Top reasons to visit Sapporo
- Outdoor Adventures: Sapporo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent skiing opportunities and scenic parks for relaxation.
- Cultural Landmarks: Visit iconic sites like the Sapporo Clock Tower and Sapporo Dome for a taste of history and sports excitement.
- Vibrant Culinary Scene: Enjoy diverse dining options that showcase local flavors and international cuisine throughout the city.
- Community Atmosphere: Experience friendly neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into local life and culture.
- Varied Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to cozy hostels, catering to every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels in Sapporo
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Sapporo, where you can find everything from luxurious stays to cozy hostels. Whether you're seeking a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA travelers, a rejuvenating hot spring experience, or a spa-themed getaway, Sapporo has it all. Discover top-rated hotels like the Sapporo Grand Hotel, ensuring a memorable vacation in the heart of Hokkaido's vibrant capital.
- Sapporo Grand Hotel: A luxurious 4-star hotel renowned for its elegant design and exceptional service, Sapporo Grand Hotel is a top choice for travelers seeking a refined vacation experience. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this hotel offers spacious accommodations and upscale amenities that embody comfort and sophistication. Situated in the heart of Sapporo, guests can easily explore the city’s attractions. The hotel's on-site dining options, spa facilities, and beautiful event spaces make it an ideal setting for both leisure and business travelers.
- Mercure Sapporo: This eco-certified 4-star hotel is perfect for adventure seekers and environmentally-conscious travelers. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Mercure Sapporo combines modern comfort with a commitment to sustainability. Located in the city center, guests can enjoy a range of adventure activities nearby, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The hotel features contemporary rooms and vibrant public spaces, ensuring a lively atmosphere during your stay. Its dedication to eco-friendly practices enhances the experience for those looking to minimize their environmental impact while enjoying the thrills of Hokkaido.
- Tokyu Stay Sapporo Odori: A welcoming 3-star accommodation that boasts a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Tokyu Stay Sapporo Odori is known for its versatility and convenience. Located centrally in Sapporo, this hotel offers a range of dining options, including a daily breakfast buffet. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs. The friendly atmosphere and convenient location make it a great base for exploring the vibrant city and enjoying local attractions.
Where to stay in Sapporo
Experience the vibrant metropolis of Sapporo, where outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities abound. Discover the lively downtown area, explore the city's rich culture, and soak in the sunny weather. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery that surrounds Sapporo. Nearby neighborhoods offer a glimpse into local life, making it an ideal destination for excursions and unforgettable memories. Sapporo is truly a city that caters to every traveler's desires.
- Sapporo City Centre: The vibrant heart of Sapporo, the City Centre is a bustling neighborhood known for its blend of urban charm and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here year-round, especially during the peak summer and winter months. Enjoy shopping at stylish boutiques, indulge in local cuisine, or hit the nearby ski fields for an exhilarating experience. The area is also home to soothing onsens and picturesque parks, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Otaru: Just a short distance from Sapporo, Otaru is a charming city that enchants visitors with its scenic beauty and rich history. Known for its picturesque canals and well-preserved architecture, Otaru offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Peak tourist seasons occur in April and the summer months, when travelers can enjoy shopping, skiing, and stunning riverside views. Don’t miss the local onsens and hotsprings, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
- Chitose: Located nearby, Chitose is a city renowned for its romantic ambiance and breathtaking landscapes. With peak tourism in late spring and early fall, this destination attracts those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic vistas. Visitors can partake in skiing and body treatments, and unwind in the area’s inviting onsens and hotsprings. Chitose also boasts beautiful lakes, making it a perfect getaway for couples and nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Things to do in Sapporo
Shopping
Discover Sapporo's Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, a vibrant covered street market with a mix of local shops and eateries. For a modern experience, visit Sapporo Factory, a shopping complex in a former brewery featuring retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Recreation
Explore the tranquil ambiance of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, where you can enjoy soothing hot springs and scenic nature walks. Visit Spa Resort Katoshiyu for therapeutic treatments and relaxation, or engage in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling to rejuvenate your mind and body amidst stunning landscapes.
Adventure
The Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway offers breathtaking views as you ascend the mountain, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Similarly, the Moiwa Ropeway provides a scenic journey, showcasing Sapporo’s stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities, perfect for those seeking a memorable experience in nature.
Nightlife
Sapporo's nightlife features vibrant izakayas like Susukino, where you can savor local cuisine and drinks. For lively entertainment, the Sapporo Factory offers shopping and dining, while clubs like Club Lush keep the dance floor alive with DJ performances. Enjoy a mix of culture and excitement in this bustling city.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Find the best attractions in Sapporo
During your visit to Sapporo, enjoy a range of outdoor and family-friendly activities. Check out Sapporo Odori Park for a relaxing stroll, visit the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower for a taste of history, and explore the Sapporo Dome for sports events. The city's mix of urban parks, shrines, and museums offers a rich cultural experience, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and family fun.
- Odori Park: A central urban oasis in Sapporo, Odori Park stretches over 1.5 kilometers and is perfect for leisurely strolls. Lined with seasonal flowers, fountains, and sculptures, it serves as a vibrant venue for festivals and events, offering a lively atmosphere ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Jozankei Hot Spring: Nestled in a picturesque valley, Jozankei Hot Spring is renowned for its soothing waters and serene landscapes. Visitors can enjoy outdoor baths surrounded by nature, providing a peaceful retreat that emphasizes wellness and relaxation, just a short drive from Sapporo.
- Former Hokkaido Government Office Building: This historic building showcases Western-style architecture and rich cultural heritage. Once the administrative center of Hokkaido, it now serves as a museum, offering insights into the region's history while surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Best time to go to Sapporo
The best time to visit Sapporo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Sapporo
Traveling to Sapporo is convenient via its major airport, New Chitose Airport (CTS), located 40km from the city. Excellent hotel options near the airport include the 4-star Portom International Hokkaido, just 483m away, and the 4-star ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose and Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Chitose, both 5km from CTS. For those considering other airports, Hakodate Airport (HKD) is 150km away, with nearby hotels like the 4.5-star Bourou NOGUCHI Hakodate Ryokan and 4-star Hanabishi Hotel, both 3km away. Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) is another option, located 113km from Sapporo, with several 3.5-star hotels just 13km away.