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Day trips from Sapporo

Real trips under ~3h each way, with distances, transport times, and insider tips for timing them right.

Photo by Deric Yu on Unsplash

Day trips from Sapporo

5 reachable trips under ~3h each way. Most doable between breakfast and a late dinner back in Sapporo.

Otaru

33 km
30 min by JR train

A charming port city renowned for its beautifully preserved Meiji-era canal and historic warehouses, now repurposed into shops, cafes, and museums. Otaru offers a romantic atmosphere and a taste of Hokkaido's early development.

Highlights
  • Otaru Canal
  • Sakaimachi Street (glassware, music boxes, sweets)
  • Former Otaru Branch of the Bank of Japan
  • Sushi Street
couplesfoodiesshoppersfull-day

Jozankei Onsen

25 km
1 hour by Chuo Bus

Nestled in a scenic valley, Jozankei is Sapporo's premier hot spring resort town, famous for its natural beauty and therapeutic onsen baths. It's an ideal escape for relaxation amidst lush forests and dramatic rock formations.

Highlights
  • Kappa Daio statue
  • Jozankei Futami Tsuribashi (suspension bridge)
  • Hoheikyo Dam
  • Various onsen ryokan for day-use baths
relaxationnature loverscoupleshalf-day

Noboribetsu

130 km
1 hour 30 min by JR train (to Noboribetsu Station) + 15 min bus

Famous for its dramatic volcanic landscape, Noboribetsu is home to Jigokudani (Hell Valley), a steaming, sulfurous crater. The town offers a variety of hot springs with different mineral compositions, providing a unique onsen experience.

Highlights
  • Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
  • Oyunuma Pond (sulfur pond)
  • Noboribetsu Bear Park
  • Various onsen hotels
nature enthusiastsadventure seekersfull-dayphotography

Lake Shikotsu

40 km
1 hour by bus (from Chitose Station, accessible by JR train from Sapporo)

One of Japan's clearest freshwater lakes, Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake surrounded by mountains. Its pristine waters offer stunning views year-round, with activities like boat tours and kayaking available.

Highlights
  • Crystal clear lake views
  • Boat tours on Lake Shikotsu
  • Shikotsu-Toya National Park hiking trails
  • Chitose Tsuruga Resort's spa (nearby)
nature loversfamiliesoutdoor activitiesfull-day

Chitose (New Chitose Airport Area)

45 km
40 min by JR train

While primarily an airport hub, the area around New Chitose Airport offers surprisingly diverse attractions. It's a convenient option for a relaxed day with family-friendly entertainment and unique local products.

Highlights
  • Doraemon Wakuwaku Sky Park
  • Royce' Chocolate World
  • New Chitose Airport Observation Deck
  • Local seafood and ramen restaurants within the airport
familieshalf-dayfoodieslast-minute souvenir shopping