✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Sapporo.
A winter wonderland nestled amidst the mountains, Sapporo is a pearl of northern Japan that sparkles with vibrant nightlife, mouthwatering cuisine, and picturesque landscapes – a true haven for adventure seekers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Sapporo:
1. Odori Park
A large park in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined walkway that stretches for 1.5km, or grab a bite to eat from one of the food vendors at the park.
During winter, the park transforms into the Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s largest winter events featuring snow sculptures, illumination displays, and more.
Don’t miss: The iconic Sapporo TV Tower located at the eastern end of the park. Visitors can take an elevator to the observatory deck for panoramic views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the summer months to catch the annual Yosakoi Soran Festival, a lively event featuring traditional Japanese dance and music performances.
Also, be sure to bring warm clothing if visiting during winter as temperatures can drop significantly.
2. Sapporo TV Tower
Iconic observation tower located in central Sapporo, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 90-meter-high tower. The tower also houses souvenir shops, restaurants, and a small museum dedicated to its history.
Don’t miss: Catching the tower lit up at night, which provides a unique and beautiful view of Sapporo.
Insider travel tips: Buy your tickets in advance to skip the lines, especially during peak tourist season. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking views of the city.
The tower also makes for a perfect spot to catch the sunset and take in the beauty of the city’s skyline.
3. Sapporo Beer Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and brewing process of Sapporo beer, located in the city of Sapporo on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Tour the historic brewery building and learn about the ingredients and brewing process that make Sapporo beer unique. Sample a variety of beers in the tasting room and shop for souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The rooftop beer garden, where you can enjoy an ice-cold Sapporo beer while taking in views of the city skyline.
Insider travel tips: – Take the guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of Sapporo beer’s history and brewing process.
4. Shiroi Koibito Park
A chocolate theme park located in Sapporo, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a factory tour to see how Shiroi Koibito cookies are made, visit the chocolate sculpture museum, enjoy the park’s beautiful gardens, and indulge in delicious sweets at the chocolate cafe.
Don’t miss: Trying the chocolate-covered Shiroi Koibito cookies and taking home some sweet souvenirs from the gift shop.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds and purchase tickets in advance for the factory tour.
Additionally, if you visit during the winter months, don’t pass up the opportunity to participate in the park’s special winter activities, including ice skating and snow tubing.
5. Sapporo Clock Tower
A historic clock tower located in the heart of Sapporo, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful Western-style architecture of the clock tower and learn about its history at the on-site museum.
Don’t miss: The clock tower chimes every hour, so make sure to time your visit accordingly to hear it ring.
Insider travel tips: The clock tower is located near many other popular tourist destinations in Sapporo, such as Odori Park and the Sapporo TV Tower.
It’s also conveniently located near a subway station, making it easy to get to.
6. Hokkaido Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Maruyama Park, Sapporo, dedicated to three deities worshiped by the indigenous Ainu people.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the serene grounds, explore the wooden buildings, and admire the impressive torii gate at the entrance.
Visitors can also participate in traditional Shinto rituals, such as buying and offering omikuji (fortunes), washing hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification fountain), and clapping hands and bowing respectfully at the haiden (worship hall).
Don’t miss: The annual Sapporo Festival and the Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February. The Hokkaido Shrine is also a great spot for cherry blossom viewing in late April and early May.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on unpaved paths and stairs.
Take a break at the nearby Maruyama Zoo or sip a warm cup of coffee at the park’s cafe.
7. Sapporo JR Tower Observatory T38
Sapporo JR Tower Observatory T38 is a panoramic observation deck situated atop the JR Tower building in downtown Sapporo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Sapporo JR Tower Observatory T38 can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the city from a height of 160 meters.
On clear days, you can see as far as the Sea of Japan and the Ishikari Mountains. The observation deck also features a cafe and a souvenir shop.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit in the evening when the city lights up, and you can see the Sapporo TV Tower and Odori Park in all their illuminated glory.
Don’t forget to take the glass elevator to the top!
Insider travel tips: – Arrive close to sunset to see the changing colors of the sky and enjoy the night view of Sapporo.
8. Asahiyama Memorial Park
A beautiful park in Sapporo dedicated to the famous Hokkaido writer, Tatsuo Kitamura.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park and admire the beauty of the ponds, trees and flowers. Visit the Tatsuo Kitamura Memorial Museum to learn about his life and works.
