From snowy slopes to steamy soup curry, Sapporo blends urban comfort with natural beauty. Whether you’re here for skiing, seafood, or a pint of Sapporo beer, this northern gem has it all.
More than just a snowy paradise, Sapporo in Hokkaido, Japan, is one of the coolest (literally!) places to visit year-round. While winter is the most popular season—thanks to world-famous snow festivals, ski resorts, and snowboarding spots — Sapporo offers something in every season: cherry blossoms in spring, scenic cycling trails in summer, and fiery foliage in autumn.
As the capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo is the most accessible city on the island, and a must-visit for foodies. It’s the birthplace of Sapporo beer, packed with vibrant markets and ramen alleys, and makes an ideal base for exploring nearby gems like Otaru, Niseko, and Furano.
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📌 Table of Contents: Sapporo Hokkaido Japan (2025)
- What is Sapporo Famous For?
- Top 10 Saporro Attractions You Can’t Miss
- 🏞️ Parks & Scenic Spots
- Odori Park
- Moerenuma Park
- Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Shrine
- 🏛️ Historical & Cultural Landmarks
- Sapporo TV Tower
- Sapporo Clock Tower (Tokeidai)
- 🎡 Family-Friendly Attractions
- Sapporo Maruyama Zoo
- Shiroi Koibito Park
- 🍺 Food, Markets & Museums
- Sapporo Beer Museum
- Niko Market
- 🛍️ Shopping & Entertainmen
- Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
- 🏞️ Parks & Scenic Spots
- Sapporo Nightlife
- Sapporo Itinerary Winter Edition (3D2N)
- Best Season to Visit Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Where to Stay: Sapporo, Japan Hotels
- How to Get to Sapporo
- FAQs: Sapporo Travel Tips
What is Sapporo Famous For?
Image Credits: Trip to Japan
In a nutshell, this is what you can look forward to if you include Hokkaido in your itinerary!
- Sapporo Snow Festival (held in Odori Park every February)
- Rich, hearty miso ramen
- Sapporo Beer Museum and brewery tasting sessions
- World-class ski resorts like Sapporo Teine and Kokusai
- Fresh seafood: crab, scallops, uni (sea urchin)
- The iconic Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
- Stunning viewpoints from Mount Moiwa Ropeway
- Soup curry (a Sapporo invention)
- Shiroi Koibito Park
- Late-night dining in Susukino (Japan’s snowiest red-light district)
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Top 10 Saporro Attractions You Can’t Miss
🏞️ Parks & Scenic Spots:
1. Odori Park
Image Credits: Kinnso
Odori Park is a green corridor right in the heart of central Sapporo that’s home to the iconic Sapporo Snow Festival and seasonal light shows and illuminations. In February, the park lights up with massive life-sized snow sculptures adorned with colourful lights and whimsical music.
Other iconic happenings in the park include the Lilac Festival in May, the Yosakoi Dance Festival in June, and German Christmas Markets during Christmas time. Check out their event calendar as you plan your next trip!
Address: Odori Nishi 1-2, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Entrance Fees: Free
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2. Moerenuma Park
Image credits: Japan Guide
Enjoy beautiful sculptural landscapes carefully curated and designed by Isamu Noguchi, an American artist known for his landscape architecture. Moerenuma Park has regular art installations all around the park and is known for its iconic Aqua Plaza fountain in the summer and the cross-country ski trails in the winter.
Address: Moerenuma Koen, Higashi-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Entrance Fees: Free
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3. Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Shrine
Image Credits: Hokkaido Guide
Parks in Japan are on another level, and Maruyama Park is no different! Enjoy the serenity of the peaceful wooded hillside park and the beautiful adjacent Hokkaido Shrine. But that’s not all. There is also an outdoor zoo, athletic area and seasonal events held beside the Hokkaido Shrine.
The best time to visit Maruyama Park is in late April to May, when over 1,500 cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, but the park is still worth a visit in winter.
Address: Maruyama Koen, Chūō-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entrance Fees: Free
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🏛️ Historical & Cultural Landmarks:
4. Sapporo Clock Tower (Tokeidai)
Image Credits: Japan Cheapo
An iconic symbol of early Sapporo, the Tokeidai or Sapporo Clock Tower was built back in 1878 as a landmark of the city. It is one of Japan’s oldest clock towers and is now the museum of Agricultural College History. Explore the exhibits to find out more about Sapporo’s history and how it came to be.
Address: North 1 West 2, Chūō-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Entrance Fees: 200 JPY (~S$1.80)
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5. Sapporo TV Tower
Image Credits: Japan Travel
Overlooking Odori Park is the iconic Sapporo TV tower with panoramic views of the entire city from 147m above ground. Get a bird’s eye view of Odori Park and the skyline of the city and enjoy special illuminations during winter. Check out their illumination and special events schedule to make sure you don’t miss out!
