Sapporo Sampler: A Fun-Filled Day Trip

Experience the winter wonderland and delicious cuisine of Sapporo, Japan.

22 April 2023

Sapporo, the capital of Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, is a charming destination for tourists. A winter wonderland, Sapporo is synonymous with the Sapporo Snow Festival, which is held in February highlighting snow and ice sculptures. The city is also known for its delicious seafood, beer and ramen, and its scenic natural landscapes.

Day trip plan

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Day

Sapporo Sampler

  • Start with the freshest sushi at Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, a hidden gem for foodies.
  • Admire the beautiful blooms at Nakajima Park, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Explore the history of Hokkaido at the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, with impressive contemporary art collections.
  • Grab a bowl of ramen at Ebisoba Ichigen, a popular noodle chain known for its flavorful broth and creamy egg topping.
  • Stroll through Odori Park, the famous and picturesque green belt of Sapporo, with various outdoor art installations dotted throughout.
  • Refuel with a cup of rich and creamy soft-serve ice cream from the iconic dairy farm, Hokkaido Milk Farm.
  • Sapporo may be the fifth-largest city in Japan, but it's still filled with charm and beauty that makes it a delightful place to explore. Whether you're a foodie, art lover, or nature enthusiast, there's something unique and exciting in this cultural hub of Hokkaido. Get ready for a day of delicious bites, urban greenspaces, and striking exhibitions.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Sapporo by plane is to fly into New Chitose Airport, which is located approximately 45 minutes outside of the city center. There are direct flights to New Chitose from many major cities in Japan, as well as from other countries in Asia. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a train or bus into the city.

Car

If you plan on driving to Sapporo, the most common route is to take the Hokkaido Expressway from Tokyo. The journey can take up to 17 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. You can also take the ferry from Aomori to Hakodate and drive from there.

Train

There are several train options for getting to Sapporo, but the most popular is the JR Hokkaido Limited Express from Tokyo to Sapporo. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and includes a transfer in Hakodate. Alternatively, you can take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto station and transfer to a local train to Sapporo. This option takes approximately 5 hours.

Boat

The ferry is a popular option for getting to Hokkaido from other parts of Japan. The most popular ferry route is from Aomori to Hakodate, which takes approximately 3 hours. From there, you can drive or take a train to Sapporo. Another option is to take the ferry from Niigata to Otaru or Tomakomai, which takes approximately 19 hours.

Bus

There are several bus options for getting to Sapporo from Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities in Japan. The journey can take up to 24 hours depending on your departure point and the bus company you choose. The most popular bus companies for traveling to Sapporo are Willer Express and Hokkaido Access Network. Both offer comfortable seats and amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and power outlets.

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