9 Best Things To Do in Sapporo: Japan Travel Guide

Sapporo may not have the megacity buzz of Tokyo, the ancient history or timeless allure of Kyoto, or the “Kitchen of Japan” culinary fame of Osaka, but it stands shoulder to shoulder with them as a compelling travel destination that definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary.

As the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Sapporo experiences all four seasons in full: from brutal winters (balanced by world-class skiing and soul-warming ramen) to lush, breezy summers. Its passion for good food starts with ramen but extends far beyond, and its quirky charm keeps things refreshingly interesting.

When to Visit Sapporo

There's no wrong time to visit Sapporo, but the city definitely changes with the seasons. In winter, the city transforms into a snow-covered playground. In summer, it's all green parks and beer gardens. Spring and autumn are short but scenic.

It's a great year-round destination, especially if you're looking for something different from the typical Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka itinerary.

Winter (Dec–March)

Peak season. The famous Snow Festival in February features towering sculptures made entirely of ice and snow. It gets cold (often below freezing, sometimes WELL below), but Sapporo & environs are well-prepared for winter.

Spring (April–May)

Cherry blossoms bloom a bit later here, usually late April or even early May. It's quiet and peaceful. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional late snow..

Summer (June–Aug)

Mild weather (relative to the rest of Japan, which tends to be quite hot and very humid), flower festivals, and outdoor beer gardens. A welcome escape from Honshu (& Kyushu/Shikoku) heat, to be sure.

Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Crisp air and fall colors. The ginkgo trees on Hokkaido University's campus are a highlight. September is still relatively warm, while November can see snowfall.

Top Things to Do in Sapporo

There’s so much to do in and around Sapporo, you’ll likely find yourself having to whittle down the list. Choices, choices!

1. Sapporo Snow Festival

Held each February, the Yuki Matsuri (Snow Festival) is Sapporo’s most iconic and world-famous event. It takes over Odori Park with massive ice and snow sculptures, dazzling light displays, and increasingly more international visitors.

Bundle up and visit at night when everything is lit up. Just be careful on the icy paths (this author once unintentionally slid across one, aided by local officers… and a little sake). Some sculptures tower several stories high and feature astonishing detail.

2. Ski or Snowboard Nearby

Mt. Moiwa and Sapporo Teine are both just outside the city and ideal for day trips. Equipment rentals are simple, and beginners are more than welcome.

Thanks to their proximity, you can hit the slopes all day and still make it back in time for dinner at a cozy izakaya. Many travelers pair Sapporo with ski trips to Niseko, Kiroro, or Furano, using the city as a starting or ending point.

3. Mt. Moiwa Ropeway

Hop on the ropeway for panoramic views of the city, especially beautiful at night.

At the summit, couples can ring the “lovers’ bell” for good luck. There’s also a small café where you can warm up with a hot drink while taking in the view.

4. Jozankei Onsen

Just an hour by bus from downtown Sapporo, this hot spring town is perfect for a relaxing soak, especially when snow is falling.

Many ryokan (traditional inns) offer day-use onsen passes, but if you have time, staying overnight is well worth the full experience.

5. Moerenuma Park

Designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, this expansive park features sculptural hills, cycling paths, fountains, and wide-open green spaces.

Perfect for a summer picnic, but just as beautiful when blanketed in snow during winter. A great example of art blending seamlessly with nature.

6. Shiroi Koibito Park

Part chocolate factory, part photogenic theme park—though not quite Willy Wonka level.

Yes, you can eat the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies (and take some home). The tour includes a look at the production process and a workshop where you can decorate your own cookies (and, of course, eat them too).

7. Historical Village of Hokkaido

An open-air museum featuring relocated and reconstructed buildings from Hokkaido’s early settler period.

Unlike much of Japan, Hokkaido was settled relatively recently, giving it a frontier-like history with more in common with the American West. Many compare it to Alaska or the Pacific Northwest.

8. Ginkgo Avenue at Hokkaido University

From late October to early November, the golden leaves along this avenue create a stunning natural tunnel of color.

It’s free and easy to access. The campus itself, with its brick buildings and open green areas, feels refreshingly different from most Japanese universities.

9. Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Shrine

A peaceful spot year-round, but particularly magical in spring. During cherry blossom season, locals gather here for hanami (flower viewing) picnics. The adjacent Hokkaido Shrine is a serene place to explore and a great introduction to local traditions.

What & Where to Eat in Sapporo

Much like the rest of Japan, Sapporo takes its food seriously. Local dishes are bold, hearty, and very comforting in Hokkaido's colder climate. Here are a few standouts:

Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

A regional BBQ specialty featuring grilled mutton or lamb cooked on a dome-shaped skillet. It's typically served with vegetables like bean sprouts and onions, and pairs perfectly with a cold Sapporo beer. Despite the name, based on the myth that Mongolian soldiers grilled meat on their helmets, the dish is uniquely Japanese. Matsuo Jingisukan is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with multiple locations in and around Sapporo.

Soup Curry (Don’t Miss This One!)

This isn’t your average Japanese curry. Sapporo-style soup curry features a flavorful, spiced broth filled with tender chicken or pork, plus vibrant, seasonal vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, and pumpkin. It’s served with a side of rice, and you can choose your spice level, mild to fire-breathing. Perfect after a chilly day out. Try it at local favorites like Garaku or Syabazo.

Imomochi

A chewy, mochi-like potato cake made from Hokkaido-grown potatoes, often flavored with soy sauce or sweet syrup. You'll find them at festivals and casual eateries. Simple, filling, and oddly addictive, a great snack when you’re on the go.

Seafood

Thanks to its coastal location, Sapporo has access to incredibly fresh seafood. Head to Nijo Market for uni (sea urchin), kani (crab), hotate (scallops), and ikura (salmon roe), served over rice bowls or as sashimi. It's not the cheapest meal in town, but absolutely worth the splurge. For another excellent option, check out Sankaku Market in nearby Otaru, still local at heart, despite its growing popularity with tourists.

Hokkaido Dairy & Sweets

Hokkaido is Japan’s dairy capital. You’ll find top-tier milk, rich cheeses, creamy ice cream, and incredible baked goods. Popular sweets include Shiroi Koibito cookies, Hokkaido Milk Cookies, and Hakodate Cheese Tarts. Even the ice cream at convenience stores here is noticeably better than elsewhere in Japan, don’t skip it!

Sapporo Ramen 

Famous for its miso-based broth, Sapporo ramen is rich, savory, and often topped with local ingredients like butter and corn. It’s the ultimate comfort food in Hokkaido’s cold winters. Top spots to try include Sora, Kiraito, Akahashi, and Yoshino. Most shops also offer shio (salt) and shoyu (soy sauce) ramen, but the miso variety is the true local star.

All That Amazing Ramen in Sapporo (and Beyond)

Ramen in Sapporo is not just a meal, it's a way of life. This city is considered the birthplace of miso ramen, and it remains one of the best places in Japan to experience regional ramen culture. Whether you're here in the dead of winter or the height of summer, there's a bowl of ramen waiting to warm or satisfy you.

• Miso Ramen - Developed in the 1950s, Sapporo’s miso ramen features a rich, nutty broth paired with thick, curly noodles. Common toppings include corn, butter, pork, and garlic. It's the perfect bowl after a snowy day. Head to Ramen Yokocho and try the original from Aji no Sanpei, the shop credited with inventing it.
• Shio (Salt) Ramen - Originally from Hakodate, shio ramen has a light, clear broth with a subtle seafood base. It’s typically served with thin noodles and simple toppings like chashu and green onions. Many Sapporo shops offer their own excellent versions for those who prefer a lighter taste.
• Shoyu (Soy Sauce) Ramen - From Asahikawa, shoyu ramen uses a soy sauce-based broth blended with pork or chicken stock. A thin layer of oil on top keeps it hot and comforting. Medium-thick curly noodles soak up the broth’s savory flavor. It’s widely available in Sapporo.
• Spicy Ramen - Spicy ramen is trending in Sapporo, often using miso or shoyu broth enhanced with chili oil or spicy miso paste. Toppings like spicy ground pork, bean sprouts, and even cheese are common. Customize your heat level at shops like Goukai Ramen.
• Seafood Ramen - Sapporo’s coastal location makes seafood ramen a standout. Bowls may include scallops, crab, or shrimp in miso, shio, or seafood-based broths. It’s a flavorful way to experience Hokkaido’s local catch, with toppings like seaweed and fish cakes.

