei's Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and Furano's Ningle Terrace, all in one day. Of course, we can make arrangements, so please feel free to contact us for any transportation needs within Hokkaido. We will impress you with our "safe, secure, and comfortable" transportation. *Note Asahiyama Zoo: Maintenance will be performed in April and November. On maintenance days, there will be alternatives or no service Blue Pond: During winter, the pond may not appear as blue due to snow accumulation. Ningle Terrace: Maintenance will be performed in November.
Sapporo Custom Private Tours By Locals, See the City Unscripted
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Sapporo Custom Private Tours By Locals, See the City Unscripted

On a personalized and private experience, discover the real Sapporo with a local Host, exploring the city on an itinerary totally customized to your interests and wishes! Whether you want to get off the beaten path and discover some quirky local neighborhoods or tick the famous sights and landmarks off your bucket list, your local Host will introduce you to the very best of their city. You'll experience Sapporo just as if you were visiting an old friend who lived there, so ditch the guidebook and live like a local for the day!
Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Kanae, a Sapporo Local
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Kanae, a Sapporo Local

Join Kanae for a market tour of Sapporo Morning Market and Jogai Market, before heading to her kitchen to learn how to prepare traditional Japanese dishes such as kinpira-gobo (sweet and salty cooked burdock), agedashi-tofu (deep fried and seasoned tofu), miso soup. A US college graduate, Kanae is a fun host who loves to share stories about how locals live and eat. She is eager to accommodate your request for menus so let her know when you make a booking request. She is also happy to introduce Hokkaido dishes such as soup curry, chan chan yaki and kaisen-don (donburi of fresh seafood) instead of typical homestyle menus. Originally from Kamakura, Kanae and her husband and two daughters have lived in Sapporo for over a decade. Influenced by her mother who was a great cook, Kanae has always loved food and cooking. Having lived in Hokkaido that boasts the best produce in Japan, Kanae appreciates and enjoys cooking with locally sourced fresh, native vegetables, fish, meat and seasonings.
JR PASS: Hokkaido Rail Pass, Sapporo-Noboribetsu or Sapporo-Furano Area Pass (E-Ticket)
Digital Voucher

JR PASS: Hokkaido Rail Pass, Sapporo-Noboribetsu or Sapporo-Furano Area Pass (E-Ticket)

Get your hands on the magical JR Rail Pass to explore the scenic spots in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu, or Furano without worrying about transportation.

  • Access Japan's convenient railway system to see the best of Hokkaido, Noboribetsu, or Furano
  • Book through Over The Planet to enjoy exclusive discounts you can get nowhere else
  • Take advantage of various package options to best accommodate your needs
  • Book after October 2023 and get unlimited quotas to reserve seats on the conventional lines (zairaisen) without any extra costs!

Why People Love Sapporo, Japan

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Sapporo, Japan

CM
Cherie M
5
Nov 2016
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch

Jun was an excellent guide and very kind. The trip is exactly as described in here and from other reviewers too. I would do this again!

MJ
Matthew J
4
Oct 2019
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Jun was our guide for the day and was a cool guy. He took us through a few nice and easy mountains paths to a river in the valley, then from there round the town of Jozankei. We were lucky that Tonga were training training as Jun took a side tour to show us rugby fans where they were (little bonu...
J
Joice_S
5
Jul 2016
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch

Love the weather and the local Onsen experience. Jun picked us up in the hotel at 9AM and we hopped into his van to the mountain area for around 45 minutes. When we reached, he assembled the bikes and we got to try them first to fit. We got to bike in the woods around 10 minutes, the rest is i...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Sapporo

What are the must-visit attractions in Sapporo?

Sapporo is a city with many interesting attractions. One of the most popular is the Sapporo Snow Festival which takes place every February. Other popular attractions include the Sapporo Beer Museum, Odori Park, and the Hokkaido Shrine.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Sapporo?

Sapporo is surrounded by mountains and nature, so there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. In the summer, you can go hiking or camping in the nearby mountains. In the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts in the area.

What are some kid-friendly activities in Sapporo?

There are many kid-friendly activities in Sapporo. The Sapporo Science Center is a popular attraction for families, as well as the Maruyama Zoo. You can also take a ride on the Sapporo Streetcar or visit the Sapporo Children's Museum.

What are some unique experiences to have in Sapporo?

One unique experience to have in Sapporo is to visit the Sapporo Snow Festival. You can also try the local cuisine, such as Sapporo ramen and jingisukan (grilled lamb). Another unique experience is to visit the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, which was used in the 1972 Winter Olympics.

What are some popular shopping areas in Sapporo?

Sapporo has many shopping areas, including the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, the Sapporo Factory shopping mall, and the Mitsukoshi Department Store. You can also find many souvenirs and local products at the Nijo Market.

What are some hot springs near Sapporo?

There are many hot springs near Sapporo, including Jozankei Onsen and Noboribetsu Onsen. Some of these hot springs also offer stunning views of the surrounding nature.

What are some recommended accommodations in Sapporo?

There are many good accommodations in Sapporo, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some recommended options include the Hotel Monterey Sapporo, the Ibis Styles Sapporo, and the APA Hotel Sapporo Susukino Ekimae.

What is the best way to get around Sapporo?

The best way to get around Sapporo is by using the city's subway system. There are also buses and streetcars available, but the subway is the most convenient and efficient way to travel.

What is the best time of year to visit Sapporo?

The best time of year to visit Sapporo depends on what you want to do. If you want to attend the Sapporo Snow Festival, then February is the best time to visit. If you want to enjoy the city's outdoor activities, then the summer months of July and August are ideal.

What are some day trips to take from Sapporo?

There are many day trips you can take from Sapporo, including a visit to Otaru, a charming port town known for its glassware and music boxes. You can also visit Lake Toya, a scenic lake surrounded by mountains, or Asahiyama Zoo, which is one of the best zoos in Japan.