❄️ Sapporo – Japan’s Northern Star

The capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo is a charming, modern city surrounded by natural beauty and known for its winter magic, beer, skiing, and ramen culture. With a more relaxed vibe than Tokyo or Osaka, Sapporo blends Japan’s signature politeness with alpine cool.

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📍 Top Attractions in Sapporo

⛷️ Sapporo Snow Festival (February)

The city’s biggest global draw, with enormous ice and snow sculptures, illuminated displays, and a festive vibe. A must-see in winter.

🍺 Sapporo Beer Museum & Beer Garden

Explore the history of one of Japan’s oldest breweries, then feast on Genghis Khan-style BBQ lamb with freshly brewed beer.

🌳 Odori Park

A central strip of green stretching over 1.5 km with flower gardens in summer and light festivals in winter. Great for strolls and views of the Sapporo TV Tower.

🗻 Mount Moiwa Ropeway

Panoramic views of Sapporo, especially stunning at night. You can hike or take the cable car up to the observatory.

🛍️ Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

A historic 150-year-old shopping street—great for local souvenirs, snacks, and fashion.

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🍜 What to Eat in Sapporo

Hokkaido’s capital is a gastronomic paradise, especially for seafood and ramen lovers.

Must-Try Foods:

• Sapporo Miso Ramen – Rich, buttery, miso-based broth with corn and pork

• Soup Curry – A spicy, hearty stew with local vegetables and meats

• Fresh Crab & Sea Urchin – The seafood here is world-renowned

• Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) – Grilled lamb BBQ, a regional favorite

• Hokkaido Milk Ice Cream – Creamy and ultra-fresh

Notable Dining Spots:

• Ramen Alley (Ganso Ramen Yokocho) – Dozens of ramen shops in one alleyway

• Nijo Market – Morning seafood market with restaurants

• Sapporo Beer Garden – Grilled meats and beer hall atmosphere

• Sora – Elevated soup curry experience

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🏨 Where to Stay

• JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo – Modern luxury above the train station

• UNWIND Hotel & Bar – Nordic-style boutique with fireplace lounge

• Mercure Sapporo – Great location in Susukino nightlife district

• Guesthouses/Airbnbs – Plenty of cozy, affordable options

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🎿 Winter Sports & Outdoor Fun

• Sapporo Teine & Sapporo Kokusai – Ski resorts within an hour

• Niseko (2 hrs away) – World-famous powder snow, perfect for a day trip

• Moerenuma Park – Designed by Isamu Noguchi, a scenic spot with snowy hills

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🚆 Getting Around

• New Chitose Airport (CTS) – 45 min by train to Sapporo

• Sapporo Subway – Easy to use, especially for accessing main sites

• IC Cards (Kitaca/Suica) – Contactless fare cards work citywide

• Walking Friendly – Central Sapporo is walkable and pleasant

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💡 Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Winter (Dec–Feb) for snow festivals and skiing

  • Summer (Jul–Aug) for flower fields and cooler temps

• Language: Japanese (some English in tourist areas; Google Translate helps)

• Cash vs Card: Cash still widely used—ATMs at 7-Eleven are reliable

• Weather: Bring layers—even summer nights are cool

• Tipping: Not customary in Japan

• Etiquette: Be punctual, quiet on transport, and respectful with photos

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🛍️ Souvenirs to Bring Home

• Shiroi Koibito Cookies – White chocolate biscuits

• Royce’ Chocolate – Famous Hokkaido confectionery

• Melon-flavored goods – Hokkaido melons are prized

• Craft Beer or Sake – Sapporo has its own local brews

⭐ Traveler Ratings (Out of 10)

Category	Rating ⭐
Winter & Skiing	★★★★★ (10/10)
Food & Dining	★★★★★ (9.5/10)
Cleanliness & Order	★★★★★ (9.5/10)
Accessibility	★★★★☆ (8.5/10)
Cultural Experience	★★★★☆ (8.5/10)
Value for Money	★★★★☆ (8/10)