Address: 1 Odori Nishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM (varies by season)
Entrance Fees: 740 JPY (~S$6.50)
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🎡 Family-Friendly Attractions:
6. Sapporo Maruyama Zoo
Image Credits: Sapporo Travel
Nestled within Maruyama Park is the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, Hokkaido’s oldest zoo that has been open since 1951. Enjoy the sights and sounds of over 700 animals with the iconic Polar Bear Pavilion and the Wakuwaku Asia Zone. It’s a great stop for families with young children!
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Address: Maruyama Koen, Chūō-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entrance Fees: 800 JPY (~S$7.20) for adults; 400 JPY (~S$3.60) for children
Website: Sapporo Maruyama Zoo
Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan Guide:
7. Shiroi Koibito Park
Image Credits: TripAdvisor
When we say that parks in Japan are really next level, we mean it! Shiroi Koitibo Park is a whimsical chocolate theme park and confectionery museum. Think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory meets Hokkaido’s charm. The museum offers factory tours, hands-on cookie-making workshops and has a garden to enjoy sweet treats with an even sweeter view.
Address: 2‑jo 2‑chome, Miyanosawa, Nishi-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entrance Fees: Entrance to the market is free
Website: Shiroi Koibito Park
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🍺 Food, Markets & Museums:
8. Sapporo Beer Museum
Image Credits: Sapporo Beer
A trip to Sapporo is not complete without a trip to the Sapporo Beer Museum. Tantalise your taste buds with tasting menus of the iconic beer and with a unique Genghis Khan lamb BBQ experience at the beer hall.
Travelling with kids? The Sapporo Beer Museum also has interactive history exhibits and life-sized replicas that will keep them entertained for hours.
Address: 9‑1 Kita 7 Jonishi, Higashi Ward, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 11 AM – 7 PM for the museum (Beer Garden opens till late)
Entrance Fees: Entrance to the museum is free; tasting menus and meal prices vary
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9. Nijo Market
Image Credits: Japan Guide
Seafood lovers – this stop’s for you! Head to Nijo Market for some of the freshest seafood – I dare say – in the world. Walk through the aisles of the market and treat yourself to local seafood dishes and fresh produce.
Most shops at Nijo Market sell uni, crab, scallops and kaisendon bowls, with each dish served either fresh or grilled. Be sure to head over early enough, as some stalls close slightly earlier once their dishes are sold out!
Address: 1‑2 Kitanijōhigashi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entrance Fees: Entrance to the market is free
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🛍️ Shopping & Entertainment:
10. Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
Image Credits: Visit Sapporo
This seven-block shopping district in the Susukino area is lined with shops, eateries, street stalls and quirky souvenirs to remember the trip. There are also many stalls selling street snacks and quick bites just in case you get peckish while shopping!
Address: Tanukikoji-dōri, Chūō-ku, Sapporo
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM (varies by shop)
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Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan Nightlife
Image Credits: Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel
When the sun sets (which happens fast in the winter), the city lights up in its own special way. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or looking for family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to do and see in Sapporo!
- 🍶 Susukino District – Neon lights, bars, izakayas and ramen shops
- 🎤 Karaoke Kan – Sing your heart out in private karaoke rooms
- 🍢 Izakaya Uomura – A local hideout for seafood skewers and warm sake
- 🍺 Sapporo Beer Garden – Genghis Khan lamb BBQ + Fresh Sapporo beer
- 🕺 Rad Brothers or Alife – Iconic clubs and parties
The nightlife in Sapporo isn’t as wild as some of the other cities like Shibuya in Tokyo, but it’s friendly, food-focused and easy to navigate – just the way we like it!
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Sapporo Winter Itinerary (3D2N)
Image Credits: New York Museum
Day 1: Urban Vibes & Bites
- Arrive at Chitose Airport (40 min JR ride into the city)
- Lunch at Aji no Sanpei (the OG miso ramen spot)
- Explor Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
- Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum
- Dinner at Soup Curry GARAKU
- Optional nightlife: Izakaya-hopping in Susukino
Day 2: Snow, Slopes & Views
- Morning ski at Sapporo Teine or Kokusai
- Visit the Mount Moiwa Ropeway for panoramic views
- Mid-day relaxation at the Jozankei Onsen
- Dinner at Nijo Market’s izakaya for the killer combo of grilled crab legs and sake
Day 3: Last-minute stop
- Train back to New Chitose Airport
- Visit Shiroi Koibito Park for souvenirs and photo ops
- Quick lunch + dessert at Sapporo Station food hall
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Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan Weather: When to go?
There’s something to enjoy in Hokkaido no matter the time of the year. Here’s a breakdown of each season and its highlights:
Image Credits: Agoda
| Season | Months | Temp | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| ❄️ Winter | Dec – Feb | -6°C to -1°C | Snow sports, onsens, snow festivals |
| 🌸 Spring | Mar – May | 0°C to 15°C | Cherry blossoms, cooler travel |
| ☀️ Summer | Jun – Aug | 17°C to 26°C | Flower fields, bike rides, summer festivals |
| 🍁 Autumn | Sep – Nov | 5°C to 18° | Autumn foliage, harvest eats |
If you’re looking for a snow-filled holiday, the best time to go would be January-February. For hiking and blooms, July-August. And for the best golden moments in the autumn foliage, late October would be best!
