sapporo day trip from tokyo

• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

Tokyo to Sapporo: The Easiest Ways to Travel

Sapporo. A common brand of Japanese beer. Also, the capital city of Hokkaidō , Japan’s northernmost island. Famous for the aforementioned beer, an impressive  snow festival , and being Japan’s biggest city and transit hub this far north. And now, here are the best ways to get from Tokyo to Sapporo.

How to get from Tokyo to Sapporo

Sapporo is approximately 500 miles (or about 800 km) from Tokyo as the crow flies. Options for making the trip from Tokyo to Sapporo include trains and planes but also roadtrips and ferries. If you have a JR Pass or a JR East–South Hokkaidō Pass we recommend taking the Shinkansen.

Otherwise, flying will generally be the more economical choice — especially if you’re able to snag your tickets during a sale. If you’re really here for the journey rather than the destination, then taking the ferry or roadtripping it up can be fun. We don’t really recommend either though, since they’re a lot slower and generally more expensive.

Tokyo to Sapporo Travel Options

Flying from tokyo to sapporo.

1.5 hours flight time + airport travel time ¥ 4,500 to ¥ 45,000 Haneda or Narita to New Chitose Airport

Air is by far the easiest way to get from Tokyo to Sapporo. The flight time is a reasonable 1.5 hours, though you have to take into account travel time to and from the airports. On the Tokyo side, different airlines fly out of both Narita and Haneda airports.

If you book early enough or during a sale, you can snap up return tickets from Tokyo to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport for as little as ¥ 9,500 (or, fellow Cheapos tell us, even less).

The standard range is more like ¥ 15,000 to ¥ 45,000 . Those higher fares happen during peak periods such as Obon, New Year and Golden Week .

In normal times, there are around 80 flights a day to New Chitose Airport from Haneda and Narita airports in Tokyo. That makes it one of the busiest air routes in the world. The disruptions caused by COVID-19 mean fewer flights each day, but you can still find plenty of flights between Tokyo and Sapporo.

Haneda or Narita to Sapporo?

Flights out of Haneda Airport tend to be at least ¥ 2,000 more expensive than those out of Narita Airport. Still, don’t rule Haneda out. The cost of getting all the way out to Narita Airport could end up cancelling out the savings on cheaper plane tickets.

Check out our guides on traveling between Tokyo and Narita Airport and also for getting to Haneda Airport .

Cheap flights to Sapporo

It’s best to look at LCCs (low-cost carriers) for good deals . You can start by checking budget airlines like Peach, Jetstar, and Skymark. Skyscanner offers a good comparison of what’s available right now, and at what price.

Air Do deals

Of special note is Air Do (rhymes with hairdo), Hokkaidō’s own carrier that’s headquartered in Sapporo. Air Do has flights not only between Sapporo and other major cities in Japan, but also between Sapporo and smaller, regional Hokkaidō airports like Memanbetsu.

For travelers living outside of Japan, Air Do offers a Welcome to Hokkaidō fare that can be purchased up to one day in advance. The fare varies, but a one-way flight is often ¥ 9,000 or less, going up to ¥ 9,800 in peak seasons. Users must present a non-Japanese passport and evidence of an international plane ticket to and from Japan upon check-in.

Getting from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo

New Chitose Airport is about 50 km from Sapporo, and there are regular direct trains and buses connecting the two. Trains take less than 40 minutes and cost only ¥ 1,150 . For more details about airport trains and other transport options, check out our guide to getting from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo .

Pro tip: Traveling with lots of luggage? Consider using a luggage delivery service to ship it onwards to your accommodation or the airport.

Taking the Shinkansen to Sapporo (sort of)

8 hours ~ ¥ 27,760 Tokyo to Hakodate by Shinkansen, Hakodate to Sapporo by Ltd. Express

Can you take the bullet train from Tokyo to Sapporo? Yes. Most of the way, anyway.

Since March 2016 it’s been possible to take the  Hokkaidō Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. That’s in Hakodate , at the bottom of Hokkaidō, which is…not so close to Sapporo. While there are plans to extend the Shinkansen to Sapporo, that isn’t scheduled to happen until 2030. In the meantime, there’s a Ltd. Express service between Hakodate and Sapporo.

It takes approximately 4–4.5 hours from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, which is currently the end of the line for the Hokkaidō Shinkansen. Then it’s at least another 3.5 hours on express trains to get to Sapporo. So you’re looking at a whole day of travel.

How much does it cost?

The total fare between Tokyo and Sapporo is ¥ 27,760 . That’s booking a through ticket on the Hokkaidō Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and the Ltd. Express Hokuto service between Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and Sapporo. The Hokkaidō Shinkansen only has reserved seats but you can save ¥ 260 by skipping the reserved seat on the Ltd. Express Hokuto.

It’s important to book the two segments of the journey together as a through ticket, in order to take advantage of JR East’s transfer discount. This gives you a half-price discount on the Ltd. Express journey. Booking the tickets separately would cost significantly more.

Working out train fares in Japan can be tricky. Learn more about how Shinkansen fares are calculated and how to find discount Shinkansen tickets from JR East .

Getting a Japan Rail Pass for travel to Hokkaidō

A one-way train ride from Tokyo to Sapporo costs over half as much as the 7-day Japan Rail (JR) Pass ( ¥ 50,000 ), which gives you virtually unlimited rides on bullet trains and other JR trains countrywide. So if are keen on making a return trip to Hokkaidō you should seriously consider buying a JR Pass to economize.

Regional rail passes for travel to Hokkaidō

The East–South Hokkaidō Pass , which is a regional rail pass from JR East , also covers the train journey between Tokyo and Sapporo. The pass is a little cheaper at ¥ 27,000 , but is only good for six consecutive days of travel. It also doesn’t cover train travel in Hokkaidō beyond Sapporo.

What about local trains?

It’s…possible. But, the journey is impossible to complete in one day. You’re looking at 40 to 50 hours, including an overnight stop at some point when the trains stop running for the day. Plus, unless you have a Seishun 18 Ticket you’re looking at ¥ 22,290 or more one-way. If you really like the scenic route then it could be an interesting trip, but with 15 or more transfers it’s not necessarily going to be relaxing.

Also keep in mind that you’d still have to take the Shinkansen between Aomori (Honshū’s northernmost prefecture) and Hokkaidō, since local trains no longer run on the Seikan Tunnel tracks. Or you could take a ferry instead (see below for more details on ferries between Aomori and Hokkaidō).

Taking the ferry from Tokyo-ish to Sapporo-ish

Around 19 hours ¥ 10,000 to ¥ 24,500 for the ferry alone Tokyo to Oarai port in Ibaraki, then Tomakomai port to Sapporo

You can also take a ferry  from Ōarai in Ibaraki prefecture (1 hour and a bit from Tokyo) to Tomakomai (1 hour south of Sapporo by train). There are early evening and late night departures, and the whole trip takes about 19 hours.

Tickets start from about ¥ 9,800 , but be aware that fares do vary depending on the time of year and whether you choose the twilight or overnight option (the latter being slightly pricier).

During peak travel times they can range from ¥ 17,200 to ¥ 22,200 for the cheapest option, so do check your dates online for the twilight and for the overnight services.

You can book combo overnight ferry and Sapporo hotel packages starting from ¥ 17,900 .

When booking, you can choose a cabin — either economy or something slightly fancier, depending on your budget. The cheapest option involves a bit of floor space in a communal room.

There is a kind of boat restaurant/cafeteria, so you’ll be well-fed, in addition to well-bored by the time you arrive. Unless you’re moving large objects or trying to tap into your inner pirate, we have to ask, why not just take the bullet train or fly? But we salute you, seafarer. Each to their own.

Transfers eitherside

The train journey from Tokyo to Ōarai takes 1 hour and 45 minutes, using a combination of limited express (JR Tokiwa or Hitachi service for Mito) and local Kashima Rinkai line trains, and costs ¥ 4,220 . (Using regular trains costs ¥ 2,640 and takes about 3 hours).

On the other side, the train journey from Tomakomai to Sapporo can either be made on a limited express service in 47 minutes for ¥ 3,360 or on local lines in an hour (with one change) for ¥ 1,680 . You’ll have to take a taxi or a local bus between Tomakomai Port and Tomakomai Station.

Keep an eye out for bus and ferry deals in Hokkaidō when you book — they vary depending on season but can be a better option price-wise, and smoother than dealing with trains too.

Pro tip: Interested in ferry travel in Japan? Read about the Japan Ferry Pass 21 —the oceanic answer to the Japan Rail Pass .-->

Roadtripping from Tokyo to Sapporo

16 hours with toll roads (23 hours without) ¥ 15,150 for tolls, ¥ 10,000 to ¥ 33,000 for the ferry, plus fuel Drive from Tokyo to Aomori, ferry to Hakodate or Tomakomai, then drive to Sapporo

Unfortunately, you cannot drive directly to Hokkaidō as the Seikan Tunnel only takes bullet and freight trains. If you have the time, money, and the inclination, however, you can drive from Tokyo to Aomori prefecture in northern Honshū and then take a ferry across the strait. From there, you can continue on to Sapporo.

Pro-tip: There are plenty of great stop-offs to choose from in Tōhoku along the way.

rentals like DreamDrive -->

Travel time and cost

The main thing that will influence the time and cost of roadtripping from Tokyo to Sapporo is toll roads. If you don’t mind paying around ¥ 15,150 in tolls, you can make the trip in about 16 hours.

On the other hand, if you’d rather avoid the tolls you’re looking at over 23 hours driving. If you decide to go with the toll roads, make sure to check out our article on how to save money on tolls roads .

Ferries from Aomori to Hokkaidō

There are a few different ferry routes from which to choose. Keep in mind that car fares for the ferry are quite expensive, and while most companies include the driver’s fare in the price, additional tickets are required for other passengers, with some discounts available. There can be changes to rates depending on the time of year and vehicle size too, so be sure to check ahead for your specific journey.

From Aomori and Ōma to Hakodate

Both Aomori City and Ōma have ports for ferries to Hakodate. Ōma, which is further north than Aomori City, is closer to Hokkaidō and therefore a little cheaper.

The drive from Tokyo to Aomori City takes around 8–9 hours on toll roads (or 15 hours if avoiding tolls). Continuing to the port in Ōma adds an extra hour to this.

From Hakodate, Sapporo is a 4.5 hour drive, taking you along the coast and through the mountains. Car fares from Aomori to Hakodate on the Tsugaru Kaikyō Ferry range from ¥ 15,400 to ¥ 26,100 while those from Ōma range from ¥ 11,650 to ¥ 20,870 .

From Hachinohe to Tomakomai

Hachinohe is on the east coast of Aomori prefecture, and is 1 hour closer to Tokyo than Aomori City, taking either 7–8 hour or 14 hours depending on your toll choices.

The Silver Ferry from Hachinohe goes to Tomakomai which is only a 1 hour drive from Sapporo with tolls or an extra half-hour without. Fares for this ferry are ¥ 21,000 for vehicles less than 4m, ¥ 27,000 for vehicles less than 5m and ¥ 33,000 for vehicles less than 6m, but remain the same throughout the season.

Things to do in Sapporo and the rest of Hokkaidō

Once you’re there, you won’t be short of things to do. Sapporo is a fun place for foodies , and there are heaps of things to do and see in the city. Venturing out of the prefectural capital, the slopes of Niseko await powderhounds, and Hokkaidō road trips are an option for people keen to see other parts of the landscape.

While we do our best to ensure that everything is correct, information is subject to change. Originally published in July, 2016. Last updated in May 2023 by Shyam Bhardwa.

閱讀中文版本: 從東京去札幌：最容易的交通路線一覽

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Sapporo: Getting there and around

Getting to sapporo.

• ¥ 7,000 - 48,000

Tokyo-Sapporo is one of the world's busiest air routes with dozens of flights per day, operated by JAL, ANA, Air Do, Skymark, Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan and Spring Airlines Japan. The majority of flights use Tokyo 's Haneda Airport and Sapporo 's New Chitose Airport , but quite a few flights also use Tokyo's Narita Airport .

Flight duration is about 90 minutes. The regular one way fares by the conventional airlines are as high as around 46,000 yen, but thanks to a wide range of discount offers , one way fares of around or under 10,000 yen are often available. Skymark, Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan and Spring Airlines Japan tend to have the lowest fares (sometimes under 5000 yen), especially to/from Narita .

• ¥ 30,000

Take the JR Tohoku / Hokkaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto (4 hours) and transfer to the Hokuto limited express to Sapporo (3.5 hours). The entire one way trip costs around 30,000 yen and takes around eight hours. It is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass . Note that seat reservations are mandatory on Hayabusa trains between Tokyo and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto.

• ¥ 15,000

There are long distance ferries between Oarai Port, 100 kilometers northeast of Tokyo and Tomakomai Port, 50 kilometers south of Sapporo. The one way ferry ride takes about 19 hours and costs 11,500 yen in the cheapest class. View our ferry information page for more details, including port access information.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates .

Getting around

No major city in Japan is easier to navigate than Sapporo with its rectangular street layout and simple addressing system: City blocks are named and numbered according to the point of compass, with the apex at the eastern end of Odori Park . The Sapporo Beer Museum , for example, is located in city block "North 7, East 9", i.e. in the 7th block north and 9th block east of the apex.

Three subway lines, a tram line and many bus companies (JR Hokkaido Bus, Hokkaido Chuo Bus and Jotetsu Bus) provide Sapporo with an efficient network of public transportation. The Japan Rail Pass , Hokkaido Rail Pass and Hokkaido Free Pass are valid on local buses operated by JR Hokkaido Bus.

Sapporo has two airports. The main airport, New Chitose Airport , is reached in a 35 minute train ride hour south from the city center and handles most of the city's domestic and international air traffic. The much smaller Okadama Airport is more centrally located, but has only a small number of flights other cities in Hokkaido .

Passes and Tickets

The following one day passes are available for Sapporo :

• Subway 1-Day Card (830 yen) Unlimited use of Sapporo's three subway lines on one calendar day. Note that a discounted pass is available on weekends (see below).
• Donichika Ticket (520 yen) Unlimited use of Sapporo's three subway lines on one calendar day. The pass is only available on weekends, public holidays and from December 29 to January 3.

Prepaid cards make the process of taking subways and buses easier, as you do not always need to buy a new ticket for each ride. Some of them also give small discounts. Prepaid cards can be purchased at vending machines.

• Kitaca Kitaca is the rechargeable prepaid IC card by JR Hokkaido that can be used on JR trains in Greater Sapporo , including Otaru and Shin-Chitose Airport as well as on Sapporo's subways, buses and tram thanks to its compatibility with Sapica (see below). Kitaca can, furthermore, be used in several other cities of Japan. Nine other IC cards from other major cities of Japan, including Suica, can also be used in the Greater Sapporo area instead of Kitaca. The initial purchase of a card costs 2000 yen (500 yen refundable deposit and 1500 yen fare balance).
• Sapica Sapica is the rechargeable prepaid IC card which can be used on Sapporo 's three subway lines, city buses (JR Hokkaido Bus, Jotetsu and Hokkaido Chuo Bus) and tram. The initial purchase costs 2000 yen (500 yen refundable deposit and 1500 yen fare balance). Unlike many other IC cards, Sapica is accumulating 10% points with each use, and accumulated points are used towards the purchase of future trips. Sapica cannot be used on JR trains or outside of the Greater Sapporo area.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Jr hokkaido, hokkaido chuo bus, jotetsu bus, sapporo subway, jr hokkaido bus, hotels around sapporo.

Experiences around Sapporo

How to Travel From Tokyo to Hokkaido: Best, Easiest, Cheapest Ways to Get to Sapporo Compared

• Written by: Minna no Kotoba Sha

Discover the easiest, cheapest routes from Tokyo to Hokkaido. Sapporo , Hokkaido Prefecture's capital city, is where many tourists make their base. Home to the Sapporo Snow Festival , many other seasonal events and sightseeing spots , and with great access to the rest of Japan's northernmost island, it's a perfect place to visit. So, what is the best way to get from Tokyo to Hokkaido? Though the two areas are around 820km apart, Tokyo and Sapporo are actually well connected to each other. Whether you favor speed, budget, the route and its sights, or even a specific vehicle, we've got you covered. (Main image: PIXTA)

1. Fast & Convenient: Tokyo to Hokkaido (Sapporo) by Air

2. ride the hokkaido shinkansen: tokyo to hakodate via bullet train using your japan rail pass, 3. tokyo to sapporo ferry: crossing to hokkaido, 4. driving to hokkaido: tokyo rental car options, do your research, and enjoy your hokkaido trip.

When it comes to speed and convenience, flying from Tokyo to Hokkaido is the optimal choice. Over 80 daily flights connect Haneda and Narita airports to New Chitose Airport , completing the journey in just 1.5 hours. Tickets typically range from 20,000 to 30,000 yen, but early bookings or flexible travel days/times may offer more budget-friendly options.

Conveniently get from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo by bus

You won’t need to leave the airport to access the JR train network, which has convenient rail access. The Airport Express is a train that arrives at Sapporo Station in 33 minutes, departing at a frequency of 5/hour during the day, so you won’t need to wait long. Since many commuters use it, if you want to secure a seat, you can wait for one of the following trains, or reserve ahead (for an additional fee).

The bus, instead, takes about 50 minutes from the airport to central Sapporo . It can store large suitcases, and every passenger has a seat. If you are staying in the areas of Odori or Susukino, or places not far from the city's center, the bus will probably conveniently stop nearby.

Embark on a remarkable journey from Tokyo to Hakodate via the renowned Hokkaido Shinkansen. This high-speed bullet train offers a comfortable ride through Japan's scenic countryside. If you use the Hokkaido Shinkansen, which opened in 2016, you will arrive at Sapporo Station in about four and a half hours, when traveling from Tokyo Station to Shin- Hakodate Hokuto Station. From Hakodate , Sapporo is a further three and a half hours by express train. Or you can easily connect to other parts of Hokkaido, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore beyond Sapporo . The price ranges around 15,000 yen, not including seat reservation, but your Japan Rail Pass may cover it. In total, it will take around 8 hours from Tokyo Station to Sapporo Station.

From the Shinkansen windows, you can enjoy the scenery changing from the heavily metropolitan Tokyo to the nature -rich ones of Tohoku. One of the most distinctive areas you will pass through is the Seikan Tunnel between Aomori Prefecture and Hokkaido, which extends to the bottom of the Tsugaru Strait. Although you won’t be able to see anything in the dark, it’s exciting to picture that you are actually traveling on the seabed. From Shin- Hakodate -Hokuto Station, transfer to the express train and enjoy the sights of Hokkaido’s most scenic spots, like the landscapes in Onuma, Mount Komagatake, and Funka Bay, and take in the nature and streets of Hokkaido until you arrive in Sapporo . If you have a lot of time, you can take advantage of discounted tour tickets and stop in various towns in Hokkaido and Tohoku. The JR homepage supports multiple languages, and it’s easy to navigate so that you can plan the perfect railway trip for you.

For a more leisurely and picturesque journey, consider taking the ferry from Tokyo to Sapporo . This delightful maritime experience allows you to soak in the beauty of the sea as you sail towards Hokkaido. There are two cruises a day from Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture (two hours driving from Haneda and Narita Airports) to Tomakomai Port in Hokkaido. Travel time by boat is approximately 18 hours. The price varies depending on your room, but if you want to watch your budget, it’s about 10,000 yen for a shared room and 12,000 yen for a cabin. There are also hotel -like rooms equipped with a bath, toilet, and refrigerator, where you can spend your time with your family and friends. There are also facilities like public baths, where you can bathe while gazing at the ocean, restaurants where you can taste elaborate dishes, and a vast bridge, which all guarantee you won’t be bored during your cruise. You can also find nice towels and origami that will be perfect as souvenirs.

There is a convenient direct bus from Tokyo Station to the Oarai Ferry Terminal, but you can also drive there, so if you were thinking about renting a car and enjoying the sights on the way, this would be a good option for you (especially if you are traveling with children). You can arrive from Tomakomai Port to Sapporo city center in just over an hour, and you can sightsee around the city easily if you have a car. When booking online you can find round-trip discounts and other deals. The website supports English, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese.

• Phone: 0120-489850 (From a mobile phone/PHS/IP phone, call 029-267-4133 (Oarai Ship Reservation Center), or 0144-34-3121 (Tomakomai Ship Reservation Center))
• Open: 9 AM-9 PM (Saturday until noon)
• Closed Sunday and national holidays
• Website: https://www.sunflower.co.jp/

If you crave the freedom of the open road, driving from Tokyo to Hokkaido in a rental car is the perfect adventure. Embark on a road trip that allows you to set your own pace, making stops at picturesque towns and breathtaking viewpoints along the way. While the journey requires more time compared to flying or taking the Shinkansen, the flexibility and scenic routes offer an unforgettable experience. There are three major routes: The Pacific side, the Sea of Japan side, and the inland, all of which run for roughly 1,000 km, but the landscapes are different and unique, making them irresistible to people who love to drive. Since you will have to cross the Tsugaru Strait, don’t drive for too long hours, and give yourself a couple of days. You can also rent a car via a system called “drop-off,” which allows you to rent a car from Narita or Haneda Airport , and return it at New Chitose Airport . There are several companies that offer multi-lingual service, and convenient options, and discounts, so do some research beforehand to find what best suits you.

The way you travel will change your trip. Before you leave, do your research, study the various options, and choose the best method for you. Also, make sure to look into discount tickets and other offers, and have fun!

Minna no Kotoba Sha is a production company founded by an editor with extensive experience in editing local magazines in Sapporo. For over 20 years, our team has conducted research and written articles across Hokkaido, with Sapporo as our primary hub. Our diverse portfolio includes the production of various books such as travel guides, informational magazines, and collections showcasing the picturesque landscapes of Hokkaido. Comprised entirely of women, the team at Minna no Kotoba Sha boasts diverse interests, including a passion for travel, culinary delights, and alcoholic beverages. The scope of our communication efforts spans a wide range, covering everything from introducing notable restaurants to providing coverage of local events and sharing stories of leisure experiences.

• Area Sapporo / Chitose
• Category Other Sightseeing
• How To: Transportation

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The 3 Best Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Sapporo

Sapporo, Hokkaido Prefecture's capital city, is a popular stop on trips to Japan, with lots of beautiful outdoor parks and nature to see, mountains for skiing in the winter, incredible food, and the world-famous Sapporo beer. 

To get from Tokyo to Sapporo, we recommend taking a flight if you don't have a huge amount of time, or taking the Shinkansen train if you are interested in enjoying the beautiful scenes along the route and seeing more of Japan's countryside.

There is also the option to take a ferry, which takes longer but is a nice way to travel if you are not in a rush. Read on to find out more about the top 3 ways to get from Tokyo to Sapporo.

1. Fly from Tokyo to Sapporo: the Most Convenient and Quickest Way

Tokyo and Sapporo are about 832 km (517 mi) from each other, making flying the fastest way. It is a very well-served flight path, with lots of different options to get you up to the north of Japan in just 1½ hours.

Which Airport to Fly From

Flights go from Tokyo's airports (Haneda and Narita), both of which you can get to easily from Tokyo Station, and arrive at Sapporo's New Chitose Airport.

While Haneda Airport is often a little pricier to fly from, it's important to remember that this is the airport that is also closer to the city of Tokyo and cheaper to get to.

Sapporo's New Chitose Airport is around an hour from Sapporo city center, and is best reached by train on the Japan Rail Chitose Line. It goes directly into Sapporo Station, and you do not need to leave the airport to get onto it. Trains depart every 15 minutes between 7am and 11pm, and tickets cost just under US$10 each way. This train is also covered on the Japan Rail Pass.

Airplane Tickets and Pricing

Tickets start at around US$60 one way on Jetstar Japan from Narita Airport, and you can pay approximately US$130 for a one-way ticket on Japan Airlines from Haneda Airport.

Booking your ticket in advance is recommended, particularly during busier tourist seasons (the spring and fall months), to avoid higher prices for flights. More last-minute flights during busy seasons can cost upwards of US$350 for a return, but you can get a better deal in advance.

Prices do of course also depend on the airline you take, with Jetstar Japan and Peach Airlines being a more budget friendly option, and Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways being the larger common premium airlines.

2. Get the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Sapporo: The Scenic Route

Shinkansen trains in Japan are punctual, comfortable, and a great way to travel, particularly if you're thinking of purchasing the Japan Rail Pass, a multi-use rail ticket popular for tourists in Japan.

