The Best 5-Day Sapporo Itinerary for First-Timers

Last Updated on June 24, 2024 by Audrey

Have an upcoming trip to Sapporo? My Sapporo Itinerary will help you plan your trip!

If you’re considering visiting Sapporo, Japan and are looking for a Sapporo itinerary, you’re in the right place. I love Sapporo. I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. But it exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to go back!

Not many people are familiar with the city, but it is the largest city in Hokkaido (the northern region of Japan). There are myriad things to do and see in this vibrant city. Whether you are a solo traveler or a family, an outdoor sports lover, or maybe you’re focused on the food, Sapporo has something for everyone!

There are many cultural landmarks to visit and beautiful natural spots that will take your breath away, yet it also has a buzzing nightlife that you’ll enjoy! Not to mention, the food is absolutely amazing and features many Hokkaido specialties!

My Sapporo itinerary will help prepare you for your upcoming trip and will help you make plans for 2, 3, 4, and 5 days in Hokkaido’s capital and the surrounding areas!

Check out my other Sapporo blog posts 👇

Unlocking Sapporo: What Makes It Worth Visiting In 2024

The Best Day Trips From Sapporo, Hokkaido (2024)

Sapporo Pre-Travel Tips

Weather in Sapporo

Sapporo is well known for being a winter wonderland, bringing in 190 inches (that’s about 16 feet, or 6 meters!) of snow a year. For that reason, most would automatically assume that winter is the best time to visit Sapporo. But that’s not necessarily true!

I’m probably biased because I went to Sapporo during cherry blossom season, but I loved Sapporo in the springtime!

Any time is the best time to visit Sapporo, because every season has something new to see and enjoy.

Spring (April-June)

I went to Sapporo to see the cherry blossoms in late April to early May, which was perfect. If you’re interested in cherry blossom viewing, spring is the time to go!

Hokkaido is a bit colder than the southern part of Japan, which is why the cherry blossoms bloom a bit later. The cherry blossom viewing season starts in mid/late April and goes into early May.

The viewing season does run into Japan’s Golden Week, but I found that the city wasn’t abnormally busy. In fact, I thought that it was the perfect medium between being too deserted versus being so packed that I couldn’t breathe (ahem, Tokyo).

👍 Pro tip: Before heading out to the park, look at the park’s Facebook page or a site that tracks the cherry blossoms (here, or my favorite here). Up-to-date information is provided regarding the flowers and if they are blossoming, not yet bloomed, or starting to scatter. Don’t forget Google Translate!

Summer (July-August)

Sapporo is perfect during the summer months because it doesn’t get too hot. If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking then you’d want to visit in the summer. You’ll avoid the rain, and you’ll be able to see all of Sapporo’s flourishing landscapes outdoors!

Fall (September-November)

Sapporo turns into a picturesque scene of yellow-red foliage, changing colors with the season. For the best view of the changing leaves, October has the most vibrant colors. Nature is abundant near the city, and you have the best of both worlds coming to Sapporo.

As it gets closer to winter, temperatures will drop to as low as 20s °F or single digits °C, so bring a thick jacket (and don’t forget the gloves!)

Winter (December-march)

If you are coming to Sapporo and are interested in snow sports, then you have to come in the winter. Sapporo and Hokkaido are famous for their powder-soft snow, and lots of it! You’ll get to do all the snow activities you’re dreaming of. Just don’t forget to pack a thick jacket, and bundle up!

February is also when the famous Sapporo Snow Festival takes place, which brings in millions of viewers annually. There are beautiful models of famous landscapes that will take your breath away. Artists come up with innovative, creative designs that are colorfully lit up at night. It’s a must-see!

Outlets

Japan plugs use the same type A plugs as the United States, so you won’t have any trouble charging your essentials. I bought a plug adapter just in case, and it became dead weight in my suitcase because I never used it.

You’ll be able to charge your phone and laptop with ease. Leave the hair dryer at home, because all Japanese hotels provide it, along with many other amenities! One hotel I stayed at had a VR headset you could rent. No, really.

Anyways, visitors from the States will have no problem with outlets in Japan. However, the voltage used in Japan is lower than what devices use in the United States. If you need to operate something that requires a high voltage, then look into getting a plug adapter (though I really don’t think you’ll need it).

Wifi

While in previous years, pocket WiFi was essential when visiting Japan, I feel like free WiFi is now widely accessible in most areas. Cellular companies have also improved and offer relatively low rates per day for international travelers.

There is almost always a free WiFi network available in Sapporo for travelers; you just have to sign in by email or phone. It can be tedious when the login resets, but I was able to get by with the free WiFi and only sparingly used my 3G cellular data.

As long as you have minimal 3G coverage, you should be able to get by. However, if you’d rather ensure that WiFi is always accessible or don’t have access to any cellular data while you are visiting, pocket WiFi is a great option.

Cash

Sapporo is a very developed city, so almost all places (restaurants, buses, trains) accept credit cards and tap-to-pay. Japan is so technologically advanced that you can conveniently pay for everything with your card or phone wallet. I only experienced one bus that didn’t accept transit cards or credit cards, and that was in Hakodate (3-4 hours away from Sapporo).

For reference, I brought around $1000 USD for a 2-week trip, and it was excessive. Not to say that I didn’t spend a lot of money (😔), but I was able to use my credit card for everything. By the end of it, I just started buying my meals in cash to use it up.

