Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, winter sports, and delicious cuisine. For those considering things to do in Sapporo, exploring the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of the city, and visiting Odori Park, a central green space that hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, are top activities.
The city’s Nijo Market offers a taste of Hokkaido’s fresh seafood and local produce, providing a delightful experience for food lovers. Nearby, the Sapporo Beer Museum delves into the history of one of Japan’s most famous beers, offering tastings and insights into the brewing process.
Beyond its culinary and historical attractions, Sapporo is also celebrated for its winter sports, with the annual Sapporo Snow Festival showcasing stunning ice sculptures and attracting visitors from around the world. For those seeking the best places to visit in Japan, Sapporo’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and winter festivities makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Sapporo, Japan
1. Odori Park
Spanning 12 blocks in the heart of Sapporo, Odori Park serves as the city’s main public space where locals and tourists alike gather for leisure and events. With beautifully landscaped areas, fountains, and art installations, the park transforms throughout the seasons, boasting cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant flowers in summer, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival in winter.
Location: Spanning 12 blocks in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Easily accessible by subway and bus.
Scenic Spot: Beautifully landscaped park with fountains, seasonal flower displays, and hosting site of the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, summer for festivals, and winter for the Snow Festival.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit during one of the many festivals held in the park to experience Sapporo’s vibrant community spirit.
2. Sapporo TV Tower
Dominating the eastern end of Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower stands 147.2 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from its observation deck. The tower’s design is reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower, providing a unique photo opportunity.
Location: Eastern end of Odori Park, Sapporo, Japan. A short walk from Odori Subway Station.
Scenic Spot: Panoramic views of Sapporo city and surrounding mountains from the observation deck.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the illuminated city skyline.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, accessible to all visitors.
Price: ¥1,000-¥1,800 (depending on observation deck access).
Travel Tip: The tower is beautifully illuminated at night, making for a great evening visit after exploring Odori Park.
3. Clock Tower (Tokeidai)
The Clock Tower is one of Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks, housing a clock that has been ticking since 1881. The building also serves as a museum, providing insight into Sapporo’s history and culture.
Location: Central Sapporo, a short walk from Sapporo Station.
Scenic Spot: Historic wooden clock tower with traditional architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for fewer crowds and better photography opportunities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may not find it very engaging.
Price: ¥200 for museum entry.
Travel Tip: The Clock Tower is more impressive from the outside, so take your time to admire the architecture and take photos, but also check the museum schedule for any special exhibitions.
4. Hokkaido Shrine
Nestled in Maruyama Park, the Hokkaido Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deities that protect the island of Hokkaido. The shrine is surrounded by lush forest, providing a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
Location: Inside Maruyama Park, Sapporo. Easily accessible by subway and bus.
Scenic Spot: Traditional Shinto shrine surrounded by lush forests.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for colorful foliage.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, suitable for all visitors.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit during the annual Sapporo Festival in June to witness traditional ceremonies and festivities.
5. Susukino District
Susukino is Sapporo’s entertainment district, known for its bustling nightlife, plethora of restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere. With everything from bars and clubs to ramen alleys, there’s something for everyone.
Location: Central Sapporo, easily accessible via Susukino Subway Station.
Scenic Spot: Vibrant nightlife, neon lights, and a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best nightlife experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Primarily for adults; not ideal for young children.
Price: Varies by venue.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try Sapporo’s famous miso ramen in one of the local ramen shops.
6. Sapporo Beer Museum
Dive into the history of one of Japan’s most famous beer brands at the Sapporo Beer Museum, offering exhibitions on the brewing process and the company’s history. The museum also offers beer tasting for visitors to sample the various brews.
Location: North of central Sapporo, accessible by bus or a short taxi ride.
Scenic Spot: Historic red-brick brewery with exhibitions on Sapporo Beer’s history.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for beer tastings and guided tours.
Suitable for All Ages: Museum is suitable for all ages, but beer tastings are for adults only.
Price: Free entry (beer tastings start at ¥200).
Travel Tip: Opt for the paid tasting set to try a variety of Sapporo beers and find your favorite.
7. Sapporo Factory
Sapporo Factory is a large shopping and entertainment complex housed in a former brewery, offering a mix of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The complex retains some of its historical industrial architecture, adding to its unique charm.
Location: Central Sapporo, near Sapporo Station.
Scenic Spot: Historic former brewery converted into a shopping and entertainment complex.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but winter is great for indoor shopping and dining.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with entertainment options for all age groups.
Price: Free to enter (shopping and dining prices vary).
Travel Tip: Check the complex’s event schedule before visiting, as there are often seasonal events and exhibitions.
8. Moerenuma Park
Designed by the renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi, Moerenuma Park is a sprawling public park that doubles as a gigantic sculpture garden, combining art, architecture, and nature. The park offers various outdoor activities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Location: Northeast of Sapporo, accessible by bus or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Sculptural park designed by Isamu Noguchi, featuring open landscapes and modern art installations.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn for outdoor activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, family-friendly with plenty of space for kids.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and explore the park by bike, which can be rented at the park.