There are Shinkansen trains that go from Tokyo all the way to Sapporo, with a transfer at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station .

This is definitely the best option if you have the time to enjoy the ride, want to see the picturesque scenery along the way, and if you've already purchased a Japan Rail Pass (since the trains to Sapporo are included in this).

A direct Shinkansen train from Tokyo to Sapporo is currently still under construction, and is expected to be fully operational by 2030.

Which Shinkansen Train to Take and Train Schedules

To get from Tokyo to Sapporo, you need to take two Shinkansen trains , first the Hayabusa and then the Hokuto.

Each train requires a separate ticket, or a separate reservation if you're traveling on the Japan Rail Pass, and you will have to transfer at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station.

To check the times of the trains in advance, we suggest using Japan Transit Planner , which is a popular website for train scheduling. Tickets get released around 2–3 months ahead of time, and we do recommend booking ahead since there are limited trains between Tokyo and Sapporo, and because there is a transit in your journey.

If you have the time, we can also recommend stopping off in Hakodate before continuing on your journey, because it is one of the most important port cities of Japan. There are delicious seafood restaurants, a famous hot spring, and a military fort — Fort Goryokaku.

How to Buy Your Shinkansen Tickets?

To find out more information with regards to purchasing Shinkansen train tickets in Japan, we suggest reading our piece about the 4 best ways to get from Tokyo to Kyoto . Tips for booking tickets between Tokyo and Sapporo are the same as for other Shinkansen bullet trains, although because your journey is longer and there are fewer trains, we recommend planning ahead, particularly during peak tourist season (March to May, and October to mid-December).

The only difference is that it is necessary to reserve your seats on both the Hayabusa and Hokuto Shinkansen trains, where there are no non-reserved seating carriages (unlike some other bullet trains in Japan).

Even if you are traveling on a Japan Rail Pass, you still need to make your reservations ahead of time, which can be done either online or through the station's ticket offices. Don't forget to reserve a seat with luggage storage if you're taking multiple bags, which you can read more about further down.

Which Station to Use in Tokyo

The Hayabusa Shinkansen train departs from Tokyo Station, which is a bustling station full of shops, restaurants, and things to see. We recommend getting there with plenty of time, because navigating it isn't always straight forward, especially if you're not used to Japan's busy rail network.

There are signs that display train departure times and platforms, but it is also easy to find someone to ask for help at an information desk. The staff will be more than happy to help!

To get onto the platform and into your train, when the train is ready to be boarded the barriers will open when you insert the tickets (if you have physical tickets). Don't forget to collect the tickets on the other side of the barrier. If you have a QR code ticket, there's also a scanner for digital tickets with QR codes.

Train Luggage Allowance and Japan's Amazing Luggage Forwarding Service

A Japanese Shinkansen ticket includes two pieces of luggage for each ticketed passenger. Each suitcase or bag's combined length, width, and height cannot exceed 250 cm (or 98 inches) as well as 30 kilograms (66 pounds) either.

While it is possible to take your luggage with you, and reserve a seat next to the luggage space, you can also make use of Japan's popular luggage shipping service to send your luggage ahead of you. Costs for this (it's called takuhaibin) are around US$20 for a big piece of luggage from Tokyo to Sapporo, and it takes two days to get there.

We recommend considering using the takuhaibin service, because this way you won't have to transit between trains with heavy suitcases, and you could just take two days worth of luggage with you on the train instead, making the journey smoother.

3. Take the Sunflower Ferry from Tokyo to Sapporo

Given that there is water in between Tokyo and Sapporo, because they're on two different islands, it is also possible to schedule your journey via the ferry. This is definitely the longer way to travel, but if you have the time it is a beautiful route.

The boat leaves twice a day, once at 7.45pm, arriving at 1.30pm the next day, and once at 1.45am, arriving at 7.30pm the next day, taking 17 hours 45 minutes .

The ferry is called the Sunflower Ferry, and it departs from Oarai in Ibaraki , and arrives in Tomakomai in Hokkaido .

The complete journey takes approximately 22 hours with port journeys, boarding, etc., and prices depend on whether you are happy with a budget room or want a more luxurious suite. There are also differences in price depending on what time of the year you travel, but tickets range between US$60 for an off-peak budget room, to US$150 for an ocean-view room in peak season, or US$400 for a luxury suite during peak season.

From Tokyo to Oarai Port Ferry Terminal

To get to the Oarai Port Ferry Terminal from Tokyo, you need to take the Joban train from Tokyo's Shinagawa Station to Mito Station, and the Kashima Rink Tetsudo train to Oarai Station from Mito Station. The entire journey takes around an hour and 45 minutes, will set you back approximately US$30, and from Oarai Station there is a shuttle bus that takes around 5 minutes to the Oarai Port Ferry Terminal.

There is also an option to take a bus, but this takes almost 3 hours, and you also need to stop off at Mito Station. It's a long journey and costs around the same as the train, making the train the better option.

From Tomakomai West Port Ferry Terminal to Sapporo

On the other side, after disembarking from the Sunflower Ferry, the journey from Tomakomai to Sapporo is approximately 60 minutes by taxi, or you can take a bus from Tomakomai Station to Sapporo Station. The bus takes around 1½ hours, and tickets cost around US$10.

Visiting Sapporo and Japan with Asia Highlights

Apart from tips on how to get to Sapporo, our experts at Asia Highlights are also able to help you plan your time there and in the rest of Japan. From transportation, accommodation, and curated experiences, our itineraries covering Japan can be uniquely tailored to you, creating memories that will last forever.

Recommended tours including Sapporo:

• 9-Day Best of Japan's Winter – Hokkaido Private Tour
• 8-Day Hokkaido Summer Vacation — Nature & Traditions

To find out more about traveling to Japan with Asia Highlights, contact us  today with details of what you'd like to see, how long you are hoping to stay, and what your needs and requirements are.

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SAPPORO ON A BUDGET: Travel Guide & Itinerary

The Japanese have a word for it – kogarashi . It means ‘leaf-wilting wind’, referring to the gust that blows the last leaves off the trees, announcing the arrival of winter. While locals who have to deal with the extreme cold dread the frost as much as the Starks do, tourists chase it. Of all the key Japanese cities, Sapporo has the longest winter, starting as early as October. And as someone who spent most of my life in the tropics, I find joy in saying, “Winter is coming.”

Many of us whose roots are planted near the equator once imagined ourselves in that snowglobe we shook dreamily when we were kids. Snow is a reward, something that we could only see if we work hard enough to afford it, after we had been burdened by life’s many responsibilities. While I’m aware that too much of it has a dark side, for the young, naive me, snow is not ice powder but fairy dust, the stuff that magical places are made of. So yes, Sapporo, and Hokkaido in general, is one of my most-loved destinations in Japan.

Our team has been here four times now, in an effort to keep this travel guide updated. It’s my second time. Just last year, I was in town to experience Sapporo Snow Festival. And boy, what difference a year makes! In between my visits, Kita Kita , a Filipino film set in Sapporo, became a blockbuster hit and introduced the city to more travelers. And then, Philippine Airlines launched direct flights, allowing them to reach Sapporo more easily. Last year, I did not meet a single Filipino traveler outside the airport. This year, I kept hearing Tagalog words everywhere: at the TV tower, at restaurants, inside cable cars. Even the guys from the Tourism Board told us they were happy that their tourism has grown tremendously over the past year.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SAPPORO CITY

The northernmost prefectural capital in Japan, Sapporo requires a bit more effort to reach. Yet, it is the country’s fifth biggest city by population, which has significantly grown only in the past decades. Sapporo is one of the youngest urban areas Japan.

According to tourism officials we talked to during our stay, before development began to take over in 1857, there were only 7 people living here. And because it was built not too long ago, the design of the city didn’t come about organically. It was measured and developed according to plan. The city’s blueprint is an almost perfect grid, with the Ekimae Avenue (north to south) and Odori Park (east to west) as the main axes. Much of the public infrastructures, like the subway system, were built in preparation for 1972 Winter Olympics.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Japanese (Nihongo). English isn’t widely spoken, but it’s not difficult to get around. Menus, signs, and machines have English translations.
• Currency : Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). JPY 1000 is roughly USD 9, EUR 7.85, SGD 12.5, PHP 476 (as of December 2018).
• Modes of payment : Cash is preferred. Some bigger establishments accept credit cards, but cash is still king in Sapporo (and Japan in general).
• Electricity Info : 100V. Type A sockets. Plugs have two flat pins. Type B is sometimes used but not that common.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SAPPORO

Winter , of course. Although the weather isn’t always comfortable, much of what Sapporo has to offer is best enjoyed in the cold months. It gets 6m of snow a year, and the first of the season usually falls in October. By December, the entire city is already a winter wonderland, and temperatures continue to drop as the season progresses. Here are more reasons to consider visiting when it’s covered in white blanket. (Warning, though: It can get really cold, with average nighttime temperatures reaching as low as -8C.)

• Sapporo Snow Festival , an annual week-long event held in early February, showcases giant ice and snow sculptures in many parts of the city, with the one in Odori Park getting the most attention. Last year alone, it attracted almost 2 million visitors.
• Sapporo International Ski Marathon , a cross-country skiing marathon, starts here.
• Sapporo White Illumination runs from mid-November to December.
• Sapporo is a popular choice for skiing and other winter sports.

April is when it gets warmer and snow begins to melt. Have you been dreaming of cherry blossoms but you’re always unable to travel in March or April? Sapporo to the rescue. The first bloom of sakura happens much later in Sapporo than in other major cities, usually in early May.

Autumn is good, too, if you wish to see its landscapes get painted bright red and orange. The Sapporo Autumn Festival happens in September, but make sure to bring a cardigan. If you plan to visit in October, you will need a jacket.

HOW TO GET TO SAPPORO

Sapporo is served by two airports, the new Chitose Airport and the Okadama Airport . If you’re flying to Sapporo from overseas, there’s a big chance you’ll be using Chitose. However, international flights are limited to China, Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, Honolulu, Guam, Australia, and most recently the Philippines. Most journeys make a connection in Tokyo or another major city.

MANILA TO SAPPORO

Starting December 7, 2018, Philippine Airlines has started flying nonstop from Manila to Sapporo! Their introductory price for a round-trip ticket is USD 399, inclusive of baggage allowance, meals, and other surcharges. This is great for those who also value their time. Flying directly will cut short the total travel time and skip the layover at another airport, which will give you more time to actually enjoy the destination.

Philippine Airlines also uses a brand new Airbus A321neo for their Sapporo flights. I’ve tried this aircraft many times now. Expect wider legroom, quieter journey, and a big screen with a great selection of movies!

The fare is also not far from the fares of flights with stops. Given that every PAL booking also comes with meals, seat selection, and 50-lb baggage allowance (something you might need in winter), PAL offers the best value for money.

TOKYO TO SAPPORO by Plane

The flight from Tokyo to Sapporo usually takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. JetStar offers round-trip flights for less than USD 100 (PHP 5000).

TOKYO TO SAPPORO by Train

Taking the train to Sapporo from other major cities outside Hokkaido is both time-consuming and expensive, which is why I don’t recommend it unless you’re on a multi-city tour around Japan.

• Take the Shinkansen Hayabusa to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station . Travel time: 4.5 hours. Reserved seat fee: ¥11,130 ($100, P5000).
• Switch to Limited Express Hokuto Line and alight at Sapporo Station. Travel time: 3 hours, 40 minutes. Reserved seat fee: ¥1550 ($14, P700); Unreserved seat ¥1290 ($11.5, P580).

The whole journey takes over 8 hours, not counting the layover time. The total fare for 2 legs is ¥14,140. That’s on top of the seat fees. So the whole journey would cost you around ¥26,820 ($240, P12,000). That’s just one way!

OSAKA TO SAPPORO by Plane

Flights from Osaka takes around 2 hours but usually costs just a tad higher.

OSAKA TO SAPPORO by Train

To get to Sapporo from Osaka, you will need to make a transfer in Tokyo.

• From Shin-Osaka Station (not to be confused with Osaka Station), take the Shinkansen Nozomi to Tokyo Station . Travel time: 2 hours, 33 minutes. Reserved seat fee: ¥5700 ($51, P2550); Unreserved seat fee: ¥4870 ($44, P2180).
• Switch to Limited Express Hokuto Line and alight at Sapporo Station . Travel time: 3 hours, 40 minutes. Reserved seat fee: ¥1550 ($14, P700); Unreserved seat ¥1290 ($11.5, P580).

Total travel time is 10.5 hours , excluding the layovers. The total fare from Osaka to Sapporo is ¥18,140. Add the seat fees and you’ll have to shell out around ¥36,520 ($326, P16,400).

See now why we advise against it? Flying is faster and much, much cheaper.

But if you’re visiting multiple cities, then you will get great savings if you just book a JR Pass . This makes sense if you want to explore not just one or two cities. For example, if your itinerary includes Osaka, Tokyo, and Sapporo in 7 days.

Also, riding the bullet train across the Japanese countryside is quite an experience too.

NEW CHITOSE AIRPORT TO SAPPORO CITY CENTER

• From the New Chitose Airport, travel on foot to the New Chitose Airport Station.
• Take the JR Rapid Airport Line headed for Otaru or Sapporo.
• Get off at Sapporo Station.

Fare is ¥1070 ($9.6, P480). You may reserve a seat for ¥520 if you want, but you can simply hop on to the cars with unreserved seats (FREE).

Travel time: 37 minutes.

HOW TO GET AROUND SAPPORO

Thanks to grid design, it is easy to explore the city center of Sapporo even on foot. You can simply divide the map into four quadrants with the Ekimae Avenue (north to south) and Odori Park (east to west) as the main axes. Each block in the city measures 100 meters so it’s not difficult to keep track how far you are from where you came from. I thoroughly enjoyed walking around even in the cold, cold evenings. And if you’re walking along Odori, it’s literally a walk in the park!

For not-so-short distances, there’s always the subway. To make it even easier, go to Hyperdia.com on your web browser. Enter your origin and the station where you’re going. It will then display possible route options including how much the ride costs and transfers needed to get there. At the train station, you can double check the price. Just look at the route map, usually above the ticket machines. The map displays the price based on distance. Sometimes, the map is in Japanese characters only, which is why Hyperdia is useful. If you’re not familiar with Hyperdia, here’s our guide: How to Use Hyperdia .

JR Hokkaido Kitaca Card

The Kitaca Card is Hokkaido’s IC card. You can use this to skip purchasing tickets every time you use the the train or bus. It’s much like Tokyo’s PASMO or SUICA and Osaka’s ICOCA. You can also use it anywhere that accepts IC cards even outside Hokkaido.

You can buy a Kitaca card via Klook. It’s preloaded with ¥1500. You can pick it up at the airport or at Sapporo TV Tower, whichever is more convenient.

If you’re visiting multiple cities in Japan and you’re staying for at least 7 days, you can save A LOT OF MONEY by getting a Train Pass. Klook offers the cheapest JR Passes available. If you live in the Philippines, the pass will be delivered to you in 7 days.

Again, JR Pass is only ideal for those traveling from one city to another. If your itinerary involved only Sapporo or Otaru, you don’t need this. But if you’re also visiting other cities within or outside Hokkaido, this can mean great savings.

✅ CHECK JR PASS RATES HERE

Pocket Wifi Rental in Sapporo

One of the most convenient ways of getting connected to the Internet in Japan is renting a mobile wi-fi. It can accommodate multiple users so if you’re a group, you just need one and split the cost. You’ll find a lot of them around, even at the airport. However, based on experience, they are so in demand that every time I try to get one, there’s always none left. Fortunately, with KKDay, you can reserve one and just pick it up at the airport !

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE

Japan Unlimited Data eSIM

KKDay has a lot of options for unlimited data eSIM, too, good for 1 to 30 days!

PLACES TO VISIT IN SAPPORO

Sapporo beer museum and beer garden.

Explore the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn barrels about the Japanese beer culture! There is no entrance fee, but a guided tour costs ¥500. Afterwards, you may sample the beers or have what locals call the Genghis Khan , a dish composed of grilled lamb meat and vegetables. Housed in the Kaitakushi-kan building, a Hokkaido heritage site, it fosters a fantastic atmosphere too!

Tip: Make this your last stop of the day. Otherwise, prepare a change of clothes because the smell of smoke will stick with you for the rest of the day.

Here are the rates for Genghis Khan (lamb and fresh vegetables):

All-You-Can-Eat Adults (13+ yo): ¥2900 (¥3132 with tax) Students（7-12 yo): ¥1450 (¥1566 with tax)

All-You-Can-Eat + All-You-Can-Drink Adults (13+ yo): ¥3900 (¥4212 with tax) Students (7-12 yo): ¥1950 (¥2106 with tax)

If you’ve worked up an appetite after a day of sightseeing, you might want to avail of their Premium À-La-Carte Buffet. Not only will you get to try the Genghis Khan, you also get to dig into snow crabs, red king crabs, and other dishes that Hokkaido is famous for. For beer lovers, you get access to 6 types of beer too!

Mt. Moiwa Ropeway

Mt. Moiwa (Moiwayama) provides one of the most spectacular city lights views in Japan. It’s accessible via cable car.

If you’ve seen the movie Kita Kita, it’s that site on top of a mountain and the two characters are ringing a bell while they’re drunk.

Entrance Fee: ¥1700

✅ BOOK THIS ON KKDAY!

Sapporo TV Tower

An icon of the city, the Sapporo TV Tower was built in 1957. It stands adjacent Odori Park, enabling a fantastic 360-degree vista not just of the park but of the whole city. From its observation deck perched 90 meters above the ground, you also get to see Ishikari Heigen and the Sea of Japan.

✅ BOOK TICKETS ON KKDAY!

Hokkaido Tea Ceremony

Nothing feels better in a cold day than a good cup of hot tea. In Sapporo, you can get a better understanding of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony by experiencing it yourself. There will be an English-speaking guide who will teach you authentic Japanese ways while you’re dressed in a kimono. The session lasts 1.5 hours.

Other Sapporo Tourist Spots

Here are more attractions in Sapporo. We’ll be creating a more detailed article about these places in a separate post, so stay tuned. To see what they look like, check out this video:

• Historical Village of Hokkaido (aka Kaitaku no Mura), an open-air museum that showcases 60 Meiji- and Taisho-era buildings that were moved from different parts of the prefecture. Admission: ¥830.
• Hokkaido Shrine , built in 1869 in honor of the three pioneering gods of Hokkaido. Admission: FREE.
• Odori Park , at the heart of the city, offers a natural respite from the sprawling metropolis. It also hosts the Snow Festival in February. At the end of it stands the Sapporo Clock Tower.
• Moerenuma Park , a great destination for snow activities like sledding and snowboarding in winter. It’s a beautifully manicured park for the rest of the year. Admission: FREE.
• Shiroi Koibito Park , a recreational area that will remind you of your childhood dreams. The park is inspired by delicious sweets and confectionery. In winter, it’s best visited in the early evening when the illuminations are up. Just around the corner is Ishiya Chocolate Factory, where a guided tour will let you see how they make the famous Hokkaido white chocolate.
• Jozankei , which is an hour drive from the city center. Famous for its hot springs (onsen) and shrine.
• Sapporo Dome , where the biggest baseball and soccer (football) games are held. There’s also a small exhibit inside.
• Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium , which was the site of the 90m jump competition at the 1972 Olympics. A double lift system takes passengers to a viewing deck atop, for a wonderful vista. Fee: ¥500
• Mt. Teine (Teineyawa). Another 1972 Winter Olympics venue with slopes perfect for skiing for beginners and professionals alike. 7-hr lift access + Bus fares: ¥6700. Ski set rental: ¥4900

SAPPORO DAY TOURS

Aside from the city tours, we also listed down below some tours around Hokkaido. The links below will take you to Klook, where you will find information about the tour.

Sapporo City Tour

We often advocate traveling DIY-style, but if for whatever reason you can’t do it on your own, you can also join a group or private tour of Sapporo. Joining a bus tour is convenient especially for those traveling with kids or more senior members of the family.

Klook offers two city tours: one in the morning and another in the afternoon. They have different stops and itineraries, although most make a stop at the Clock Tower and Government Building. The itinerary also varies depending on the date so always double check before making a booking.

Each booking already covers the bus fee and multilingual audio guides.

Otaru City Tour

Otaru is one of the cities in Hokkaido that are easily accessible from Sapporo. It’s easy to reach Otaru on your own. At JR Sapporo Station, just hop into a train bound for Otaru and you’ll be there in less than 40 minutes. Fare: ¥640.

Otaru is most famous for its postcard-worthy canal. Most tourists go on a scenic boat cruise, riding down Otaru Canal and see the Western-style buildings that flank it. The city looks like it’s straight out of a steampunk anime. I was getting a lot of Fullmetal Alchemist feels while I walked around.

The city is also famous for its glass craftsmanship and music box industry! Hence, a visit to a glassware or musicbox store or museum is almost always part of the itinerary.

If you can’t do it DIY-style, Klook offers a day tour of Otaru from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal. The tour guide speaks Japanese, but there are multilingual audio guides available for English-speakers.

INTERESTING EVENTS IN SAPPORO

Here are some of the biggest happenings in Sapporo that can help you decide when to visit.

• Sapporo Snow Festival, February
• Sapporo International Ski Marathon
• Jozankei Yukitouro (Snow Lanterns), a few days in winter (dates change)
• Sapporo White Illumination, mid-November to December
• Cherry Blossoms, late April to early May
• Sapporo Autumn Festival, September.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAPPORO

Top budget hotels under $60.

Below are the highest-rated budget hotels in Agoda as of writing.

• GRIDS SAPPORO HOTEL & HOSTEL Minami 3 Jonishi, 5 Chome-32, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• Iyasu Hostel Sapporo 3 Chome-1-１７ Minami 9 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• Spa Hotel SOLE Susukino Chuo-ku Minami 4-jo Nishi 6-chome 4, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• Hotel Relief Sapporo Susukino Chuo-ku Minami 8-jo Nishi 3-1-4, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability

Top Sapporo Hostels

• Guest House Yuyu Chuo Ward, Minami 3 Johigashi, 4 Chome−3-1 3, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• OCHO Guest House 1-2, South 13, West 8, Chuo-ku, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability

Search for more Sapporo Hotels

WHAT TO EAT IN SAPPORO

• Crabs ! Hokkaido is famous for its crabs including King Crabs, Hairy Crabs, and Snow Crabs.
• Kaisen Don (assorted sashimi on rice). Although widely popular all over Japan, Hokkaido’s specialty is seafood!
• Miso Ramen . Every city in Japan has its own signature ramen. For Sapporo, that’s the miso variety.
• Genghis Khan (grilled lamb with vegetables)
• Soup curry is also wildly popular in Hokkaido!
• Seafood hot pot

We’ll be creating a separate post about the best cheap food places in Sapporo soon!

SAMPLE SAPPORO ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 5-day 4-night Sapporo and Otaru itinerary. This assumes you’re flying in and out via Philippine Airlines and that you’re staying close to JR Sapporo Station.

As always, make the necessary adjustments to match your preferences.

Day 1: ODORI PARK & MT. MOIWA

• Arrival in Sapporo
• Board train to Sapporo City Center, ¥1070
• Walk to hotel, check in
• Lunch, ¥1000
• Take train + streetcar to Ropeway Iriguchi Station, ¥320
• Take shuttle bus to ropeway station
• Travel back to Sapporo Station, ¥320
• Dinner at Ramen Shingen, ¥950

Day 2: SAPPORO CITY TOUR

• Take train to Soen or Nijuyonken Station, ¥250
• Check out Sapporo Central Wholesale Market
• Kaisendon Early Lunch, ¥2000
• Train back to Sapporo Station, ¥250
• Walk to Sapporo Station Bus Terminal
• Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium lift fare and museum fee, ¥1000
• Drop off at Sapporo Station
• Dinner, ¥1000

Day 3: SNOW FUN DAY

• Take Toho Subway Line to Kanjodorihigashi Station, ¥250
• Bus 69 or 79 to Moerenuma Park, ¥210
• Explore the Glass Pyramid
• Sledding at Moerenuma Park
• Bus back to Sapporo, ¥210
• Soup Curry lunch, ¥900
• Shopping near Sapporo Station
• Miso Ramen Dinner at Shirakaba Sansou (inside Ramen Kyowakoku), ¥980
• Walk to hotel

If visiting outside winter, you can still enjoy the park. You can bike around. Rates start at ¥200.

