Sapporo Japan 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City
- Arrival at New Chitose Airport (CTS): The gateway to Sapporo. You can take a train or bus to reach your accommodation.
- Accommodation: Stay in the Odori Park area for easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions. Recommendations include Hotel Gracery Sapporo, Mercure Sapporo Odori, or Sapporo Park Hotel.
- Lunch at Susukino (Sushi Zanmai or Menya Kohaku): Visit the Susukino district for a variety of food options.
- Afternoon at Odori Park and Sapporo TV Tower: Enjoy a leisurely walk around Odori Park and visit the Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic city views.
- Dinner at Ramen Yokocho (Ramen Alley): Taste local Hokkaido ramen at this covered food court. Recommendations include Ichikan, Santouka, or Tarabeg Sapporo Ramen Yokocho.
- Transportation: The Sapporo Municipal Subway and JR trains are convenient ways to travel around the city. Consider getting a 1-day pass for unlimited rides.
- Tip: Be prepared for cold weather, even in summer, as Sapporo’s climate can be quite chilly.
Day 2: Sightseeing & Nature
- Morning at Sapporo Beer Museum and Garden: Learn about the history of Sapporo beer and enjoy a pint. The adjacent garden is perfect for picnicking.
- Lunch in the Historic Village of Takoyaki Mandarake or Misono Soba: Try Sapporo’s famous takoyaki (octopus balls) or soba noodles at these popular spots.
- Afternoon at Ocean 154: Explore the marine world with an aquarium featuring various sea creatures native to Hokkaido.
- Dinner in the Dairy Products Market (Jozankei Dairiyu): Enjoy fresh dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.
- Evening at Jozankei Onsen: Soak in a natural hot spring and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Day 3: Outdoor Activities & Foodie Delights
- Morning at Otaru Canal: Stroll along the picturesque canal lined with charming shops and cafes.
- Lunch at a seafood restaurant in Otaru (Mermaid or Otaru Sushi no Midori): Indulge in fresh seafood.
- Afternoon at Furano and Biei: Take a day trip to these flower fields, known for their beautiful lavender and blue pond landscapes.
- Dinner at Ishikari-nabe Restaurant (Hokkaidatei or Mizubono): Try the local specialty, Ishikari-nabe (fish hot pot).
- Transportation: Rent a car for this day trip, or join an organized tour.
Day 4: Sapporo Dome & Surroundings
- Morning at Sapporo Dome and Fukuzumi Park: Watch a game or concert (if available), then stroll through the adjacent park.
- Lunch at Kaiten Zushi (Sushi Go Round): Enjoy conveyor belt sushi at a kaiten zushi restaurant like Genghis Khan Sapporo.
- Afternoon at Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Park: Visit these historic sites, then explore the nearby Ishikawa Koji Museum of Art.
- Dinner at Sapporo Station area (Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho or Ajisai): Find more delicious ramen options in this bustling area.
- Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife in Susukino, with its numerous bars, clubs, and izakayas (Japanese pubs).
Day 5: Departure
- Breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby cafe: Say goodbye to Sapporo with a tasty breakfast before heading to the airport.
- Transportation: Take the train or bus to New Chitose Airport for your departure flight.