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Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido in northern Japan, is famous for its vibrant urban life, natural beauty, winter activities, and culinary delights.
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Top locations: Hiroshima - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Mount Fuji - Nara - Osaka - Sapporo - Takayama - Tokyo |
Guide of what to see in Sapporo:![]() Overview: A long, green park that stretches through the heart of Sapporo, Odori Park is the city's main gathering spot and the site of many festivals and events, including the famous Sapporo Snow Festival in winter. Highlights: Scenic walkways, fountains, flower beds, and seasonal events such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the summer beer garden. Tip: Visit during the Sapporo Snow Festival (in February) to see impressive snow and ice sculptures. ![]() Overview: One of Japan’s most famous winter events, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held every February, transforming Odori Park and other parts of the city into a winter wonderland filled with elaborate snow and ice sculptures. Highlights: Massive snow sculptures, ice displays, snow slides, and light shows. Tip: Dress warmly and visit after dark to see the illuminated sculptures. The festival is spread across Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome sites. 3. Sapporo TV Tower Overview: Located at the eastern end of Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower offers an observation deck with panoramic views of the city, the park, and on clear days, even Mount Okura and Mount Moiwa. Highlights: Great city views, especially at night when the park is lit up. Tip: Visit in the evening for stunning sunset views followed by the city lights. ![]() Overview: As the birthplace of Japan’s famous Sapporo Beer, the city is home to this museum, where visitors can learn about the history of beer in Japan, the brewing process, and enjoy beer tasting. Highlights: Exhibits on the history of Sapporo Beer, vintage beer advertisements, and tastings of different Sapporo Beer varieties. Tip: Head to the adjacent Sapporo Beer Garden for a meal of Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) paired with fresh Sapporo beer. 5. Hokkaido University and Ginkgo Avenue Overview: One of Japan’s top universities, Hokkaido University features a large, beautiful campus that's especially famous for its Ginkgo Avenue, a tree-lined path that turns a vibrant gold in autumn. Highlights: Ginkgo Avenue in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, and the university’s botanical gardens and museum. Tip: Visit in late October to early November for the best autumn foliage views along Ginkgo Avenue. ![]() Overview: This popular mountain located just outside the city offers some of the best panoramic views of Sapporo, especially at night. Visitors can take a cable car up to the summit. Highlights: Stunning views of Sapporo, the surrounding mountains, and Ishikari Bay. It's also a popular spot for stargazing. Tip: Visit in the evening for one of Japan’s best night views, and take the ropeway for a scenic ride up the mountain. ![]() Overview: A unique, expansive park designed by famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi, Moerenuma Park blends art and nature, with large green spaces, geometric sculptures, and a glass pyramid. Highlights: The Glass Pyramid (HIDAMARI), Moere Mountain, fountains, and wide open spaces perfect for picnics, cycling, and relaxation. Tip: The park is beautiful in all seasons, but visit in spring for cherry blossoms or in winter for sledding and snowshoeing. 8. Former Hokkaido Government Office Overview: Known as the “Red Brick Building,” this historic structure was the former administrative building of Hokkaido. Now it’s a museum showcasing the history of the region. Highlights: The red brick architecture, beautiful gardens, and exhibits on Hokkaido’s history. Tip: The surrounding gardens are especially beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. ![]() Overview: Sapporo’s lively entertainment and nightlife district, Susukino is packed with restaurants, bars, karaoke, and nightclubs. It’s also the center of the annual Sapporo Snow Festival’s ice sculpture display. Highlights: Neon lights, restaurants offering Sapporo’s famous ramen and Genghis Khan (grilled lamb), and the Susukino Ice World during the Snow Festival. Tip: Enjoy a bowl of Sapporo ramen at one of the local ramen shops, especially in Ramen Alley (Ramen Yokocho). ![]() Overview: A lively seafood market in central Sapporo, Nijo Market is a great place to experience fresh Hokkaido seafood. You can sample everything from crab and scallops to sushi and uni (sea urchin). Highlights: Fresh seafood stalls, local produce, and small restaurants serving donburi (rice bowls topped with fresh seafood). Tip: Try a fresh seafood donburi (kaisen-don) for breakfast or lunch, featuring delicacies like salmon roe, crab, and uni. ![]() Overview: Located about an hour from downtown Sapporo, Jozankei is a hot spring resort town nestled in a scenic valley. It’s especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn red and gold. Highlights: Hot spring baths (onsen), stunning autumn foliage, and scenic riverside walks. Tip: Spend a night in a traditional ryokan to fully enjoy the onsen experience. Visit in autumn for the most beautiful scenery. ![]() Overview: One of Sapporo’s most famous landmarks, the Sapporo Clock Tower is a historic building from the early Meiji period. It now serves as a museum about the city’s early history. Highlights: The iconic clock tower, historic exhibits, and a photo-worthy spot in central Sapporo. Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, and combine it with a walk around Odori Park nearby. 13. Hokkaido Shrine Overview: Located within Maruyama Park, Hokkaido Shrine is an important Shinto shrine that enshrines the soul of Emperor Meiji. The shrine is especially popular during the New Year and cherry blossom season. Highlights: The shrine grounds, large torii gate, and cherry blossoms in spring. Tip: Visit in late April to early May for cherry blossom viewing, or during New Year’s to experience Japanese traditional customs like hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year). 14. Maruyama Park and Maruyama Zoo Overview: A large park located near Hokkaido Shrine, Maruyama Park is a beautiful place to experience nature in Sapporo. The park is especially popular for cherry blossom viewing, and it also houses the Maruyama Zoo. Highlights: Cherry blossoms in spring, hiking trails, and a zoo featuring both native and exotic animals. Tip: Combine your visit to Maruyama Park with a trip to Hokkaido Shrine. In spring, bring a picnic to enjoy under the cherry blossoms. 15. Ishiya Chocolate Factory Overview: Famous for producing the beloved Hokkaido treat Shiroi Koibito (a white chocolate biscuit), the Ishiya Chocolate Factory is part museum, part theme park. Visitors can see how the famous sweets are made and even try making their own. Highlights: Tours of the factory, chocolate-making workshops, and the beautiful rose garden outside. Tip: Don’t miss the souvenir shop to pick up some Shiroi Koibito cookies to take home! These attractions showcase the diverse appeal of Sapporo, from its winter festivals and stunning natural parks to its delicious cuisine and hot spring retreats. Whether you're visiting in the snow season or during the summer, there's always something exciting to experience in Sapporo. |
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