Exploring Sapporo, Japan: 6 Must-See Spots for First-Time Visitors! Plus, Transportation Tips
Asia•Japan•Sapporo
70
Published at 09/25/2024
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Thinking about a free-spirited trip to Sapporo but not sure where to kick off your adventure? No worries! Kinnso has put together a fantastic list of six must-see attractions in Sapporo, such as the iconic Clock Tower and the bustling Tanukikoji Shopping Street. We’ve also included some handy transportation tips for each spot. With this guide, you'll be all set to make the most of your Hokkaido journey!
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1. Odori Park
Odori Park stands out as a must-visit spot right in the middle of Sapporo City, spanning 13 city blocks. Each season offers something special. In the spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a beautiful scene. Summer heats up with a vibrant beer festival, making it a fun place to hang out. When autumn arrives, the park glows with the golden hues of ginkgo trees. Come winter, it transforms into a magical wonderland, sparkling with white lights. Plus, don’t miss the viewing platform at the TV Tower for an amazing 360-degree view of Sapporo.
Getting to Datong Park:
- Hop on the subway and ride it to "Datong Station." From there, it's just a short walk straight to Datong Park.
2. Tanukikoji Shopping Street
If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, Tanukikoji Shopping Street is the place to be! This lively street stretches over a kilometer and is packed with more than 150 different shops. Whether you're looking for drugstores or quirky souvenir stores, there's something for everyone here. Plus, you can discover a variety of shops selling exclusive Hokkaido products, making it a must-visit spot. Don't miss out on the big department stores like Parco and Marui Imai along the way – they're a paradise for shopping lovers!
Getting to Nakazakicho Shopping Street:
- Hop on the subway and head to either "Nakazakicho Station" or "Ohashi Station." Both stations will drop you right at the entrance of this charming shopping street.
3. Shiroi Koibito Park
- If you adore Shiroi Koibito chocolate, then Shiroi Koibito Park is a place you absolutely have to visit! This charming park, established by the famous Hokkaido confectionery brand "Ishiya," lets you take a tour of the chocolate factory and even try your hand at making your own chocolate in their workshop. The park's beautiful European castle-style architecture is perfect for snapping some memorable photos. Plus, the shopping area is filled with unique products you won't find anywhere else, so make sure to grab some sweet souvenirs to remember your trip by.
Getting to Shiroi Koibito Park:
- Hop on the East-West Line subway and get off at "Miyanosawa" Station. From there, you can catch the park's complimentary shuttle bus, which will whisk you to your destination in about 10 minutes.
4. Sapporo Beer Museum
Ready to dive into the world of Japanese beer? Head over to the Sapporo Beer Museum! This place is a treasure trove for beer lovers, featuring fascinating exhibits that walk you through the history of Sapporo Beer, its unique brewing process, and some rare vintage posters. Once you've soaked in all that beer knowledge, treat yourself to some freshly brewed beer at the Sapporo Beer Garden right on site. Pair your drink with Hokkaido's delicious specialties like king crab and melon for an unforgettable experience! Plus, the museum has a variety of exclusive craft beers available for purchase, making it a must-visit spot.
How to Get to the Sapporo Beer Museum:
- Hop on the Toho Line and get off at "Higashiku Kitano 7 Jo" Station. From there, it's just a quick 3-minute stroll to the museum.
- Alternatively, you can take the City Tram Namboku Line to "Beer Museum Mae" Station, which drops you right at the museum's entrance.
5. Clock Tower
One of Sapporo's iconic landmarks, the Clock Tower, dates back to the Meiji period and originally served as the drill hall for the old Sapporo Agricultural College. This charming building, with its American red brick exterior and striking white clock tower, is a favorite photo spot for visitors. Head up to the observation deck on the second floor to take in stunning views of Odori Park and the Old City Hall, along with other picturesque sights of Sapporo. For those keen to delve into the history of this historic structure, the first floor hosts a permanent exhibition that's definitely worth a visit.
Getting to the Clock Tower:
- Hop on the subway to "Daitō Station," exit from Exit 1, and stroll for about 5 minutes to arrive at the Clock Tower.
- You can also take the streetcar, get off at "Nishi 4-chome Station," and walk for around 5 minutes.
6. Hokkaido Shrine
If you're exploring Hokkaido, a visit to the Hokkaido Shrine is a must. It's the most famous shrine on the island, dedicated to the "Three Gods of Development" who safeguard the region. The shrine attracts over a million visitors during the Japanese New Year celebrations. Nestled right across from Odori Park, it covers a vast area that offers breathtaking views all year round. In the summer, it's a cool and serene escape, and in the autumn, the foliage is simply spectacular. You don’t need to head to Kyoto to experience the charm of a traditional shrine; you can find it right here in Sapporo.
Getting to Hokkaido Shrine:
- Hop on the city tram on the Yamabishi Line and get off at "Hokkaido Jingu Mae" for a direct route.
- Alternatively, take the subway to "Odori Station," then switch to the city tram; it’s only two stops to the shrine from there.