The best things to do in Sapporo
Sapporo, located in the northernmost island of Japan, Hokkaido, is a city filled with natural beauty, delicious food, and a rich cultural heritage. Known for its winter sports, Sapporo also offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sights, or delicious cuisine, Sapporo has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Sapporo.
Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum
The Sapporo Beer Museum, located in the former brewery of Sapporo Beer, offers visitors the chance to learn about the history of beer brewing in Japan and sample some of Sapporo’s famous brews. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including a replica of the brewery’s original facilities and a collection of vintage bottles and cans. Visitors can also take a tour of the museum and sample different types of Sapporo beer.
Explore Odori Park
Odori Park is a large public park located in the heart of Sapporo. The park stretches for over a kilometer, and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. There are several monuments and sculptures throughout the park, including a large clock tower and a statue of Dr. William Clark, an American educator who helped establish Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University) in the late 19th century. In the summer, the park is also home to several festivals and events, including the Sapporo Lilac Festival and the Sapporo Yosakoi Soran Festival.
Visit the Sapporo TV Tower
The Sapporo TV Tower, located in the center of Sapporo, offers visitors panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. At 147 meters tall, it is the tallest tower in Hokkaido and one of the tallest towers in Japan. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck, which is open year-round, and enjoy views of Sapporo and the surrounding area. There is also a small museum located in the base of the tower which showcases the history of television in Japan.
Visit the Hokkaido Shrine
The Hokkaido Shrine, also known as the Sapporo Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in the center of Sapporo. The shrine is dedicated to the spirits of the pioneers who settled in Hokkaido in the late 19th century. The shrine is surrounded by a large forest, and visitors can enjoy walking along the shrine’s many paths. The shrine also features a large torii gate, which is a symbol of Shinto shrines, and a traditional Japanese garden.
Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the most famous events in Sapporo and is held annually in early February. The festival features large sculptures made of snow and ice, including replicas of famous buildings and landmarks from around the world. The festival attracts millions of visitors each year and is a great way to experience Sapporo’s winter weather. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other activities, such as ice skating, snowmobiling, and skiing.
Visit the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo
The Sapporo Maruyama Zoo is a popular tourist destination located in the Maruyama area of Sapporo. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and bears. Visitors can also see animals native to Hokkaido, such as the Ezo deer and the Hokkaido brown bear. The zoo also featuresa large aviary, where visitors can see a variety of birds, and a petting zoo, where visitors can interact with small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as animal feeding times and keeper talks.
Visit the Moerenuma Park
Moerenuma Park is a large public park located on the outskirts of Sapporo. The park features a variety of sculptures and architectural designs by renowned artist Isamu Noguchi. Visitors can enjoy the park’s many paths and gardens, including the “Sea Fountain”, the “Glass Pyramid”, and the “Hills and Lawn”. The park also has a large playground and sports facilities, making it a great destination for families.
Visit the Sapporo Underground Pedestrian Space
The Sapporo Underground Pedestrian Space, also known as the “Subway Promenade” is a network of underground shopping and dining areas connected to Sapporo’s subway stations. The space features a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants and is a great place to escape the city’s cold winters. Visitors can also enjoy the space’s unique architecture and decor, which features large murals and sculptures.
Visit the Hokkaido Museum
The Hokkaido Museum, located in the Sapporo Science Center, is dedicated to the history and culture of Hokkaido. The museum features a variety of exhibits on the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and the region’s natural and cultural history. The museum also features a planetarium and an observatory, making it a great destination for science enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s gardens, which feature a variety of plants native to Hokkaido.
Visit the Susukino
Susukino is Sapporo’s entertainment and nightlife district, featuring a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy the district’s many shopping options, including the Susukino Shopping Arcade, which features a variety of clothing and souvenir shops. Susukino is also home to several theaters and performance venues, making it a great destination for those looking for a night out on the town.
Sapporo is a city with much to offer, and there are many things to see and do. From visiting historical sites and museums, to enjoying outdoor activities and delicious local cuisine, Sapporo has something for everyone. Visitors should not miss the chance to explore this vibrant and exciting city.
