Sapporo 2 weeks

Sapporo's main international airport, serving as the gateway to Hokkaido. It offers numerous shops, restaurants, and amenities for travelers.

• Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if planning extensive train travel across Japan.
• Look for the information counter to pick up local maps and tourist brochures.

A major transportation hub and the heart of Sapporo's downtown. It connects to various train lines, including the JR Hokkaido lines, and houses department stores and restaurants.

• The station has many dining options for a quick lunch.
• Look for the tourist information center for assistance.

A beautiful oasis in the city center, stretching 1.5 kilometers. It's known for its flower beds, fountains, and seasonal events like the Snow Festival and Lilac Festival.

• Great spot for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.
• Check for any ongoing events or seasonal displays.

Sapporo's vibrant entertainment and nightlife district, famous for its neon lights, numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a must-visit for experiencing the city's evening atmosphere.

• Try some local specialties like Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) or Miso Ramen.
• Be aware of touts; it's best to choose restaurants that look appealing on your own.

Experience Hokkaido's most famous beer at its birthplace. The garden offers a unique dining experience with traditional Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) in a historic red-brick building.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
• Try the all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan option for a hearty meal.

Learn about the history of Sapporo Beer and the brewing process. The museum offers free admission and includes a tasting salon (for a fee).

• The tasting salon offers a chance to sample different Sapporo beers.
• The museum is located next to the Sapporo Beer Garden.

Explore exhibits on Hokkaido's natural history, indigenous Ainu culture, and the university's scientific research. The campus itself is also a beautiful place to walk.

• The museum is housed in the former Faculty of Agriculture building.
• Enjoy a walk through the picturesque campus grounds.

A food theme park located on the 10th floor of the ESTA building (connected to Sapporo Station). It features several acclaimed ramen shops from across Hokkaido, offering a variety of regional ramen styles.

• Try a bowl from a different region of Hokkaido, such as Asahikawa or Hakodate style.
• It can get crowded, especially during peak hours.

A popular hot spring resort town nestled in a valley, about an hour from Sapporo. It's known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and hiking trails.

• Consider a day trip to experience the onsen without staying overnight.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area.

Features the iconic 'Kappa Daio' (Kappa King) statue and offers scenic views of the Toyohira River and surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for photos and a short walk.

A large dam offering impressive views, especially during autumn when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant colors. There's a small park and a restaurant near the dam.

• Accessible by a shuttle bus from Jozankei Onsen.
• The scenery is particularly stunning in autumn.

Enjoy a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner at one of the ryokans in Jozankei Onsen, featuring seasonal and local ingredients.

• Many ryokans offer day-use onsen packages that include lunch or dinner.
• Book in advance, especially for popular ryokans.

A picturesque canal lined with historic stone warehouses, once used for storing goods. It's now a popular spot for leisurely walks and photography.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Consider a short canal cruise for a different perspective.

Otaru's main tourist street, famous for its glasswork shops, music box museums, and confectioneries. It's a lively street with a nostalgic atmosphere.

• Sample local sweets like LeTAO's cheesecake.
• Look for unique souvenirs like hand-blown glass or music boxes.

A popular dining spot located by the Otaru Canal, offering a wide array of fresh seafood dishes. It's a great place to try kaisendon (seafood rice bowls).

• Try the 'kaisendon' (seafood bowl) for a taste of local delicacies.
• Enjoy the canal views while you dine.

A large shopping complex with a variety of stores, including fashion, lifestyle goods, and restaurants. It offers a modern contrast to the historic canal area.

• Good place for dinner if you want more variety than just seafood.
• Check for any entertainment or events happening at the complex.

An expansive outdoor sculpture garden and art museum complex. It features works by both Japanese and international artists set against a natural landscape.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover.
• Rent a bicycle to explore the park more easily.

Enjoy a light meal or coffee at the cafe within the Sapporo Art Park, offering views of the surrounding nature and sculptures.

