Sapporo, the capital of Japan’s northernmost prefecture, Hokkaido, is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the spectacular snow-capped mountains to the beautiful parks and gardens, there is something for everyone in Sapporo. Here are the top 20 places to see in Sapporo, Japan.
1. Sapporo Clock Tower – Located in the heart of Sapporo’s city center, the Sapporo Clock Tower is an iconic symbol of the city. Built in 1878, the clock tower stands at a height of 24 meters and is the oldest existing wooden building in Sapporo.
2. Sapporo Beer Museum – This museum is a must-visit for beer lovers. It offers a unique insight into the history of Sapporo beer, one of Japan’s most popular beers. Visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample some of the delicious beer.
3. Odori Park – Odori Park is a large public park located in the center of Sapporo. It is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, admire the beautiful scenery, and enjoy the many events and festivals that take place here throughout the year.
4. Moerenuma Park – This large park is located on the outskirts of Sapporo and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. There are many trails for walking and cycling, and the park also features a man-made lake, a beach, and a sculpture garden.
5. Mt. Moiwa – Mt. Moiwa is a mountain located just outside of Sapporo. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. The mountain is accessible via a ropeway and also features a ski resort.
6. Sapporo Snow Festival – Every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in Odori Park. This festival features massive snow sculptures, ice sculptures, and other winter activities. It is one of the most popular winter events in Japan.
7. Hokkaido Shrine – The Hokkaido Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the center of Sapporo. It is dedicated to the gods of Hokkaido and is a popular place to visit during festivals and other special occasions.
8. Sapporo TV Tower – The Sapporo TV Tower is a tall observation tower located in central Sapporo. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
9. Sapporo Factory – The Sapporo Factory is a large shopping and entertainment complex located in the heart of Sapporo. It is home to many stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
10. Hokkaido University – Hokkaido University is one of Japan’s top universities and is located in Sapporo. The university is home to many research centers and offers a variety of courses in the humanities, sciences, and engineering.
11. Sapporo Maruyama Zoo – The Maruyama Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Japan and is located in the center of Sapporo. It is home to many animals, including polar bears, elephants, and tigers.
12. Sapporo Dome – The Sapporo Dome is a multi-purpose stadium located in central Sapporo. It is home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters baseball team and is also used for concerts and other events.
13. Susukino – Susukino is the largest entertainment district in Sapporo. It is full of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and other entertainment venues.
14. Sapporo Beer Garden – The Sapporo Beer Garden is a popular spot for beer lovers. It offers a variety of beers and a great view of the city.
15. Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art – The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art is a great place to admire some of Japan’s best modern art. It features works by both local and international artists.
16. Sapporo JR Tower – The Sapporo JR Tower is a large skyscraper located in central Sapporo. It is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.
17. Moiwa Ski Resort – Moiwa Ski Resort is located on the slopes of Mt. Moiwa and offers a variety of ski runs for all levels. It is also a great spot for snowboarding and other winter activities.
18. Maruyama Park – Maruyama Park is a large park located in central Sapporo. It is home to a variety of trees and flowers, as well as a pond and a small zoo.
19. Sapporo Underground Shopping Mall – The Sapporo Underground Shopping Mall is a large shopping complex located beneath the streets of Sapporo. It is home to a variety of stores, restaurants, and other attractions.
20. Shiroi Koibito Park – Shiroi Koibito Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Sapporo. It is home to a chocolate factory and a museum dedicated to the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies.