1.Basic Information
Sapporo city, known for hosting the YOSAKOI Soran Festival in early summer and the Sapporo Snow Festival and White Illumination in winter, is also recommended for its historical architecture such as the Clark statue, Sapporo Clock Tower, the former Hokkaido Government Office, and Otaru Canal on the outskirts.
Susukino’s Ramen Alley
Located in central Sapporo, Susukino is Asia’s northernmost entertainment district, counted among Japan’s three major entertainment areas along with Tokyo’s Kabukicho and Fukuoka’s Nakasu. The area known as “Sapporo Ramen Alley” is famous as the birthplace of miso ramen. In 1951, eight ramen shops gathered here, marking the beginning of Sapporo ramen’s popularity. Currently, there are two ramen alleys: “The Original Sapporo Ramen Alley” (opened in 1971) and “Sapporo Landmarks New Ramen Alley” (opened in 1976), each in separate areas and independent of each other.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street
This shopping street in Sapporo’s central district is the oldest in Hokkaido. Covered by an arcade, it offers comfortable shopping regardless of weather. Divided into seven blocks, about 200 shops stretch along its 900-meter length, making it a bustling and popular spot.
Nijo Market
The Nijo Market in Sapporo began in the early Meiji era when local fishermen started selling fresh fish. Over time, it evolved into its current form with greengrocers and pubs. Still cherished by locals and popular with tourists seeking Hokkaido souvenirs, it’s known for abundant marine products. About 15 seafood companies and fishmongers offer fresh seafood like crab, salmon, and scallops. Dried and processed seafood are also available, with many shops offering shipping services.
Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
The famous “Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill” in Sapporo is known for the statue of Dr. Clark and adorable sheep. The statue, symbolizing “the eternal truth in the distance,” overlooks the city. The site is attractive for its seasonal events, including expansive lavender fields in summer with free harvesting experiences.
Sapporo Clock Tower
Built in 1878 as part of the former Sapporo Agricultural College, now Hokkaido University, the Sapporo Clock Tower has served various purposes, including educational and military uses, and as a library. Its red roof and white walls, once green, are now iconic. Located about a 10-minute walk from Odori Station, the first floor details the tower’s history, while the second floor retains its historical ambiance as a martial arts hall and displays the clock mechanism. Viewing the bell ringing times is also recommended.
Sapporo TV Tower
Located at the eastern end of Odori Park in central Sapporo, the “Sapporo TV Tower” has been a landmark for over half a century. Completed in 1956, its 90-meter-high observation deck offers panoramic views of Sapporo, with visibility extending to the Ishikari Plain and the Sea of Japan on clear days. Especially during the White Illumination and Snow Festival, the view is spectacular. A special plan allowing the observation deck to be rented for 30 minutes is popular among couples.
Otaru Canal
A 30-minute train ride from Sapporo, the Otaru Canal in Otaru city is a quintessential tourist spot. Completed in the late Taisho period, it once served as a gateway for goods into Hokkaido. Now, the canal is lined with stone warehouses, many converted into restaurants, offering a nostalgic atmosphere. Especially during twilight, the illuminated warehouses present a romantic scene different from daytime. A 40-minute cruise tour is also available, providing a unique view from the water.
Sakaimachi Street
On Sakaimachi Street, “Kitachi Glass,” a venerable glass manufacturer and popular souvenir shop in Otaru, started with oil lamp production. With multiple stores, particularly Kitachi Glass No. 3, it offers various glass products like stained glass and tableware across its country, Japanese, and Western-themed floors. Nearby, the “Otaru Music Box Hall,” marked by a steam clock, is one of Japan’s largest music box specialty stores, offering over 25,000 items, including sushi-shaped and jewel-box music boxes, making it perfect for souvenirs. These shops are ideal for finding interior decorations and gifts.
Tenguyama Ropeway
Tenguyama, a 532.5-meter-high mountain in Otaru, Hokkaido, is southwest of the city center and connected by a ropeway to the Tenguyama Ski Resort. Its summit has four observation decks offering expansive views of Otaru city, the port, Ishikari Bay, and even the Shakotan Peninsula on clear days. The night view is also beautiful, making it a popular spot for nighttime scenery.
2.Reviews
YOSAKOI Soran Festival
Inspired by Kochi Prefecture’s Yosakoi Festival, Hokkaido University students started the YOSAKOI Soran Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido, in 1992. Held in June around Odori Park, this festival combines Yosakoi Festival elements with Hokkaido’s folk song “Soran Bushi.” Colorfully dressed dancers perform energetically to the rhythm of Soran Bushi, enveloping the city in a festive atmosphere.
Sapporo Snow Festival
Ranked alongside Canada’s Quebec Winter Carnival and China’s Harbin Ice Festival, the Sapporo Snow Festival began in 1950, hosted by Sapporo city and the Sapporo Tourism Association. Held in early February at Odori Park in central Sapporo, this festival displays beautiful snow and ice sculptures, attracting about 2 million visitors annually and representing a major event in Hokkaido.
Sapporo White Illumination
The “Sapporo White Illumination” beautifully lights up winter in Sapporo. Starting in 1981 with about 1,000 bulbs in Odori Nishi 2-chome Square, it has grown into one of Japan’s major events. The main venue is Odori Park, featuring special symbol objects. Other sites include Sapporo Station front street, Kita 3-jo Square, Sapporo Station South Exit, and Minami 1-jo Street, all adorned with decorative lights, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a must-see for tourists visiting Sapporo in winter.
3.Local Food
4.Transportation Information
Directions to Sapporo (Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Thai, Indonesian)
Sapporo Tourism Association Official Site
https://www.sapporo.travel/info/about/transportation/
Directions to Otaru (Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Thai)
Otaru Tourism Association Official Site
https://otaru.gr.jp/access
Directions to New Chitose Airport (Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese)
https://www.new-chitose-airport.jp/ja/
5.Map Information