Nevertheless, it is always a good idea to bring some cash with you on your travels. I believe that $500 USD for two weeks would be more than sufficient. You’ll probably only use cash when you visit shrines or more rural areas.

Where to Stay in Sapporo

I recommend staying either near Sapporo Station or in Susukino. Being near the Station will provide ease of travel for many destinations on the Sapporo itinerary. On the other hand, Susukino is where most of the city’s nightlife and restaurants are located, as well.

I like Sapporo Station or Susukino because it’s better to either stay next to the train station or next to the shops and restaurants. You will most likely be traveling almost exclusively by train, which can sometimes be faster than a car! Either of these areas would make a good base, with plenty of hotel options and easy access to transportation.

Places near Odori Park would also be great for first-timers, as it is central to the city. Nakajima Koen could be an option as well if you prefer a quieter neighborhood.

SAPPORO BUDGET HOTELS

SAPPORO MID-RANGE HOTELS

Luxury hotels

⭐ JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo

This four-star hotel has it all. It’s located inside the train station, making transportation easier than, well, anything really. You’ll have all the restaurants and shops to choose from. The hotel itself has two restaurants that offer panoramic views of the city. It’s simply beautiful and top-of-the-line!

If you plan on taking the subway and exploring a lot of Hokkaido, you’ll love staying here. It has everything you could possible need, with tremendously easy transportation.

⭐ Onsen Ryokan Yuen

It’s extremely rare to find a ryokan with an onsen so close to the city, but Yuen makes it work! With beautiful, serene rooms, a sauna, and a hot spring bath, Yuen is ideal for couples looking to add romance effortlessly or for travelers looking to experience a ryokan without having to travel too far from Sapporo.

How to get to Sapporo

USA TO TOKYO

Okay, here’s where it gets a little tricky. There’s no way for people in the United States to fly directly to Sapporo. You’ll have to take a flight to Tokyo (NRT or HND) first, then take a second, (or in my case, third) flight to get to the Hokkaido region.

I took two flights to get to Tokyo (14.5 hours including layovers), then took another 2-hour flight to Sapporo after a 3-hour layover. That’s right, it took me almost 20 hours to reach Sapporo! That’s pretty long, don’t you think?

I know that may deter you from heading over to Sapporo, but trust me. This city is well worth the extra effort. It’s absolutely beautiful here, not to mention fun!!

If you need a rest break before heading over to Sapporo, you can start your trip off in Tokyo for a couple of days before heading over to Sapporo. I was on a time crunch because we wanted to see the cherry blossoms, so we did all three flights in one day.

TOKYO TO SAPPORO

By Plane (NRT):

When I landed in Narita (NRT), we landed in the International Terminal 1. During our 3-hour layover, we also printed out our SUICA Transit cards and shipped our luggage.

We entered Gate 74 for our Jetstar flight, but little did we know that we were in the wrong terminal! Jetstar flights are in Terminal 3, so you have to take a bus from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3. Don’t sweat too much though, because buses run every 15 minutes and the ride itself is only around 10 minutes.

However, be aware that local flights in Japan have a carry-on weight limit of 7-10 kg! For Jetstar, my carry-on had to be 7 kg (around 15 lbs). If you take ANA, it’s 10 kg (20 lbs). Make sure to verify if there’s a weight limit regarding your local Sapporo flight. I’m a tiny bit of an over-packer, so this was pretty difficult for me.

✅ Pro tip: Use Japan’s luggage shipping service to ship your check-in around Japan. I put my carry on in my check in, and then shipped it to Sapporo. I only brought a personal item on my weight-restricted Jetstar flight.

Once you get off that Sapporo plane, the hard part is over! Now you can focus on the best vacation of your life!

By Train

Before I forget, I should also include that you can reach Sapporo from Tokyo by train. But the total journey would take about 7.5 hours. I wouldn’t really want that, but each to their own. I recommend you work around the weight limit and hop on a local flight.

Sapporo Airport (CTS) to City Center

By Train (Recommended)

You might be surprised to find out that the closest airport to Sapporo is not actuallly in Sapporo, it’s in Chitose, which is 35 minutes away from the city center by train, or an hour by car.

I strongly urge you to take the train, because the Japanese have gotten public transit down to a science!

The Rapid Airport Train departs from New Chitose Airport (CTS) to Sapporo every 15 minutes. It’s a quick and sweet 35 minute ride, and it’s ¥1150 ($7 USD) for a one way trip.

You can add reserved seats for 530 yen more if you’d like, but it’s not necessary. I got on the train around 9:30 PM on a Monday, and it was crowded but everyone had a place to sit. And the seats are very comfortable! America could never.

Including the train transit, it took me around 21 hours to get to Sapporo. It was long and arduous, but totally worth it. If you decide to get to Sapporo in one day, be aware that your entire day will be dedicated to travel.

By Airport Bus

There are also regular airport buses that run from CTS to Sapporo. While ticket prices are cheap (¥1,100) I don’t particularly recommend them because they take around an hour and 20 minutes to reach Sapporo Station, whereas the Rapid Airport train takes 40.

However, there are a couple of advantages to taking these buses. The first is that there is lots of space for your luggage to be stored. However, I saw many people bring their check in luggage on the Rapid Airport train with no problem. Also, if you plan on shipping your luggage to Sapporo, then you don’t need the space.

Secondly, many of the buses stop at designated hotels in Sapporo, so you might actually save time if the bus stops at your hotel. I would check the official website to see if your hotel is included on the designated stop list and make your decision from there.

By Car rental

If you plan on traveling to more rural areas in Hokkaido that are not easily accessible by train, then you can consider getting a car while you are in Sapporo. However, unless you are staying for longer than a week, I don’t recommend a car rental.

If this is your first time visiting Japan or Hokkaido, I would instead encourage you to use public transit and book a tour for the days that you plan to visit attractions that are not accessible by train. I find that it’s much easier in some cases to go on a tour rather than renting a car, but I understand that tours can be pricey, are fast paced, and are not for everyone.

If you rent a car, be aware that you need an international driver’s license first. During the winter, snow tires will also be a necessity.

There are car rental counters at New Chitose Airport, which include Nippon, Times, Nissan, and Toyota. Booking in advance will expedite the rental pickup process, which we all know can take a long time!

It will take about an hour to drive from CTS to Sapporo, depending on traffic conditions. There will also be a toll that will charge you around 1,330 yen.

🚗 Book your car rental in advance here! Klook is a reliable booking service frequently used for Japan.

By Taxi/Airport Transfer

You can also book an Airport Transfer from the New Chitose Airport to Sapporo if you’d like to save the hassle of transferring from the train.

✈️ Book your Airport Transfer from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo here! 🚖

Getting around Sapporo

Sapporo By Foot

If you chose a hotel anywhere near Sapporo Station, Susukino, or Odori Park, good for you! That makes getting around to most of Sapporo’s attractions super easy. Most of Sapporo’s main attractions like Hokkaido Shrine, Odori Park, and the Sapporo Beer Museum are only a 10 minute walk away.

Many of the malls and shops are located centrally next to these 3 areas, so you can explore most of the city on foot.

Sapporo By Subway

I love Japan’s subway system so much. It is tremendously easy to get around by train, and the trains are known for almost always being on time!

Subway fares start at ¥210 (less than $2 USD) per ride.

Sapporo is very accessible by train, and uses three main subway lines: Namboku (Green), Tozai (Orange), and Toho (Blue). These trains are indicated by color, and signs are displayed in both Japanese and English.

Despite the color coding and English translation, it can still be a little difficult to find your way around if you’re still getting use to the transit system. There is always an available information desk, and the workers are so kind! Don’t be shy, they are very used to helping foreigners and can point you to the right way.

SUICA Card

I highly recommend you purchase a transit card for the subway. Japan uses multiple IC/Transit cards, and they are used interchangeably. You can use them on train rides, convenience stores, vending machines, and even some shops and restaurants!

I used SUICA because SUICA and PASMO seem to be the easiest to load via Apple Pay. You can buy it at JR East Travel Service Center in New Chitose Airport, and pretty much any airport or train station. The card itself is ¥1000 to purchase, then you must load it with money (¥1000-¥10,000 at a time).

Buying the SUICA or any IC transit card makes it extremely easy to ride the subway or train. You no longer need to buy a train ticket at the ticket vending machine and attempt to navigate the English directions. It also negates the possibility of buying the wrong train ticket.

Once you load the card, in order to use it you simply just tap the transit card to the train station entrance machine, and that’s it! It makes traveling faster, and easier.

Loading IC card via Apple Pay

I never had to physically load money into my SUICA card, other than the initial time (which can be done at the ticket machine). To add it to your Apple Wallet, simply go to the Wallet App and press Transit Card. You’ll see SUICA near the bottom, along with PASMO and ICOCA.

Press Transfer Existing card, and enter the last 4 digits of your SUICAID Number, as well as your Date of Birth. After that, you’ll hold the SUICA card on top of your phone. After some Apple technology magic, the card will be loaded, and you’re good to go!

It does take a few minutes for the card to transfer over though, so you don’t want to transfer it while you’re on the go.

After you convert SUICA to a virtual card, you can no longer use the physical card. Whenever you run low on funds, you can simply transfer money from an existing card on your Apple Wallet! It makes things much easier. If you run into any errors, updating your phone typically will fix the problem.

Use Up Your IC Card Before the Trip Ends

One thing to note is you cannot transfer SUICA funds back into your regular credit card or cash. It’s basically use it or lose it. Once it’s loaded, you have to make use of it or you’ll still have the SUICA funds after you return from Japan.

However, since you can use it for pretty much anything, it’s not that hard to get rid of the funds as the end of your trip approaches. You can use it on vending machine drinks, or convenience store food, so don’t sweat it too much.

One-Day Passes

If you’re going to be making multiple subway trips in one day, you can buy a One-Day Ticket for the subway. It costs ¥830 for adults and ¥420 for children, and can be purchased at any subway ticket-vending machine or transit pass sales offices.

You can also opt for the Donichika Ticket, which is a one-day ticket for the subway that can only be used on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays (including Dec. 29-Jan 3.). The Donichika Ticket is ¥520 for adults and ¥260 for children.

JR Hokkaido Pass

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If you’re planning on traveling all around Hokkaido, you may want to consider the JR Hokkaido Pass. It offers unlimited travel within the Hokkaido region via JR Hokkaido Trains (including Limited Express/Express and local trains), as well as JR Buses.

It’s relatively affordable, costing ¥20,000 for a 5-day pass for the whole Hokkaido Region. One huge bonus to the pass is that you can reserve seats in advance, which is perfect when traveling long distances. However, note that the local subway lines you’ll be taking are not JR, so the pass will not work. It’s really more for long distance travel between cities.

