Sapporo, Japan-6-day-itinerary

6-Day Sapporo Itinerary:

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Capsule Hotels (e.g., Nine Hours Sapporo), Hostels (e.g., Sapporo Guesthouse)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Gracery Sapporo, JR Inn Sapporo
  • Luxury: Sapporo Grand Hotel, Park Hyatt Sapporo

Transportation:

  • Sapporo is well-connected by the subway system which is efficient and affordable.
  • Purchase a day pass for unlimited rides if you plan on using it extensively.
  • Consider a Japan Rail Pass if travelling beyond Sapporo.
  • Taxis are readily available but can be expensive.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
  • Language: Japanese (English is spoken in tourist areas). Download a translation app for ease of communication.
  • Tipping: Not customary in Japan.
  • Safety: Sapporo is extremely safe, but exercise common sense precautions as you would anywhere else.

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

  • Arrive at New Chitose Airport (CTS) and take the airport express train to Sapporo Station (approx. 37 min).
  • Check into your hotel near Sapporo Station for easy access to attractions.
  • Lunch: Ramen Alley - Sample delicious ramen from various stalls in this iconic spot.
  • Afternoon: Explore Odori Park, a green oasis in the heart of Sapporo. Stroll along its walkways, admire the seasonal flowers, and visit the Sapporo Art Park nearby.

Day 2: Culture & History

  • Morning: Visit the Hokkaido Shrine for its serene atmosphere and traditional architecture.
  • Lunch: Soup Curry - Experience the unique Hokkaido dish, soup curry, at a restaurant like “Soup Curry Garaku.”
  • Afternoon: Explore the Sapporo Beer Garden and Museum for a taste of local history and brewing traditions. Enjoy a beer tasting afterwards.

Day 3: Snow Festival Memories & Natural Beauty

  • Morning: Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival Museum to learn about the annual snow sculptures and see past creations.
  • Lunch: Genghis Khan - Indulge in the famous Hokkaido dish, “Genghis Khan,” a lamb barbecue cooked on a domed grill.
  • Afternoon: Take a day trip to Shiroi Koibito Park (White Lover Biscuit Factory) for a delightful experience exploring chocolate making and enjoying sweet treats.

Day 4: Mt. Moiwa & Stunning Views

  • Morning: Ascend Mt. Moiwa by ropeway for panoramic views of Sapporo and the surrounding mountains.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the summit restaurant with breathtaking scenery.
  • Afternoon: Explore the botanical garden at Sapporo Art Park, featuring diverse flora and peaceful walkways.

Day 5: Shopping & Local Delights

  • Morning: Visit Susukino, Sapporo’s vibrant entertainment district, known for its shopping, nightlife, and ramen restaurants.
  • Lunch: Try a delicious “Jingisukan” (grilled mutton) meal in Susukino.
  • Afternoon: Explore the underground shopping arcade network connected to Sapporo Station, offering souvenirs, local crafts, and clothing.

Day 6: Farewell & Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local cafĂ©.
  • Souvenir Shopping: Purchase last-minute souvenirs from the airport or nearby shops.
  • Depart from New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Tips for Travellers:

  • Learn basic Japanese phrases: “Konnichiwa” (hello), “Arigato” (thank you), “Sumimasen” (excuse me).
  • Download a travel app with offline maps and translation features.
  • Consider purchasing a Sapporo Travel Pass for discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Pack layers of clothing as the weather in Sapporo can be unpredictable.

Enjoy your adventure in Sapporo!