Day 4: OTARU DAY TOUR

• Train to Otaru Station, ¥640
• Walk to Otaru Canal
• Otaru Canal Cruise, ¥1500
• Lunch at Otaru Tatsumi Sushi, ¥1500
• Walk around Otaru, see music box and glass stores
• Train to Higashi-kuyakusho-mae Station, ¥840
• Sapporo Beer Museum, FREE
• Dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden, ¥4212
• Walk back to hotel

Day 5: DEPARTURE

• Early check out
• Train to New Chitose Airport Station, ¥1070

If you follow the above itinerary, prepare to shell out ¥28,000 (USD 252, SGD 345, EUR 220, PHP 13,400) , excluding airfare, accommodations and shopping budget. But we added a ¥2000+ allowance to cover miscellaneous expenses and anything that we might have missed.

If you’re able to book a dorm bed for only ¥2400 per night, the total cost of this itinerary falls at around ¥37,600 (USD 338, SGD 464, EUR 295, PHP 17,950) , excluding airfare.

Here are more ways to further reduce the cost:

• Instead of joining a guided tour of the city, do it DIY-style. This will save you at most ¥2700.
• Skip the Sapporo Beer Garden dinner. The biggest chunk of the food budget is spent on an all-you-can-eat dinner here (which costs ¥4200+). You can just visit the museum and eat elsewhere.
• Food budget is around ¥1000 per meal. I have indicated some of my recommended food places in the itinerary. If you want to cut food expenses, you can opt to eat at cheaper restaurants or buy food from the supermarket. Onigiri (rice balls) sold at convenience stores can be quite filling too. But I still highly encourage you to eat out and try to experience local cuisine.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Snow can be dangerously slippery . A good sign that the snow is good to be stepped on is if it’s white and powdery. If it’s gray or blackish and looks compact because a lot of people have stepped on it, there’s a big chance they’re slippery. So be careful. You can also buy those anti-slip… uhm… things (I don’t know what they’re called, haha) that you can attach to your shoes, just not the metal ones. (The metal ones have to be removed when you go inside an establishment.)
• Make time allowance for the traffic . Sapporo’s best attractions are so far apart, and while the subway is there, some can only be reached by bus or by car. If that’s the case, consider the time you’re gonna spend in traffic.
• Japanese chocolates and biscuits are a bit cheaper at the New Chitose Airport than in Haneda or Narita . For example, Royce’s Nama Chocolate costs ¥720 per box in Chitose and ¥780 in Haneda. I know that’s not much, but savings are savings.
• If you have low cold tolerance, purchase a heat pack from a convenience store and keep it near your body (inside your jacket). This will make your trip more comfortable.
• Tipping is not common in Sapporo . To settle your bill, you are expected to approach the cashier on your way out. The cashier is usually stationed by the entrance/exit.
• Many vending machines serve both cold and hot drinks . Most people are surprised to learn about the hot options. Really helpful when you’re out in the cold.
• Japanese bills look alike (same color). What varies is the size of the bill. The ¥1000 and ¥10,000 can be confusing so be careful. However, the Japanese are highly UNLIKELY to take advantage. They will even be the first to tell you.
• When using the escalator , keep left if you’re not moving.
• Learn a few Japanese phrases. The most useful would be Sumimasen (Excuse me, sorry) and Arigatoo gozaimasu (Thank you).

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 1️⃣2️⃣ • 2️⃣1️⃣ – last update 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 2️⃣ • 2️⃣6️⃣ – first up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Nice topic I liked it. Thanks author for this great post. Knew many things about japan

Awesome job! You covered the information quite well–practical and useful for travelers. Keep up the great work!

Thank you, Rochelle! I hope our blog inspire more people to travel.

Very nice and comprehensive guide. Gracias.

Hi! is the train included in JR unli pass or it’s a different train?

The trains from Tokyo to Sapporo? Yep, covered.

Hi. Very useful guide, thanks for compiling info from your travels. Would you recommend the same itinerary for May or June travel? Our group plans to go around that time. Also, are there travel guides whom we can hire to help us around? Thank you!

Hi Grace, yes, except maybe the ski jump and Mt. Teine. Also try to visit a flower farm since you’ll be there in spring/summer. We didn’t get to see any coz they were covered in snow haha

hi! this is a very nice and detailed blog about hokkaido.. im trying to check for flights on china airlines, but cant seem to make it work, when i type manila as my origin city, sapporo won’t come out as a destination city. thanks!

Hi! Nice post very helpful since we’re also planning to visit Japan next year! We’re planning on doing Winter/Spring itinerary by going to Sapporo first then Tokyo. What would be the best dates to that? We initially plan on Feb 26 up until March 4. Hoping to get the best of both the winter wonderland in Sapporo and the cherry blossoms in Tokyo.

Hi Benes, okay sana if maexperience nyo ung snow festival in Sapporo, but it’s usually Feb Week 1, which is too far from Tokyo cherry blossoms na usually late March/early April.

So depende ano mas gusto nyo maexperience. For me though, mas maganda yung cherry blossoms than snow festival, so I would suggest na late March kayo mag-start,

Hi! I’m planning a trip to Sapporo via plane only. I just wanted to know if I need to indicate both flights (Manila-Tokyo and Tokyo-Sapporo) in my Japan Visa application form? Or do I only put the international flight (Manila-Tokyo)? Thanks!

Hi Jaime, ako I just put the Manila-Tokyo flight number when I applied. Not sure if that’s the right thing to do, but that’s what I did. haha. Naapprove naman.

Thanks! Should I already be prepared for snow around late November? What are the chances of snowfall during my trip?

I dunno how long your stay is gonna be, but there is a good chance. Sapporo is said to have at least 10 snow days in November.

Hi! Thank you so much for this article. I think it’s the most helpful & complete i found so far. I’m planning to visit last week of November for just about 4-5 days so you. Think it’s best to go via plane?

Yep! Best by plane :)

Hi! Thanks for another informative post. I have not seen you recommend going to Sapporo in July. How’s the weather there pag ganung time? We plan to hike Mt. Fuji kasi kaya July-Sep ang target dates namin.

Hi Arnel, I haven’t been to Sapporo in July because I dislike traveling in summer in general. haha. But according to climate websites, summer in Sapporo is mild and it doesn’t get too hot, so it should be fine.

Hi:) i enjoyed reading your blog. Very informative. I just wanna ask if is it okay to travel DIY in sapporo? No travel agencies or anyone. Just wanna explore the city and some tourist spots you had in your blog. Just by train or bus. Thank you and God bless. Going there on february next year.

Hi Mharj! Yep, it’s possible to explore Sapporo DIY-style. :)

Thank you so much for the reply.

No problem!

what month did you go to sapporo?

late January – early February

Hi, Can i still use my PASMO IC card in Sapporo?

Within Sapporo or Hokkaido, yes.

Hello ..can you help me ? my wife and i are planning to go to japan for 11 days in february 2021 .. we are planning to visit sapporo for 4 days and spend overnight in shirakwa-go and the rest in tokyo …..we already have a RT to narita . is it cheaper to buy a 7 days JR pass and local plane ticket ( narita-sapporo-narita ) or should we buy a 14 day JR pass ? Thank you in advance.

Your itinerary would be like this, right?

Day 1 – Arrival in Narita/Tokyo > Sapporo Day 2 – Sapporo Day 3 – Sapporo Day 4 – Sapporo Day 5 – Sapporo > Shirakawago Day 6 – Shirakawago > Tokyo Day 7 – Tokyo Day 8 – Tokyo Day 9 – Tokyo Day 10 – Tokyo Day 11 – Departure

If so, you DON’T need the 14-DAY JR PASS at all.

Note that the closest major airports to Shirakawago are Nagoya and Komatsu, NOT Tokyo/Narita/Haneda.

If you’re OK with the travel time, you can use a 7-DAY JR PASS to cover Narita > Sapporo > Toyama/Takayama/Nagoya (jumpoff points to Shirakawa). No need for plane tickets.

If the long travel time is an issue, then no need for a JR Pass. Just book flights to cover Narita > Sapporo > Nagoya/Komatsu. Then, instead of a JR Pass, book city or regional passes instead.

Either way, the 14-Day JR Pass is out of the picture.

Thank you Yoshke. your advice certainly sounds very logical ..ill also follow your sample itinerary in sapporo ..Thanks again

Hi, thank you for your comprehensive travel guide, it help us a lot & enjoyed an exciting tour, live like a local in a foreign country and not a conventional tour packages.

We are planning to visit Osaka & Sapporo this coming January 02 – January 08, 2023 because its my kids(12y/o is the youngest) vacation, we are 8 in our group, what itinerary do you suggest coming from Manila.

Since its winter, can you please recommend a hostel wherein we can stay near the train station which is less expensive and comfortable with heater.

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One Day In Sapporo Itinerary – Top Things To Do In Sapporo, Japan

S apporo is a brand name that’s recognized all over the world as a deliciously smooth lager. But did you know that the world-renowned beer company is named after one of the oldest cities in Japan? Sapporo is the biggest city north of Tokyo and is located on the island of Hokkaido. It’s famous for hosting multiple winter Olympics, crafting delicious beer, and the breathtaking mountain range that surrounds the populous city. A must-see destination for travelers seeking the full Japanese experience. Therefore, in this one-day itinerary, we will explore the charming city of Sapporo and its top attractions and local gems.

What’s The Best Time To Visit Sapporo?

The absolute best time to visit this winter island city is during the month of February when Sapporo hosts its annual snow festival . The annual event pulls in millions of local and foreign tourists each year. Artists who are adept at creating snow and ice sculptures make their way up to construct phantasmal statues, designs, and even structures made from snow and/or ice.

The city of Sapporo also organizes some more interactive activities during the snow festival like the snow slides. Reminiscent of tobogganing, families can get inflatable toboggans to slide down the large hills that have hollowed-out lanes.

A Few Facts About Sapporo

Settled over 15,000 years ago by indigenous people known as the Ainu , the city of Sapporo grew over the centuries. It is now Japan’s 5th most populated municipality despite how far north Sapporo is compared to the rest of the island nation’s cities.

However, for hundreds of years, the area where Sapporo was located was known as the Ishikari Plain. It was only near the end of the Edo period (1603 – 1867) that the Ishikari Plain was transformed into Sapporo village, and later into the bustling city that it is today.

One Day Sapporo Itinerary

Follow the guide below to make the most out of a one-day Itinerary when visiting Sapporo, Japan.

Enjoy An Early Morning Coffee and Breakfast

Fuel up with an early morning cup of joe at Miyakoshiya Coffee . This is a local Sapporite favorite that opens at 7:00 AM. It’s widely praised by the locals because there are several of these cafes around the city, the coffee is brewed with high-quality beans, and the prices are very affordable. Coffee beans are also available for purchase – the cafe offers both single-origin and blended.

If you’re interested in a sit-down breakfast. The gourmet cafe Yoshimi (which opens at 7:30 AM) has super-fluffy Japanese-styled pancakes topped with soft-serve ice cream that’s made from Hokkaido’s high-quality milk. The Japanese fluffy pancakes are also served with apricot slices and apricot syrup. Guests can also treat themselves to Hokkaido delicacies such as their north islander curry with sauteed vegetables and rice for an authentic cuisine experience.

Sapporo Beer Museum

After you’ve had a coffee and a bite to eat. It’s time to visit Sapporo’s most appealing tourist attractions, starting with the Sapporo Beer Museum . The tour brings you on a trip through the history of the global beer brand going back to 1876. The museum has finally resumed its tours after not being open to the public for two years due to the threat of COVID-19.

Inside, guests can be treated to several different beer tastings, delicacy beers, and non-alcoholic beer if you have minors traveling with you. In Japan, the legal age for drinking is 20 years old. So, you will want to have your ID with you if you’re young in appearance and want to try some of the exquisite beer.

Tourists can see the inner workings of the original Sapporo brewery and dine at Trommel Hall and other restaurants that have a la carte menus. The museum opens at 11:00 AM, with the tours running until 6:00 PM. However, the gift shop is open until 7:30 PM.

Botanical Gardens

After your museum tour and a beer (or two), enjoy a stroll through the surreal botanical gardens near the city’s center. Owned and maintained by the Hokkaido University, this beautiful park offers pathways full of exotic trees, vibrant flowers, and even wetland plant gardens near the center.

Within the botanical gardens is a small museum that focuses on the Ainu people mentioned earlier. The museum preserves artifacts from the indigenous people, along with intergenerational stories passed down for centuries. Hours of availability range with each season. Admission costs 420 yen ($3.21 as of June 2022).

Sapporo TV Tower

Similar to the Tokyo Tower, Sapporo has its own iconic structure that’s visible from anywhere in the city! Open from 10:00 AM to  8:00 PM, the Sapporo TV Tower is best known for being a former signal receiver to help broadcast television from the late 50s to the early 2000s.

Now, the tower is a major tourist attraction. It holds multiple shops on its ground floor, an observation deck, and a fortune gacha (bubble-gum) machine at the very top of the tower. Admission costs the equivalent to $7.54 for adult tickets (16 years+), and the equivalent of $3.77 for children between 6 and 15 years. Kids younger than that have free admission.

End your one-day Itinerary in Sapporo with a visit to the city’s entertainment district. There’s something for every kind of traveler within Susukino. If you enjoy gambling, you can find pachinko parlors around. Several bars with colorful cocktails and highballs if you’re looking to enjoy a drink out with friends. 

An overabundance of restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine and dishes that were originally made in Hokkaido. For instance, Ishikari nabe, which is a miso-based hot pot recipe that involves veggies grown in the winter, seafood, and tofu. Or a dish dubbed “Genghis Khan” that consists of grilled mutton, lamb, pumpkin, and cabbage that’s served on a cast-iron dish.

Susukino also has ramen shops that are famous throughout the nation of Japan for their rich & umami taste. They even feature Sapporo’s well-known ramen on the critically acclaimed Netflix original Aggretsuko! Check out Ganso Ramen or Ramen Shingen, each has over 1000 positive reviews on their Google business profile.

Where To Stay In Sapporo Japan

Premier Hotel -Tsubaki- Sapporo

062-0904 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Toyohira-ku Toyohira 4-jo 1-1-1

Premier Hotel -Tsubaki- Sapporo really deserves its five stars for a number of reasons. First, the location is wonderful, right on the bank of the Toyo-Hiragawa River which you can enjoy by renting out a bike. The rooms are very big and well equipped (minibar included), and you are close to a subway station, although you can reach the city center on foot in less than 15 minutes. The wonderful and classy interior is the icing on the cake, and you can bet you will enjoy every minute you spend here.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

The Knot Sapporo

060-0063 Hokkaido, Sapporo, 16-2,Nishi 3-Chome,Minami 3-Jo,Chuo-Ku

A very modern and elegant hotel, The Knot also boasts a great location given that it’s in the city center and close to a subway station, so you can easily get around town. Furthermore, the food they serve here is excellent, the rooms are well equipped with plenty of amenities, and you can get all of that for a very reasonable price. Not to mention that the upper floors of the building provide a fantastic view of the city. A great choice for a stay in Sapporo!

Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo

060-0001 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo-Ku Kita1Jo Nishi7Chome 6

Spend your night in Sapporo being treated like royalty at Onsen Ryokan Yuen . This hotel offers indoor and outdoor hot springs that are the perfect way to wind down after a long day of exploration. The hotel serves breakfast using seasonal ingredients that are locally grown in Hokkaido. Laundry and massage services are also available at Onsen Ryokan Yuen. Average prices for one night go for around $151.64.

Grids Sapporo Hotel & Hostel

060-0063 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo-ku Minami 3jo Nishi 5 cho-me 32

For more affordable options on where you can spend the night in the city. Try Grids Sapporo Hotel & Hostel . The interior is quite lovely, and the location is excellent – in the City Center district and close to the Sapporo Station. There’s baggage storage available, free wifi, private bathrooms, and even laundry machines (you’ll need coins for these, though). Spending one night at this hotel & hostel can be as inexpensive as $27.79

Day trips from Sapporo

The island of Hokkaido has a whole lot to offer, which makes Sapporo a great base for organizing day trips. If you’re staying more than one day here, you really should set some time aside to get to know the island better, and here are a few places you really should consider.

Jozankei and/or Noboribetsu

Hot springs (onsen in Japanese) are inextricably linked to the Japanese way of life and visiting one of them is quite an experience for any traveler. You can do that too because Jozankei and Noboribetsu are about an hour away by car, but you can just as easily hop on a bus from Sapporo, too. Definitely an excellent choice for a day trip.

Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Nature lovers can set up an amazing day trip by heading out to the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Not only is the nature here incredible, with plenty of amazing views and trails, but you can also climb Mt. Yotei, an inactive volcano! You’ll fall in love with Hokkaido here for sure.

Historic Village of Hokkaido

You don’t have to travel very far to visit the Historic Village of Hokkaido because it’s right on the edge of Sapporo, but coming here will definitely be like stepping into a whole other world. It’s an open-air museum that showcases the history of this island in the latter half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th. And you get to ride a horse-drawn trolley!

This coastal town is only about 45 minutes away from Sapporo by car, but it has a completely different vibe and will provide you with a profoundly different experience. Great seafood, intricate canals, loads of shops, and generally a much calmer mood will help you recharge your batteries.

Extra Tips For Visiting Sapporo

Bring a towel! If you plan on visiting Sapporo during the summer, it gets pretty hot. Despite it being located on the northern isle of Hokkaido, July and August can see temperatures rise up to over 30 degrees Celsius (over 86 degrees Fahrenheit). So why bring a towel? Because you will be sweating as you explore the great city of Sapporo due to the heat and humidity.

Learn some basic, navigational Japanese. Unlike Tokyo, which somewhat caters to English speakers, there are far fewer image-based menus, as well as fewer locals who speak English.

Have trouble finding a reliable source to learn some Japanese? Preply is an easy-to-use platform where you can book individual tutoring sessions for an affordable price.

Always carry around your passport! This is the law for foreign travelers within all of Japan. If law enforcement asks you to present your passport and you forgot, there’s a chance you can receive a fine up to the equivalent of $764!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Jonathan Cohen

Jonathan Cohen is one of two co-founders of Travelling With Abundance. A new travel blog that focuses on affordable vacation tips, and post-pandemic travel & tourism. In his spare time, Jonathan loves to adventure around the world, try exotic food, and play with his cat named Shibuya. Jonathan is born and raised in Toronto Canada and soon plans to move to a different country to start a new chapter in his life.

Great! It’s so relax for summer

Always carry around your passport!

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Explore Hokkaido: Awesome Sapporo Day Trips

If you visit Sapporo , don’t limit yourself to the activities within the city. While there are many fun things to do in town, there’s even more to discover in the nearby area.Mt. Teine, an Olympic ski field visible from Sapporo, is a must-visit in winter.

The historic town of Otaru offers scenic canals and warehouses. It’s delightful any time of year.  At Shikotsu-Toya National Park, you can enjoy the park’s beauty and witness the raw power of active volcanoes.  Finally, The Sapporo Art Park offers an unusual mix of art and nature. You can even create a masterpiece of your own!

The area around Sapporo has a lot to offer any time of year.

Day Trips Around Sapporo

Shikotsu-toya national park, sapporo art park, is the area worth visiting, insider’s tip, top destinations in hokkaido.

Mt. Teine is the largest of the area’s ski-fields. The mountain is famous for hosting several events during the 1972 Winter Olympics. The ski field is so big you can see it from Sapporo!

Getting to the mountain is easy; it’s only a 40 minute car ride from downtown Sapporo.

With a wide variety of slopes, it’s good for beginners, yet still offers challenging runs for more advanced skiers.

You can take lessons without knowing Japanese, as many of the ski and snowboard instructors speak English.

Book your lessons before finalizing your travel arrangements – the lessons in English sell out fast!

In the summer, Mt. Teine has a golf course. I’ve never been, but it has a reputation for being a very good course with breathtaking views of the area.

The Two Zones

Mt. Teine has two zones: The Highland Zone and the Olympia Zone

The Highland Zone

The Highland Zone features some of the steepest runs on Hokkaido . One is so steep it was used as a slalom course in the Olympics!

The Highland zone offers beautiful views of Sapporo city. You look out over the area from 1,000 meters above sea level. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Sea of Japan!

Olympia Zone

Teine’s Olympia zone honors its Olympian past. The Olympic flame-holder monument still towers over the ski-fields, just as it did during the games.

There are gentle slopes for beginners. You can also try night skiing, sledding, and tubing. There’s a course connecting the Highland and Olympia zones. As with the Highland zone, the view is fantastic!

Getting to Mt. Teine

Mt. Teine is very popular due to its proximity to Sapporo. It’s easy to reach even if you don’t have access to a car. Many hotels have shuttle buses during the winter months. You can also take public transportation.

From Sapporo Station, Teine Station is a 16-minute train ride. At Teine Station, transfer to the bus going directly to the ski fields.

Bus times vary by season. Make sure you check the timetable so you don’t miss the last bus and get stranded!

For More Information

Sapporo Teine Homepage

Winter Season Hours

• Highland Zone: 9:00am – 5:00pm
• Olympia Zone: 9:00am – 9:00pm

Open every day during the ski-season only: November 18, 2017, to April 8, 2018.

From April 8, 2018, to May 6, 2018, open weekends only.

Please check their website to confirm their opening hours and days, as it can change with each season.

Lift passes range from 360 yen for a single use ticket to 5,200 yen for an all-day pass.

Special Deal

The Big Runs Bus and Ticket Combo

A one-day ski pass with a bus ticket between Teine and Sapporo’s major hotels for 6,900 yen. Reservations are required for this ticket.

Sapporo Teine Lift Ticket Prices

Known as “The Sea Entrance of Hokkaido” and “The Town of Hills,” Otaru is a coastal town facing Ishikari Bay.

Otaru is surrounded by gorgeous scenery. It sits on the edge of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Beach Quasi-National Park.

Otaru is best known for its beautiful, historic canals.

It was once a thriving commercial town. Shipping, fishing, and distilling were prominent here; Otaru was the economic hub of Hokkaido.

Today, Otaru has an interesting art scene.

The warehouses have been replaced with glassblowing studios.

Historical Sites of Interest

The city museum provides an interesting introduction to Otaru’s past.

The whiskey distillery in neighboring Yoichi provides a more detailed look into the area’s history.

History lovers will enjoy visiting the mansion built by a prosperous herring fishermen.

You can explore old Otaru’s atmosphere by strolling along the canals or taking a walk down historic Sakaimachi street.

Another way to sample the town’s rich heritage is to take a cruise on a canal boat.

Unusual Things to Do in Town

• If you want to try something different, take a glass blowing workshop
• Otaru is famous for its unique music boxes. They make great souvenirs
• Otaru is also known for its high-quality sake — don’t miss it while you’re in town!

The Snow Light Path Festival

The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival makes the town a popular destination in winter.

Statues crafted from snow sit alongside the canal. The area lights up from 5:00pm – 9:00pm. The entire town gets into the spirit; many businesses and houses display lanterns.

The festival takes place in two locations.

Unga Kaijo is only 300 meters from Otaru’s main canal in an area filled with old warehouses. They provide a charming backdrop to the statues as they light up at night.

The Temiyasen Kaijo area follows the track of a retired railway. It offers food stands in addition to the festive statues.

The festival takes place in February. It’s timed to coincide with the Hokkaido Snow Festival.

Getting to Otaru

Otaru is a 45-minute drive or 30-minute train ride from Sapporo. With many places to stay, it could even replace Sapporo as your base to explore Hokkaido!

Shikotsu-Toya National Park is easily accessible from Sapporo… although you’ll want to spend more than a day exploring the park! The name of the park comes from its two biggest lakes.

The park offers caldera lakes, active volcanoes, and hiking trails. The trails take you through beautiful forests and mountains. There are also onsen towns and camping grounds within the park’s expansive 983 km² zone.

The Sanctuary

Don’t miss the sanctuary. You can count on seeing lots of birds, foxes and maybe even some deer.

*WARNING: The park has black bears. Make sure you take precautions before hiking.

Lake Shikotsu

Lake Shikotsu is the 8th largest lake in Japan, with a diameter of around 14 kilometers. It was formed 40,000 years ago when three of the surrounding volcanoes erupted.

Today it’s famous for the clarity of its water and the interconnected mossy gorges nearby. The gorges are free to explore and absolutely worth seeing.