Before you purchase it, you should use a Japan Rail Pass Calculator to determine if the places you want to visit will cost more or less with the pass. In my case, I was taking a long train ride at 7 am and I wouldn’t be able to pick up the pass in time because the ticket office opened at 8 am the next day. After I used the pass calculator, I realized I was breaking even with or without the pass, so I didn’t end up purchasing it.

You can read more about it on the official website to determine if it suits your schedule.

Pro Tip: The Hokkaido JR Pass can only be picked up in Hokkaido areas, such as New Chitose, Sapporo, Noboribetsu, and Asahikawa. You cannot pick the pass up in Tokyo or areas that are not Hokkaido.

Sapporo By Local Buses

You can use the local bus system to get around Sapporo. A popular loop bus is called the “Sapporo Walk” bus (Chou Bus 88), that heads to the Sapporo Beer Garden and Sapporo Factory. The Fare is ¥210 for adults, and ¥110 for children one way.

There are even some buses that take you to Mt. Moiwa, Otaru, even as far as Jozankei hot springs, which is an hour away. You can learn more on the official website here.

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Sapporo By Streetcars

There are local trams known as Sapporo Streetcars (Shiden), which are loop trams that will take you around central and western Sapporo. You can use these streetcars to get to Mt. Moiwa, and popular neighborhoods like Susukino.

The Dosanka pass is available for purchase on Saturday, Sunday, and national holidays. It’s a one-day pass that is ¥360, allowing you to hop on and off the streetcar.

Sapporo By Tour Package

Booking a tour is my preferred method for exploring numerous landmarks within a limited timeframe. Tours offer convenient access to places that might be challenging to reach without a car, or if you have a lot of sites that you want to see that require lots of driving around the city.

While you may spend less time at each spot, the opportunity to see a diverse range of attractions in a relatively short period is worth it. And having someone else drive you is a big win for me!

I was able to see Lake Toya, Otaru, Jozankei, Noribetsu and other cities near Sapporo by booking a tour, and I recommend doing the same if you have a couple of extra days to explore!

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Day 1 Sapporo Itinerary

Breakfast at Komeda’s Coffee

I’m a coffee drinker, especially on vacation. I love tasting coffees from other countries and trying new blends. That extra shot of energy is also helpful when I have a full day of attractions to visit, which is why it’s the first stop on this Sapporo itinerary!

I really enjoyed the breakfast service at Komeda’s Coffee. They are a chain in Japan that offer delicious blends of coffee as well as pastries made with Hokkaido milk.

They open at 7:30, which is perfect if you wake up jetlagged like I did. For breakfast, they have a free bread service with a choice of jam or butter. But don’t go thinking it’s “just free bread”, alright? Their sliced bread is delicious, I tell you!

If you come during the afternoon and have a sweet tooth, their Hokkaido Cheesecake is a must try! It’s so fluffy and not too sweet. I like their Amanburan (strawberry dessert with a slightly sour twist) as well.

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Hokkaido Shrine

The first landmark of the Sapporo itinerary is Hokkaido Shrine, a Shinto shrine established in 1869, dedicated to four guardian gods. If you visit near the new year, you’ll get to see many people celebrating Hatsumōde, the first shrine visit of the year! Many people visit to pray for prosperity and safety for the rest of the year.

Regardless of the time of year, a visit to the shrine promises a fun experience! I visited the shrine in May for cherry blossom season. It was fun and lively, with other people praying and wishing for success in their future.

The shrine is beautiful and a reflection of Sapporo’s rich culture and history. When I visited, it wasn’t too busy and we got to partake in fortune-telling and prayers. We also got to buy some good luck charms for ourselves and as gifts!

Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park right next to the shrine has a great variety of blossoming trees throughout the year. It is a beautiful sight to see when the flowers bloom.

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If you go around cherry blossom season (mid-April-early May), you’ll see food and game vendors present around the park as well.

Lunch at Nijo Market

If you enjoy seafood, stop by Nijo Market for lunch. Nijo Market is one of Hokkaido’s oldest and most famous markets, and provides tons of affordable fresh seafood to buy and eat. The quality of the fish is outstanding!

You can find Hokkaido specialties like sea urchins (uni), huge king crabs, and scallops for sale by local vendors. There are also tons of restaurants that prepare amazing meals!

I had a seafood donburi of uni, fresh crab, and an assortment of sashimi including toro (fatty tuna) for only $15! The quality of the fish was outstanding, and the portion left me pretty full.

👍 Pro tip: after you finish browsing the stalls, go inside the alleyways. That is where you’ll find hidden restaurants that are both delicious and affordable.

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Sapporo TV Tower

Once you’re ready, head over to Sapporo TV Tower, a symbolic 147-meter tower that is one of the prominent attractions of the city.

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Completed in 1956, the tower has a high observation deck where you can look over Odori Park.

If you’re a couple planning a special occasion, you can actually rent out the tower after 10 PM for ¥10,000 ($60 USD). You can display a personalized message on the first floor and also light the tower up in whatever color you wish! Make a note to come back later at night, if you’re interested.

Odori Park

You can head on over to Odori Park right after the TV Tower. Although it’s called a “park”, it’s actually a street stretching over 3 blocks across the heart of Sapporo. The park features 92 different types of seasonal plants, and it’s enjoyable to stroll through and relax in the middle of the bustling city.

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Odori Park hosts popular festivals that Sapporo is well known for, such as the Snow Festival in February and the Lilac Festival in the middle of May. If you get the chance, definitely visit the festival!

Snow Festival

The Snow Festival features elaborate snow and ice sculptures that are remarkably well-crafted.