Located near Sapporo Art Park, this museum showcases the natural history and culture of Hokkaido, from its geological formation to the Ainu people and modern development.

• The museum is adjacent to Nopporo Shinrin Koen (Forest Park), offering more nature exploration.
• Exhibits are well-presented and informative.

Explore the charming Maruyama area, known for its residential feel and a good selection of restaurants and cafes, offering a more relaxed dining experience.

• Look for cozy bistros or international cuisine options.
• This area is less touristy than Susukino.

Maruyama Park is a large urban park perfect for a stroll, especially during cherry blossom season. Adjacent is the serene Hokkaido Shrine, dedicated to the gods of Hokkaido.

• Visit the Hokkaido Shrine for a peaceful cultural experience.
• The park is beautiful in spring with cherry blossoms.

Located near Mt. Moiwa, this museum commemorates the 1972 Winter Olympics held in Sapporo. It features exhibits on winter sports and Olympic history.

• Learn about the history of winter sports in Japan.
• It's located within the Sapporo Winter Sports Museum complex.

Offers one of Sapporo's most spectacular panoramic views, especially at night. Access is via a ropeway and a mini-cable car.

• Go just before sunset to see the city transition from day to night.
• The summit has a restaurant and a small observatory.

Dine at the restaurant on Mt. Moiwa's summit while enjoying the breathtaking night view of Sapporo.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for window seats.
• The view is considered one of Japan's best night views.

A beautiful caldera lake known for its stunning natural scenery, hot springs, and views of the active volcano Mt. Usu. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities.

• Take the ropeway up to the observation deck for panoramic views.
• Consider a boat cruise on the lake.

Ascend Mt. Usu via the ropeway for breathtaking views of Lake Toya, the Pacific Ocean, and the volcanic landscape. Observation decks offer excellent photo opportunities.

• Wear layers as it can be windy at the top.
• The hiking trails around the crater offer a closer look at the volcanic activity.

Stroll along the lake's promenade, enjoy the fresh air, and admire the scenery. You can also find various souvenir shops and cafes.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering Hokkaido specialties, such as fresh seafood or Jingisukan (grilled lamb).

• Look for restaurants serving 'wakasagi' (pond smelt), a local delicacy.
• Many hotels also have good dining options.

A charming theme park dedicated to the famous 'Shiroi Koibito' white chocolate cookies. It features a factory tour, beautiful gardens, and themed attractions.

• Take the factory tour to see how the cookies are made.
• The park is especially lovely during flower seasons.

Explore Sapporo's extensive underground shopping network, connecting major stations and department stores. Find a wide variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

• A great place to shop regardless of the weather.
• Offers a wide range of goods from fashion to souvenirs.

A covered shopping street with over 200 shops selling everything from souvenirs and clothing to electronics and local snacks. It's a vibrant and bustling atmosphere.

• Look for unique Hokkaido products and local crafts.
• Many restaurants and cafes are also located here.

Located within the ESTA building (connected to Sapporo Station), this floor offers a diverse selection of restaurants, including many popular ramen and seafood options.

• Excellent choice for variety and convenience after a day of shopping.
• Try different regional Hokkaido cuisines.

Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake formed by the Jozankei Dam. The surrounding mountains offer a tranquil setting for a leisurely walk.

• The area is particularly beautiful during autumn.
• Look for the small park area near the dam.

A network of hiking trails offering various levels of difficulty, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Jozankei valley.

• Check trail conditions before you go, especially outside of summer.
• Bring water and snacks.

Relax your tired feet after hiking at one of the public foot baths available in Jozankei Onsen. It's a simple yet rejuvenating experience.

• Bring a small towel.
• It's a great way to unwind and soak in the atmosphere.

Dine at a local eatery in Jozankei Onsen, perhaps trying a hot pot dish or other regional specialties.

• Many restaurants offer set menus for dinner.
• Enjoy the peaceful evening ambiance of the onsen town.

