Sapporo, Japan
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. It is famous for its winter sports, beer, and annual Snow Festival which attracts millions of visitors from around the world. The city also boasts delicious cuisine and a vibrant nightlife.
Trip to Sapporo, Japan
Day 1: Arrival and check-in
Welcome to Sapporo, Japan! After arriving at the airport and going through customs, you can take a taxi or public transportation to your hotel. Check-in and rest for a bit after your long flight. Then, head to the Susukino area, where you can experience some of Sapporo’s nightlife. Susukino is famous for its izakayas (Japanese bars), karaoke bars, and nightclubs - perfect for a night out on the town.
Day 2: Sapporo City walking tour
Start your day with a walking tour of Sapporo city. Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, which is a symbol of Sapporo and a popular tourist attraction. Afterwards, head to the nearby Odori Park where you can see the Sapporo TV Tower and marvel at the beautiful flowers and greenery. Take a stroll down Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade where you’ll find an array of local shops and vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional sweets.
Day 3: Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum
Today, you will visit the famous Sapporo Beer Museum. Here, you can learn about the history of beer in Japan and get a glimpse into the brewery process. After touring the museum, you can sample various types of beer brewed on the premises, along with some delicious food at the museum’s restaurant.
Day 4: Day trip to Otaru
Take a day trip to Otaru, a charming city with a unique and romantic atmosphere. Start by walking through the picturesque Otaru Canal, then visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, which houses a collection of beautiful music boxes from all over the world. Sample some of Otaru’s famous seafood, such as uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe), at one of the many local restaurants.
Day 5: Visit the Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Park
Today, visit the Hokkaido Shrine, which is considered one of the most important Shinto shrines in Hokkaido. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful forests, and is a great place to take a peaceful walk. Afterwards, head to Maruyama Park, which is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. If you’re visiting in winter, Maruyama Park has a ski resort which is popular among tourists and locals alike.
Day 6: Visit the Ishiya Chocolate Factory
On your last full day in Sapporo, visit the Ishiya Chocolate Factory, located in the scenic suburb of Kiyota-ku. The factory is famous for its Shiroi Koibito cookies, which are delicious and beautifully packaged. See how the cookies are made, and take plenty of photos of the factory’s stunning European-style architecture. After your tour, head to the attached restaurant where you can try various sweets and drinks made with the chocolate.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day, check out of your hotel and travel home. Hopefully, this trip to Sapporo, Japan will be one of your most memorable experiences, showcasing to you that there is something for everyone in the city, whether you’re interested in cultural attractions, history, or food and drink.