For a week in February, millions of visitors can enjoy the illuminated sculptures in Susukino and Odori Park. These sculptures have various designs, modeling after major landmarks or well-known characters.

Lilac Festival

The lilac is Sapporo’s designated tree. The Lilac Festival is Sapporo’s other major festival and takes place around mid to late May when the trees bloom.

In Odori Park, visitors can walk through 400 lilac frees, take home saplings, sample wine, enjoy a music festival, and much more!

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Sapporo Clock Tower

The Sapporo Clock Tower is one of the oldest buildings in Sapporo, dating back to the city’s early development in 1878. For reference, the city was officially recognized in 1868! Originating as a theatrical hall, the Clock Tower is a symbol of Sapporo’s growth and progress.

There is a small museum inside where visitors can learn about Sapporo’s origins and the Clock Tower’s history.

Conveniently located in the heart of Sapporo, the Clock Tower today is part of Hokkaido University. After visiting the Clock Tower and the free Hokkaido University Museum, visitors can stroll through streets of large elm and ginkgo trees that change colors in the seasons.

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Enjoy Soup Curry for Dinner

Soup curry is the regional specialty that Sapporo is most well known for. You would be missing out if you left the city before having a taste!

Compared to traditional Japanese curry which has a thick sauce, soup curry has a lighter broth and an abundance of vegetables. Packed with nutrition, it’s a delicious balanced meal.

Typical soup curry in Sapporo is served with rice, a type of meat (think lamb, pork, or chicken), and a rainbow of roasted vegetables. You can customize your preferred level of spiciness, and meat selection, and add additional toppings.

Garaku Soup Curry or Suage+ are two popular soup curry restaurants both walking distance from Sapporo Clock Tower. Garaku is an 8 minute walk while Suage+ is a 15 minute walk.

If time permits, either one of these would be great options for dinner!

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Spend the night out in Susukino

Before the night ends, make sure you explore Susukino at least once!

Susukino is Sapporo’s entertainment district, and the largest in the Hokkaido region. There is an abundance of options if you’d like to explore the nightlife, including restaurants, clubs, bars, pachinko, and more.

It is a red-light district as well, so just be aware that you may see some activities more suited towards adults.

As I was walking to a restaurant, we passed by a bar that was half blurred, but you could see the lower half of the window. So we saw a bunch of girls dressed in bunny suits, fishnets, and heels. Waist down only though!

Pachinko

You could try your hand at Pachinko, a Japanese gambling game that has some similarities to slots and pinball. I really wanted to try it once, but they stop allowing coin purchases at 10:30 PM.

Bars/Clubs

There are multiple clubs and bars located in this neighborhood too.

I wasn’t super fond of the club I went to (Utage), but to be fair I did roll up at 9:30 PM on a Tuesday. And admission was free. And they did give us LED sticks. Considering how it was pretty crowded on a Tuesday, I have a feeling it’ll be a lot more fun on a weekend, if you want to give it a chance. But the music was subpar (all American pop music), so I’ll let you judge for yourself.

I won’t leave you high and dry though, so I recommend trying out Precious Hall. It’s an underground club with a relaxed vibe and an excellent sound system.

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Arcades

Another fun option is to visit one of Sapporo’s huge arcades. We went to a Round 1 that had 6 (perhaps more) levels and played games until 2 AM! There are so many things you can do and try here, so I definitely encourage venturing out for a bit.

After you’ve had a little fun exploring, return back to your hotel to get some sleep. The next day will have more fun Sapporo attractions!

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Day 2 Sapporo Itinerary

Hokkaido Museum

For Day 2 of the itinerary, we’ll start off at Hokkaido Museum, which takes a look at the nature, history, and culture of Hokkaido. You’ll get to learn about the history of Japan, and the culture of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Japan as well as the lives of immigrants from Honshu.

The museum is located about 40 minutes away from Sapporo and can be reached by car, or by taking a train and bus. Inside, many exhibits offer a look into the North-east Asian history of Japan and its environment.

You can try making sentences in the orally transmitted Ainu language (a written language was never created!). You’ll also see real fossils and learn about unique species like the Hokkaido brown bear and Ezo red fox.

Historical Village of Hokkaido (Kaitaku-no Mura)

Afterward, take a quick 9-minute walk to the Historic Village of Hokkaido, an open-air museum that displays Hokkaido during the Meiji and Taisho Periods (1868-1926), a time period significant to Hokkaido’s development. There are 4 different sections, showing the central town, as well as fishing, farm, and mountain villages.

These two museums take a deep dive into Hokkaido’s past and is a great way to spend a few hours learning about their rich history. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the depth and complexity of Hokkaido’s heritage!

Lamb Barbecue for Lunch

For lunch I encourage you to try another regional specialty, Genghis Khan barbecue (Jingisukan) . This regional specialty consists of lamb barbecue on a dome shaped metal skillet, and was created in Hokkaido!

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While the lamb is delicious, I think the best part about Genghis Khan is the combination of everything: the fun, relaxed atmosphere, grilling your own meat, and washing it down with a crisp Sapporo beer. It feels very meaningful to be drinking a Sapporo in its namesake city, trying a local dish and just having a great time.

I loved my experience and I do recommend you try it!

I won’t lie to you though, after a few rounds I did get a little sick of eating just lamb. However, I’ll always remember the memory of laughing with my family, grilling lamb and sipping on a Sapporo, while looking out at the beautiful city below. And for that reason I’d say it is a must try!

