Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a spacious, easygoing city famous for snow, beer, ramen, and incredible seafood. It’s the perfect gateway to Japan’s northern island. Here’s what to do.
Top things to do
- Sapporo Snow Festival — the spectacular February event with giant snow and ice sculptures.
- Odori Park & Sapporo TV Tower — the green spine of the city, lit up in winter.
- Sapporo Beer Museum — Japan’s only beer museum, with tastings.
- Nijo Market — fresh Hokkaido seafood: crab, uni, salmon roe.
- Mt. Moiwa ropeway — a gorgeous night view over the city.
Sapporo food
- Miso ramen — Sapporo’s signature, rich and warming.
- Soup curry — a local specialty.
- Seafood and dairy — Hokkaido’s are Japan’s best; don’t skip the soft-serve. More in must-try food.
Base for Hokkaido
Use Sapporo to reach Otaru, Furano’s flower fields, and Niseko’s powder skiing. See our wider Hokkaido guide.
Getting there & around
- Fly into New Chitose Airport — much faster than the train from Honshu.
- The city has an easy subway; grab an IC card. For rural Hokkaido, consider renting a car.
When to go
Winter for snow and the festival; summer for cool escapes and flowers. Check best time to visit and pack for the cold in winter (winter guide).