Sapporo, Japan-6-day-itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo
Morning
- Arrive at New Chitose Airport
- Take the JR Rapid Airport Express train to Sapporo Station (approx. 36 minutes)
- Check-in at Hotel Keihan Sapporo or similar
Afternoon
- Visit Odori Park (free admission), a large park in the heart of the city that runs through the center of Sapporo
- Explore the surrounding area, including the Sapporo Clock Tower, a historic landmark and former telegraph office
Evening
- Dinner at Kanpai!, a local izakaya serving traditional Japanese pub food (approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per person)
- Try some Sapporo Beer, the city’s famous brew, at one of the many beer halls or restaurants throughout the city
Day 2: Sapporo City
Morning
- Visit the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market (free admission), a bustling market selling fresh seafood and produce
- Try some fresh sushi or sashimi at Sushi no Midori, a local restaurant (approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per person)
Afternoon
- Visit Mt. Teine (free admission), a mountain with great views of the city and surrounding area
- Take the ropeway to the summit for panoramic views (approx. ¥800 one way)
Evening
- Dinner at Sapporo Beer Museum Restaurant, a restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine in a unique setting (approx. ¥3,000-4,000 per person)
- Enjoy a drink or snack at the Sapporo Clock Tower area, which is lively and fun at night
Day 3: Hokkaido Museum & Maruyama Zoo
Morning
- Visit the Hokkaido Museum (approx. ¥500 admission), a museum showcasing the history and culture of Hokkaido
- Explore the surrounding area, which includes a beautiful park and gardens
Afternoon
- Visit Maruyama Zoo (free admission for children under 12 years old), one of Japan’s oldest zoos, featuring many species of animals from around the world
- Try some delicious ice cream at the zoo’s cafe
Evening
- Dinner at T’s Restaurant, a local restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist (approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per person)
- Enjoy a drink or snack at one of the many bars or cafes in the Susukino area
Day 4: Otaru
Morning
- Take the JR train to Otaru (approx. 30 minutes), a charming coastal town known for its historic architecture and scenic harbor
- Visit Cannal Gaien, a beautiful canal lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes
Afternoon
- Explore the surrounding area, including the Former Bank of Japan Building (free admission) and the Otaru Museum (approx. ¥200 admission)
- Try some fresh seafood at Sushi no Tetsu, a local restaurant (approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per person)
Evening
- Dinner at Hokkaido Ichiba Sapporo Otaru Store, a restaurant serving traditional Hokkaido cuisine in a unique setting (approx. ¥2,500-3,500 per person)
- Enjoy the night views of the harbor and surrounding area
Day 5: Noboribetsu
Morning
- Take the JR train to Noboribetsu (approx. 1 hour), a hot spring resort town known for its natural hot springs and scenic beauty
- Visit Jigokudani, a park featuring beautiful hot springs and a stunning waterfall
Afternoon
- Visit Kikko Shrine, a Shinto shrine famous for its unique architecture and beautiful garden
- Try some delicious hot spring cuisine at Onsen Kissa Sora, a local restaurant (approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per person)
Evening
- Dinner at Noboribetsu Onsen Restaurant Shunsai, a restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine in a unique setting (approx. ¥2,500-3,500 per person)
- Enjoy the night views of the surrounding area and relax with a hot spring bath
Day 6: Departure from Sapporo
Morning
- Check-out of hotel and take the JR train back to New Chitose Airport (approx. 36 minutes)
- Depart from New Chitose Airport for your next destination
Other Tips & Recommendations
- Transportation: Use public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get around Sapporo and its surrounding areas.
- Weather: Hokkaido has a relatively cold climate, so be prepared with warm clothing (January-February) or light clothing (June-August).
- Food: Try some local specialties, such as fresh seafood, sushi, or hot spring cuisine.
- Money: Use cash or credit cards for most transactions. Some places may not accept foreign currencies.
- Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Japanese phrases.
Note: Prices and availability are subject to change, so please check with local businesses before visiting.