Exploring Sapporo, Japan: A Tourist’s Guide

Sapporo, the largest city on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Here are some must-do activities for tourists visiting this charming city.

1. Odori Park (大通公園)

Odori Park is a massive urban park in the heart of Sapporo, stretching over 1.5 kilometers from east to west. The park is particularly famous for hosting the Sapporo Snow Festival every year in February. During other times, it’s an excellent spot for picnics, jogging, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll.

2. Sapporo TV Tower (サッポロテレビタワー)

The Sapporo TV Tower is an iconic landmark of the city, standing at 147 meters tall. A trip to the observation deck offers panoramic views of Sapporo and its surroundings. The tower also houses a revolving restaurant where you can enjoy local Hokkaido cuisine.

3. Historic Village of Hokkaido (北海道歴史の村)

The Historic Village of Hokkaido is an open-air museum that showcases the history and culture of Hokkaido. The village is beautifully designed, with traditional Ainu and Western-style houses, farms, and workshops from various eras.

4. Sapporo Beer Museum (サッポロビール観光館)

For beer lovers, a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must. Learn about the history of Sapporo Beer, enjoy a guided tour of the brewery, and sample some of their famous brews.

5. Okurayama Lookout (オクラヤマ观景台)

The Okurayama Lookout is a popular spot for watching the Sapporo Snow Festival’s night illumination and, in summer, for seeing the annual Ozora Fireworks Festival. The lookout also offers beautiful views of Sapporo city and Mount Eniwa.

6. Ishikari River (石垣川)

The Ishikari River is the longest river in Hokkaido, flowing through Sapporo city. A leisurely boat ride along the river provides a different perspective of the city and offers glimpses of its natural beauty.

7. Local Food Experiences

No trip to Sapporo would be complete without trying some local delicacies. Be sure to try:

• Sapporo Ramen: A unique style of ramen that originated in Sapporo, featuring a rich miso broth and thick noodles.
• Crab (Kani): Hokkaido is famous for its crabs, and Sapporo offers many restaurants where you can enjoy fresh, delicious crab dishes.
• Fish Market (Jozankei Ichiba): Visit the Jozankei Fish Market early in the morning to see the freshest seafood being auctioned off. Many stalls offer fresh sushi and other seafood dishes throughout the day.

Sapporo offers a rich tapestry of experiences for tourists, from urban exploration to natural beauty, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, Sapporo has something for everyone!