Sapporo, Japan-day-trips

Best Day Trips from Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo, the largest city on the northern island of Hokkaido, is a great base for exploring the surrounding region. From its stunning natural scenery to historic sites and cultural attractions, there’s no shortage of exciting day trip options in and around Sapporo.

1. Otaru: A Historic Canal City

  • Distance from Sapporo: 30 km (19 miles), 45 minutes by car or train
  • Must-see attractions:
    • Otaru Sakurazaka ( Cherry Blossom Street)
    • Otaru Canal
    • Shopping streets like Chuo-dori and Kokin-dori

Otaru is a charming town famous for its well-preserved historic architecture, beautiful canal, and lively shopping streets. Enjoy the city’s relaxed atmosphere, try some local seafood, and visit during cherry blossom season for breathtaking views.

2. Asahikawa: A Cultural Hub

  • Distance from Sapporo: 95 km (59 miles), 1 hour by car or train
  • Must-see attractions:
    • Asahikawa Ramen Village (try Hokkaido’s famous noodle soup)
    • Asahikawa City Museum of Art
    • Maruyama Zoo

Asahikawa is a city known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and delicious food. Visit the Asahikawa Ramen Village to taste some of Japan’s best noodles, explore the city’s art scene at the Asahikawa City Museum of Art, or spend a day at the Maruyama Zoo with over 200 species of animals.

3. Lake Toya: A Scenic Lake

  • Distance from Sapporo: 120 km (75 miles), 1 hour and 30 minutes by car or train
  • Must-see attractions:
    • Shikotsu-Toya National Park
    • Lake Toya cruise
    • Onsen (hot springs) at Yunokawa

Lake Toya is a serene and picturesque lake nestled in the heart of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Take a leisurely cruise on the lake, explore the surrounding national park, or relax at one of the many hot spring resorts like Yunokawa.

4. Furano: A Winter Sports Paradise

  • Distance from Sapporo: 200 km (124 miles), 2 hours and 30 minutes by car or train
  • Must-see attractions:
    • Furano Ski Resort
    • Farm Tomita lavender fields
    • Biei hills

Furano is a winter sports enthusiast’s dream destination, with world-class ski resorts and beautiful scenery. Visit during the summer for picturesque farm landscapes like Farm Tomita’s stunning lavender fields or explore the natural beauty of the surrounding Biei hills.

These day trips from Sapporo offer a glimpse into Hokkaido’s diverse culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique attractions. Each destination has its own charm, making them perfect for a fun-filled adventure in northern Japan!