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Where to stay: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan Hotels
💎 High-End Hotels:
1. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo
Image Credits: UDS Hotels
Enjoy the true Japanese experience with a beautiful blend of ryokan aesthetics with modern comforts right in the heart of the city. A newly opened hotel, Yuen features minimalist Japanese-style rooms with futons and sliding screens with a luxurious onsen and carefully curated menus with the freshest Japanese ingredients.
Address: 5 Nishi‑2, Kita 5‑chome, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060‑0005
Nearest Station: JR Sapporo Station // 3 minutes away from Odori Subway Station
Website: Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo
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2. JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
Image Credits: JR Hotels
This luxe urban resort soars above the JR Sapporo Station – literally. It offers a spa onsen experience high up in the clouds, city-view rooms and is one of the more convenient options to get to from the airport. It is located right in the heart of Sapporo, with the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park right at your doorstep.
Address: 5 Nishi‑2, Kita 5‑chome, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060‑0005
Nearest Station: JR Sapporo Station // 3 minutes away from the Nanboku/Toho subway lines
Website: JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
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✨ Mid-Tier Options:
3. Hotel MyStays Sapporo Aspen
Image Credits: Booking.com
Just 2 minutes away from the JR Sapporo Station, the Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen is a mid-tier hotel with spacious western-style rooms that are ideal for young families or friends travelling together. It is conveniently located by Tanukikoji Arcade and the Sapporo Clock Tower.
Address: 4‑5 Nishi, Kita 8‑jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060‑0808
Nearest Station: JR Sapporo Station // 3 minutes away from the Kita-ju-ni-jo Subway Station on the Nanboku Line
Website: Hotel MyStays Sapporo Aspen
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4. Cross Hotel Sapporo
Image Credits: The Gate
Another hotel located right by JR Sapporo Station, Cross Hotel Sapporo is a mid-range hotel with cityscape views and large indoor and outdoor onsen areas for you to get the true Japanese experience. The hotel has a younger, more boutique-style vibe and is a great option for young couples and urban explorers.
Address: 2‑23 Kita 2‑jo Nishi 2‑chome, Chūō‑ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060‑0002
Nearest Station: JR Sapporo Station // 6 minutes from Odori Subway Station
Website: Cross Hotel Sapporo
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💸 Budget Options:
5. The Knot Sapporo
Image Credits: The Knot
Spend your nights in budget and style at The Knot Sapporo. The stylish hotel is located right on Tanukikoji Shopping Street opposite Donki with seamless underground access to malls and subway lines. This hotel is especially ideal for the night owls – go izakaya hopping, enjoy the Susukino nightlife or visit ramen alleys for a late night comfort snack at your doorstep.
Address: 16‑2 Minami 3 Nishi 3, Chūō‑ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060‑0063
Nearest Station: Susukino Subway Station
Website: The Knot Sapporo
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6. Capsule Hotel City Cabin Susukino
Image Credits: Booking.com
This one’s ideal for solo travellers and those on a budget. Capsule Hotel City Cabin Susukino is a budget option that’s guaranteed to be clean, safe and budget-friendly. Males and females pods are on separate floors with secure lockers and shared bathrooms, and lounge areas. So whether you are looking to make new international friends or just looking for budget yet convenient options, this one’s for you!
Address: 4‑5‑4 Minami 5‑jo Nishi, Chūō‑ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064‑0805
Nearest Station: Susukino Subway Station
Website: Capsule Hotel City Cabin Susukino
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How to Get to Sapporo
Image Credits: Japan Guide
✈️ By Air
- Direct flights from Singapore to New Chitose Airport (or via Tokyo/Osaka)
- JR Rapid Airport line -> Sapporo Station (~40 mins)
🚄 By Train
- From Tokyo: Take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Hakodate
- Limited Express to Sapporo (~7.5 hours in total)
💡 Pro-Tip: Use the JR Pass or Hokkaido Rail Pass if you’re visiting Otaru, Niseko, or Furano too.
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FAQs: Sapporo Travel Tips
Q: What is there to do in Sapporo if I don’t ski?
A: Eat, soak in an onsen, visit parks, explore museums, join local cooking classes or go on a food hunt in Susukino!
Q: What is Sapporo famous for?
A: Snow, seafood, miso ramen, soup curry and of course, beer.
Q: Is Sapporo good for a family trip?
A: Yes! It’s clean, safe and stroller-friendly. Plus, there are plenty of food options that are great for the little ones, too.
Q: How many days should I spend in Sapporo?
A: A minimum of three days is ideal, but more if you’re intending to spend a few days on the slopes.
Q: Do I need to rent a car?
A: Not for Sapporo itself. But yes, if you are intending to visit Furano, Biei or Lake Toya, that’s nearby.
Enjoy Japan’s Winter Wonderland!
Whether you’re just looking for a snowy good time or on the hunt for the best food in Japan, Sapporo is the kind of city that feels both fresh and familiar. It’s a literal cool escape that’s worth the visit!
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Happy travels!
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