For more on what to eat in Hokkaido, check out this guide: Everything You Need to Eat in Hokkaido, or if you're craving Hokkaido snacks, explore our curated collection and get them delivered straight to your door. 

Day Trips from Sapporo

Sapporo is a great base for exploring the rest of Hokkaido. Here are a few excellent day or overnight trips:

Otaru

Just 30-45 minutes by train, Otaru is a charming port town known for its historic canal, glass workshops, and seafood. Try a sashimi donburi at Sankaku Market, stroll along Sakaimachi Street, and stop by LeTAO for double fromage cheesecake. The town has a bit of a European influence in its architecture, reflecting its history as an important trading port.

Noboribetsu

About 1.5 to 2 hours from Sapporo by train, Noboribetsu is Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort. Its dramatic "Hell Valley" (Jigokudani) landscape is dotted with steaming vents, and you can soak in natural onsen baths surrounded by forest. The sulphuric smell is strong but part of the experience—locals say the minerals are good for your skin and overall health.

Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Home to two beautiful caldera lakes (Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya), this national park is known for its pristine scenery, hiking, hot springs, and lakeside resorts. It's a 90-minute drive and makes for a refreshing getaway. The area is also home to active volcanoes, including Mount Usu, which last erupted in 2000.

You can combine the lakes with Noboribetsu on a private tour from Sapporo, for a truly memorable day.

Asahikawa

About 1.5 hours by train from Sapporo, Asahikawa is Hokkaido's second-largest city. It's known for its zoo (one of Japan's best), sake breweries, and Asahikawa ramen (the aforementioned soy sauce base and rich pork flavor). Asahikawa is also one of the coldest in Japan (and among the world’s snowiest cities), frequently recording the nation's lowest temperatures in winter.

Furano & Biei

A bit farther afield, but worth it in summer. These two towns are famous for flower fields, especially lavender in July. The Blue Pond in Biei has a dreamy, surreal look that draws photographers year-round. The area is also known for its produce, particularly melons and other fresh fruit that benefit from Hokkaido's cool climate.

Getting To, From, and Around Sapporo 

Sapporo has a simple subway system and plenty of buses. IC cards (like Suica or Kitaca) work everywhere. Walking is also very doable, especially downtown. If you plan to venture outside the city, using the efficient JR train network makes a lot of sense.

If you’re thinking of renting a car, it has some upside to be sure, but bear in mind that driving in the Japanese cities can be challenging, and driving everywhere takes on the added factors of (a) right-side wheel and left-side driving) and (b) signage predominantly in Japanese (with some English).

Sapporo's grid layout makes it unusually navigable for a Japanese city. You're less likely to get lost here than in Tokyo or Osaka. In winter, the covered walkways and underground passages make it possible to get around without facing the full brunt of the snow and cold.

Souvenirs From Sapporo

Food makes some of the best souvenirs from Hokkaido, and Sapporo offers plenty to bring home. Popular picks include   Shiroi Koibito cookies, Hokkaido milk cookies, and Hakodate cheese tarts. You’ll also find a great selection of local snacks at the airport or major train stations (don’t miss the ROYCE chocolate store).

Beyond food, consider picking up lavender-scented goods from Furano, locally made glassware from Otaru, or handcrafted wooden items and bear carvings, a traditional Hokkaido craft. These make unique, regionally inspired gifts. Just remember to check import rules if you're planning to bring food items back to your home country. 

Why Visit Sapporo? Why Would You Not?!

Sapporo is relaxed, friendly, and full of character. It’s a city that you probably shouldn’t miss when visiting Japan (unless you only have a week, or it’s winter and that’s not your thing). As a gateway to the broader Hokkaido region, Sapporo gives you access to outdoor adventures, natural wonders, and culinary discoveries.

If you're looking to round out your Japan trip with something a little different, this northern gem is well worth the detour. Come for the snow or the soup curry, stay for the scenery and the pace of life that makes Sapporo one of Japan's most livable cities.