Sapporo is the beating heart of Hokkaido—famous for its snow festivals, fresh seafood, natural hot springs, and wide streets filled with winter charm. Whether you’re visiting for snow adventures or food culture, here are the 10 best things to do in Sapporo for first-timers and returning travelers.
1. Explore Odori Park – Sapporo’s Main Strip
Odori Park is the center of the city and the perfect starting point. In summer, it’s filled with flowers and street cafés. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with ice sculptures, events, and sparkling lights.
If you want a complete city overview, read the Sapporo Travel Guide: Explore Japan’s Winter Capital for the best seasonal tips and neighborhoods.
2. Visit the Sapporo TV Tower for Sky Views
At the end of Odori Park stands the iconic Sapporo TV Tower. From the top, you’ll get a perfect aerial view of the entire park, Susukino, and the city’s grid layout.
3. Experience the Famous Sapporo Snow Festival
Every February, Sapporo becomes the world stage for massive ice sculptures, snow slides, performance stages, and winter food markets. It’s one of the most beautiful winter events in Japan.
For full planning details, check the Sapporo Snow Festival Guide: Tips, Dates & Travel Plan.
4. Wander Through Historical Village of Hokkaido
This open-air museum features relocated buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras. You can walk through old minka houses, ride a horse-drawn trolley in winter, and see how early settlers lived.
5. Relax at Jozankei Onsen
Just an hour from Sapporo, Jozankei offers natural hot springs surrounded by mountains. It’s especially stunning in autumn and winter when the valley glows red or white.
6. Eat Fresh Seafood at Nijo Market
From buttery uni to salmon roe bowls, the morning markets in Sapporo serve some of the freshest seafood in Japan. Try the famous kaisendon or grilled crab legs.
7. Explore the Sapporo Beer Museum & Beer Garden
Sapporo Beer is one of Japan’s oldest brands. The museum offers interactive exhibits, tasting flights, and a historic red-brick atmosphere. End your visit with a lamb BBQ at the Sapporo Beer Garden.
8. Walk the Romantic Otaru Canal (Easy Half-Day Trip)
A 40-minute train ride brings you to Otaru—a charming port town with stone warehouses, music box shops, and a romantic canal lined with vintage lamps.
9. Enjoy Nightlife in Susukino
Susukino is Sapporo’s entertainment district, full of ramen alleys, neon lights, izakayas, bars, and snow-themed cocktails. It’s lively but safe, making it perfect for nighttime exploring.
10. Discover Sapporo’s Local Hidden Spots
Beyond the major attractions, Sapporo has quiet shrines, secret cafés, small mountain viewpoints, and peaceful parks that most tourists skip.
For these off-the-map finds, check Hidden Gems in Sapporo: What Tourists Often Miss.