Sapporo Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
Located on Hokkaido Island, this city is famous for its annual Snow Festival, beer, and ramen. It also offers parks, a historic village, and access to nearby ski resorts and mountains.
- Population
- 1.97 millions
- Size
- 1 121 square km
- Airport
- New Chitose – Int'l & 1 other
- Train Station
- Sapporo Station
- Subway
- Sapporo Municipal Subway
- Est. Visit Days
- 3 days
Overview
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is known for its beer, skiing, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival featuring enormous ice sculptures. The city offers a blend of modernity and natural beauty, with parks, botanical gardens, and the nearby mountains providing great outdoor opportunities. Sapporo is also famous for its seafood, particularly the fresh seafood markets. However, the city's winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures that might deter some visitors. Additionally, Sapporo's public transportation system, while extensive, can be crowded during peak times.
Traffic & Transport
The city's public transportation system is highly efficient and is the recommended way to navigate the urban area, especially for tourists. The subway and streetcar network covers most major attractions and is easy to use, with signs and announcements in English. For those preferring above-ground views, buses are also a convenient option, offering routes to various points of interest. Renting a bicycle can be a pleasant way to explore the city at your own pace, with several rental shops available near major stations. For taxi services, several reliable companies operate in the city, including Green Taxi, Daiichi Koutsu, and Sapporo Kotsu. Additionally, the use of taxi-booking apps like JapanTaxi and DiDi provides a convenient option for securing a ride, with the added benefit of being able to input destinations in English for smoother communication with drivers.
History
Originally a small trading post established in 1869 during the Meiji Restoration, the city was developed by the Japanese government to attract settlers to Hokkaido. It was designed by the American urban planner, William S. Clark, who also founded the Sapporo Agricultural College, now Hokkaido University. The city quickly grew into a regional center for trade and agriculture, particularly known for its beer production, which began in 1876. During World War II, it was largely spared from air raids, allowing it to continue as a key food supplier for Japan. In 1972, it hosted the Winter Olympics, which significantly boosted its international profile and winter sports culture.
Itinerary Sample
Here's a sample 3-day itinerary for exploring Sapporo, Japan:
– First day: Visit Odori Park, explore the Sapporo Tv Tower, and enjoy shopping at Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade.
– Second day: Tour the Historical Village of Hokkaido and the Sapporo Beer Museum, followed by dining in Susukino.
– Third day: Spend the morning at Moerenuma Park, then visit the Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Park.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Otaru at 40 km: A charming port city known for its well-preserved canal area and glassworks.
– Jozankei Onsen at 30 km: A hot spring resort area perfect for relaxation and scenic views.
– Lake Shikotsu at 50 km: A caldera lake with clear waters, ideal for boating and hiking.
– Asahiyama Zoo at 130 km: A popular zoo featuring unique animal exhibits and interactive experiences.
– Furano at 115 km: Famous for its beautiful lavender fields and charming landscapes.
Attraction
The city is known for its winter sports, beer, and beautiful parks.
– Odori Park: A large park in the city center, famous for hosting the annual Snow Festival.
– Moerenuma Park: A modern park designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, featuring unique sculptures and landscapes.
– Shiroi Koibito Park: A theme park by a famous confectionery company, offering factory tours and sweet treats.
– Mount Moiwa: A mountain with a ropeway and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
– Nijo Market: A beautiful seafood market where you can sample fresh local seafood.
– Historical Village: An open-air museum showcasing buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods.
Activity
In Sapporo, travelers can enjoy unique winter sports, hot springs, and local food experiences.
– Sapporo Snow Festival: See massive ice sculptures in February.
– Jozankei Onsen: Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains.
– Moerenuma Park: Explore a modern art park designed by Isamu Noguchi.
– Sapporo Beer Museum and Brewery Garden: Learn about beer history and enjoy tastings.
– Maruyama Zoo: Visit Hokkaido's oldest zoo with various animal exhibits.
Cuisine
The city is known for its rich culinary traditions, particularly its seafood and hearty dishes. Local specialties highlight fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Miso Ramen: Rich, savory ramen with a miso-based broth, often topped with corn and butter.
– Genghis Khan: Grilled lamb dish cooked on a dome-shaped metal skillet, served with vegetables.
– Seafood Donburi: Rice bowl topped with an assortment of fresh seafood like salmon, crab, and sea urchin.
– Soup Curry: Spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, served with rice.
– Ishikari Nabe: Hot pot dish featuring salmon, vegetables, and tofu in a miso-based broth.
– Shiroi Koibito: Popular white chocolate-filled cookies, a well-known local confection.
Shopping
For a unique shopping experience, visit Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, a covered shopping street with a variety of shops offering local crafts, souvenirs, and clothing. Another notable spot is the Nijo Market, where you can buy fresh local seafood, perfect for gifts. Popular gifts include Hokkaido sweets like Shiroi Koibito cookies and Royce' chocolate, both of which are renowned for their quality. Local crafts such as wooden Ainu carvings also make meaningful gifts.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival annually in February, showcasing massive ice and snow sculptures that attract visitors from around the world. It is also home to the Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara, known for its outstanding acoustics and a wide range of musical performances, including those by the Sapporo Symphony Orchestra. The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art offers a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art, focusing on artists from Hokkaido and around the globe. Additionally, the Yuki Matsuri, or Snow Festival, features international snow sculpture contests, local food stalls, and cultural events, highlighting traditional and modern aspects of Japanese culture.