Sapporo, a winter paradise and summer refuge, is all about outdoor enjoyment, wonderful food, and well-known beer.
Snow and Sapporo are closely linked: in 1972, the city hosted Asia's first Winter Olympics, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival attracts tourists from all over the world. In other seasons, Sapporo's green expanses and bloom displays are as stunning. This youthful, open city is well-known for its beer, steak, ramen, seafood, and fresh veggies.
How To Get To Sapporo Hokkaido
You may get to Sapporo via rail, airplane, or boat. Plane travel is by far the quickest, followed by high-speed rail choices. Take a boat for a more exciting and relaxing journey.
Every day, dozens of flights depart from Tokyo to Sapporo's Chitose Airport via Haneda and Narita Airports. Many additional domestic airports provide direct flights to Sapporo. After the flight, take a 35-minute fast train to Sapporo Station.
Take the Hokkaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto (4 hours) and transfer to the Hokuto limited express to Sapporo (3.5 hours).
There are also long-distance ferries from various points on the main island of Honshu, with most arriving either in Otaru , 30 minutes by train west of Sapporo, or Tomakomai, 45 to 60 minutes by train south of Sapporo.
Explore Sapporo: Top Spots for Women Travelers
Discover Sapporo’s unique blend of vibrant city life, serene natural landscapes, and charming cultural experiences, curated for women who seek a fulfilling and enriching journey through Japan’s northern gem. Each spot offers something distinct, from scenic relaxation to unforgettable sights and flavors.
Odori Park
Perfect for a leisurely stroll, this long, lush park runs through the heart of Sapporo. Enjoy seasonal flower displays, cozy benches, and scenic spots for taking memorable photos, especially stunning during Sapporo’s Snow Festival.
Hokkaido Shrine
Nestled in the peaceful Maruyama Park, Hokkaido Shrine tour provides a beautiful, tranquil experience. Surrounded by forests and gardens, it’s a serene spot for reflection and capturing Japan’s sacred beauty.
Shiroi Koibito Park
An absolute delight for chocolate lovers! Visit this Shiroi Koibito Park tour, home to Hokkaido’s famous white chocolate treat. Here, women can indulge in sweets, tour the factory, and shop for exclusive confections.
Mt. Moiwa Ropeway
For a romantic, panoramic view of Sapporo’s city lights, take a cable car ride to Mt. Moiwa’s summit. This breathtaking sunset spot is a favorite for travelers looking to relax with stunning cityscapes.
Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about Japan’s brewing history at this museum in the retro Sapporo Beer Garden complex. Enjoy beer tastings and take in the historic setting—a great way to unwind and savor Japan’s iconic brews.
Nijo Market
Experience Sapporo’s freshest seafood at Nijo Market tour, a lively spot where you can sample local delicacies, including fresh seafood bowls. It’s a fun, authentic experience with a little shopping and taste-testing adventure.
Otaru Canal
A short train ride from Sapporo, the charming town of Otaru tour features a scenic canal lined with quaint cafes, boutiques, and glasswork shops. It’s an ideal day trip for shopping and relaxing by the water.
Top Hotels for a Relaxing Stay in Sapporo
When exploring the stunning sights of Sapporo, from its vibrant city center to serene landscapes, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference for a perfect getaway. Here’s a selection of top-recommended hotels, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Sapporo Grand Hotel
Known for its luxurious charm and central location, Sapporo Grand Hotel combines elegance with convenience. Located near Odori Park and Sapporo Clock Tower, it’s perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in local sights while enjoying spacious rooms and excellent facilities, including on-site dining and a relaxing spa.
JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
This JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo, perched atop the JR Sapporo Station, offers incredible city views and immediate access to transportation. Its high-end amenities, including a hot spring spa and panoramic dining, provide a comforting escape with a touch of elegance. An ideal option for travelers who love both convenience and luxury.
Cross Hotel Sapporo
With its sleek, modern design and cozy atmosphere, Cross Hotel is a top choice for those seeking stylish yet affordable accommodations. Located near Sapporo TV Tower, it provides easy access to many city highlights, making it a popular option for first-time visitors. Don’t miss their rooftop spa for a relaxing evening soak!
ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo
This well-appointed hotel offers a blend of comfort and practicality, perfect for business and leisure travelers alike. Conveniently located near Sapporo Station and the city’s main shopping areas, the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo offers a range of dining options and amenities to make every stay special.
Premier Hotel – Tsubaki Sapporo
Overlooking the Toyohira River, this hotel provides a scenic retreat for travelers looking to experience Sapporo’s natural beauty while staying close to downtown. With spacious rooms, attentive service, and beautiful river views, Premier Hotel offers a relaxing oasis amidst the city.
Whether you're planning a quick visit or an extended stay, these hotels offer a variety of experiences tailored to make your Sapporo trip comfortable and memorable. For the best rates and booking details, check out the links provided for each hotel!
Stretch Out And Breathe Deeply
Sapporo, unlike most of Japan's main cities, is large and green. Odori Park, which spans a kilometer and a half across 12 city blocks and divides the city into north and south, is one of the greatest green places. During the warmer months, the park provides pleasant and restful settings. In February, it serves as the main location for the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Ramen, Hokkaido Style
You can't discuss ramen without discussing Sapporo. The name and miso ramen, one of Japan's most popular forms of ramen, are said to have originated here. At Sapporo Ramen Republic and Ramen Dojo, you can sample ramen from all around Hokkaido, including Sapporo (miso), Asahikawa (soy sauce), and Hakodate (salt), at eight restaurants in one location.:
Kani Honke in Sapporo Station – Popular Crab Specialty
First order of business: CRAB! If you're seeking for the greatest restaurant in Sapporo for real crab delicacies, go no further—this is the place to be! It's one of Japan's most popular crab restaurants, serving hot pot-style meals that accentuate the delicious flavors of the sea.
One-Michelin Star Kaiseki Restaurant – Toraya in Sapporo
Enhance your culinary trip at this Michelin-starred restaurant in Sapporo. If you want to be wowed by the local delicacies, Toraya features one of the most magnificent kaiseki courses in the area and is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on their Yokan Jellies!
ISOKIN Fisheries in Sapporo Susukino – Super Popular Crab & Seafood Izakaya
It's a seafood extravaganza! ISOKIN is the greatest restaurant in Sapporo to try local Hokkaido dishes such as hot pot with kegani and horsehair crab.
Art In The Vast Outdoors And Within
Sapporo offers plenty of room and blends natural marvels with outstanding outdoor modern sculptures like Sapporo Art Park, Arte Piazza Bibai, and Black Slide Mantra. Sapporo Art Park offers creative facilities for woodworking, glassmaking, and outdoor crafts, allowing you to make your own art.
Indoors, the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art displays works by both local and School of Paris artists. The Miyanomori International Museum of Art houses additional modern treasures.
Sporting Choices For Runners, Bikers, And Yoga Enthusiasts
If you enjoy jogging or cycling, head to the Toyohira riverfront, which is part of the Sapporo Marathon route. Run along the woodland route or ride on the paved cycling road. Runners can also go from Odori Park to Hokkaido University's pastoral campus.
Maruyama Park, the Toyohira riverbed, and Nakajima Park are ideal natural settings for yoga practitioners. After yoga, enjoy a lengthy, relaxing dip at Jozankei Onsen.
Great Powder Is Not Far Distant
Niseko, Japan's most famous ski resort, is only a two hours' train trip from Sapporo Station. The four interconnected ski resorts—Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri—have some of the best ski and snowboard runs in the country. Sapporo Teine Ski Resort is located just outside Sapporo's city core.
Stay Underground To Escape From The Elements
There is an excellent network of subterranean walkways and shopping areas beneath the main city. These pathways link Sapporo Station to Odori Park, Sapporo Factory, and Susukino, a vibrant entertainment zone. This is especially useful on chilly, wet days or in snowstorms.
Conclusion
In Sapporo, the blend of natural beauty, vibrant festivals, and rich culture offers a truly unique experience in Japan. From the city’s renowned snow festival to its historic sites and culinary delights, Sapporo captures the charm and excitement of Japan’s northern island. Whether exploring local markets or relaxing in hot springs, this city is filled with memorable adventures. Sapporo remains a top destination for anyone seeking both relaxation and excitement in Japan.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Fem2pt0 provides women with valuable tips, guides, and recommendations across a range of destinations, ensuring you stay stylish, prepared, and confident on every journey!