You can scuba dive in the lake. You can also go out on a variety of boats. They include lake cruises, underwater sightseeing boats, and self-propelled swan pedal boats. Fishing and cycling are also popular activities.

From late January to mid-February, Lake Shikotsu has a winter festival. The festival features ice sculptures made from the lake’s frozen water. The sculptures light up at night and the atmosphere comes alive with taiko drums and fireworks.

Lake Toya was also formed by a volcanic eruption. The water is prevented from freezing by the geothermal activity around the lake — it’s right beside Mt. Usu, the most active volcano in Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

You can see the volcano’s most recent activity for yourself. Follow the Nishiyama Trail to the newly formed craters on the west of the mountain.

On your hike, you’ll see just how destructive a volcanic eruption can be. You’ll marvel at a bridge moved 300 meters by a mudflow and a housing block buried up to the first floor.

After your hike, celebrate the benefits of Mt. Usu’s active nature with a long soak in one of the town’s many onsen.

From Toyako Onsen, a cable car takes you to the Mt. Usu crater rim walk. This two to three-hour hike allows you to see the steam escaping from Mt. Usu’s vents.

You might hear this tour only takes an hour. It can…but only if you rush. Don’t. Take a few hours and really enjoy yourself. You’ll learn more about volcanos than most books could teach you.

If you take the cable car, look out for Showa-Shinzan, the most recent addition to the mountain range.

This mountain first appeared in a farmer’s field in 1943. Two years later it reached its current height of 398 meters!

Getting to the Park

You can travel to the park directly from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo.

From Sapporo

From JR Sapporo Station, take the limited express to Toya Station. Switch to the local bus to Toya Onsen, a town within the park. The bus schedule coincides with train departures, so don’t mess around at Toya Station!

The train takes just under 2 hours. It costs 5,920 yen including seat reservations.

You can make the journey using only local trains. You save money but increase the travel time.

To save money without eating up too much time, take a bus from Sapporo to Toyako Kohan (2.5 hours, 2,700 yen).

From New Chitose Airport

Take the bus to Shikotsuko Kohan (50 minutes, 930 yen). Once you reach Shikotsu-Toya National Park, there are local buses there. However, they are infrequent. This is where having a car would really cut down on the waiting time, but driving when it’s winter in Hokkaido definitely isn’t fun!

The Sapporo Art Park sits in a forest in Sapporo’s southern suburbs.

The park leaves no aspect of art unexplored. You can see a sculpture garden, art museum, outdoor museum, and studios devoted to working with glass, ceramics, and wood. There’s an outdoor arena for concerts and stage facilities for all kinds of performances.

The park doesn’t just display art, it promotes art, researches art, and enables artists to create it. This approach is evident right down to the commissioning of the sculptures. Many of the sculptors visited the garden to see where their work would be before starting work. This leads to a great synergy between art and landscape. It ensures Sapporo Art Park has a permanent place among Japan’s best parks.

Exploring the art park typically takes only a couple of hours. If you book a workshop at the Craft Hall or Studios (recommended for art lovers), the visit can last all day.

There are activities for children in the park’s Sato Churyo Children’s Atelier. You don’t need to leave for food. Pack a picnic and eat while enjoying the scenery, or take advantage of the park’s buffet restaurant.

Although it’s only a 40-minute drive from Sapporo Station, Sapporo Art Park is a great day trip destination because of the number of fun activities it offers.

• September 1st – May 31st: 9:45am – 5:00pm (last entry 4:30pm)
• June 1st – August 31st: 9:45am – 5:30pm (last entry 5:00pm)
• Open every day from April 29th to November 3rd
• Closed from December 29th – January 3rd
• From November 4th – April 28th, the park is closed Mondays
• When Monday is a public holiday, the park will close the following Tuesday

Sculpture Garden

• Adults (high school students and above): 700 yen
• Seniors (65 and over): 560 yen
• Children (Junior High and under): Free

Sapporo Art Museum

Admission varies by exhibition

Sapporo Art Park Homepage

Sapporo Art Park Admission Fee Information

Absolutely!

Otaru has a unique atmosphere, even for Japan. The town has done a fantastic job preserving its history.

Mt. Teine and the Sapporo Art Park appeal to smaller audiences, but they’re a must if art or skiing is your thing.

Extend your visit to Sapporo and take in the surrounding area — you won’t regret it!

Book in advance. Do your research on the train and bus timetables!

Sapporo is busiest during the Snow Festival. Otaru and Lake Shikotsu time their festivals to coincide with Sapporo’s.

There are frequent buses and trains during festival season. However, accommodations and things like ski and snowboarding lessons book out fast. There are deals to be had on flights and bus tickets if you make reservations in advance.

Organize your trip ahead of time to make sure you don’t miss out!

For Train and Bus Timetables

Hyperdia.com

What Do You Think?

Have you tried any of our suggested day trips from Sapporo? Would you like to? Let us know in the comments.

Don’t forget to share this article with your volcano, art, history, or ski-loving friends. Take my advice… don’t miss the tour of the volcano!

If you’re going on a day trip in the Sapporo area, let me know. I might just go with you!

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Home » Asia » Japan » Sapporo

EPIC SAPPORO Itinerary! (2024)

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s gorgeous wild northern island! It’s the fifth-largest city in Japan and contains a vibrant urban center. Let’s get into your exciting Sapporo itinerary!

It’s filled with spectacular scenery, unique western architecture, incredible food, and very friendly locals. Additionally, it has mild summer weather and long, snowy winters which offers Sapporo tourists plenty of varying attractions and activities year-round!

With this Sapporo travel guide, you’ll discover the city’s top attractions as well as a few hidden gems! We’ve also made sure to include plenty of insider tips, food recommendations, and exciting day trips to nearby areas.

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Best Time to Visit Sapporo

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Sapporo!

The best time for Sapporo sightseeing is in summer (June – August). This is when the temperature is mild and pleasant, making for a refreshing climate for sightseeing!

Fall (September – November) is one of the best times to travel to Sapporo city. The rich autumn colors burst through the city and the temperatures remain comfortable from September to October, with the colder fall temperatures usually not arriving until mid/late November.

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Although the winter months (December – February) are cold and chilly, Sapporo tourism really picks up during the annual Sapporo Snow Festival in February. If you’re a fan of winter sports, Sapporo has many world-class ski resorts, as well as picturesque winter scenery!

Spring (March-May) is another great time to visit Sapporo, Japan. The winter chill starts to wear off and warm temperatures begin to breath new life into the island!

Choosing the right accommodation that fits with your itinerary for Sapporo will only enhance your trip. There are lots of options in varying styles and budgets around Sapporo. Deciding where to stay depends on the vacation vibe you’re going for!

Susukino is the best place to stay in Sapporo to be close to all the action! This area is one of the largest entertainment districts in Japan. It’s Sapporo’s lively hub and offers a slew of hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and many popular Sapporo attractions.

For ramen lovers, Susukino is home to Ramen Yokocho, a narrow street that contains numerous ramen restaurants! This area is especially ideal for first-time visitors and tourists spending a quick weekend in Sapporo.

The Nakajima Koen district is a great option for travelers seeking a more relaxing vacation in Sapporo. This area offers a calm and peaceful setting and contains Nakajima Park, one of the most popular parks in the city.

Since this area isn’t as high in demand as Susukino, you’ll find more budget accommodation options. The Nakajima Koen district is well connected by public transportation, so traveling in and out of the city center will be a breeze!

If you’re eager for an unparalleled experience unlike any other, consider exploring the innovative world of capsule hotels in Sapporo .

Cute japanese studio | Best Airbnb in Sapporo

When visiting Japan, it’s always handy to live close to a public transport option. This Airbnb is just moments away from the tram and subway station. The apartment is bright, with a mixture between the western and Japanese style. The kitchen is fully equipped and ready for use. You can walk to Susukino or Odori park without a problem.

Tmark City Hotel Sapporo | Best Budget Hotel in Sapporo

The Tmark City Hotel Sapporo is a great value-for-money! All rooms include a flat-screen TV and a fridge. The en suite bathroom comes with a bathtub, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. A buffet breakfast is included in most hotel rates or can be purchased for an extra fee.

Sapporo Grand Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Sapporo

The Sapporo Grand Hotel is located in the heart of the city and is perfect for the luxurious traveler planning a trip to Sapporo! Guests will enjoy an on-site restaurant, spa center, fitness center, and more! All rooms feature a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, refrigerator, and a bidet!

Time Piece Apartment | Best Hostel in Sapporo

The Time Piece Apartment hostel is a small guest house in a central location. Public transportation is within walking distance and the hostel is just a quick 10-minute walk from downtown. Hostel perks include free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, security lockers, and luggage storage.

If you prefer to stay in hostels, check out more options in our Sapporo hostel guide.

Whether you’re spending two days in Sapporo or two weeks, you’re going to need to figure out how to get around. Luckily, the city is very compact and public transportation options make reaching all of your Sapporo points of interest easy and convenient!

For traveling within the city, the subway system is your easiest option and will take you wherever you need to go. Sapporo has three subway lines that travel throughout the city. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines outside the subway stations.

Sapporo was designed on a grid, which makes driving extremely easy for tourists to navigate! There are many car rental services throughout Japan and many companies also have English websites that allow you to reserve a car in advance.

Keep in mind that if you plan to drive in Japan, you must be at least 18 years old and have an international driver’s license. You’ll need to arrange for your international license before coming to Japan, as they don’t issue the international driver’s license to foreigners inside the country.

If you’re planning a Sapporo/Hokkaido itinerary, the train system in Sapporo is part of an extended network that spans all of Hokkaido.

Want to save money on accommodation?

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Odori Park | Sapporo TV Tower | Sapporo Clock Tower | Tanukikoji Shopping Street | Sapporo Beer Museum

The first day of your itinerary for Sapporo will see you exploring the city’s historic sites before continuing on to a couple of unique cultural attractions!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Odori Park

• Why it’s awesome: A calming park in the center of Sapporo that hosts many events throughout the year.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Nijo Market is a historic fish market that sells fresh seafood as well as ready to eat snacks and drinks. It’s a great place to pick up some picnic provisions to take with you to the park.

Located in the heart of Sapporo, Odori Park is an oasis in the big city. The park was created in 1869 and spans nearly 1 mile, covering roughly 19 acres. There are many lush and colorful flower gardens that coat the park floor. It’s one of the city’s top tourist attractions and a great place to start your Sapporo itinerary!

There are many events held throughout the year that give guests a wide-ranging taste of Japanese culture and Hokkaido’s culture in particular. The most well-known events are the Sapporo Lilac Festival and the Sapporo Snow Festival.

The Sapporo Lilac Festival is held every spring for 10 days (usually in May). The park is home to about 400 lilac trees that are in full bloom during the festival and permeate the air with their sweet scent. It’s an exciting festival that marks the end of Winter and the start of the warmer months ahead. During the festival there are events and activities, as well as food and drink stalls.

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held every February for 7 days. During this time, the park is filled with hundreds of snow statues and ice sculptures. Since snowfall in Sapporo during winter is common there’s always the chance of snow during the festival.

If you’re touring Sapporo when these events are being held, we definitely recommend checking them out! 

The park is easily accessible and frequented by locals and travelers alike. It’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The park is clean and orderly and there are multiple food and drink stalls. There is also a beer garden set up during summer months where all the major Japanese breweries compete with each other for the best beer!

Insider Tip: Inside Odori Park, there’s a tourist information center, public toilets, and free park Wi-Fi!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Sapporo TV Tower

• Why it’s awesome: Famous TV Tower where guests can enjoy unobstructed panoramic views of Sapporo.
• Cost: USD $7.00
• Food nearby: Otaru New Sanko is located inside the Sapporo TV Tower. This restaurant serves western dishes in a cozy setting with spectacular views!

The Sapporo TV Tower is located inside of Odori Park making it the perfect next stop on your Sapporo itinerary! The tower was built in 1957 and is a 482-feet high TV tower with an observation deck.

The tower is open to tourists who can enjoy the gorgeous views of Odori Park and the surrounding area of Sapporo.

It takes 60 seconds by elevator to reach the observatory deck, which is 297-feet up. There is a souvenir shop in the observation deck where you can pick up all your Sapporo souvenirs! You’ll also find telescopes and volunteer guides to provide visitors with facts and insight on the tower.

In the evening, the tower lights up with an illumination of dazzling lights that contrasts beautifully against the night sky. Many visitors prefer to visit the tower just before evening hours; the glare from the sun will be gone and the crowds tend to thin out.

The TV Tower is one of the most popular Sapporo landmarks and is open every day.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Sapporo Clock Tower

• Why it’s awesome: The Sapporo Clock Tower is a symbol of Sapporo and a major landmark in the city center.
• Cost: USD $2.00
• Food nearby: Soup Curry Garaku is a Japanese curry restaurant with a casual atmosphere, phenomenal food, and cold beer.

The Sapporo Clock Tower was built in 1878 and is the oldest clock tower in Japan. The clock continues to run and keep time, and the chimes can be heard every hour. The small building is full of education and history and a great quick stop on your Sapporo itinerary.

Inside the clock tower, you’ll find a museum spread out over two floors. There are displays of the building’s history and the development of Sapporo. There are also English-speaking volunteers in the building to provide anecdotes beyond the exhibits themselves. They aid guests by answering any questions they may have and give further information on the displays.

Sapporo was developed with assistance from the American government and the Sapporo Clock Tower building is of American design. The Sapporo clock tower museum is quite small in size and you’ll probably only need to set aside approximately 30 minutes for this stop on your Sapporo itinerary.

Insider Tip: October 16th is the clock tower’s founding day. On the 16th of every month volunteer tours of the clock tower are given to the general public twice a day!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Tanukikoji Shopping Street

• Why it’s awesome: Tanukikoji shopping street is an iconic Japanese-style shopping arcade with a variety of shops and eateries.
• Food nearby: Ramen Shingen is your classic cozy ramen restaurant that’s popular with both locals and tourists!

The famous Tanukikoji shopping arcade was established roughly 150 years ago! It’s located between Minami Nijo and Minami Sanjo and is one of the oldest and finest shopping areas in Sapporo, Hokkaido! The street stretches a little more than half a mile and is completely sheltered, meaning the area can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.

It contains around 200 shops, including restaurants, clothing stores, souvenir shops, and all kinds of other specialties and local shops! The street is sectioned off into seven different sections. You could spend hours walking through the different sections of the street and taking your own self-guided Sapporo walking tour! Stop for a bite to eat, browse for souvenirs, wander and window shop, or have a seat and people watch!

Don Quijote is a large 24-hour supermarket that sells almost anything you could think of! The supermarket is 5 stories high and offers everything from Japanese candies and snacks to cosmetics to costumes! It’s a great store to walk around and see Sapporo’s eclectic offering of souvenirs and products; this is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Sapporo! This is a great stop if you’re backpacking Japan , and you need to revamp the items in your backpack.

Tanukikoji shopping street stays lively every day and is a hub of entertainment in Sapporo. Tall ceilings with bright lights and hanging decorations make this street totally Instagram worthy! This stop is fun for all ages and interests and is a must-see attraction on your Sapporo itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Sapporo Beer Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Sapporo Beer Museum provides historical information and insight into the history of beer production in Japan. 
• Cost: Free to enter (paid tours available).
• Food nearby: The Sapporo Beer Garden contains several restaurants that offer all-you-can-eat specials as well as single menu items.

The Sapporo Beer Museum is the only beer museum in Japan. The building that the museum sits in was erected originally as a factory of the Sapporo Sugar Company in 1890 and only opened as the Sapporo Beer Museum in 1987.

The history of the Sapporo Beer dates back to the Meiji period (1868 – 1912) and the museum is registered as a Hokkaido Heritage site (on the list of historic sites of Japan).

The museum has three floors and is free to enter! There are exhibitions throughout the museum where guests can learn more about the history of beer and its production in Japan.

There are also guided tours, called “premium tours” offered. However, these tours are only given in Japanese. Guests who don’t speak Japanese can read the translated (English) version of the descriptions on printed panels and exhibits found along the tour.

A beer tasting opportunity is also included in the guided tour where guests can sample beer not available for purchase and only offered through this tour option. Tours cost USD $5.00 and last approximately 50-minutes.

There is also a museum bar where visitors can purchase Sapporo Beer. Beer tastings are also available. The museum gift shop offers a variety of items, including key holders, the popular museum pilsner glass, classic beer jelly chocolate, and more!

The building also houses the Sapporo Beer Garden in the south wing, adjacent to the museum. It offers visitors the chance to enjoy all-you-can-drink Sapporo beer direct from the brewery as well as all-you-can-eat mutton BBQ.

The Sapporo Beer Museum is closed on Mondays, make sure to add this to your Sapporo itinerary Tuesday – Sunday only!

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Historical Village of Hokkaido | Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill | Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art | Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo | Shiroi Koibito Park

Your two-day itinerary in Sapporo will see you discovering more of the local culture and history! We’ve also included a few fun attractions that are totally unique to Sapporo! 

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Historical Village of Hokkaido

• Why it’s awesome: This outdoor museum features historical buildings that show Hokkaido as it was during the Meiji and Taisho eras.
• Food nearby: There is a restaurant located inside the Historical Village of Hokkaido that serves typical Japanese cuisine in a relaxed setting.

The Historical Village of Hokkaido is an open-air museum located on the outskirts of Sapporo. The village exhibits around 52 period-buildings from different areas of Hokkaido, dating from the Meiji to the Taisho eras periods (1868 to 1926). The village is spread out over an area of 133 acres and is recreated to reflect what pioneer life in Hokkaido would have been like.

There are four different sections: a town, fishing village, farm village, and a mountain village. All of the buildings in the village are set up to look exactly as they would have when they were in use, providing guests with a unique and historical experience.

The attention to detail is exceptional. The rooms are fully furnished with tools, books, pieces of equipment, and articles of clothing from the different time periods being showcased. English descriptions are presented throughout the village providing visitors with a chance to learn even more about the history and culture of the people living during the pioneering days of Hokkaido.

There are volunteers spread throughout the village that provide commentary and demonstration activities. During the summer months, visitors can also take a horse-drawn rail ride and tour the village with a leisurely carriage ride!

If you’re planning a Sapporo itinerary during winter, a horse-drawn sled is operated in the snow-covered village. Visitors will be able to wear old winter clothes, enjoy sledding, bamboo skiing, and other winter activities from the olden days!

Insider Tip: Before you visit the village, download the pocket curator app of the Historical Village of Hokkaido. This multilingual commentary app will guide you through the buildings and provide you with even more insight! The app is available in multiple languages, including English, Korean, and Chinese.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill

• Why it’s awesome: This famous observation hill offers a commanding view of the city down below.
• Cost: USD $5.00.
• Food nearby: Sushiro Toyohira Nishioka Shop is a conveyor belt sushi and ramen restaurant with affordable prices and a lively atmosphere.

The Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill offers panoramic views of Sapporo and lovely pastoral views of grazing sheep during the summer months.

It also offers great views of the Sapporo Dome, which is the city’s baseball and soccer stadium. It’s a beautiful place with calming scenery and a great area to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The focal point of Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is the statue of Dr. William Smith Clark, the father of pioneers in Hokkaido. He is famous for the phrase, “Boys, be ambitious!” His right arm is raised as he points “toward the eternal truth which lies far in the distance.” The statue is one of Sapporo’s most photographed statues.

Various events are also held throughout the year, including events showcasing the seasonal tastes of Sapporo, lavender picking , and sheep shearing!

The Sapporo Snow Festival Museum is also located inside observation hill and introduces the history of the Snow Festival. It details the process of making snow sculptures, shows videos of the past snow festivals, as well as posters, photos, and model sized replica of the ice sculptures. 

The museum is free to enter (after you pay to enter the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill).

Insider Tip: During winter, the observation hill turns into a snowy winter wonderland! The observation hill snow park offers plenty of winter attractions, including free sled rentals and adult-sized igloos!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art

• Why it’s awesome: The collections of art in the museum primarily focus on the works of art by Hokkaido-associated painters and sculptors.
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Toriton Sushi Maruyama is a popular place for sushi in Sapporo. Their menu offers a wide range of sushi and seafood options, many dishes are offered to guests on a sushi conveyor belt.

The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art opened in 1977 in Sapporo, Japan. It showcases artwork spanning multiple generations of Japanese culture, including a permanent exhibition and seasonally changing temporary exhibitions.

There are approximately 4,800 pieces of art in the museum, including paintings, glasswork, and special exhibitions from local and international artists. The well-manicured lawns that surround the museum also contain a number of modern art sculptures.

It includes both the indigenous art of Hokkaido and worldwide artworks. The museum is a cultural center in Hokkaido and offers visitors to Sapporo a chance to learn about the region’s cultural development in a creative manner.

The temporary exhibit rooms are changed three to four times a year.  Many exhibits showcase the unique Japanese art form of Ukiyo-e , which translates to “pictures of the floating world.” This style flourished in Japan from the 17th – 19th centuries.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo

• Why it’s awesome: The Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo is a small, nature-oriented zoo that offers visitors a chance to see animals up close.
• Cost: Adult admission is USD $6.00, children 15 years old and younger visit for free.
• Food nearby: Rokkatei Jingu Chaya is a dessert restaurant offering unique Japanese pastries and tea.

The Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo opened in 1951 and is the oldest zoo in Hokkaido! The zoo is currently home to 168 different species and 737 animals. The zoo works to recreate the animal’s natural habitats and surroundings to allow the animals to act according to their natural instincts.

The main attraction of the zoo is the polar bear enclosure. The polar bear is on the brink of extinction in the wild, and the Maruyama Zoo is a special place where you can get an up-close view to see these magnificent animals.

Some of the other highlights of the zoo include the African zone with lions, hippos, zebras, and giraffes, the tropical birdhouse, the marine mammal house, and the Ezo brown bear house.

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Sapporo with kids, the zoo offers a petting zoo perfect for children. It contains mostly farm animals, including sheep, chickens, geese and small friendly animals. There are also several animal feedings throughout the day where kids will have a chance to see the animals eating.

The zoo is not too large and can be easily seen in 2-3 hours. It’s located close to public transportation and is very reasonably priced.

Insider Tip: The zoo is located inside Maruyama Park. If you have some extra time on your Sapporo itinerary, make sure to walk around the park and enjoy the stunning scenery and tranquil ambiance. 

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Shiroi Koibito Park

• Why it’s awesome: Shiroi Koibito Park is a museum and factory dedicated to chocolate and sweets!
• Cost: The park is free to enter, a factory tour is USD $6.00 and individual attractions have separate fees.
• Food nearby: The Cafe Restaurant Antoripo is located inside Shiroi Koibito Park and serves simple curry pots, sweets, and drinks.

Shiroi Koibito is one of Hokkaido’s most famous sweets; it’s a light sandwich cookie with a rich, white chocolate filling. The Shiroi Koibito Park is a spin-off of this famous Japanese sweet and dedicated to all things sweet!

The park is divided into two areas: the outdoor amusement facilities and the indoor factory tour facilities. There are also numerous restaurants and sweets shops spread through the park.

The Soft Cream House is a crowd favorite! This small ice cream stand serves melt in your mouth soft-serve ice cream, chocolate drinks, and coffee. The Chocolate Lounge also comes highly recommended and is a great place to sample the park’s delectable choices of chocolate, including chocolate fondue pots!

Guests can visit the Sweets Workshop Dream Kitchen and take part in a sweet themed activity! Book a cooking baking class or a cookie decorating class!

Tours of the factory are offered where guests can see how the Shiroi Koibito cookies are made. View the different areas of the factory and see the cookies being made right in front of your eyes! Of course, cookie samples are included in the tour.

If you’re planning a Sapporo trip itinerary with kids, make sure to check out Gullivertown Pocke. This children’s town is lined with small shops and houses, and the white lover railway offers rides on a mini train! There’s also an area where kids can change into fun costumes!   

This stop on your Sapporo itinerary is perfect for children and chocolate lovers!

Time Peace Apartment

The Time Piece Apartment hostel is a small guest house in a central location. Public transportation is within walking distance and the hostel is just a quick 10-minute walk from downtown. If you like this hostel, you’ll LOVE our guide to the best hostels in Japan.

• Free Breakfast

Sapporo City Central Wholesale Market | Former Hokkaido Government Office | Nakajima Park | The Hokkaido University Museum | Hoheikyo Hot Spring

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Sapporo, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill your time. Here are 5 more fun attractions we recommend checking out!