👍 Pro tip: Many AYCE Genghis Khan restaurants is all you can eat lamb only. You may get tired of the taste after a few rounds, so I recommend ordering a la carte for your first time.

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Option 1: Sapporo Beer Garden

If you want to enjoy a beer with your first Genghis Khan experience, there may not be a better place than the Sapporo Beer Garden. It’s right next to the Beer Museum, so you can come by immediately before or after your tour of the museum.

The location is in an old beer factory that has been transformed into a barbecue restaurant, so it’s a very fun and unique experience!

Ordering is easy through a tablet, and you get to cook your own meat. A la carte or buffet options are both available.

You can reserve online or at the Sapporo Beer Museum.

Option 2: Extreme Salt Cured Genghis Khan

This restaurant may be a bit out of the way from the Sapporo Beer Museum, but this was where I tried Genghis Khan and I really enjoyed it. I came to Extreme Salt Cured Genghis Khan for dinner without a reservation and waited about 25 minutes.

The lamb here is delicious, and I love how they put English labels on the dishes for foreigners! But the biggest perk about this place is the location.

Located on the 10th floor of a building, it’s a stunning view. You can see the bustling streets and big screens of Susukino by the window.

If you get the chance to come here at night, it’s a beautiful view down below. Coupled with a fun, casual atmosphere and delicious food, it’s a great place to try out.

👍 Pro tip: Google Maps has trouble finding stores that are located on different buildings. This restaurant is located on the 10th building, and the entrance looks like the entrance to an apartment complex.

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Sapporo Beer Museum

If you ate lunch at the Sapporo Beer Garden, you’re already in the right spot for your next attraction. The Beer Museum is a great attraction for Sapporo lovers, and even if you don’t like beer, the science behind the cooking process is very interesting as well.

The Sapporo Beer Museum will walk you through the brewing process and the evolution of their brewing technology, as well as the cultural significance of beer in Japan.

The museum and garden are both free to enter. Inside, you can either opt for a free 20-minute tour or a guided tour for a small fee of ¥500 to ¥1000 yen, depending on age.

One highlight of the museum is the opportunity to taste various Sapporo beer products, including limited editions and seasonal brews, in a historic setting. Beer flight anyone? Keep note that you have to be at least 20 years old to taste the beer, though.

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese brewing traditions, a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum offers a delightful and educational experience that shouldn’t be missed during your time in Sapporo.

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Tanukikioji Shopping Arcade

After finishing at the Beer Museum, it’s time to do some shopping!

I had a great time wandering the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, which is a 1 km (0.5 mile) street in downtown Sapporo with around 200 shops. You can find souvenir shops, vintage shops, restaurants, and, of course, arcades here. It has a nice large roof cover, which was helpful as it rained for a short amount of time while I was there.

If you’re interested in vintage, Japan is well known for its huge vintage selection! One of my favorite things to do while I was in the country (I told you, I’m a shopper) was vintage shop! There are some great options in the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade.

Check out 2nd Street and Neuf for some great vintage selections. Other than vintage, you’ll find all kinds of other shops here too! Just make to save the Mega Don Quijote as your last stop, because I guarantee you’ll come out with a lot more than you expected…

Dinner at Ramen Alley

Sapporo’s regional specialty is miso ramen, which has a rich and flavorful broth. The miso paste is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans, which gives it a distinct savory and slightly sweet taste.

Sapporo miso ramen typically includes toppings such as sliced pork (chashu), corn, butter, green onions, bean sprouts, and sometimes bamboo shoots or mushrooms. The addition of butter and corn is also a signature style found in Sapporo ramen, adding richness and sweetness to the dish.

Ramen Alley is the birthplace of miso ramen and was built in the 1950s. I stumbled across it by chance while walking around downtown Sapporo one day.

Once you walk past the opening, you’ll find cozy alleyways populated with small ramen shops serving local customers and tourists alike. The immersive ramen experience and homely atmosphere give off Naruto vibes. What better place to sample the city’s specialty than here?

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Sapporo Fushimini Inari Shrine

If you venture just a little bit outside of downtown, you’ll find the Sapporo Fushimini Inari Shrine. Modeled after the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, this shrine is renowned for its picturesque rows of vibrant red torii gates that create a mesmerizing pathway through sacred grounds. It makes a stunning photo spot, and it has a lot less visitors than the shrine in Kyoto!

One of the highlights is walking through the torii gate tunnel, which symbolizes the transition from the mundane to the sacred. Each step along this path offers a moment of reflection and connection with Japanese spiritual practices.

Additionally, the shrine is home to several smaller shrines and statues, allowing for exploration and discovery of different aspects of Shinto beliefs. It’s a must stop attraction if you’re interested in Japanese culture, and it’s along the way to Mt. Moiwa Outlook (our last stop for the day!)

Mt Moiwa Outlook

Just 45 minutes away from the city, you can go to a summit observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of Sapporo. Mt. Moiwa Ropeway has been listed as one of the three major night views of Japan.

You can choose to access the observatory either by ropeway or Mo-risu Car (cable car) for a fun experience! Both operate in 15-minute intervals, so it’s easy to get up there quickly.

On top of the mountain, there is an exquisite French restaurant called The Jewels, for those wanting to enjoy a fine dining meal.

It is relatively easy to get to, as you only need to hop on a 45-minute train from the city to get there. If you drive, it’s 30 minutes away and has free parking at the transportation spot.

👍 Pro tip: Make sure to check the observation deck live camera before deciding to head up there, as the view can be obstructed on a particularly cloudy day.