Sapporo's central fish market, bustling with vendors selling fresh seafood, local produce, and dried goods. It's a great place to experience the local food culture.

• Try a fresh seafood breakfast, such as kaisendon.
• Sample some of the local fruits and vegetables.

While the inner wholesale market is for traders, the outer market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies available for purchase and dining.

• This is another excellent spot for a seafood lunch.
• You can find unique Hokkaido products here.

Located at the eastern end of Odori Park, the tower offers panoramic views of Sapporo city and the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for photos, especially of Odori Park.

• The observation deck provides a different perspective of the city.
• Visit during the day for clear views, or at night for city lights.

A narrow alleyway in Susukino packed with small ramen shops, each offering its own unique take on Sapporo's famous Miso Ramen. It's a quintessential Sapporo food experience.

• Try a bowl of classic Sapporo Miso Ramen.
• The atmosphere is lively and authentic.

A dramatic volcanic hot spring valley with boiling ponds, steaming vents, and sulfurous fumes. The landscape is otherworldly and a must-see for its unique geothermal activity.

• Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven.
• The smell of sulfur is strong, which is part of the experience.

A hot spring pond located further up from Hell Valley. You can see steam rising from the surface and often smell the sulfur. A walking trail encircles the pond.

• The walking trail around the pond offers different viewpoints.
• You can sometimes see foot baths heated by the natural hot springs.

Home to over 100 Hokkaido brown bears, this park offers a chance to observe them in a semi-natural environment. You can also purchase food to feed them from an observation deck.

• The park is accessed via a cable car which offers nice views.
• Learn about the bears and conservation efforts.

The heart of Noboribetsu's hot spring resorts. It's filled with hotels, ryokans, restaurants, and souvenir shops, offering a lively atmosphere.

• Many hotels offer day-use onsen facilities.
• Try local dishes like 'Jigokudani Ramen'.

A striking architectural gem designed by Hiroshi Hara, known for its excellent acoustics and beautiful glass facade. It's surrounded by lush greenery in Nakajima Park.

• Admire the building's unique design from the outside.
• Check the schedule for any performances if interested.

A large and beautiful park featuring a pond, gardens, a historic former Hokkaido government office building (Hasso-an teahouse), and the Sapporo Clock Tower.

• Enjoy a peaceful walk or a boat ride on the pond.
• Visit the Hasso-an teahouse for a traditional Japanese tea experience.

An interactive science museum suitable for all ages, featuring exhibits on space, technology, and the natural world. It's located in the Shin-Sapporo area.

• Great option for families or those interested in science.
• Features a planetarium show.

The Shin-Sapporo area, particularly around the station and the Sunpiazza complex, offers a variety of dining options from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.

• Convenient dining after visiting the Science Center.
• Look for izakayas for a variety of small dishes and drinks.

Showcases a collection of modern and contemporary art, with a focus on artists from Hokkaido and the broader Japanese art scene. The building itself is also architecturally interesting.

• Check for any special exhibitions that might be on.
• The museum is located in the Hoheikan building, a historic structure.

A historic symbol of Sapporo, this iconic clock tower was built in 1878. It served as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College and now houses exhibits on its history.

• It's a popular photo spot, often crowded.
• The interior offers a glimpse into Sapporo's early history.

If you enjoyed the Sapporo Beer Garden or missed it, this is a great opportunity to experience its unique atmosphere and taste the local beer with Genghis Khan.

• Consider trying different types of Sapporo beer.
• The historic building adds to the dining experience.

Enjoy a casual evening at a local izakaya (Japanese pub), sampling various small dishes and local drinks like sake or shochu. It's a great way to mingle with locals.

• Order a variety of small plates to share.
• Look for izakayas in areas like Susukino or near Sapporo Station.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or local delicacies at shops near Sapporo Station or at the airport.

Final departure point for your onward journey.

Depart from Sapporo.