Sapporo City Central Wholesale Market

• Nicknamed “Hokkaido’s Kitchen”.
• There are approximately 60 stores selling a variety of items!
• The market is open year-round.

Sapporo is blessed with an abundance of vegetables, fruit, and fresh seafood, and the Sapporo City Central Wholesale Market and the adjacent Outside Market showcases this variety wonderfully!

Every morning, fresh produce and fish are delivered to the market. The vendors serve these products either as is or made into tasty local dishes! The market is very reasonably priced and provides guests with a great chance to sample to local flavors of Sapporo!

Hokkaido is synonymous with raw seafood, and salmon roe is especially popular! These shiny and plump internal egg masses as a local favorite and the market is the best place to try out the freshest salmon roe in Sapporo! Or, if you’re not a fan of raw fish, Melcard Kitchen Maru offers tasty grilled fish dishes. The fish is cooked with the local flavors of Hokkaido and is another very popular local dish.

You’ll see an abundance of vendors with fresh and cooked crab. Keep an eye out for the large king crab and the exotic-looking hairy crab! In terms of produce, melon is one of the most popular items. You can buy it whole, or by the slice. Corn is another popular item, and it’s so sweet you can eat it raw!

In addition to seafood and produce, you’ll also find vendors selling unique Japanese desserts and souvenirs, including Sake made in Hokkaido. Most stalls at the market are open every day from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.

Former Hokkaido Government Office

• Admission is free! 
• Open Monday – Friday.
• The building includes a conference room, a museum shop, a tourist information desk, exhibition rooms, and a library.

The Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, also known as the Red Brick Government Building, is a great place to learn about the history of Sapporo. The museum contains materials and information on the history of Hokkaido and is completely free to visit!

The building was constructed in 1888 and is a great example of American neo-baroque architecture. Approximately 2.5 million bricks were used in the construction of the building and the sight of the rusty reds and orange bricks against Sapporo’s natural surroundings is a sight to behold!

The Former Hokkaido Government Office was used for 80 years until the new government office was built. The building and its exhibits on display are open to the public on weekdays and have a volunteer staff to assist guests and provide more insight and history about the building.

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Sapporo and have the time in your sightseeing schedule, plan a stop at this museum and listening to the volunteers who will provide you with a more intimate look at the history of Sapporo and Hokkaido.

Nakajima Park

• Entrance is free!
• Spacious park with lots of attractions.
• Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Nakajima Park is located in the middle of downtown Sapporo next to the Susukino district. It’s a large public area with a number of interesting attractions and cultural facilities.

The Hoheikan is a historic guest house/hotel that was built in 1880. It was constructed to accommodate and impress visiting foreign dignitaries. It’s the oldest wooden building of its type in Japan.

The building’s interior has large spiral staircases, Corinthian columns, chandeliers, and original furnishings. It is open to the public and is free to visit! 

The Sapporo Astronomical Observatory is also located inside the park and is equipped with a telescope for observing astronomical objects. The Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara is an intimate concert hall in the park with amazing acoustics and a nice selection of performances throughout the week.

There’s also a traditional Japanese garden in the park that houses a traditional Japanese tea house.

Aside from its cultural facilities, it’s a lovely place to enjoy a nice break from the city. There are multiple streams as well as a large lake. It’s a great place to go for a jog, take a peaceful stroll, have a picnic, or just sit and enjoy the beauty of Sapporo’s natural scenery.

The Hokkaido University Museum

• Free admission!
• Open every day except for Mondays from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• The museum is well organized and thoughtfully laid out

The Hokkaido University Museum houses important scientific specimens and academic resources. The museum’s collection includes over three million documents and specimens, which the university has been collecting since it first opened over 140 years ago! Of particular focus is a huge skeleton of a Holstein bull and a life-sized mock-up of a woolly mammoth.

There is an interactive exhibit room where guests can touch specimens and at the museum laboratory, you can see research taking place.

Following a major renovation in 2016, the museum also now features new exhibits that highlight the latest research taking place at the 12 academic departments at Hokkaido University. There is also a cafe on-site that serves light meals and alcoholic beverages. If you’re planning more than a 2-day itinerary in Sapporo, this free museum is definitely worth checking out! 

Hoheikyo Hot Spring

• Entrance is USD $9.00 for adults and USD $5.00 for children.
• Features 3 hot spring baths.
• 100% pure, natural spring water.

The Hoheikyo Hot Spring is an outdoor hot spring bath surrounded by nature. It contains Japan’s largest open-air bath with a maximum bathing capacity of 200 people. If you’re backpacking through Asia, stop here to rest your weary bones.

The hot springs are not temperature-controlled and the water is poured directly from the ground into each bathtub, so it does not touch the air at all as it is being transferred. Since it is poured without oxidation, the water does not require chlorine. The quality of the spring remains constant and the healing properties of the water are high.

There are also two restaurants on the property that serve Indian and Japanese cuisine, each is highly rated! Visiting the Hoheikyo Hot Spring is the perfect relaxing vacation excursion in Sapporo!

Whether you’re spending one day in Sapporo or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a new city!

Overall, you should have nothing to worry about when you visit Sapporo! The city is considered extremely safe for tourists to visit and just like all the other areas of Japan, Sapporo has an extremely low crime rate.

However, you should always follow the rules of common sense when traveling. Avoid walking alone late at night, never leave your drinks unattended, and always keep an eye on your personal belongings.

Winters in Sapporo can be harsh due to the Arctic wind from the north. Blizzards and snowstorms are not uncommon. If you’re visiting Sapporo during this time make sure to pack adequate winter clothing to manage the icy climate.   

If you’re renting a car and traveling outside of the city, wildlife is still very abundant, which can lead to accidents between cars and wild animals. When you are driving in Hokkaido, you will frequently see signs reminding you to watch out for animals. 

The Ezo deer are probably the most common animals to run across the roads. Be sure to adhere to the speed limit, drive carefully, and pay close attention.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Sapporo

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Day trips from Sapporo are a great way to explore even more of Japan’s gorgeous landscape! They also offer travelers a chance to learn more about the culture. These trips highlight the areas outside the city and are a great option if you’re spending 3 days in Sapporo, or more! 

Day Trip to Furano, Biei, and Blue Pond

Enjoy a day trip from Sapporo to Hokkaido’s most scenic areas! Witness even more of this gorgeous island and enjoy a day of hassle-free sightseeing!

Travel to the Biei and Furano areas to admire stunning flower-carpeted fields, see native trees and foliage, and visit the famous Blue Pond! Lastly, you’ll stop by a farm garden to rest and enjoy a local curry lunch, (vegetarian option available upon request). This relaxing day trip is a great option if you’re spending 3 days in Sapporo, or even a few weeks!

Hokkaido’s Top Sightseeing of Farm Tomita, Shikisai no Oka in Biei, and Blue Pond

See the best spots in Hokkaido and admire the idyllic landscape. Start your day at Campana Rokkatei and take in the picturesque view of grapevines sprawling across the rolling hillsides. Visit the Furano Wine Factory with its vast lavender field and panorama views of Mt. Tokachi ranges. This is also where lunch will be served.

You can also travel to the Farm Tomita, the most historical tourist lavender farm in Japan and see the vast fields of flowers that bloom over the hills of Shikisai-no-Oka. Finish your day at the Shirogane Blue Pond before heading back to Sapporo.

Explorer Hokkaido! Lake Shikotsu, Toya, and Mt Usu Tour

Experience two famous lakes of Hokkaido! Start at Lake Shikotsu and admire the majestic beauty of water. There will be an option to take a “Lake Shikotsu Cruise” to admire the scenic beauty from a different perspective.

Next, why not head to Kinoko Okoku in Otaki to enjoy a bit of rest and have lunch and explore Toyako Manseikaku. Carry on to Lake Tya to see more gorgeous and unspoiled Japanese nature. Finish up at Usuzan Ropeway, where you’ll ride the ropeway and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes! This Hokkaido trip is perfect for nature lovers!

Lake Shikotsu Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo

Pay a visit to the scenic areas of Lake Shikotsu by mountain bike!

The best way to do this is on a moderate 5-hour course with an expert guide and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Pedal past the Lake Shikotsu area, along with the calm clear waters of the Chitose River! Traverse the natural landscape and keep an eye out for the occasional wildlife!

Enjoy a relaxing break at the lake and lunch (own expense) from a lakeside restaurant. Included in your tour are a local guide, mountain bike, helmet and gloves, and round-trip transport from select locations. Tour groups are limited to just 10 participants to provide for a more intimate experience.

Explore Otaru & Yoichi

Another great trip is one from Sapporo to Otaru, Hokkaido’s gorgeous seaside city! Start your day at the Yoichi Distillery, where the famous Nikka Whiskey is produced! Learn about whiskey production and then try a sample for yourself!

Next, travel to Otaru city and enjoy some time to explore the canal area and Sakaimachi shopping street, followed by a tasty seafood lunch full of local fish and produce! Lastly, take the ropeway up Tengu Mountain and enjoying the scenic views of Otaru Port and Ishikari Bay. See several Otaru highlights in a day with this hassle-free tour option!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Sapporo itinerary.

How many days are enough for Sapporo?

Sapporo is a huge city, so you’ll need at least 3 days to fully explore it.

What should you include on a Sapporo winter itinerary?

Make sure to include these top snowy Sapporo highlights: – Sapporo Snow Festival (February) – Historical Village of Hokkaido – Sapporo Hitsujigakoa Observation Hill

What should you include on a Sapporo summer itinerary?

There are loads of great ways to enjoy Sapporo’s sunshine: – Picnic in Odori Park – Wander down the Tanukikoji Shopping Street – Spend a day at Nakajima Park

Where is the best place to stay in Sapporo?

Susukino offers heaps of accommodation and is the place to be if you’re looking to be close to everything. For a quieter alternative, check out Nakajima Koen.

Sapporo is a charming Japanese city that offers plenty of tourist attractions, including some amazing festivals and events! Even during the city’s colder months, you’ll find plenty of attractions. From historic sites to stunning parks to mouth-watering cuisine and fantastic beer culture, Sapporo’s got it all!

The city is the perfect place to mix education with entertainment, making it a great vacation spot for every type of traveler. Moreover, Sapporo is an extremely safe city to travel to and relatively inexpensive, making it perfect for families and solo travelers!

We hope you enjoyed our Sapporo itinerary and that you’re able to try it out for yourself! If you are ready to jetset off to Sapporo, 

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

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• Sep 13, 2018
• 17 min read

Planning your trip to Japan: Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo Itinerary

Updated: Aug 17

Japan is one of my favourite places in Asia because of its amazing food! Think: the freshest sashimi, sushi, endless ramen stores, et cetera... Over the past two years, I've been fortunate enough to visit the Kanto, Kansai, and Hokkaido prefecture! There's still a lot more to explore in Japan such as the Kyushu regions of Okinawa and Fukuoka, but I'm bringing you itineraries of the more popular three cities: Tokyo, Osaka, and Hokkaido. Even if you are not heading to all three prefectures, these itineraries would also give you a good plan of what you can do for each of these cities.

How many days are needed for each city?

We did 5 days for each prefecture and felt that it was just enough to cover the sights although having more time would allow you to experience more of Japan.

However, if you are planning to travel from one prefecture to the next (e.g. Osaka to Tokyo), we do recommend you to plan for either 7, 14, or 21 days. Reason being is because the JR pass that allows you unlimited travel on the trains have passes for 7, 14, and 21. You could also slot in an extra day is necessary for your transfers to and fro the airport.

We do know that sometimes the number of days aren't quite determined by you because #worklife and it really depends on the number of leave days you can get off work. Just do keep in mind the following JR pass options and the rest of the days which are not covered by the JR pass can be spent at a particular city, using their local trains. For instance, if you can only head to Tokyo for 10 days, get the 7 day JR pass and spend the rest of the 3 days touring Tokyo.

How to get cheap tickets to Japan?

The reason why we've been to Japan so many times the past two years was that we managed to snag cheap tickets. We flew to Tokyo on Singapore Air and paid roughly 570 SGD per pax, Hokkaido was a crazy last minute Singapore to Sapporo non-stop promotion by Scoot which we paid roughly 200 SGD each, and finally Osaka was another promotion on Scoot and we paid about 440 SGD per pax.

You may also be interested in our blog post on:

How I spent below 900 SGD (including air tickets) on a 5D4N trip to Hokkaido .

Before you purchase your tickets, read also our guide on Travel Hacks to find out: How to score cheap flight tickets from Singapore ?

Also, if you do really intend to take the Shinkansen and travel to various prefectures in Japan, buy a multi-destination ticket ! What that means is that if you fly in to Osaka, choose to fly out either from Tokyo or Sapporo so that you won't have to make the round back to Osaka to fly out of Japan. This saves you time and allows you to use that time that you'll have to travel back to explore more of Japan. Plus, sometimes, there's not much of a difference in the prices even if you were to buy a round trip ticket.

Now that you've figured out where you are flying in to and how many days you are spending in Japan, pick from one of these travel plans: 5 days, 7 days, and 14 days itineraries .

5 Days in Japan (Tokyo vs Osaka vs Sapporo)

If you only have 5 days, you will need to choose if you are visiting Tokyo, Osaka, or Hokkaido. With only 5 days, you may also want to make these cities as base and travel only in the day. Should you wish to move from city to city, it may mean a lot of luggage moving (even if you are only travelling with one bag pack).

Read these blog posts as a form of inspiration as to which cities you should visit:

- 12 must-eat dishes in Tokyo, Japan

- 26 things to do and eat in Osaka, Japan (including day trips)

- Hokkaido (Sapporo/Otaru) Travel Guide

A. 5 days in Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Hotel + Explore City

Airport to City

There are two airports in Tokyo, the Narita Airport and Haneda Airport. While Narita Airport is the main International Airport in Tokyo, Haneda is slightly closer to the city. Depending on your airline, you may be able to choose which airport you land in and depart from.

(Narita Airport --> City)

1. By train (approx 60 - 90 mins)

There are various trains that would take you from the airport to Tokyo Station. The JR Narita Express takes about an hour and is the fastest way to get to the city. However, ticket prices aren't the cheapest. It costs 3000 yen for a one-way trip and 4000 yen for two-way, which makes it a no-brainer that you should totally get the round trip! The other option is the JR Sobu Line , it takes 90 mins and costs less than half the price of the JR Narita Express.

2. By Bus (approx 100 mins)

Buses are a great way as a transportation to and from the airport as you will definitely get a seat, plus you do not need to worry about any transfers (should you be staying at Tokyo Station) even though it takes slightly longer than the trains. You can purchase a limousine bus ticket online , or at the ticket counter at Narita Airport. Purchase the two way tickets if you are departing from the same airport to enjoy some cost-savings!

3. Private Transfers (approx 100 mins)

Should you be feeling like a Crazy Rich Asian, try the private transfers for a whopping 519 SGD .

(Haneda Airport --> City)

1. By train (approx 30 - 35 mins)

From Haneda Airport, you can board the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station and change to either the JR Yamanote or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to your destination in Tokyo. Alternatively you could take the Keikyu Railway to Shinagawa Station and change to the same JR Yamanote or JR Keihan-Tohoku Line . Both ways cost roughly the same and the Keikyu Railway is only 5 minutes behind.

2. By Bus (approx 40 - 45 mins)

Buses from Haneda Airport to the city takes about 40 to 45 minutes, depending on the traffic situation. It does cost more than the train options but especially for families with children, sometimes having a seat and the fact that you do not need to squeeze is extremely helpful!

3. Private Transfers (approx 40 - 45 mins)

Should you be feeling like a Crazy Rich Asian, try the private transfers from Haneda Airport for 231 SGD .

Where to stay in Tokyo?

Wherever you decide to stay in Tokyo, you may want to consider staying in one of the areas close to the JR Yamanote Line. The Yamanote Line is a circular line that brings you to major attractions in Tokyo. For those like being in the middle of all the 'action', Shinjuku and Shibuya are great options.

We decided to stay in Shinjuku at the APA Hotel Shinjuku Gyoemmae . We chose this hotel because of the affordable pricing (53,460 yen = 660 SGD for 5 mights) and it was in a quieter region of Shinjuku. Especially for those going during the Sakura season, you'll be a stone's throw away from the Gyoemmae Park. The room is tiny, but all the amenities are available. They even have an onsen at the basement where you can enjoy soaking in, especially during the winter season!

Exploring Shinjuku

There's just so much to cover in Shinjuku and the night is still young whichever time you'll reach Tokyo. From its food to the countless of bars, there's always something to do in Tokyo's Shinjuku.

Day 2: Exploring Tokyo City (Tsukiji Fish Market - Sensoji Shrine - Meiji Shrine - HArajuku - Shibuya>

Start your day bright and early by visiting Tsukiji Fish Market . For those who really want to watch the tuna bidding, you'll have to be there as early as 4 am in the wee hours. Otherwise, just roaming around the outer market is really fun too!

Just look at the crowd! We were there in the early afternoon so it was already flooded with tourists and locals. If you can, you may wish to head over earlier where everyone's still in bed! When you're there, snack on the freshly shuckled and grilled seafood, or shop for the souvenirs at the variety of stores. For more of what there is to eat, head over to read our 12 must-eat dishes in Tokyo, Japan blog post!

After filling your bellies, visit the Senso-ji Shrine . The Senso-ji Shrine is recognisable by its large lantern in the middle. The shrine is extremely crowded so do be prepared to squeeze with the crowd. Nonetheless, there are still quite a bit to see and souvenirs to buy in the shrine grounds.

In the late afternoon, Meiji Shrine located at Shibuya, in Yoyogi Park. If there is one shrine to visit, you'll definitely need to head to the Meiji Shrine. there is quite a bit of walking required to reach the shrine. The start of the trail is marked by the large Torii gate. After you pass it, you'll somehow will be able to get away from the crowded bustling city sounds, and enter the forest trail. Do note, however, that the shrine is currently undergoing some renovations. As such, the treasure house is closed.

After all that walking, head over to check out Harajuku . This is where all the cool kids hang out! The popular shopping street is Takeshita Street and there's all sorts of interesting fast fashion and your Harajuku Crepes. You'll find popular eateries in the Harajuku area such as Luke's Lobster and Dominque Ansel as well.

You'll can then spend the night at Shibuya . There's the Shibuya Crossing, Hachikyo Memorial and several shopping malls like Shibuya 109 where the ladies can shop to their hearts content.

Day 3: Tokyo DisneySEA / Disneyland / Fuji-Q Highland

On your third day, you could head to popular theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySEA. Great for families with children, you'll have to make a pit stop to Disneyland. Otherwise, you could head to Fuji-Q Highland to try to catch a glimpse of the elusive Mount Fuji!

Read more about our Tokyo DisneySEA experience: Experience Tokyo DisneySEA .

Purchase Disney tickets along with bus transfers here .

Day 4: Day Trip to Hakone and Yokohama

For your fourth day, if you would like to get out of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, a great day trip would be to visit Hakone. Especially for onsen lovers, you can even head to one of the onsens to get a soak. We manage to complete Hakone in half a day and decided to stop by Yokohama on the way back!

Read more about our Hakone Day Trip and Yokohama Day Trip .

Day 5: Flying Home + Last bits of Tokyo

On your final day, you could re-explore the Shibuya or Shinjuku regions before heading to the airport. Another attraction that you could head to is the Tokyo Tower. Just like the effiel tower, the Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower in Shibuya and is the second-tallest tower in Japan.

B. 5 days in Osaka Itinerary

Besides being the food capital of Japan, Osaka is a brilliant place to visit the Kansai region! Get a glimpse of everything in just 5 days!

Day 1: Transfer to Hotel + Explore Osaka's Vibrant Night Life

From the Kansai Airport, take the Nankai Line Airport Express to the JR Namba Station and transfer to your respective hotels. We stayed at APA Hotel Namba-Eki Higashi which was located close to the Namba Station and was in walking distance to the Dotonburi area. It was a small room but we had everything we needed!

We chose the location primarily for us to make full use of day and to explore bits of Dotonburi and Shinsaibashi each night when we were there! After you've checked in, head over to Dotonburi for some shopping and catch a glimpse of the Glico Man at the Ebisu Bridge. If you're there in the day, you can also head to Kuromon Ichiba Market !

Day 2: Day Trip to Kyoto

Start your day bright and early and head to Kyoto. One day may not be sufficient and those who are in Japan for a much longer time should consider staying one night in Kyoto. The old capital is simply beautiful and there's just so many attractions there like:

- Fushimi Inari Shrine

- Gion District

- Nishiki Market

- Yasaka Shrine

- Kiyomizu Dera

- Togetsukyo Bridge

- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Read more about how to get to Kyoto from Osaka and a bit more of each of these attractions in our Summer in Japan, 8 things to do in Kyoto, Japan .

Day 3: Day Trip to Nara + Osaka Castle

Besides the deers in Nara, there's a whole lot more to see. Besides, Nara is really just a couple of hours from Osaka. It is a great day or half day trip to enjoy the wild animals!

Read more about how to get to Nara from Osaka and 6 things to do in Nara, Japan !

If you still have energy after walking the entire day, stop by Osaka Castle! The Osaka Castle is rich in history and is a convenient stop while on your way back from Nara. But, don't head to Osaka castle without knowing these 5 fun facts !

Tip: Wear good walking shoes as there's quite a bit of walking to do in both places!

Day 4: Day Trip to Kobe + Exploring Osaka

On your almost last day in Osaka, you may want to fill your tummies with good Japanese beef. Kobe makes for a good day trip as it is only a short 30 minutes from Osaka. Also, we got an amazing find: The Nunobiki Herb Garden. There's beautiful flowers and a great cafe overlooking the rest of Kobe!

Read more about h ow to get to Kobe and the 9 things you can do in Kobe, Japan .

You may also be interested in this article on where you can find affordable Kobe beef in Kobe !

Even though Kobe Beef is what most tourists are more familiar with, we very much prefer Matsusaka Beef! These are the creme de la creme of Japanese Beef and the service there is impeccable! JUST LOOK AT ALL THAT MARBLING! Read more about the best Matsusaka Beef in Osaka, Japan .

Day 5: Flying Home + Last bits of Osaka

On your final day, waste no time in visiting the remaining unexplored attractions. Namely, you should really check out food and shopping districts like America-mura!

Visitors with extra days can also factor in a day to popular Universal Studios Japan !

Read more about 26 things to do and eat in Osaka, Japan here!

C. 5 days in Hokkaido Itinerary (Sapporo / Otaru)

Day 1: airport to hotel + exploring susukino.

To get to Hokkaido, most travellers would have to enter via the New Chitose Airport. Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and it will be a great stop for exploring nearby cities such as Otaru or to get to the ski slopes during winter. After getting to the airport, it is only a 45-minute ride via the Airport Express to Sapporo. You can purchase the tickets from the Airport Express counter.

You may also wish to get the JR Hokkaido IC Card - Kitaca that acts like an ezlink where you tap and pay your transport fare, instead of heading to the station every time to queue for the tickets. The card come preloaded when you purchase it and has a refundable deposit of 500 yen when you "trade-in" your card when you exit Hokkaido.

Accommodation in Sapporo?

There are many hotels in Sapporo and some of the chains in Japan include APA hotels and resorts, toyoko-inn, and Hotel Sunroute. If you're looking for Ryokan stays, you will need to visit the smaller cities outside Sapporo.

For our 4 nights, we stayed at APA Hotel Sapporo Susukino Ekimae (24,800 yen / about 300 sgd for 4 nights) . The location was superb. It was only 2 stations away from Sapporo station on the Toho Line . And it is located right outside exit 3 of Hosui-Susukino subway station .

It is walking distance to Susukino, Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, and Odori Park where the Sapporo TV tower is located. There are many amazing restaurants nearby as well! We thoroughly enjoyed staying here where we could visit Don Quixote and play at the Round 1 Arcade till late!

What to do on my first day? (Susukino - Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade - Nijio Market)

On the first day, you will likely want to familiarise yourself with your base. Take some time to explore Susukino . Susukino is Japan's largest entertainment district. Other than the glitzy bars, pachinko slot machines and the red-light districts, Susukino is home to several popular restaurants and stores. Of particular mention, the popular 24 hour Don Quixote and the Ramen Yokocho can be found here!

To get to Susukino, take the Nanboku Line to Susukino station (two stops from Sapporo Station, and one stop from Odori Park Station).

