Sapporo, Japan-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Susukino

  • Morning: Arrive at New Chitose Airport (CTS) and take the train or bus to Sapporo Station. Check-in to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Head to Susukino, a vibrant entertainment district known for its nightlife, shopping, and dining options.
    • Visit: Susukino Underground Shopping Mall, a unique shopping experience with various stores and restaurants.
    • Try: Local street food at one of the many stalls or restaurants in the area. Recommendations include:
      • Genghis Khan Ramen ( try their famous miso-based ramen)
      • Sapporo Beer Garden (for a cold beer and some Japanese snacks)
  • Evening: Explore the various shops, bars, and clubs in Susukino. Don’t forget to take a stroll around the nearby Clock Tower, a symbol of Sapporo.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Hotel Keihan Sapporo: A 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Sapporo Station.
    • Hotel MYSTAYS Sapporo Susukino: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a great location in the heart of Susukino.
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t forget to try some local sake or Japanese whiskey at one of the many bars in Susukino!
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines during peak season (June-August).
    • Some shops and restaurants may have limited English support, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases.

Day 2: Sapporo Beer Museum and Odori Park

  • Morning: Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, which showcases the history of beer brewing in Japan. Take a tour and sample some local brews.
    • Address: Kita 5-4-21, Higashi-Ku, Sapporo
    • Opening Hours: 11am-6pm (closed on Tuesdays)
  • Afternoon: Stroll through Odori Park, a beautiful green space that runs along the eastern edge of Sapporo. Enjoy the scenery and stop by the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, which offers fresh seafood and local produce.
    • Visit: Sapporo Clock Tower (a must-see landmark!)
  • Where to Eat:
    • Restaurant Ganko Itchan (try their delicious Tonkatsu)
    • Cafe Bar Tsubaki (for some Japanese-style coffee and pastries)
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t miss the beautiful Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, located near Odori Park!
    • The Sapporo Beer Museum offers a souvenir shop with unique beer-related items.
    • Take a stroll along the nearby Makomanai Stream for some peaceful scenery.

Day 3: Hokkaido University and the nearby area

  • Morning: Visit Hokkaido University, one of Japan’s most prestigious universities. Explore the beautiful campus grounds and take in the stunning views from the top floor of the student union building.
    • Address: Kita 12-4, Nishi-Ku, Sapporo
    • Opening Hours: Varying hours for different facilities (check website)
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby Nakajima Park, a beautiful green space with walking trails and scenic views. Visit the nearby Nakajima Sports Center, which offers various sports facilities.
    • Visit: The Sapporo Art Museum (located near Hokkaido University)
  • Where to Eat:
    • Restaurant Tsurugamine (try their delicious pasta dishes)
    • Cafe Kino (for some Japanese-style coffee and snacks)
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t miss the nearby Nakajima Stream, which offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
    • Hokkaido University has a unique campus architecture that’s worth exploring.

Day 4: Sapporo Snow Festival (if traveling during winter) or Otaru Canal

  • Morning: Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri), one of Japan’s most famous winter events. Enjoy the intricate ice sculptures, snow slides, and live music performances.
    • Address: Odori Park, Sapporo
    • Dates: Late February to early March (check dates)
  • Afternoon: If traveling during warmer months, head to Otaru Canal, a picturesque canal with beautiful scenery and historic buildings. Take a stroll along the canal’s walking path and enjoy the local seafood restaurants.
    • Address: Chuo-Ku, Otaru
    • Opening Hours: Varying hours for different facilities (check website)
  • Where to Eat:
    • Restaurant Kani Hoken (try their delicious crab dishes)
    • Cafe Otaru Canal (for some Japanese-style coffee and snacks)
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t miss the nearby Sakaiminato Pier, which offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
    • If traveling during winter, be prepared for crowds and long lines at the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Day 5: Sapporo Clock Tower and Susukino Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Take a stroll around the nearby shopping district.
    • Address: Kita 3-7-14, Higashi-Ku, Sapporo
    • Opening Hours: 9am-5pm (closed on Tuesdays)
  • Afternoon: Head back to Susukino for some last-minute shopping or dining. Don’t forget to try some local street food or visit one of the many bars in the area.
    • Visit: The Sapporo Beer Garden (for a cold beer and some Japanese snacks)
  • Where to Stay:
    • Hotel Keihan Sapporo: A 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Sapporo Station.
    • Hotel MYSTAYS Sapporo Susukino: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a great location in the heart of Susukino.
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t forget to try some local sake or Japanese whiskey at one of the many bars in Susukino!
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines during peak season (June-August).
    • Some shops and restaurants may have limited English support, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases.

Transportation:

  • Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) is the main airport serving Sapporo. Take the train or bus from the airport to Sapporo Station.
  • Train: JR Hokkaido offers various trains and routes connecting Sapporo to other cities in Hokkaido.
  • Bus: Several bus companies offer routes and services within Sapporo and surrounding areas.

Tips:

  • Weather: Sapporo experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. Be prepared for crowds and long lines during peak season (June-August).
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Japanese phrases to help navigate.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Japanese yen.

Other:

  • Safety: Sapporo is considered a safe city for tourists. Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Health: If you have any medical conditions, be sure to inform your hotel or tour operator in advance.
  • Culture: Japan has a unique culture with many customs and traditions. Be respectful of local norms and practices.

Note: The itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can adjust it according to your preferences and interests.