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Day 3 and 4 Sapporo Itinerary: Day Trips From Sapporo

For a portion of your trip, I encourage you to head outside of Sapporo and explore the rest of Hokkaido! Sapporo is the perfect base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures of the region.

There are many destinations very close to Sapporo that can easily be made into a fun day trip or weekend trip.

You could visit Shikotsu-Toya National Park for a day or two, and enjoy the sulfur lakes, hike up the volcanoes, or kayak on Lake Toya if you’re a fan of the outdoors. You could visit Jozenkei for a relaxing hot spring bath, or see the brilliantly colored Blue Pond near Biei.

There are a ton of possibilities, and quite frankly too many to put in this post, so I’ll direct you to my other blog post Day Trips From Sapporo to check out some ideas.

Day 5 and beyond Sapporo Itinerary

Although there are a couple more destinations in Sapporo I think would be worth visiting, I couldn’t fit it all into day 5! For that reason, I’ve included more attractions that may catch your interest, in no particular order.

Don’t worry about trying to see all these places at once, as some destinations will take a few hours. Instead, I would select a couple spots that you’re interested in and dedicate your day to those main attractions.

Shiroi Koibito Park

You may be familiar with Shiroi Koibito, an iconic Hokkaido chocolate snack. It’s a European-style cookie that consists of chocolate sandwiched between langue de chat.

Originating from Sapporo, the Shiroi Koibito Park is a theme park in the city that combines sweets, history, and art for a super fun all-day experience.

You can take a chocolate factory tour, and see the process of how to make the popular cookie. Afterward, you can join a cookie-making workshop to decorate your own cookies and create a personalized souvenir to enjoy at home.

There is a museum and picturesque garden, styled after European architecture. Founder Isao Ishimizu loved the beauty of England and built a Tudor House to merge British and Hokkaido culture together.

Spending a day at this theme park is a great option for families, couples, or anyone who loves sweets! I bought a ton of boxes to bring home for myself and to give as gifts. The cookies are super yummy, and if you buy a bigger box you get a beautiful blue tin that makes for a great souvenir!

Hokkaido University

Another point of interest that you might enjoy visiting is the Hokkaido University and its adjacent University Museum, Botanical Garden, and Ainu Center.

Hokkaido University is already a scenic place to be in itself. The streets have large elm and ginkgo trees that change colors with the seasons, and it’s a pleasant area to take a stroll in. But there are also a couple of areas that you can check out to learn about Hokkaido and Sapporo’s history!

Hokkaido University Museum

If you’d like to learn more about the Hokkaido region, the Hokkaido University Museum offers a captivating journey through the Hokkaido’s natural history, cultural heritage, and current scientific projects.

The museum features exhibits showcasing the diverse ecosystems of Hokkaido, from its lush forests to its icy landscapes. And because the museum is part of Hokkaido University, it also highlights the institution’s scientific research and discoveries. You can learn about ongoing research projects such as the Artic Research Center.

Hokkaido University Botanic Garden

Once you’re done viewing the Museum, head on over to the Botanic Garden. In the Spring and Summer, the Botanic Garden at Hokkaido University transforms into beautiful seasonal blooms. Visitors can spend some time strolling the garden and seeing the different flowers, especially during the peak times of May and June.

Hokkaido Ainu Center

In addition to the many different species of plants you’ll find here, there is also a small museum dedicated to the history of the Ainu people, regional animals, and local history. It’s located near the Botanic Garden and will be easy to stop by on the way.

Aoao Aquarium

Locals and tourists alike both love visiting the Aoao Aquarium, so I can guarantee you’ll enjoy it too! It’s located right in downtown Sapporo, within Tanukikoji Shopping Street. You’ll be able to see beautiful aquatic animals, shop to your heart’s content, and grab a bite at a delicious restaurant all within walking distance of each other!

The first standout feature is Aoao’s Northern Rockhopper penguin habitat, renowned for their distinctive hopping antics. Set within a dynamic environment of movable hexagonal blocks, the habitat allows visitors and penguins to interact together!

Another must-see highlight at Aoao Aquarium is the mesmerizing digital art exhibit “Blue Room,” dedicated to the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Shiretoko Sea. It features a massive 20-meter screen, where you’ll get to encounter life-size killer whales and sperm whales swimming through the ocean as if you’re seeing them in real life.

One notable feature of this aquarium is its extended hours; it stays open until 10 pm! With all the different things to do and see while you’re in Sapporo, it can be challenging when most attractions close around 5-6 PM. With Aoao open day and night, you can come after dinner and enjoy winding down a long day with a relaxing experience in the ocean world.

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Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill

On a sunny day, take a walk up to Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill to see the most photographed statue in Sapporo.

The hill features a statue of Dr. Clark, a prominent American professor who helped establish Hokkaido University. You can find the iconic phrase “Boys, Be Ambitious!” on his statue, along with a scenic view overlooking the city and the hills!

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Okurayama Observatory

Okurayama Observatory was the site of the 90m ski jump competition at the 1972 Olympics. You can ride a double lift to the top of the ski lift for a beautiful view of the city! It looks truly magical, especially at night. Check the official website as hours vary depending on the season!

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Sapporo Winter Itinerary

Although many of Sapporo’s attractions are accessible all year round, there are a few special destinations that are only available during the Winter.

Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is the biggest annual event in Sapporo, and attracts 2 million visitors a year! It is a spectacular display of elaborate ice sculptures. For the first week of February, Visitors can visit Odori Park and Susukino to see displays of glassy models of famous landmarks or unique artistic creations illuminated by colorful lights.

In addition to admiring the sculptures, visitors can enjoy various winter activities like snow slides, snow rafting, and ice skating. The festival also includes food stalls offering Hokkaido specialties and cultural performances, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting Sapporo during winter.

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Ski at Sapporo Teine

An international ski resort on top of Mt. Teineyama, Sapporo Teine prides itself on being one of the best ski resorts in Japan thanks to its snow quality and course layout!

It has a great variety of trails, from gentle slopes to fast advanced courses. In fact, two runs available were used during the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics. On a sunny day, you can overlook the city as you ski down.

What’s even better is how accessible this ski resort is. It’s only 30 minutes from Sapporo. You can get there quickly by taking two trains and can ski the whole day!

Snowmobile Land

Only available during three months in the Winter, you can take a snowmobile tour through the powder white snow in Sapporo! You can go on a fun excursion for 60-90 minutes, and can ride alone or with a partner. You can even choose to have a guided lesson with a tour guide who will show you how to ride down the harder slopes. It’s a super fun interactive activity that isn’t offered anywhere else!

For adults, prices range between 13,000-30,000 yen, but vary based on the type of tour and number of people riding. Prices for children are around 9,000. For such a unique activity, I think it’s worth experiencing!

⛄ Book your snowmobile tour here on Klook to ride on the snow in Sapporo! ⛄

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FAQ

How many days are enough for Sapporo?

If you’re in a rush, 3 days is doable, but 5-7 days is ideal to explore most of Sapporo and Hokkaido.

I stayed in Sapporo for 3 days, and I believe 2-3 days is enough to fully enjoy the city itself. You’ll have enough time to explore the main highlights, try the local cuisines and specialty dishes, and get a feel for the city’s vibe!

I recommend spending another few days exploring the nearby areas in Hokkaido (Days 3-4 in my Sapporo Itinerary) to fully appreciate everything that Hokkaido has to offer.

Sapporo is a terrific place to use as a base, and you can easily day trip out to Otaru or Jozankei!

Places to shop in Sapporo

My favorite place to shop in Sapporo is Tanukikojo Shopping Arcade, because it’s right in the heart of downtown and has lots of restaurants, vintage shops, and the awesome department store Mega Don Quijote.

My second favorite is Sapporo Station, mostly due to the convenience of having tons of shops right next to the train station! I’ll also include a couple more shopping malls here, so check them out before your trip!

What to eat in Sapporo

Sapporo is well known for it’s delicious foods, and has many regional Hokkaido specialties that you should try while you’re there!

Miso Ramen

Ramen with a rich and flavorful broth. Miso paste, a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans, gives it a distinct savory and slightly sweet taste.

Soup Curry

Sapporo is famous for its soup curry, featuring a lighter broth and an abundance of vegetables.

Jingisukan (lamb barbecue)

Jingisukan isn’t just a delicious lamb barbecue, it’s also about the ambiance! Try some delicious lamb barbecue with family or friends in a casual setting for a great time.

❔ Did you know? Cooking barbecue under the cherry blossom trees during spring is considered a tradition.

Sapporo Crab

There are so many varieties of crab that are sold in Sapporo. Try the humongous tarabagan, the largest type of king crab.

Sushi

The quality of the fish in Sapporo is outstanding! There is delicious toro (fatty tuna), salmon, uni, and even crab sashimi!

Where is the best place to stay in Sapporo

For the sake of convenience, I recommend staying either near Sapporo Station or in Susukino, where most of the city’s nightlife and restaurants are located. Either of these areas would make a good base with plenty of hotel options and easy access to transportation.

Since you’ll likely be traveling mostly by train, being close to a train station is beneficial. Sapporo can get chilly at night, so ensure your hotel is conveniently located near a station.

Sapporo Travel Tips

The locals living here are tremendously polite and nice, so make sure to return the same manners! Here are some tips to keep in mind while you are enjoying your time in Japan.

Don’t talk too loudly on the subway

I’m sure that you’ll be riding on the subway quite frequently during your trip. While it doesn’t matter in America, it’s generally considered impolite to talk loudly while you are on the subway in Japan, so be mindful!

Don’t litter!

You’ll find that there aren’t many trashcans around the city, so you will have limited opportunities to throw trash away while you are out. It’s best to bring an extra bag you can use to store your trash until you find a trashcan to unload it.

Smoking is still prevalent in Japan

While it is not very common, smoking is still prevalent in Japan compared to the United States. There are designated smoking areas in some public places like train stations, cafes, and restaurants.

It never really bothered me because the areas are well separated, and I didn’t really smell smoke often. However, if you have a sensitive respiratory system, it’s good to be aware that you may encounter people smoking more often in Japan.

Conclusion: Sapporo Itinerary

I hope you enjoyed my Sapporo Itinerary, and took some ideas to use on your next trip to Hokkaido’s big city! I absolutely loved my time in Sapporo, and I know that you will like it too.

Not only is it a vibrant city with so much to do, see, and eat, but you can find unbelievably beautiful landscapes if you venture out just a few minutes from the city. Whether you’re savoring the unique flavors of Hokkaido’s culinary delights or immersing yourself in the cultural and historical sites, this itinerary ensures a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.

Happy traveling! If you need any assistance with planning your trip, feel free to reach out to me! And if you’re still unsure if you want to visit Sapporo or not, check out my other blog post!