Sapporo, Japan 7 Day Itinerary

Sapporo 7-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Sapporo, the largest city on the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan! This itinerary will guide you through a week-long adventure in this snowy paradise.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at New Chitose Airport and take the JR Rapid Airport train to Sapporo Station (approx. 35 minutes, ¥1,070)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower (), a historic landmark and symbol of the city
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant Susukino area, known for its neon lights, restaurants, and bars
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Monterey Sapporo or similar
  • Food: Try some delicious seafood at Sapporo Central Wholesale Market ()
    • Must-try: Fresh crab, scallops, and salmon sashimi

Day 2: Winter Wonderland

  • Morning: Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival (, held annually in February) or Maruyama Zoo () for a winter animal encounter
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll through the beautiful Odori Park (), which divides the city into north and south parts
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing soak at Sapporo Teine Onsen (), a natural hot spring
  • Food: Warm up with a bowl of hearty Tonkotsu Ramen at Ramen Kyoway
    • Tip: Try the special Hokkaido-style ramen, featuring corn and butter

Day 3: Nature Escapes

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Otaru (), a charming port city known for its canal, warehouses, and seafood (approx. 30 minutes by train)
    • Visit the Sakaimach Street, lined with shops and restaurants
  • Afternoon: Return to Sapporo and explore the scenic Shikotsu-Toya National Park ()
    • Take a leisurely hike or ride the Shikotsu-Toya National Park Railway
  • Food: Savor fresh seafood at Kaisen Ichiba, Otaru’s largest market
    • Must-try: Fresh sushi and grilled squid

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the Hokkaido University (), a prestigious institution with beautiful campus grounds
  • Afternoon: Explore the Sapporo Art Museum (), featuring local and international art exhibitions
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Japanese music and dance at Sapporo Kokusai Koryu Center
  • Food: Try some authentic Hokkaido-style BBQ at Yakiniku Jumbo Han no Daidokoro
    • Must-try: Grilled lamb and pork belly

Day 5: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Biei (), a picturesque town in the Hokkaido countryside (approx. 1 hour by car)
    • Visit the Blue Pond (), a serene natural attraction
  • Afternoon: Return to Sapporo and explore the Sapporo Satoland (), an amusement park with outdoor activities
    • Enjoy horseback riding, archery, or a scenic chairlift ride
  • Food: Savor local specialties at Biei Farm Restaurant
    • Must-try: Corn soup and fresh farm produce

Day 6: Shopping and Entertainment

  • Morning: Visit the Sapporo Factory (), a shopping mall with restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops
  • Afternoon: Explore the Daimaru Sapporo (), one of Japan’s largest department stores
  • Evening: Catch a show or concert at Sapporo Cultural Arts Theater hitaru
  • Food: Enjoy some delicious Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) at Han no Daidokoro Bettei
    • Must-try: Grilled wagyu beef and pork tongue

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any missed attractions
  • Afternoon: Return to New Chitose Airport by train (approx. 35 minutes, ¥1,070) for your departure flight

Things to Know

  • Sapporo is a snowy city; pack warm clothing and waterproof gear.
  • Many restaurants and shops may not have English menus or signs; consider bringing a phrasebook or using a translation app.
  • The city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains. Consider purchasing a prepaid IC card (e.g., SUICA, ICOCA) for convenient travel.

Transportation

  • New Chitose Airport: Accessible by train (JR Rapid Airport), bus, or taxi
  • Sapporo Station: The main hub for JR trains, with connections to Otaru and other Hokkaido cities

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Consider purchasing a Sapporo-Odori Pass, which grants access to several attractions and public transportation.
  • Visit the Sapporo Information Center () at Sapporo Station for helpful advice and maps.
  • Don’t miss the stunning Sunset views from Odori Park or the Sapporo Clock Tower!

Enjoy your time in Sapporo, and happy travels!