9. Historic Village of Hokkaido
Step back in time at the Historic Village of Hokkaido, an open-air museum showcasing buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras, providing a glimpse into the region’s past. The village includes a town, a fishing village, a farm, and a mountain village.
Location: Outskirts of Sapporo, accessible by bus from Shin-Sapporo Station.
Scenic Spot: Open-air museum with historical buildings from Hokkaido’s past.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn for comfortable outdoor exploration.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for history lovers and families.
Price: ¥800 for entry.
Travel Tip: Allocate enough time for your visit, as the village covers a large area and there’s a lot to see.
10. Shiroi Koibito Park
Shiroi Koibito Park is a chocolate factory and theme park dedicated to Ishiya’s famous Shiroi Koibito cookies. Visitors can take a tour of the factory, participate in cookie-making workshops, and enjoy the whimsical atmosphere of the park.
Location: West Sapporo, near Miyanosawa Subway Station.
Scenic Spot: European-style chocolate factory and garden dedicated to the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but winter adds a festive atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, fun for children and adults.
Price: ¥600-¥1,500 (depending on activities).
Travel Tip: Don’t leave without trying the Shiroi Koibito soft-serve ice cream, a delightful treat.
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Sapporo, Japan: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Sapporo: 8/10 – Sapporo offers several family-friendly attractions such as the Sapporo Science Center, Maruyama Zoo, and the Historical Village of Hokkaido. The city’s parks, like Moerenuma Park and Odori Park, provide ample space for children to play and explore. During winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a highlight for families.
Nightlife in Sapporo: 7/10 – Sapporo has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and nightclubs, particularly in the Susukino entertainment district. While it may not be as lively as Tokyo, Sapporo offers a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere with plenty of options for evening entertainment.
Sport in Sapporo: 8/10 – Sapporo is a great destination for sports enthusiasts, especially those interested in winter sports. The city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and offers skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Sapporo Teine and Niseko. Sapporo Dome hosts football and baseball games, and there are numerous parks for outdoor activities.
Culture and Attractions in Sapporo: 8/10 – Sapporo is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Hokkaido Shrine, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Beer Museum. The city is also known for its festivals, such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Sapporo Autumn Fest, which showcase local culture and traditions.
Gastronomy in Sapporo: 9/10 – The culinary scene in Sapporo is diverse, featuring local Hokkaido specialties such as fresh seafood, miso ramen, and soup curry. The city is famous for its beer, with the Sapporo Beer Museum offering tastings. There are numerous dining options, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants.
Shopping in Sapporo: 8/10 – Shopping in Sapporo includes modern malls like Sapporo Factory and Stellar Place, as well as unique shopping streets like Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade. The city offers a variety of products, from fashion and electronics to local crafts and souvenirs. The Nijo Market is also popular for fresh seafood and local produce.
Prices in Sapporo: 7/10 – Sapporo is moderately priced, with options to suit different budgets. While some luxury accommodations and dining can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping.
Average price for a hotel night: $100
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $10
Price of a beer: $5
Price of a coffee: $3
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Sapporo, Japan
For those looking to explore beyond Sapporo’s snow-covered streets, top day trips near Sapporo reveal Hokkaido’s stunning natural beauty. From the serene waters of Lake Toya to the breathtaking landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s northern wilderness, all easily accessible for a memorable escape.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Sapporo accommodations range from cozy ryokans offering traditional Japanese hospitality to modern hotels that blend comfort with the convenience of city living, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable base to experience this vibrant winter capital.
FAQ About Things to Do in Sapporo, Japan
What are the must-visit places in Sapporo?
Essential places to visit in Sapporo include the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, the scenic Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower, and the famous Sapporo Beer Museum.
Is Sapporo good for winter sports?
Absolutely! Sapporo is renowned for its winter sports, especially after hosting the 1972 Winter Olympics. The nearby mountains, such as Teine and Moiwa, offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Can I experience an authentic Sapporo snow festival?
Yes, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held annually in February, showcasing massive ice and snow sculptures, winter sports, and various cultural events in Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome.
Where can I enjoy Sapporo’s famous ramen?
Ramen Yokocho, also known as Ramen Alley, in Susukino, is the best place to enjoy Sapporo’s famous miso ramen. Several shops serve this local specialty with a variety of toppings.
Are there any parks to enjoy nature within Sapporo?
Yes, Moerenuma Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. Designed by Isamu Noguchi, it features beautiful landscapes, play areas, and outdoor art installations.
What cultural experiences are unique to Sapporo?
Visitors can enjoy the Historical Village of Hokkaido, showcasing the island’s frontier history, or visit the Ainu Museum to learn about the indigenous Ainu culture.
What shopping options are available in Sapporo?
Sapporo offers a variety of shopping experiences, from the fashionable Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade to the Sapporo Factory, a large shopping and entertainment complex.
Are there any hot spring (onsen) resorts near Sapporo?
Yes, the nearby town of Jozankei is famous for its hot spring resorts, set in a scenic valley just a short drive from Sapporo. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sapporo
https://www.getyourguide.com/sapporo-l32644/
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