Head over to Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade in the area for some shopping! The Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade spans 1km and is a covered walking street. It houses many souvenir stores, restaurants, and even hotels. Of which, popular Don Quixote and ABC sits on this street! Our opinion is that the stores in the shopping arcade are a little too touristy. So it is worth a visit, but you can find better food and shopping elsewhere!

To get to Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, the closest subway is the Tanukikoji station on the Toho Line.

If you are there in the day, head over to the Nijio Market to grab a snack - the freshest fish or even the famed Hokkaido Snow Crab. To get to Nijio Market, the closest subway is Hosui-Susukino station on the Toho Line.

Day 2: Sapporo City Walk + Shiroi Koibito Park + Maruyama Park (Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Zoo)

On your second day, get ready a pair of good walking shoes to explore Sapporo. First up, head to Odori Park.

Odori Park is a park that lies in the heart of Sapporo. It is a long stretch from the Sapporo TV Tower to the Sapporo City Archive Building. Several events are held here throughout the year and the noteworthy one is the Sapporo Snow Festival.

What's amazing about this park also is that on a clear day and at night, you can even see the Mt Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium as the park separates the city into two parts where there are no tall buildings in this entire stretch. For a better view, visit the Sapporo TV Tower ! Skip the queue and get your tickets here !

We visited Odori Park in the day, and again at night as it offers different views. If you have the time, do so too!

To get to Odori Park, catch a metro to Odori Station or Nishi juitchome Station at the other end.

Not too far away from Odori Park is the Sapporo Clock Tower . The Clock Tower is a historical landmark built in the 1980s which has become the landmark of Sapporo. If you're interested, there's also a museum inside to learn more about the history of the city. Then, you can continue to head to the red brick Sapporo Government Office .

Once you're done, head over to Sapporo Station to have breakfast / lunch before heading over to the Shiroi Koibito Park.

If you love Ishiya's Langue de Chat, you definitely need to go to Shiroi Koibito Park . The Ishiya Chocolate Factory is easy to get to. Take the subway Tozai Line to the end of the line, Miyanosawa station. From there, it is a 10 minute walk to the factory. There are guides and signage throughout the station that will lead you to the Shiroi Koibito Park. You'll have to cut through Sapporo Lifelong Learning Research Center Chieria and a beautiful walk to the Park.

The park's really beautiful! You can roam around the garden for free but if you would like to check out the museum, you'll have to get a 'passport'. This costs 600 yen and you'll get one complimentary Langue de chat!

After purchasing the passport, head up to the entrance. At the entrance, you'll be able to customise your own Langue de chat tins! You can either choose to email your own photograph, or have one taken there where they will add a background to your liking. This costs 3,075 yen for the 36-cookie tin, and 4,345 yen for the 54 cookie tin. It is only a bit more than if you get the original tin, so why not purchase your own tins as a souvenir! :)

On your way back from the Shiroi Koibito Park, drop by Maruyama Park . It is also on the subway Tozai Line and you can get to Maruyama Park by getting off at the Maruyama-Koen station. It is a short walk from the station to the park. The Muruyama Park is a huge park and requires a lot of walking to complete. Inside the Muruyama Park, you can find the Hotaki and Hokkaido Shrine, Maruyama Zoo, and the Maruyama Stadium.

You may not have time to visit all of them but definitely head to the Hotaki and Hokkaido Shrine as well as the Maruyama Zoo . The Maruyama Zoo was one of the most experiential zoo I've been to, you can literally see a lion up close through a hopefully very thick glass. These will take up the rest of the afternoon and you can head back to Susukino to enjoy delicious food thereafter!

Day 3: Day Trip to Otaru

On your third day, you may want to take a day trip to Otaru!

We previously wrote an Otaru day trip guide that covers how to get there, how to get around, what to see as well as what to eat in Otaru. Read more about it: Otaru Day Trip .

This will take an entire day and you can return to Sapporo in the evening.

Day 4: Ski Trip / Onsen Trip

On your fourth day, we recommend that you take a trip to the ski resorts (if in Winter), or head to a nearby Onsen such as the Hokkaido Jozankei Resort. There is a half-day tour which grants you access to the onsen, two way transport, as well as a buffet lunch. You can purchase the Onsen Tour online . We didn't manage to do any of these when we were there because we woke up way to late for the transport to the ski park (lol). So if you really do want to visit, wake up early!

Some of the ski resorts we recommend are:

- Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort (for beginners)

- Sapporo Teine

These resorts are located close to Sapporo and most of these resorts have shuttle buses that bring you there and back!

Day 5: Sapporo Beer Museum + Flying Home

For the fifth day, if you still have the time, you can head to the nearby Sapporo Beer Museum . Tour the beer museum by purchasing an entrance ticket but what's the best is the beer you can drink at the end of the route! Fresh Sapporo Beer in Sapporo itself! :)

For those who want to enjoy fresh crabs and lamb bbq , you can try it at the beer museum. Gengis Khan is Sapporo's speciality, which refers to bbq lamb! We tried it at one of the restaurants around the Susukino area and it was simply delicious!

If you still have time to kill, there is a mall right beside the museum which you can buy some last minute gifts before heading to the airport!

That's it for the 5 days in Sapporo! Should you wish to find out other activities, check out our 22 things to do in Sapporo, Japan as well as our 7 foods that you absolutely need to eat in Sapporo .

7 Days in Japan (Tokyo >> Osaka)

For 7 days in Japan, it will be a collation of some of the above-mentioned activities, to avoid repeating the same things, we will just list the attractions!

First, grab your JR pass for unlimited travel between cities on the JR line.

Day 1: Transfer from Airport to Hotel + Exploring Shinjuku

Day 2: Exploring Tokyo City (Tsukiji Fish Market - Sensoji Shrine - Meiji Shrine - Harajuku - Shibuya)

Day 3: Take a day trip to Hakone to see if you could catch the elusive Mount Fuji!

Day 4: Tokyo >> Osaka by Shinkansen (2h30mins) + Transfer to your Hotel + Explore Dotonburi

Day 5: Osaka >> Kyoto + Transfer to your Hotel + Explore Kyoto

Day 6: Explore Kyoto + Kyoto >> Nara + Nara Attractions + Nara >> Osaka

Day 7: Explore remaining Osaka attractions

14 Days in Japan (OSAKA >> Kyoto >> Tokyo >> Hakodate >> Sapporo)

Again, grab your JR pass for unlimited travel between cities on the JR line.

Day 1: Transfer from Airport to Hotel + Exploring Dotonburi

Day 2: Exploring Osaka City

Day 3: Exploring Osaka City (Can consider taking a day trip to Kobe)

Day 4: Osaka >> Nara + Nara Attractions + Nara >> Kyoto + Transfer to your Hotel + Explore Kyoto

Day 5: Explore Kyoto

Day 6: Kyoto >> Tokyo + Transfer to your Hotel + Explore Shinjuku

Day 7: Exploring Tokyo City (Tsukiji Fish Market - Sensoji Shrine - Meiji Shrine - Harajuku - Shibuya)

Day 8: Day Trip to Hakone

Day 9: Tokyo >> Hakodate + Transfer to your Hotel + Explore Hakodate

Day 10: Explore Hakodate + Hakodate >> Sapporo

Day 11: Sapporo City Walk + Shiroi Koibito Park + Maruyama Park (Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Zoo)

Day 12: Day Trip to Otaru

Day 13: Ski Trip / Onsen Trip (Winter); Blue Lake (Summer)

Day 14: Explore remaining Sapporo attractions

We hope that these itineraries help you in planning for your Japan trip! We have quite a number of articles written on Japan and if you would like to read more, click here !

#TravelGuide #TravelHacks #TravelTips #Itinerary #DayTrip

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Beyond Lavender Fields: What to Do in Furano, Hokkaido's Enchanting Retreat

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The Top 9 Day Trips From Sapporo

Sapporo—often called the Tokyo of the North for its bright neon-lit streets, outstanding restaurant scene, and modern bustle—is also a perfectly located capital. Despite being located so far south on the island, many of Hokkaido’s biggest and best historical and natural sites can be easily enjoyed on a single day trip from Sapporo. From iconic towns like Furano and Otaru to ski resorts and onsen, so much excitement and beauty can be reached from Hokkaido’s capital city of Sapporo, and these are the best of them.

Otaru: Wander the Canals

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The historic harbor-city of Otaru is an ideal day trip from Sapporo. Once a major trade and fishing port, Otaru features characteristic former office and warehouse buildings that have been converted into museums, restaurants, and bars. This industrial aesthetic makes it very different from other cities in Japan and offers a host of unique things to do. This includes a cruise or a walk down the famous Otaru Canal which takes you past some of the city’s most historic areas. Make sure to catch Otaru Steam Clock, one of the few steam-powered clocks in the world, and Sakaimachi Street, a preserved merchant street that is great for souvenir shopping.

Getting There: Take the train from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station. The express train is 30 minutes and the cheaper local train is 49 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don’t leave Otaru without trying some fresh seafood at Otaru Sankaku Market near the train station.

Ainu Museum: Learn about Hokkaido's Heritage

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A quick and easy day trip from Sapporo, you can visit the new Ainu museum and learn about a vital part of Hokkaido’s heritage. This is the first museum dedicated to the indigenous Ainu people. The museum is also named The Upopoy, which comes from the Ainu word for "singing together." The museum highlights indigenous Ainu culture and their way of life and customs such as traditional costume and dance. You’ll also be able to see a traditional Ainu village with outdoor re-creation. Find out opening times and how to book tickets on the museum website .

Getting There:  You can drive to the museum or take the train to Shiraoi taking just fifty minutes each.

Travel Tip: The museum is set on the expansive Lake Poroto so make sure to set aside some time for a walk.

Noboribetsu: Enjoy Thermal Waters

Step away from Sapporo into a completely different world of hot springs, geyzers, and sulfur. Hokkaido’s volcanic geothermal area is peppered with brightly colored, steaming hot pools that contribute over nine types of mineral water to the surrounding baths at Noboribetsu Onsen. There are two main observation points where you can take in the combination of thermal valley and nature from above and you can also walk the Noboribetsu Jigokudani Loop which takes around an hour.

Getting There : The journey will take just under two hours by train from Sapporo Station to Noboribetsu Station.

Travel Tip: Make sure to take time to find the eleven demon statues scattered around the onsen and enjoy the dining and shopping of the area.

Furano: Famous Flower Fields

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With its sweeping flower and lavender fields, expansive vineyards, and ski scene, Furano is a wonderful escape from the bustle of Sapporo. Surrounded by the Daisetsuzan Mountains and rural landscape, there are endless things to enjoy in Furano, including a visit to the Cheese Factory, Furano Winery, and Tada Vineyard and Farm. Make sure to wander through Ningle Terrace, a forest path lined with fairy light and wooden chalets sporting the work of local creators.

Getting There: Catch the two and a half hour train from Sapporo Station to Furano Station.

Travel Tip: To extend your day trip, you can also visit the unique Blue Pond, which is forty minutes outside Furano. This ethereal pond takes on different hues depending on the weather and season and is truly one of the most unique scenes in Japan. The pond is situated near Daisetsuzan National Park and Mount Tokachi.

Shikotsu Toya National Park: See the Two Famous Lakes

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Hokkaido is famous for its national parks and one of the easiest to visit on a day trip from Sapporo, arriving in under two hours, is Shikotsu Toya National Park. Named after the park's two famous lakes, Toya and Shikotsu, the dramatic volcanic mountain scenery draws thousands of visitors every year. The park boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the country with views of caldera lakes, mountains, and waterfalls. Hiking, followed by a relaxing bath in the hot springs, is a perfect way to spend a day outside the city.

Getting There : Catch the train from Sapporo Station to Toya Station. You can then catch the bus to Lake Toys from the station. The whole journey will take around two hours.

Travel Tip : Though popular at any time of year, visiting during the winter rewards you with icy views from the onsen and snowy walks through the woods.

Sapporo Art Park: Get Lost in Nature and Art

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Explore 74 works created by 64 artists for free in a 99-acre forest just south of Sapporo Station at the Art Park. The space is dedicated to art and offers a number of workshops to get involved like pottery, weaving, and woodwork. There is also a collection of family-friendly activities for anyone visiting with children. While you can spend most of the day exploring the free artwork, you can also visit the Sapporo Sculpture Garden and the Sapporo Art Museum for a small fee as well as visit the cafe and restaurant.

Getting There : Taking just 20 minutes to reach Geijutsu no Mori Center by bus or train, this is the ideal day trip for anyone not looking to leave the city.

Travel Tip : In winter, the activities in the area extend to sledding, skiing, and skating for a truly dynamic winter's day out.

Shakotan Peninsula: Hike the Cape

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Take a trip to the West coast to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Sea of Japan, nicknamed "Shakotan Blue" for its intense color, and hike the rugged hills and cliffs of Cape Kamui—one of the most popular places to visit along the coast and part of Japan’s only national sea park area. Catch a view of Kamui Rock, a striking candle-shaped rock in the ocean which can best be seen by walking the Path of Charenka trail on Cape Kamui. For those who love being on the water, the Shakotan Peninsula also offers opportunities to dive and snorkel in the Blue Cave.

Getting There : Shakotan Peninsula is a two-hour drive from Sapporo using National Road 229 or you can catch a bus to Cape Kamui from Sapporo Station.

Travel Tip : The area is renowned for its sea urchin so make sure to pay a visit to seafood restaurants such as the famous Misaki and Nakamura-ya who popularized the dish of sea urchin roe over rice.

Historical Village of Hokkaido: Step Back in Time

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Get to know Hokkaido’s history in an interactive setting at the Historical Village of Hokkaido . The open-air museum showcases 52 restored buildings from around Hokkaido spanning the Maiji period to the Showa period. Grouped by industry and culture, you can see working antique printing presses and sewing machines inside. You arrive in the village through the old Sapporo Railway Station and the history continues as you walk the extensive grounds which includes a traditional fishing village, a mountain village, and a farming town.

Getting There : A 15-minute bus to the museum can be caught from Shin-Sapporo Station or a five-minute bus from Shinrin Koen Station.

Travel Tip : Make sure to take your shoes off at the door and use the slippers provided before stepping into the buildings.

Sapporo Teine Ski Resort: Hit the Slopes

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Skiing in Hokkaido is a must and you don’t need to go far outside Sapporo to hit the slopes, making for a perfect day trip. Taking just 40 minutes to reach, Sapporo Teine Ski Resort is the largest in the area. Consisting of two zones, Highland and Olympia, which are conveniently connected by lifts and trails, you can quickly switch between zones to make the most of the day. The courses range from beginner to advanced so there’s something for everyone.

Getting There : The easiest way to reach the resort is by bus from Sapporo Station which can be found at stand seventeen.

Travel Tip : Skiing is also available outside of the winter season making this a great trip, any time.

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• Nov 30, 2022

Easy Day Trips from Sapporo, Hokkaido | Japan

Although Sapporo is filled with delicious food and some great things to see and do, I had a couple of places outside of the city that I wanted to check out on my recent trip to Japan's northernmost prefecture.

The places I visited in this blog post are all easily accessible by public transport (train and/or bus), so you should have no issues getting to any of these without a car. Most people who visit Hokkaido say that hiring a car is preferable, and I'd probably agree, but it's really not necessary if you only plan to visit places located close to Sapporo city . Ultimately, I suggest doing some research to find out whether hiring a car will be worth it for you. If you're travelling from overseas, please remember you may require an international driving permit. Those who want to rent a car can pre-book though this website (English OK!)

If you're interested in what to eat and drink in Sapporo, check out my post about great places to eat and drink in Sapporo ! I've also posted about what to see in Sapporo city , so be sure to take a look when planning your trip to Sapporo.

Let's get into it!

Sapporo Art Park

Sapporo Art Park opened in 1986, with the dream to create an environment in which nature, culture and the arts all co-exist.

There are three main areas at Sapporo Art Park - the Sapporo Sculpture Garden, Sapporo Art Museum, and Craft Hall. There are a number of permanent exhibitions on the grounds, all which can be appreciated differently depending on the seasons. The Art Park also holds a number of events throughout the year including educational teaching projects and theatre productions.

I was able to enjoy the outdoor Sculpture Garden at the end of summer, while Hokkaido was covered in lush green grass and trees.

Upon entering the Sculpture Garden you'll be given a map showing several paths and possible routes, with pictures showing where different art is located. There's no set path that must be followed, and you're free to explore the area as you wish.

The sculptures on display range from modern to traditional.

I can't imagine these sculptures being on display anywhere else. You can see that even the more modern sculptures fit in really well with the surrounding environment. As the seasons change, the sculptures in the park will be able to be viewed from a different perspective.

I really enjoyed my time at the Sapporo Art Park. I really can not recommend it enough. Amazing art, beautiful scenery, the sounds of nature - wonderful!

Sapporo Art Park is located around 50 minutes from Sapporo station. The easiest way to get there is by taking a train to Makomanai station and then transferring to a local bus line. There are a few buses that conveniently stop right outside the art park.

I highly recommend visiting Sapporo Art Park on the same day as Hill of the Buddha and the Moai Statues mentioned below, as they are located conveniently close to one another. Even though the walk on Google Maps looks do-able, I recommend catching the bus to travel from one location to the other.

Sapporo Art Park is one of the best day trips from Sapporo and suitable for kids and adults. I highly recommend adding it to your list of things to do in Sapporo, whether travelling solo, with a partner, or with family.

Address in English: 2 Chome-75 Geijutsunomori, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0864

Name in Japanese: 芸術の森センター

Address in Japanese: 〒005-0864 北海道札幌市南区芸術の森２丁目75

Hill of the Buddha and Moai statues

Getting to Hill of the Buddha and the Moai statues is around a one hour trip from Sapporo city. It's located a little further past the Sapporo Art Park mentioned above. Catch the subway to Makomanai station and then take the bus the rest of the way. Once you exit Makomanai station, turn left and you'll see a waiting room with information about bus times to Hill of the Buddha written in Japanese and English. The buses are not so frequent, so be sure to check the times for your return once you arrive at your destination. Google Maps was a great help here!

Also on site is a replica of Stonehenge (why, I have no idea!), although I didn't have time to visit, as I was keeping an eye on the bus schedule - buses from here only leave about once an hour, so be careful!

Once you arrive at your destination, the Moai statues will be easy to spot. You should also be able to see the buddha's head poking out of the top of the lavender covered hill. It should only take you a few minutes walk to get to the entrance to Hill of the Buddha from the bus stop.

Hill of the Buddha, designed by the famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando, was everything I expected and more. Photos really can't do the place justice. I also don't want to spoil anything too much (mainly the approach), so I'm going to limit the amount of photos I post here. You really need to visit yourself to get the full experience. Please visit Hill of the Buddha if you happen to be in Sapporo - you won't regret it!

Note: These attractions are actually part of Makomanai Takino Cemetery, so please remember to be respectful while visiting.

Address in English: Takino, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862

Name in Japanese: 頭大仏殿

Address in Japanese: 〒005-0862 北海道札幌市南区滝野

No trip to Sapporo would be complete without a daytrip to the historic seaside town of Otaru . From Sapporo station you can easily catch a train to Otaru without needing to transfer. The trip should take around 40 minutes on the express train, or longer if you catch the local train. For some great views of the ocean, I recommend sitting on the right side of the train when leaving Sapporo, or on the left side when leaving Otaru.

Let's take a look at some highlights from my daytrip to Otaru.

Admire the view of Otaru Canal (小樽運河)

Without a doubt, the canal in Otaru is the biggest tourist attraction in the area.

The canal was originally an important part of the city's port in the early 20th century, as it was used to send goods via boat from large freight ships to the warehouses in the area. After the docks in Otaru were rebuilt, the canal was no longer needed for this purpose, however, the city decided to keep this historically significant part of the city and restored the waterways in the 1980's into what you see today. The warehouses that line the canal have now been transformed into restaurants, stores and museums.

I was happy taking in the view from the water's edge and from the bridges that cross the canal, however, there are also sightseeing cruises that will take you on a cruise of the canal. This website has some more information about the sightseeing cruises including prices and departure times

Shopping along Sakaimachi dori shopping street

Sakaimachi dori shopping street is lined with restaurants and glass stores (Otaru is super famous for handmade glass products!) The glass stores offer lovely locally made pieces in a huge variety. I spotted lots of glass jewelry, vases, glasses, lamps - you name it, you'll find it in Otaru! Just remember it's a marathon and not a sprint, so don't buy up big at the first store you see. Take your time and wander the street until you find something that speaks to you.

While you pop into different shops on Sakaimachi dori, don't forget to take in the wonderful architecture. Some of the most famous buildings in Otaru have an information sign out the front of the store that outlines the history of the building. Be sure to keep an eye out.

Check out the historic Otaru Steam Clock

Toward the end of Sakaimachi dori, and just outside the Music Box Museum, you'll find the Otaru Steam Clock.

If you're wondering why this clock looks familiar to you having never stepped foot into Otaru, you may have seen one very similar in Gastown in Vancouver, Canada, which is home to the first steam clock ever built.

The clock in Otaru was installed on June 25, 2994, and is considered to be the world's second steam clock ever built.

The clock stands at 5.5 metres high and weighs a whopping 1.5 tonnes.

I'd never seen a steam clock until this day, and knew nothing about it until I researched it during my visit. If you visit, be sure to look carefully as you'll be able to see the steam coming out of the top of the clock occasionally.

Address in English: 4 Sumiyoshicho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0015

Name in Japanese: 小樽オルゴール堂蒸気からくり時計

Address in Japanese: 〒047-0015 北海道小樽市住吉町４

Appreciate the details at the Stained Glass Museum

The Stained Glass Museum is located in the former Takahashi Warehouse, built in 1923 and originally used to store soy beans.

It is said that in the late twentieth century many churches in Britain were being torn down due to redevelopment projects and a general decline in people's interest in religion. The former warehouse now houses stained glass windows from Britain that were removed during this period of redevelopment. The stained glass on display is believed to have been produced in the early 1900s and removed from churches in various parts of the country before being sent to Japan.

The stained glass is artificially backlit, so you can enjoy the colors and designs regardless of the weather. The museum allows you to get up close to the displays and really enjoy the detail and effort that went into producing these windows.

Although I was surprised to see this display in Japan, I'm happy that the stained glass windows got a second chance at life at the Stained Glass Museum.

Note: I saw some complaints online about the price of entry to this museum. There are actually many different types of tickets available, so please check the information carefully. The most expensive ticket will allow for entry to all four museums in the area - House of Western Art, Nitori Museum of Art, Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, and the Stained Glass Museum. Otherwise, tickets to individual museums are available for purchase at a cheaper price. Check out the site here for more information.

Address in English: 1 Chome-2-16 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031

Name in Japanese: 小樽芸術村 ステンドグラス美術館

Address in Japanese: 〒047-0031 北海道小樽市色内１丁目２−16

Eat the food of Otaru!

Let's take a look at some of the food I ate while in Otaru!

Otaru Ezoya

Otaru Ezoya is a casual Japanese restaurant well-known for its kaisen-don, which are rice bowls topped with fresh seafood. They have a huge variety of kaisen-don, so you're bound to find one that has the perfect mix of ingredients.

The kaisen-don I ordered on this day had a mix of scallop, squid and flying fish roe, plus a slice of Japanese omelet. I really enjoy eating flying fish roe, and much prefer it over the more famous salmon roe, or "ikura" in Japanese.

As you can see, Otaru Ezoya has a handy picture menu so you'll can see exactly what you're ordering!

Address in English: 2-22 Sakaimachi, 堺町 Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027

Name in Japanese: おたる蝦夷屋

Address in Japanese: 〒047-0027 北海道小樽市堺町２−22

Popura Farm "Santa's Beard" ice-cream and melon

Absolutely delicious! I was extremely glad that I found a Popura Farm store in Otaru. I ordered a quarter melon with a melon and vanilla soft-serve ice-cream mix. It was the perfect amount for one person, however the store also sells half melons with ice-cream if you want a bigger serving, or plan to share.

They call this ice-cream "Santa no hige" which translates to "Santa's beard".

Address in English: 一福 Japan, 1 Chome-1 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031

Address in Japanese: 一福 Japan, １丁目-１ 色内 小樽市 北海道 047-0031

Otaru Beer Warehouse

Why not try out some of the local brews while you're in Otaru?

The Otaru Beer Warehouse is situated along the famous canal. The inside is decked out in typical German beer hall fashion, complete with a German inspired food menu. The inside was a little dark and gloomy, and a little cramped, so I suggest sitting outside if the weather's nice on the day of your visit.