Don’t miss the Asahiyama Zoo located nearby, which is known for its unique and fascinating exhibits of polar bears, penguins and other Arctic animals.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the Cherry Blossom festival in May for a stunning display of pink petals. Bring a picnic and relax in the park’s tranquil surroundings.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Asahiyama Zoo for an unforgettable day out.
9. Ishiya Chocolate Factory
A chocolate factory and cafe in Sapporo, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a factory tour to see the chocolate making process, sample some of their delicious chocolate treats, and browse their gift shop.
You can also relax and enjoy a chocolate-themed dessert or beverage at the on-site cafe.
Don’t miss: Trying their famous Shiroi Koibito cookies, which are two buttery biscuits filled with white chocolate cream. They are a must-try for any chocolate lover visiting Sapporo.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to snag a spot on the factory tour, as they can fill up quickly. The factory can also get crowded on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
If you’re short on time, skip the tour and just visit the cafe and gift shop for a tasty treat.
10. Moerenuma Park
A unique park located in the outskirts of Sapporo designed by the renowned Japanese-American artist, Isamu Noguchi.
What to see or do: Visit the Glass Pyramid, which serves as the park’s main entrance and houses a gallery and observation deck. Enjoy the greenery and trees which are planted in a way that showcases the elegance of their shapes and forms.
Check out the oversized sculptures, fountains, and playgrounds.
Don’t miss: The man-made beach, which boasts sand imported from Australia, and the snow-topped pyramid during the winter season. The park’s scenery changes with the seasons, so be sure to visit during different times of the year.
Insider travel tips: Rent a bike at the park’s entrance to explore the vast park quickly and efficiently. Bring a picnic as there are plenty of designated areas for outdoor dining.
Visit during sunset to watch the pyramid turn into a beautiful orange and catch a glimpse of Mount Moere in the distance.
11. Sapporo Winter Sports Museum
The Sapporo Winter Sports Museum is a fascinating museum that showcases the history and evolution of winter sports in Sapporo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore exhibits that cover topics such as the city’s role in hosting the 1972 Winter Olympics, the development of skiing and other winter sports in the region, and the innovations and technology behind winter sports equipment.
In addition to exhibits, visitors can also enjoy interactive displays and simulators that let them experience the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to see the actual ski-jumping hill used during the 1972 Olympics, complete with a towering ski jump that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re planning to visit during the winter months, be sure to bundle up – temperatures in Sapporo can be quite cold.
12. Sapporo Factory
Sapporo Factory is a multi-purpose complex in the heart of Sapporo, Japan. It features a shopping mall, restaurants, cinema, and historical brewery.
What to see or do: Shop at the over 160 stores in the mall selling fashion, beauty, electronics, and souvenirs.
Catch the latest movies at the multiplex cinema or dine at one of the many restaurants serving Japanese and international cuisine.
Take a tour of the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn about the origins and production of one of Japan’s most popular beers.
Don’t miss: The East Plaza, an outdoor area that hosts various events and activities throughout the year. The Christmas Market in winter and the Beer Garden in summer are especially popular.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
If you’re a beer enthusiast, don’t forget to try Sapporo Classic, a rich and flavorful beer only available at the Sapporo Beer Garden.
Plan enough time to explore the brewery and take the guided tour, where you’ll get a taste of freshly brewed beer.
13. Nijo Market
Nijo Market is a bustling fish market in Sapporo, Japan, known for its fresh seafood and local specialties.
What to see or do: Explore the market stalls and sample fresh seafood like crab, salmon, and sea urchin. Watch skilled vendors prepare dishes right in front of you and check out the selection of Hokkaido souvenirs and sweets.
Don’t miss: Trying the market’s signature dish, uni ikura donburi, which is a bowl of rice topped with sea urchin and salmon roe.
It’s a local favorite and considered a must-try.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning for the freshest catch of the day. Don’t forget to bring cash, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the weekdays rather than the weekends or holidays.
14. Susukino
Susukino is a red-light district in Sapporo, known for its lively nightlife, array of bars and clubs, and abundance of restaurants.
What to see or do: – Visit Ramen Yokocho, a narrow alleyway filled with ramen shops.
Don’t miss: – The Sapporo Underground Pedestrian Space, a network of shopping and dining areas that can be accessed from Susukino.
Insider travel tips: – Try the “soup curry” dish that Susukino is famous for, a flavorful and spicy culinary creation unique to Sapporo.