The Top 10 Things to See and Do in Sapporo

Visit the Sapporo Beer factory and beer museum, where patrons can learn more about the history of beer in Japan and how it is brewed. At the end of the guided tour, guests are treated to a 30-minute drinking session where they are allowed to drink all the beer they want.

〒065-8633 Hokkaido Prefecture, Sapporo, Higashi Ward, 北7条東9丁目1-1

The contrast between this lush, green park and the modern metropolis that surrounds it is what makes Odori Avenue Park worth the visit; located in the Sapporo’s downtown, visitors can start their trip with a relaxing day in the park while still being in walking distance to the city’s museums, shopping centers and nightlife areas.

〒060-0042 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Ōdōrinishi, 7丁目

This “art park” was created by renowned Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi, and features several sculptures and art pieces in various locations around the park. The available activities vary by season. In the summer there is a miniature beach inside the park and in the winter guests are able to rent cross-country ski equipment to traverse the park.

1-1 Moerenumakōen, Higashi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 007-0011

Specializing in Hokkaido seafood and produce, this public market holds nearly 80 restaurants, shops and food stalls. The market is frequented by locals as well as tourists, so travelers have a chance to eat some of the best seafood in the country without having to pay tourist prices. Be sure to try donburi, a simple yet delicious helping of seafood served over a bowl of rice.

060-0011 Hokkaido Prefecture, Sapporo, 中央区北11条西21-2-3 第八卸売市場 2F

Jozankei Onsen features overs 50 natural hot springs as well as several spa hotels and resorts, nestled deep in the valley and surrounded by a gorgeous view of the mountains. If you came to Japan for hot springs, this is a must-visit.

2 Chome 定山渓温泉, Minami-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 061-2302

Travelers with a sweet tooth, rejoice. Shiroi Koibito (literally “white lover”) is a famous cookie that originated in Sapporo. This theme park was built by the company responsible for the original Shiroi Koibito cookie, and offers workshops where guests get a chance to make their own cookies. There is also a restaurant and a chocolate shop for those of you who want some extra goodies to take home.

〒060-0061 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Nishi-ku, 宮の沢2−2−11−36

This rustic village was built to satisfy the history buff in your travel group. The village consists of 52 historical structures meant to function as living time capsules. Visitors can experience the “frontier days” of Japan, beginning with the Meiji period (1868 – 1912) and continuing through the Showa period ending in 1989.

〒004-0006 Hokkaido Prefecture, Sapporo, Atsubetsu Ward, 厚別町小野幌50−1

This is the Kabukicho of Sapporo, a red-light district famous for wild nightlife, adult entertainment and bars that stay open ‘til sunup. While not for everyone, single travelers and party people will certainly be in for an interesting night. Do not bring your mom here.

4 Chome Minami 4 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 064-0804

Sure, you can find these all over Japan (and the world) nowadays but why not try it in the region known for having the freshest fish in Japan? The most famous spot for this dish is Taiyo Izaka Tetchan, where the staff will even fry up your leftover sashimi if you’re finding it difficult to stomach that much raw fish.

Hands down the most exciting event in Sapporo, this celebration of snow and ice runs for one week every year and pulls in over two million tourists from across the globe. The festival features hundreds of snow and ice sculptures, skiing and snowboarding events, athletic competitions, a beauty contest (where the winner is awarded the title of “Ice Queen”), and countless other activities for both young and old. If you are visiting Japan in winter, this is definitely worth planning your trip around.