Sapporo Travel Guide

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Sapporo

Sapporo clock tower © JNTO

The most remarkable thing about the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, and its capital city Sapporo, is the contrast in temperatures between winter and summer. Sapporo, site of the 1972 Winter Olympics, is a favourite ski destination with temperatures plummeting well below freezing in December and January - the lowest ever recorded was in January 1945, when the mercury dropped to -11ºF (-24ºC). Summer time, however, sees daytime highs of above 86ºF (30ºC), although evenings and mornings remain cool and pleasant.

Because of its thick snows that turn the city into a winter wonderland Sapporo is favoured more as a winter sports destination than a spring or summer resort. There are ski-slopes within the city limits and residents often enjoy a quick run after work. Sapporo is one of Japan's newest cities, having been constructed almost from scratch as the capital of Hokkaido in 1871. Japan imported foreign technicians (including 46 Americans) to aid in the development of the city, formerly a small settlement of the native Ainu people, which has now grown to accommodate 1.8 million inhabitants. Despite a large population, Sapporo is not as crowded or densely packed as other Japanese cities. A national survey ranked it as one of the country's most desirable places to live, which is not surprising because its natural setting allows for easy access to mineral spas, mountain hikes, campsites, and superb ski runs.

Attractions

Japanese beer © pokpok313

Beer Museum

If you are here for the beer, which is possible because Sapporo beer is known throughout the world, then a visit to the beer museum in the historic Sapporo Brewery building is a must, together with a tour of the brewery itself, which,... see full details

Ainu Art circa 1870 © PHGCOM

Historical Village

The impressive and entertaining outdoor museum village depicting Hokkaido life in days of old is situated in Sapporo at Atsubetsu Ward, in a corner of the Hokkaido Nopporo Forest Park. The site features restored or recreated buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, and... see full details

Hokkaido Ainu Centre

The Ainu people with their unique culture have lived on the island of Hokkaido for hundreds of generations. The Ainu Centre in Sapporo details the history and culture of the island’s indigenous people using interesting exhibits and demonstrations. ... see full details

Excursions

Mount Moiwa

Fondly known as Sapporo’s ‘backyard ski resort’ Mt Moiwa offers 11 different courses for all grades of skiers from beginners to advanced. Most are well lit to enable visitors and locals alike to enjoy the fun of night skiing, taking in the breathtaking view of... see full details

Noboribetsu

The famous hot-spring resort of Noboribetsu Onsen is situated inside the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The spa is one of many found in Hokkaido, but being closest to Sapporo is very popular. Hot mineral springs gush out about 10,000 tons of water a day,... see full details

Events

Sapporo Snow Festival

Since its humble beginnings in 1950, when local students built six snow statues in Odori Park, the Snow Festival has grown into an international event and is the biggest and most spectacular festival in Japan, and a major tourist attraction. Every winter local and... see full details

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