For those who don't have time to sit down and enjoy a brew, the Otaru Beer Warehouse has a small bottle shop at the entrance, so feel free to buy a couple of beers to take out. Otherwise, the convenience stores in Hokkaido often stock a beer or two from Otaru Beer.

Address in English: 〒047-0007 Hokkaido, Otaru, Minatomachi, 5−4 小樽運河倉庫群

Name in Japanese: 小樽ビール醸造所 小樽倉庫No.1

Address in Japanese: 〒047-0007 北海道小樽市港町５−4 小樽運河倉庫群

Other popular day trips from Sapporo

There are many other places to explore from Sapporo, although some will require a little more travel time. Read about some other popular day trips below.

Jozankei Onsen

Jozankei Onsen first opened in 1866, and is a popular spot for a day trip from Sapporo, and also as an overnight trip. Enjoy the beauty of Shikotsu-Toya National Park in all seasons while relaxing in the sodium chloride rich hot springs. Jozankei Onsen can be accessed by car or bus from Sapporo station in around one hour.

Furano flower fields

Furano is one of the best places in Hokkaido to enjoy fields of colorful flowers. The Furano flower fields can be visited in a day trip from Sapporo, but be prepared to spend around 3-4 hours travelling one way. It's a popular day trip from Sapporo but I'd recommend staying somewhere a little closer, like Asahikawa if you plan to spend some time at the flower fields.

Noboribetsu

A well-known place in Hokkaido for viewing bubbling hot springs and blow holes exploding with hot spring water. Popular attractions in the area include Noboribetsu Jigokudani and Oyunuma , Entering the water (or mud) at both of these places is forbidden, so be sure to read the signs. Best visited by car, otherwise be prepared to do a lot of walking.

There is also a hot spring town in the area where you can safely enter the water.

Mount Tarumae

Mount Tarumae is open to hikers from Spring to Autumn. It's best accessed by car, otherwise be sure to do your research on how to get to Mount Tarumae by public transport/taxi. Recommended for experienced hikers, as the surface can be slippery and uneven, and inhaling fumes from the active volcano can be fatal. Many websites highly recommend visiting or hiking Mount Tarumae with a guide .

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30 Comments

I'm so glad that Japan is open again and tourism is coming back! These are great day trip ideas!

Thanks for your comment :) It's great to see people travelling again!

The statues look very interesting to visit! I’d love to check out the art park with all of the sculptures too. Thanks for the great tips!

The Sapporo Art Park looks so peaceful and beautiful! All of the food looks amazing and fresh here too! Thank you so much for sharing all your insight! 😀

The Art Park is a must visit for people of all ages! I loved it!

I think the Sapporo Art Park looks like a great day trip!

These are excellent suggestions! Hill of the Buddha and the Moai statues look so interesting! Thank you for the travel tips.

Thanks for reading!

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Japan Travel & Culture Guide

12 Best Day Trips from Sapporo

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido , the northernmost region of Japan. The city appeals to all types of travelers. Unlike Tokyo , Sapporo is less crowded, yet you can see a traditional Japanese city life, where shopping malls, markets, festivals & events, restaurants, parks, and historic landmarks are there to make your trip enjoyable.

Hokkaido is packed with a lot amazing places and quite a lot of them can be taken as day trips from Sapporo!

Indeed Hokkaido always has something to offer you . Four seasons there bring a lot of beautiful vistas and events. So, whenever you think of escaping from the hustle and bustle of Sapporo city life, think of the places that we are going to highlight here.

Many of the best places to visit in Hokkaido are only a day trip away from Sapporo. For example, you can travel to Otaru, Jozankei, Shitotsu Toya National Park, Noboribetsu and so on.

On a single day trip from Sapporo you can easily visit central Hokkaido. Is not that exciting? Many of you might have thought if it is possible to visit Furano and Biei on a single day from Sapporo. Yes, it is possible and you will know how to do it in this post.

If you want a pleasant day trip from Sapporo, Otaru is definitely a perfect destination. It is easy to reach there from Sapporo station as it takes less than 35 minutes along the JR Hakodate Main Line . Note that multiple trains bound for Otaru per hour from JR Sapporo Station.

Otaru is a historic port city of Hokkaido with its iconic well preserved canal area and old stone warehouses and buildings.

The city is one of the best places to enjoy local cuisine of Hokkaido, especially the sea food, and it is a great place to discover on foot. Indeed it is great to walk in the streets of Otaru and experience the life of locals.

Otaru Canal is the symbol of Otaru city, makes a pleasant walk both during the day and night. Once the canal was used to transport large vessels of goods by small ships, now it is a place to enjoy a stroll.

In winter, the city experiences one of Hokkaido’s best winter festivals. At that time, the canal is visited by many travelers for its Otaru Snow Path Light Festival in each February.

You can see many illuminated snow sculptures and hundreds of lanterns floating in the freezing canal.

Souvenir shops here will delight you with their collections, especially the glassware shops like Kitiachi Glass Building No. 3 .

Take a stroll along the Sakaimachi Street to buy local delicacies and varieties of gifts from the shops.

Every attraction you will see here offers something to make your day trip memorable. Check out our best things to do in Otaru article and you will see what you can do and see in Otaru.

2. Jozankei

Jozankei is the largest hot spring (Onsen) town in Hokkaido . Part of Shikotsu Toya National Park, Jozankei Onsen is one of Hokkaido’s most famous autumn foliage destinations and it makes a perfect day trip from Sapporo.

The onsen town without question is a four season destination. So, visiting it in winter, spring and summer will also impress you. In fact, throughout the year most travellers come here to enjoy the hot springs that can relax your mind and body.

Visitors have to walk around the onsen towns to see the highlights it offers during the autumn leaf season.  The wonderful vistas of autumn foliage are praised by many, so you will not see any point not to fall in love with this hot spring town.

The best time to see autumn leaves in Jozankei is between mid-October and early November . The town is ablaze in colour, and it is a great time to explore the outdoors.

In the town, you will find many ryokan, hotels, restaurants, shops, and of course free foot baths. You can spend a night in one of the ryokan and hotels if you want. In fact, it is recommended to stay overnight if you plan on visiting the sites around Jozankei.

You may stay one night in this ryokan in Jozankei, offering traditional Japanese-style rooms and host spring baths.

For those wanting to experience a long walk, may consider visiting the Hoheikyo Dam and Jozankei Dam. The perfect time for hiking here is in autumn, though summertime will still be enough to make your hiking expedition unforgettable.

In winter, many people come to hit the slopes of Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort , which is not far from Jozankei. After spending a day skiing, relax your body soaking in the hot springs!

There is no train or subway line that connects Jonzakei with Sapporo. Therefore, you have to reach there by a bus.

You can go to Sapporo Station Bus Terminal and buy a bus ticket (Jotetsu Bus number 7 or 8, 75 minutes) bound for Jozankei. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Makomanai Subway Station.

Note that many hotels in Jozankei offer a shuttle bus service from JR Sapporo Station.

3. Noboribetsu

If you’re looking for your next day trip or weekend getaway from Sapporo, my recommendations about Noboribetsu will help you find what to do and see there.

The famous hot spring resort in Hokkaido is Noboribetsu Onsen . It should be on your bucket list if you are looking to experience some unique and popular hot spring resort towns in Japan.

Similar to Jozankei, this is also part of the vast Shikotsu Toya National Park. From Sapporo by limited express train it takes about an hour ride (one way). Some also prefer the Doo Expressway when they decide to come by car/taxi (about 90-100 minutes).

Japan’s best and most effective thermal waters are found here, about 11 kinds. These high sulfur and iron minerals are said to have positive health benefit for skin and body pain. Dai-ichi Takimotokan is the best among other ryokan hotel in Noboribetsu boasting various hot spring baths for its guests.

Enjoy the hot springs there and don’t forget to try the local dishes, especially Jigoku Ramen/Hell Ramen.

Jigokudani or Hell Valley, the main source of Noboribetsu’s hot spring waters, is one of the best highlights you will explore here.

Take a stroll along the wooden walkway and then you will see hot steam, sulfuric odor, rocks, waters, and surrounding trees. The area looks impressive during autumn with fall colors.

Another interesting attraction is Oyunama Pond , a sulfurous pond. The surrounding area of the pond is known for gorgeous fall foliage.

A short 5 minute walk from Hell Valley will take you to the Oyunuma River Natural Footbath . Spend your time enjoying the footbath and gaze at the forest that shines throughout the year.

If you happen to visit Noboribetsu on the last Saturday and Sunday of August, you can experience the Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri . This is a summer festival celebrated by locals in which you will witness iconic demon floats, taiko drum performance, fireworks, dances, and costume parade by participants wearing colorful dresses.

If you want to see marine creatures in Noboribetsu, be sure to visit Noboribetsu Marine Park NIXE , where dolphins, sea lions, penguins, goldfishes and other good collection of aquatic animals can be seen.

In addition, visit the Bear Park, Date Jidaimura, and Lake Kuttara , one of Japan’s clearest lake.

4. Shakotan Peninsula

Hokkaido offers countless mind-blowing views of scenic landmarks. Shakotan Peninsula is one of those beautiful places in Hokkaido where you can experience breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan.

Located about 100 kilometers from Sapporo, it is famous for its incredible coastline, and its crystal clear blue waters. The best time to visit the Shakotan Peninsula is in summer and autumn.

The Shakotan Peninsula is an easy day trip by car from Sapporo, Niseko, or Otaru. You can explore the area from Sapporo by day tour bus operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus . This is the most efficient way to reach the area and enjoy all the highlights.

Alternatively, enjoy a scenic road trip from Sapporo to Shakotan by a car!

Shakotan town is rich in fishing industry. Visitors coming to explore the area must try the seafood found here; especially sea urchin served in two popular restaurants in the area called Osyokujidokoro Misaki and Osyokujidokoro Naramuraya. You can also try donburi at Hamazushi , a popular sushi restaurant in Yobetsu area.

To be honest, along the coastline of Shakotan, you can see unique rock formations with the blue Sea of Japan. Candle rock for example is a unique rock. It is about 46 meters high standing on the sea like a big candle.

In the area, the Cape Kamui , Cape Ogon, and Shimamui Coast are considered the most scenic spots. The views you will experience while exploring these coastal sites will make your journey an epic adventure.

Among these places Cape Kamui is arguably the most popular attraction on the peninsula, with a panoramic view of the blue colored waters of the Sea of Japan. The cape offers a stunning trail for the visitors. You can take a walk along the trail and enjoy the surrounding scenic views from the cliff.

Cape Kamui is a great place to enjoy the sunset. Here, you will also be able to see Kamui Rock . One the other hand, the Shimamui Coast is one of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Beaches.

Adjacent to Bikuni Port, Cape Ogon provides impressive view of the sea, cliffs, an island, street, and the fishing port from its observatory.

In search of spectacular Hokkaido scenery, you must visit the Shakotan Peninsula. Your day trip from Sapporo to the peninsula will always be enjoyable.

In addition, you can enjoy fruit picking in any of the fruit orchards located in the town of Yoichi .

5. Asahidake Ropeway in Higashikawa

One of the best attractions that you can explore from Sapporo on a day trip is arguably Mt. Asahidake . This is the highest mountain of Hokkaido and an active volcano. It stands at a height of 2290 meters above sea level.

The mountain is located in the Daisetsuzan National Park , the largest national park in the Hokkaido region of Japan.

Summer is a good time to hit the trails here and autumn is even better! In autumn, you can see the earliest fall foliage in Japan on its ground. Is not that interesting?

Take the ropeway to get to the Sugatami Station and begin your hiking journey along the designated trails with various viewpoints.

This hiking course is about 1.7 kilometers long. Approximately 1 hour is needed to complete the course. Get a good pair of hiking shoes for a safe and comfortable walk. You can rent hiking shoes from the shop located at the lower station.

Whether you go there in spring, summer, autumn or winter, impressive alpine nature and landscapes will always appeal to you. In fact, a lot of alpine plants bloom during summer, making the place a wonderful site to behold.

For those wanting to reach the summit of the mountain and explore nearby trails should stay overnight in Higashikawa tow n.

Check out the weather before heading towards the ropeway station. On a sunny day, the view of the Mt. Asahidake is truly stunning.

If you want to stay close to the ropeway station for a hiking expedition, stay overnight here .

You can reach the ropeway by tour bus from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, lunch and cable car fare included!

6. Sounkyo in Kamikawa

Take a break for a day and head out of Sapporo to Sounkyo, a popular hot spring resort town with many hiking options, gorges, and a ropeway access to Mt. Kurodake .

Rising at 1,984 meters above sea level, Kurodake is another beautiful mountain in the Daisetsuzan National Park. You can reach the 5 th station by the ropeway and then take the chair lift to climb up to the 7 th station.

Enjoy the impressive vistas of fall foliage along the way up to the 7 th station on Kurodake in autumn. In Hokkaido, Sounkyo is one of the famous autumn leaves viewing spots. Therefore, if you happen to travel to Sapporo in mid-October, you must pay a visit to this onsen town.

Don’t leave the onsen town without visiting two beautiful waterfalls Ginga no Taki and Ryusei no Taki . They are located about three kilometers east of the town center. It is an easy drive by car.

Sounkyo hosts a winter festival from late January to late March known as Sounkyo Ice Water Festival . Snow and ice sculptures are the main highlights of the festival and they are all illuminated at night, making the atmosphere picture-perfect and lively.

Thinking of staying overnight here? Stay in this hotel , and then enjoy some other outdoor activities, such as cycling, skiing in winter, climbing Kurodake summit and other areas of the Diasetsu Mountain Range.

It is impossible to explore the above mentioned places within a day unless you visit Sounkyo by a sightseeing day tour bus or rental car. Click here to make a reservation in advance and pay online when your reservation is confirmed.

7. Furano and Nakafurano

Furano is a city; on the other hand, Nakafurano is a small town, both boast wonderful Japanese rural landscapes. They are located next to each other in Kamikawa subprefecture in central Hokkaido.

These two areas are famous for viewing various kinds of summer flowers including lavender. The lavender season is a magnificent sight and one of the best moments to visit.

Visitors usually explore most of the attractions here by car. So if you are with a group of traveler, then rent a car in Sapporo and drive to Furano using the expressway. One way ride will take about 2 hours.

Chuo bus also offers one day sightseeing bus tour from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal. This kind of one day bus tour will take you to a number of places only and it is impossible for them to cover most of the attractions in the area in an itinerary.

Upon arrival of summer, the tour bus company provides in details information on their website about their sightseeing bus tours. You have to choose the one that takes you to Farm Tomita .

Farm Tomita is located in Nakafurano area, where you will see different kinds of flower fields and gardens that bloom from spring to autumn. The lavender fields of Farm Tomita are the main attraction in summer. Best time to visit the farm for lavender is in mid-July.

Check out this link to see other popular flower farms in Furano.

Furano ski resort is visited by many tourists in winter. Without doubt Furano boasts a world class ski resort, perfect for skiing and enjoying incredible views of Daisetsuzan Mountain Range in the distance. Please note some of the mountains in Furano are best for backcountry skiing.

Skiing in Furano is less expensive than skiing in Niseko.

If you want to stay overnight here, prefer Furano Highland as it provides magnificent nature through four seasons. And we recommend a night stay in Furano if you want to hike, cycle, and do other outdoor activities.

8. Biei & Kamifurano

Biei is a small town located in the middle between Furano and Asahikawa. And the small town of Kamifurano is sandwiched by Nakafurano and Biei. These two towns together have got a lot of interesting attractions which you must explore in central Hokkaido.

Biei offers a wide range of adventurous ways to explore the area, a perfect destination for nature fanatics that love to take amazing landscape photograph.

From Shikisai no Oka and Shirogane Blue Pond to Shirahige Waterfalls , Biei has an abundance of things I like to visit. Many tourists visit Shikisai no Oka, a panoramic flower garden on a hill carpeted with seasonal flowers from April to October.

The blue pond in the area is another masterpiece of what the nature here can offer you. In winter, it looks even magical with snow covered the entire pond. Illumination takes place every evening during winter.

For magnificent panoramic views of the Mt. Tokachi range, visit Mt. Tokachi Observatory , only 35 minutes drive from Biei Station. This viewpoint is famous for viewing fall foliage and closest point for hiking to majestic Mt. Tokachi and Mt. Biei.

When it comes to Kamifurano, one interesting fact about the town is that Kamifurano is said to be the birthplace of lavender in Japan. To see lavender in the area you have to visit Hinode Park , 1.4 km from JR Kamifurano Station displays not only lavender but also other seasonal flowers in summer.

At the top of the hill, there is an observatory, which was build to enjoy the panoramic views of the flower garden, rural landscape and mountain range in the background.

One of the best highlights of Kamifurano is obviously the Roller Cosater Road. This 2.5-km-long straight road climbs and descends that passes by the beautiful hills, trees and paddy fields along the way.

There are many interesting places to discover in central Hokkaido. The last attraction that I am going to share here in this post is called Tokachidake Onsen , a popular place to see the earliest autumn foliage.

At an elevation of 1280 meters above sea level, the onsen has four hot spring ryokan. Among them Tokachidake onsen’s Ryounkaku offers hot spring baths for even non-staying guests.

Here, while enjoying the open-air bath you can experience spectacular view of the Tokachi-dake Mountains .

If you intend to make a daytrip out of Sapporo to Biei or Kamifurano, then renting car is the way to go.

There are many wonderful sceneries that can be fully enjoyed in Biei. If you are looking forward to explore some of the sites and not going that much far from Biei Station then a bicycle is recommended.

Alternatively, Chuo bus offers sightseeing one day bus tour from Sapporo. They will take you to the sites like the blue pond, Shikisai no oka, and asahidake ropeway.

9. Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa

Asahiyama zoo is one of the best zoological gardens in Japan that houses about 150 kinds of animals including arctic creatures, such as polar bears, penguins, seals, and wolves.

Located in Asahikawa city , Asahiyama zoo makes a great family destination. During the weekend, a great number of visitors come to see the animals with their little ones.

Being one of the must-see destinations in the city, Asahiyama focuses on “behavior display” as a result you can see the natural ecology and behavior of animals from a closer distance. For example, you can observe polar bears diving into a huge pool at the Polar Bear Pavilion and same goes for the Hippopotamus House.

The enclosures for the animals kept here are designed properly, so visitors can observe them from various angles. This kind of behavior display also lets you observe the animals eating their regular meals.

Moreover, you will observe native wildlife from Hokkaido, such as deer, cranes, eagles, foxes, tanuki, owls and etc.

The penguin walk at the zoo becomes a daily routine in winter when the ground is covered in snow. It happens twice a day, in the morning and afternoon. Cute penguin parade is a great sight you can enjoy standing by the walking route.

You can enjoy a fun & great day with your family at the zoo. How to reach the zoo? Click here to confirm your 1-day sightseeing bus tour to Asahiyama zoo from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal.

10. Historical Village of Hokkaido

You have come to Hokkaido to see its beautiful attractions, try the food, and participate in cultural activities, but have you thought of exploring what the life was in Hokkaido from the Meiji and Taisho Periods (1868 to 1926)?

That was the time when a large scale of development took place in Hokkaido. Today’s Hokkaido that you see was the contribution of that time, which is still flourishing in the region.

Opened in 1983, the Historical Village of Hokkaido was built to preserve important cultural properties for future generations. This open-air museum in Sapporo showcases 52 historical buildings that were relocated for restoration or were reconstructed that represent the history of Hokkaido from 1868 to 1926s.

The whole compound is divided into four sections, a Town, Fishing Village, Farm Village, and Mountain Village. Each building displays lifestyles, cultures and industries of the Meiji and Taisho Periods.

This historical landmark can be enjoyed year round, though the horse-drawn sled in the winter for a ride maybe one of the reasons you want to go there.

The Historic village of Hokkaido is located in the Nopporo Forest Park . It is easy to get there from Shin-Sapporo Station by local bus. So, take the No.22 bus to Kaitaku-no-mura, the last bus stop.

To get to Shin-Sapporo Station, you can either take the train from JR Sapporo Station or the subway on the Tozai subway line.

11. Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya

You can explore Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya on a day trip from Sapporo by a sightseeing bus tour . Both these beautiful caldera lakes are part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park .

It is important to note that the nature surrounding the lake provide habitat for many fauna and flora. The views they offer are impressive and you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings by a number of outdoor activities. And camping there is a common thing that visitors love to do.

If your itinerary allows you to explore some amazing lakes in Hokkaido for scenic views, be sure to explore these two on a single day trip. It is a very rewarding trip with full of surprises. These two lakes also are perfect places to enjoy the fall colors in autumn.

Lake Shikotsu is surrounded by beautiful mountains. In winter, Lake Shikotsu hosts of Hokakido’s best winter festival called the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival annually from late-January to mid-February, featuring sculptures both small and big. In the evening they are illuminated.

Lake Toya has some amazing observatories from where visitors can gaze at the lake and the mountains in the background. One of the observation decks is Silo Observatory . Enjoy a 180 degree panoramic view of the lake, Mt Usu and other mountains in the distance.

View of the lake while soaking your body in one of those open-air hot spring baths provided by the hotels nestled along the shore of Toyako onsen is truly relaxing and incredible experience. I highly recommend you stay overnight there to explore more highlights in the area.

Cycling around Lake Toya is a perfect way to enjoy the scenery. Ride a bike in spring there and you will see delicate cherry blossoms .

Take the Usuzan Ropeway and reach close to the summit of Mount Usu . At the upper station, two interesting sites to visit, Lake Toya Observation Deck and Usu Crater Basin Observation Deck.

12. Sapporo Teine Ski Resort

Hokkaido is a ski destination. It has a number of great ski resorts in the region. To hit the slopes, you don’t need to go far from Sapporo.

Sapporo Teine itself is a popular ski resort in Sapporo , so why don’t you visit the ski resort in winter? The city has some good ski resorts and Sapporo Teine is arguably the most popular.

Connected by lifts and trails, the ski resort comprises two zones, Olympia and Highland. Try both ski zones and spend a memorable day skiing on the slopes.

The ski resort provides excellent ski facilities ranging from ski rental shops to restaurants and café. You will also see changing rooms and coin lockers.

When you go there, expect to see spectacular winter views of Sapporo City , Ishikari Bay, Mashike Mountains, and Daisetsuzan from the summit of Mt. Teineyama .

It takes approximately 40 minutes drive from Sapporo city center. You can visit this page to see other alternative options to reach the ski resort from Sapporo downtown.

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Hello there, looking to plan your next Japan adventure? You’re in the right place! We’re your go-to source for all things travel-related, especially when it comes to exploring Hokkaido. We share Hokkaido travel tips and free itineraries to make your trip truly memorable. Read our guides and for further inquiries, feel free to contact us!

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Hot spring bath with great views of Mt. Fuji!!!!

From Sapporo: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Otaru Day Trip

Travelers looking to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Hokkaido need not look any further than the ‘From Sapporo: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Otaru Day Trip.’

This 11-hour adventure offers a comprehensive itinerary that showcases the region’s stunning landscapes and captivating attractions. Despite the long duration, participants can rest assured that the tour is designed for maximum enjoyment and comfort.

With the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and easy reservation and payment procedures, travelers can book with confidence.

From the bubbling sulfur river and volcanic crater of Oyunuma to the tranquil shores of Lake Toya and the charming streets of Otaru, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Hokkaido.

Quick Takeaways

• The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• It is possible to reserve now and pay later to keep travel plans flexible.
• The duration of the tour is 11 hours.
• The itinerary includes visiting foot onsens, volcanic craters, active volcanic activity, and scenic locations such as Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan volcano.

Activity Details and Booking Information

To book this day trip from Sapporo, travelers can easily reserve their spot and choose a convenient starting time. The availability options are flexible, allowing visitors to plan their trip according to their schedule. One of the key features of this activity is the free cancellation policy, which allows travelers to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives them the peace of mind to make changes to their travel plans if needed.

With a duration of 11 hours, this day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Otaru. It’s important to note that itineraries are subject to change, provided for reference only.

Highlights of the Tour

During this day trip from Sapporo, visitors can experience the ultimate relaxation of foot onsens along a sulfur river, witness active volcanic activity at Hell Valley in Noboribetsu, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Lake Toya.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to soak in foot onsens, which are hot spring baths specifically designed for the feet. Located along a sulfur river, these onsens provide a rejuvenating experience, as the warm water and minerals work their magic on tired feet.

Moving on to Noboribetsu, visitors can witness the power and beauty of nature at Hell Valley. This volcanic area is known for its boiling sulfuric hot springs and volcanic steam plumes, creating a truly mesmerizing sight.

Detailed Description of the Tour

The tour takes visitors on a journey through Hokkaido, exploring Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Oyunuma Pond, and Shikotsu Toya National Park.

Starting with a visit to Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, travelers will witness the fascinating volcanic wonders of boiling sulfuric hot springs and volcanic steam plumes.

Next, they’ll explore Oyunuma Pond, a volcanic crater with mesmerizing blue-green waters and steaming lake.

Afterward, there will be free time for lunch and sightseeing at Lake Toyako in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, where the tranquil surroundings provide a peaceful setting.

The tour will then continue to Showa Shinzan volcano, one of Japan’s youngest mountains, offering panoramic views at the Lake Touyako Observatory.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The inclusions of the tour comprise a driver and guide, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and entry to paid attractions.

Participants can expect the convenience of having a knowledgeable guide and a professional driver throughout the trip.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, especially during the summer months.

Plus, entry to paid attractions is included, allowing travelers to fully experience the highlights of the tour without any extra costs.

However, it’s important to note that food and drinks aren’t included in the package, so participants should plan accordingly.

As for payment options, the tour offers the flexibility of reserving now and paying later, allowing travelers to keep their plans adjustable.

On top of that, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind for those who may need to change their plans.

Important Information and Additional Details

Exploring the important information and additional details of the tour, travelers can expect a seamless experience with a knowledgeable guide and a professional driver throughout the trip.

The itinerary schedule may be adjusted based on weather and road conditions, ensuring the safety and convenience of participants.

It’s important to note that a minimum of 4 participants is required for the tour to run. In the event that the minimum participant requirement isn’t met, alternate travel dates or cancellation options are available.

Travelers are advised to check the official website for the specific schedule of the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, as it may vary.

Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexible travel plans.

With these important details in mind, participants can look forward to a memorable and hassle-free day trip to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Otaru.

How can travelers easily navigate their way to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Otaru from Sapporo?

There are several options for getting to these destinations from Sapporo. For those who prefer public transportation, there are trains and buses available.

From Sapporo, visitors can take a train to Noboribetsu Station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. From there, they can take a bus to Hell Valley and the other attractions in the area.

To get to Lake Toya, travelers can take a train to Toya Station, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, and then take a bus or taxi to the lake.

As for Otaru, visitors can take a train from Sapporo to Otaru Station, which takes around 30 minutes.

For those who prefer driving, there are also driving directions available. From Sapporo, travelers can take the Hokkaido Expressway and Route 230 to reach Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Otaru.

Itinerary Schedule

To plan the itinerary schedule for the day trip from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Otaru, travelers can consider the following attractions and activities:

• Start the day by visiting Hell Valley in Noboribetsu to witness the active volcanic activity and experience foot onsens along the sulfur river for ultimate relaxation.
• Explore the volcanic crater of Oyunuma Pond with its blue-green waters and steaming lake.
• Take in the tranquil surroundings of Lake Toya in Shikotsu-Toya National Park and enjoy free time for lunch and sightseeing.
• Witness the eruption of Showa Shinzan volcano and enjoy panoramic views at Lake Toya Observatory.
• End the day by exploring the charming port town of Otaru, visiting attractions such as the canal, glass arts, and the Otaru Music Box Museum.

When planning the itinerary, it’s important to consider weather conditions as some activities may be affected. Plus, a minimum group size of 4 participants is required for the tour to run smoothly.

Special Events and Festivals

During the day trip from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Otaru, travelers can also enjoy special events and festivals. One of the highlights is the Otaru Snow Light Path festival, which takes place in winter. This enchanting festival transforms the streets of Otaru into a magical wonderland, with thousands of snow lanterns illuminating the city. Visitors can stroll along the canal and admire the beautifully crafted ice sculptures, enjoy live performances, and indulge in delicious local food and drinks. The festival creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, evoking a sense of wonder and joy. It is just one example of the special events that Hokkaido has to offer throughout the year, showcasing the unique culture and traditions of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided from sapporo to the tour starting point.

Yes, transportation is provided from Sapporo to the tour starting point. Participants can enjoy a comfortable journey in an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver and guide, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

Tour age restrictions and participation requirements vary depending on the specific tour. It is important to check the official website or contact the tour provider for detailed information regarding age limits and any other requirements.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. This provides the option for a picnic during the free time for lunch and sightseeing at Lake Toyako in Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Restroom availability is provided during the tour for the convenience of participants. Restrooms are accessible at various stops throughout the itinerary, ensuring that visitors have easy access to facilities throughout the day.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Attractions Visited on the Tour?

There are no known photography restrictions at the attractions visited on the tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture the cultural significance and natural beauty of the locations.

To sum it up, the ‘From Sapporo: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Otaru Day Trip’ tour offers an unforgettable 11-hour exploration of Hokkaido’s natural wonders and cultural gems. Participants will be immersed in the breathtaking beauty of the region, from sulfur rivers and volcanic craters to tranquil lakes and charming port towns. This day trip provides flexibility and peace of mind for travelers seeking a memorable adventure in Japan’s northernmost island, with the option of free cancellation and the convenience of reserving now and paying later.

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Top 5 Summer Day Trips from Sapporo

Sapporo comes into its own in summer, but don’t limit yourself—Hokkaido offers mountains, lavender fields and plenty of traditional towns only a day trip away!

If you’re in the area for a few days, then you’re perfectly placed to see a little more of what Hokkaido has to offer. Japan’s northernmost island is famed for its stunning landscapes and hiking is a great way to make the most of it. Summer day trips from Sapporo include outdoor activities , world-famous flower fields and plenty of beaches to relax on too. While having a car is really helpful in Hokkaido, we’ve done our best to include options accessible by public transport too—just be sure to check bus times as they can be pretty infrequent.

1. Lucious lavender fields in Furano

One of the most popular sightseeing spots on the whole island, the lavender fields of Furano and Biei are known across Japan.

The most popular spot is Farm Tomita. The farm has its own train station called Lavender Stop, which is only open in summer. There are 10 gardens to stroll through with some themed treats including ice cream and cheesecakes available too. At the second farm Lavender East (4 km away), you can take tractor rides around the fields to enjoy views of lavender as well as the Tokashi and Yubari mountains in the background.

Pro tip : Join a bus tour from Sapporo that takes you to Hokkaido’s most popular flower fields.

From Sapporo Station : Catch the Limited Express Train on the Lilac/Hakodate Line to Takikawa. Transfer at Takikawa Station to the Nemuro Line to Furano. From Furano, take a local train to Lavender Farm Station. Journey costs a total of ¥ 4,870 and takes 2.5 hours.

From Sapporo Bus Station : Take the Chuo bus to Furano Station ( ¥ 2,500 one way, 2.5 hours). From Furano, hop on the Furano Line to Lavender Farm Station (12 minutes, ¥ 300 ).

2. Have a beach day

Being an island and all, Hokkaido has a good selection of beaches to choose from, and there are three great options within reasonable distance from Sapporo. While going to the beach on an island famed for its snow festival might not seem like a good idea, in the summer temperatures reach the mid-20s, which isn’t too shabby!

Shimamu Beach is on the Shakotan Peninsula and is known for its crystal-blue waters and striking rock formations. Close to Cape Kamui, you can spend the day exploring and seeing some pretty incredible views.

For a completely different vibe head to Otaru Dream Beach—favored by the younger crowd, there are bars, parties and plenty of seaside shenanigans to enjoy.

The third option is Ranshima Beach which is a in small cove, with golden sand and clear-blue seas as far as the eye can see. It’s popular, but not as crowded as Otaru Dream Beach, so you have the best of both worlds.

There is a bus, but only one per day, with roughly an hour between arrival and departure from the beach, so driving is the only real option , which takes two hours.

Otaru Dream Beach

From Sapporo Station : Head to Zenibako or Hoshimi Station on the JR Hakodate Line. The journey takes 25 minutes and costs ¥ 440 !

Ranshima Beach

From Sapporo Station : Catch the JR Hakodate or Airport Line to Otaru. There, change to the Hakodate Line for Kutchan to Ranshima Station. It takes 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs ¥ 1,130 each way.

3. Go hiking: Hokkaido’s best hobby

Known for its stunning scenery, Hokkaido is the perfect place to get some fresh air and altitude with a whole host of hikes. Only available from spring to September, the mountain trails here are really popular thanks to the incredible views, so even if you’re not a natural hiker, you might want to borrow some boots while you’re here. We’ve focused on the two options which don’t require a car, but have some extra ideas if you’re driving too!

Mount Moiwa

Mount Moiwa overlooks Sapporo and is technically still in the city, so it may be more of an afternoon trip. The summit offers beautiful views, especially at night.

There is a ropeway or you can hike with the locals, it’s a pleasant route through primeval forests which is steep to start but not too challenging, with an observation deck at the top.

From Susukino Station : Catch the Sapporo Shiden to Ropeway Iriguchi (27 minuites, ¥ 330 for the ropeway.

To hike, start at Asahigaoka Park (from the car park, about 1.5 hours to the top). Or start at Jikei Hospital (trail between hospital and shrine, 1 hour to the top).

Mount Tarumae

Mount Tarumae is a little farther out, but offers incredible views of Lake Shikotsu and is an active volcano. If you start from the 7th station, it is a relatively short (1 hour) but challenging hike with rocky terrain—meaning proper shoes are required. Once you reach the top you can circle the summit and enjoy views of the lake and nearby mountains including Higashi-dake. The lava dome is unique to see, but don’t leave the trail path as its gasses are poisonous .

You can catch a bus to Lake Shikotsu and then take a taxi to the trailhead at the 7th station for around ¥ 2,700 each way (or just drive if you have a car). Note that there are only a few buses a day to Lake Shikotsu.

If you do have a car, there are plenty of amazing hikes to be had, including Poroshiri for the serious hikers and Mount Tokashi for the serious views (over 2000 m high!). Check out our Hokkaido hiking guide for some more ideas.

4. Shikotsu Toya National Park

This place has it all: stunning views, onsen, hiking and forests galore, and all within reaching distance of the capital city. Named after two lakes and divided into five distinct areas, there is plenty to see and you could easily spend a weekend (or a week) exploring it all.

Noboribetsu and Jozankei are popular onsen towns, but in summer we recommend Lake Toya and Toyako Onsen town . Lake Toya is a beautiful area with plenty of onsen and ryokan, nightly fireworks from May to October and an easy hike up Mount Usu. If you have time, catch the boat to Nakajima Island and meet the famous Hokkaido deer as you explore the island.

From Sapporo to Toyako Onsen : Catch the Special Express ( ¥ 6,360 , under two hours) or the local trains ( ¥ 3,630 , over 6 hours) to Toya Station. Then catch a local bus to Toyako Onsen ( ¥ 340 ).

Alternatively, you can take a Donan bus from Sapporo to Toyako Onsen for ¥ 2,880 (just under 5 hours). Seats must be reserved in advance.

Pro tip : If you are planning on staying in an ryokan overnight, many offer shuttle services from Sapporo, which can be cheaper than trains and buses!

Popular in winter , but a great spot in summer too, Otaru has some relaxed Venice vibes going on thanks to its picturesque canal ways. Originally an important hub and trading port, this small harbor city has plenty of warehouses and impressive trading buildings now converted into cafes and galleries galore.

You can visit the Nikka whiskey distillery in Yoichi, stroll along the canals, and explore Sakaimachi Street with its glass souvenirs and it’s old-time feel. There is a museum dedicated to the history of Otaru and a ropeway to the top of Mount Tengu for spectacular views of the area. Pro tip : Join [affiliate id="rakuten" text="this tour of Otaru" link=""] that includes visits to the area's historical attractions, a canalside rickshaw ride, and a glass bead workshop. -->

Catch the Rapid Airport train for Otaru from Sapporo Station. It takes 30 minutes and costs ¥ 750 one way. (The Ishikari Liner and Hakodate lines cost the same but take an extra 10 and 20 minutes respectively).

Bonus: Get the chills at Abashiri Prison

If Hokkaido’s temperatures still aren’t low enough for you, there’s one last place you can try to chill you to your bones. In a desolate fishing village on the northern coast, Japan’s version of Alcatraz was built by prison laborers—and soon became infamous. Considered impossible to escape from, the original single-hall building was expanded upon until it burned down in the 1900s, but was replaced by a modern, more Western-style prison soon after.

Forced to do hard labor throughout the year, it is no wonder so many tried to escape. However, due to the harsh wilderness, no one was ever successful. They did end up growing some incredible vegetables though, so you know…silver linings and all.

Today there are displays complete with tattooed mannequins, and you can even eat a prisoner’s lunch in the canteen!

Unfortunately, its prison-perfect desolation means it’s pretty far for a day trip from Sapporo, but if you have time to kill or love bus journeys, then nowhere will chill you to your soul like Abashiri. You can catch a highway bus for Abashiri during the day or overnight, which takes 7 hours and costs about ¥ 6,800 each way.

If you have the JR Pass you can travel for free on the JR Okhotsk Limited Express!

The information in this post, though we do our best to ensure it is correct, is subject to change. This post was originally published in August 2018. Last updated by the editorial team on June 9, 2020.

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Tokyo Itineraries | How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Tokyo?

Crafting the perfect Tokyo itinerary is a delightful challenge, given the city's rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. These Tokyo itineraries for 1-4 days can cater to a wide array of interests, from history buffs to food enthusiasts, ensuring a fulfilling Tokyo journey for every traveler.

A well-planned one-day Tokyo itinerary typically includes visits to iconic landmarks such as Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, the bustling streets of Shibuya crossing, and the tranquil Meiji Shrine. For a taste of traditional Japan , a two-day Tokyo itinerary to Hakone or Mount Fuji offers a serene retreat from the urban bustle. To view the famous cherry blossom , a 3-day Tokyo itinerary can offer a wonderful Sakura spectacle during cherry blossom season. To fully experience Tokyo's charm, a 4-day Tokyo itinerary is enough to discover hidden gems, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's cultural scene.

By strategically planning activities, transportation, and dining options, you can optimize your time and make the most of your stay in Tokyo. Whether it's savoring traditional cuisine, shopping in vibrant districts, or simply soaking in the city's unique ambiance, Tokyo itineraries offer a glimpse into the dynamic essence of this captivating metropolis.

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How to Spend 1 Day in Tokyo for First Time?

Tokyo , as one of the most bustling metropolises globally, boasts numerous attractions. For first-time visitors , attempting to explore multiple sights in just one day might feel rushed. However, thanks to Tokyo's excellent public transportation system, especially its extensive subway network, it's entirely possible to experience the city's charm with careful planning.

If you're looking for a more in-depth experience and want to avoid the hassle of navigating the city, joining a guided tour is a great option . A professional guide can lead you to iconic landmarks and provide insightful commentary, offering a deeper understanding of Tokyo's culture and history. Additionally, for those unfamiliar with Tokyo's subway system, having a guide can make your trip more seamless and stress-free.

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Best Tokyo One Day Itinerary

Begin your day at the serene Meiji Shrine , nestled in a forested area near Harajuku. As you pass through the towering torii gate, a sense of tranquility envelops you, setting the tone for a day of exploration. Next, venture to the iconic Shibuya Crossing , where the pulse of Tokyo beats strongest. Stand at the bustling intersection as waves of pedestrians crisscross in a synchronized chaos, creating a mesmerizing urban symphony.

In the afternoon, make your way to Asakusa to visit the historic Senso-ji Temple , Tokyo's oldest temple and a beacon of spiritual significance. Wander through the lively Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to the temple, filled with traditional snacks, souvenirs, and the aroma of incense. From there, dive into the electric atmosphere of Akihabara , Tokyo's mecca for anime, electronics, and pop culture. Explore the colorful streets lined with manga shops, arcades, and themed cafes, where the modern and the fantastical converge in a unique blend of innovation and tradition.

Conclude your day at Tsukiji Market , a bustling hub of culinary delights. Navigate through the aisles teeming with the freshest seafood and local produce, indulging your senses with the sights and smells of this gastronomic paradise.

Night Experience Options

While your guided tour may conclude for the day, Tokyo's vibrant nightlife is just beginning. Having navigated the city's subway system with your guide, you’re now well-equipped to explore the city’s dazzling after-dark scene independently.

• Roppongi : Visit Roppongi for its nightlife scene, with a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to both locals and tourists.
• Shinjuku : Explore Shinjuku, a bustling district known for its neon lights, entertainment options, and vibrant nightlife.
• Ginza : Experience the upscale district of Ginza, home to luxury boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and elegant nightspots.
• Tokyo Skytree : Head to Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest structures in the world.
• Tokyo Tower : Alternatively, visit the iconic Tokyo Tower for stunning night views of Tokyo and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around the tower.

This itinerary offers a blend of cultural exploration, shopping, and nightlife experiences, allowing you to make the most of your day in Tokyo . Enjoy your time in this dynamic and fascinating city!

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How to Spend 2 Days in Tokyo? (for First Timers)

In two days, you can cover Tokyo's essential attractions, delve into its historical sites, immerse yourself in its diverse culture, and explore its lively shopping districts. Consider a day trip to Mount Fuji or a visit to Disneyland for a delightful experience with family.

Option 1: Nature and Culture in Tokyo

• Day 1: Start your day at Asakusa Temple , a historic Buddhist temple, and then dive into the world of anime and manga in Akihabara . Afterward, visit the Imperial Palace and explore the beautiful East Garden . Conclude your day with a trip to Odaiba , a futuristic waterfront area with stunning city views.
• Day 2: Begin at Meiji Shrine , a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Then, head to the iconic Shibuya Crossing . Finally, ascend the Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Although Tokyo's attractions are spread out, the city's well-connected subway system makes it easy to visit these iconic landmarks. With the Imperial Palace as the center, you'll find Asakusa Temple and Ueno Park to the northeast, Akihabara to the east, Ginza to the southeast, Tokyo Tower to the south, Shibuya to the west, and Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku to the northwest. This itinerary offers a splendid balance of traditional charm and modern vibrancy in Tokyo , showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural experiences against a backdrop of futuristic marvels and iconic landmarks. For more ideas on what to do in Tokyo , check out things to do in Tokyo.

Option 2: Mount Fuji Adventure

• Day 1: Explore the traditional Senso-ji Temple and the electric Akihabara district. In the afternoon, visit the serene Meiji Shrine and the bustling Shibuya Crossing .
• Day 2: Embark on a day trip to Mount Fuji . Visit the 5th Station and Kawaguchiko for stunning views and explore the nearby Hakone area, known for its Lake Ashi and Owakudani. Then return to Tokyo .

Mount Fuji is only 100 kilometers away from Tokyo, making it easily accessible for a day trip. Lake Kawaguchiko and Hakone are two popular spots to view Mount Fuji . If you have extra time in Tokyo , consider spending a day visiting these areas to experience the charm of Japan's iconic landmark. The best time to visit Mount Fuji is during the spring and autumn. If you plan to climb this 3,776-meter-high active volcano, July and August are the recommended months.

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Option 3: Family Fun

• Day 1: Immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of Asakusa and the vibrant culture of Akihabara . Visit the serene Meiji Shrine and experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing .
• Day 2: Spend the entire day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea , creating magical memories with your loved ones.

Both adults and children find it hard to resist the charm of Disneyland. Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney park to be built outside of the United States, and it's renowned for its exceptional service, amazing experiences, and high guest satisfaction rates. The unique DisneySea park adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to any Tokyo Disney Resort visit. It is advisable to avoid visiting Disneyland during the summer as the hot and humid weather can reduce the overall experience.

How to Spend 3 Days in Tokyo? Best for Cherry Blossom View

If you have three days to explore Tokyo , we recommend spending two days exploring the city, visiting iconic landmarks, experiencing Japan's unique culture, and savoring exquisite Japanese cuisine. Then, dedicate one day to a sightseeing trip to Mount Fuji , where you can witness the magnificent beauty of this iconic Japanese peak up close. This three-day itinerary is also perfect for exploring Tokyo during the cherry blossom season.

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Day 1: Traditional Tokyo and Cherry Blossoms

Embark on a journey through Tokyo's cultural tapestry. Begin at Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple, then venture to the green oasis of Ueno Park. Dive into Akihabara's tech and anime scene before a serene stroll around Chidorigafuchi near the Imperial Palace.

• Asakusa Temple and Sensō-ji: Start your day at Asakusa Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest temples, and wander through the vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street. Don't miss the chance to see the beautiful cherry blossoms around the temple.
• Ueno Park: Explore Ueno Park, a vast green space with numerous museums, a zoo, and a stunning cherry blossom tunnel.
• Imperial Palace East Garden: Take a leisurely stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden and enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful cherry blossoms .
• Chidorigafuchi Moat: Witness a breathtaking display of cherry blossoms along the Chidorigafuchi Moat, a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo . Rent a boat and enjoy the blossoms from the water.

Day 2: Modern Tokyo and Nature

Start your day at Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park, then turn to Shibuya Crossing to experience the bustling area. Head to Meiji Shrine to visit traditional Tokyo shrine with grand torii. Visit the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for the various cherry blossoms.

• Tokyo Tower: Ascend the iconic Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the city, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
• Shibuya Crossing: Experience the thrill of the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and admire the city skyline.
• Meiji Shrine: Immerse yourself in nature at Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine surrounded by a beautiful forest and cherry blossom trees.
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Relax in the serene atmosphere of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo's largest and most beautiful parks, famous for its variety of cherry blossom trees.

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Day 3: Mount Fuji and Hakone Cherry Blossom Day Trip

Depart from Tokyo in the morning and head to Lake Kawaguchiko. Enjoy the cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji view at Oishi Park and Tenjozan Park. In the afternoon, travel to Hakone and cruise a pirate ship on Lake Ashi. Ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani and experience the volcanic landscape. Return to Tokyo in the evening.

Mount Fuji (Lake Kawaguchiko):

• Oishi Park: Enjoy the breathtaking view of Mount Fuji with a carpet of pink moss phlox at Oishi Park. In spring, the combination of cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji creates a stunning landscape.
• Tenjozan Park: Take a cable car up to Tenjozan Park for panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji. This is also a fantastic spot for cherry blossom viewing, where you can admire the mountain and the blossoms at the same time.
• Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise: Take a unique pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi and enjoy the scenic views of the lake and Mount Fuji .
• Owakudani: Ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, a volcanic valley with stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area. You can also enjoy black eggs boiled in the volcanic hot springs.

The peak cherry blossom season in Tokyo usually falls between late March and early April, but the exact timing can vary depending on the weather. Check the latest cherry blossom forecast before your trip to plan your itinerary accordingly.

This itinerary is designed to provide a memorable cherry blossom experience in Tokyo . You can customize it based on your interests and preferences.

How to Spend 4 Days in Tokyo?

Spending 4 days in Tokyo allows you to explore a mix of traditional and modern attractions, diverse neighborhoods, and unique experiences. Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time in the bustling metropolis:

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Morning : Start your day at Asakusa to visit Senso-ji Temple and stroll through Nakamise Shopping Street.

Afternoon : Dive into the vibrant tech hub of Akihabara for electronics, anime goods, and themed cafes. Head to Ueno Park to explore museums like the Tokyo National Museum and enjoy a leisurely walk around the park.

Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Morning: Start your day at Meiji Jingu. Explore the trendy district of Shibuya and witness the famous Shibuya Crossing .

Afternoon : Visit Harajuku for unique fashion boutiques and Takeshita Street . Discover the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku and consider a visit to Golden Gai for a taste of Tokyo's nightlife.

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Day 3: Day Trips and Nature

Morning : Take a day trip to Kawaguchiko to explore the stunning Mount Fuji and the natural beauty of the area.

Afternoon :Head to Hakone to experience Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise. Ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, a volcanic valley with stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area. You can also enjoy black eggs boiled in the volcanic hot springs.

Day 4: Culinary Delights and Shopping

Morning : Start your day at the Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood breakfast. Indulge in a food tour in neighborhoods like Ginza or Shinjuku to sample local cuisine.

Afternoon : Explore Odaiba for entertainment and shopping options.

This itinerary offers a blend of Tokyo's must-see attractions, cultural experiences, culinary delights, and opportunities for relaxation. Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and pace to create a personalized and memorable 4-day trip in Tokyo .

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