3If you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to experience something different from Tokyo or Osaka, Sapporo could be the perfect choice. As the largest city in Hokkaido Island, Sapporo is famous for its iconic winter season, world-class snow festivals, and local culinary delights that will keep you coming back for more.
It’s no surprise that searches for tourist attractions in Sapporo continue to rise. After all, Sapporo truly has a unique charm that’s perfect for those who love nature, culture, and festivals.
So, which tourist attractions in Sapporo are worth visiting? Discover the top recommendations in this article!
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If this is your first time visiting Sapporo, the following destinations should definitely be on your bucket list.
Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo is one of the most popular family-friendly tourist attractions in Sapporo. The zoo is home to more than 160 species and over 900 animals, including polar bears, red pandas, and penguins.
In addition, there are close-up animal observation facilities that once went viral across Japan. If you’d like to gain in-depth insights directly from the zookeepers, you can join the Minna Dokidoki Taiken tour experience.
Sapporo TV Tower is one of the city’s must-see landmarks. While its primary function is as a broadcasting tower for television and radio stations, Sapporo TV Tower also features an observation deck, offering 360-degree views of Sapporo City.
Standing more than 90 meters above ground, this observation deck is the perfect spot to admire the sweeping views of Odori Park, Mount Okura, and the vibrant Sapporo skyline.
Sapporo JR Tower Observation Deck T38 is an observatory located within the JR Tower, along with a wide range of facilities. Beyond enjoying panoramic city views, you can also shop, dine, and even stay overnight in the same complex.
This makes Sapporo JR Tower Observation Deck T38 an excellent all-in-one holiday destination. Especially for those who have limited time to explore Sapporo City.
This man-made park was designed by a renowned Japanese artist, Isamu Noguchi. Here, you’ll discover landscapes that beautifully blend nature with modern art installations.
With its expansive grounds, you can explore the park by renting a bicycle. Besides strolling around the park, you can also enjoy a variety of fun activities, such as playing in the snow during winter or relaxing at the artificial beach.
Next one is Nakajima, a city park featuring cultural facilities and historic buildings that you shouldn’t miss. Its strategic location in central Sapporo also makes it easily accessible.
The park offers plenty to explore, including Shobu-ike Pond and important cultural properties, such as Hoheikan and Hassokan. There’s also the Kitara Concert Hall and an astronomical observatory. If you’re looking for a peaceful green space with complete facilities, Nakajima Park is the perfect choice.
It’s widely known that much of Sapporo is covered in snow during winter. That’s exactly why the city is globally famous for its snow events, especially the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Held every February, this festival takes place across three main venues: Odori, Tsudome, and Susukino. At this festival, you can admire magnificent sculptures carefully crafted from snow.
Historic Village is a tourist attraction in Sapporo that holds significant historical value. The site features traditional houses, shops, markets, and even schools that preserve their original, traditional architecture.
The snow-covered buildings are a highlight for visitors looking to capture memorable photos. When you're visiting, don't forget to explore every corner and uncover the rich history behind each structure.
Shiroi Koibito Park is far from an ordinary park, as it features a chocolate factory you can visit. Its distinctive European-style architecture is one of the park's unique highlights.
During your visit to the chocolate factory, you’ll get to see the chocolate-making process and even ride a small train around the factory grounds. In addition, the park also features playgrounds, flower gardens, and a uniquely designed clock tower.
Hokkaido is famously known as the birthplace of beer in Japan. Interestingly, Sapporo is home to the oldest beer production center in the country.
One of its most iconic products is Sapporo Beer. The Sapporo Beer Museum is a historic building that offers fascinating insights into beer and its brewing process. This classic building also houses a restaurant, enhancing your overall tour experience.
The final recommendation for tourist attractions in Sapporo is Susukino. This area is the largest entertainment district in northern Japan. Here, you’ll find plenty of shops, bars, cafés, and restaurants lining the streets.
However, one highlight you simply can’t miss is tasting ramen at Ramen Yokocho, the most famous ramen alley in Sapporo. Additionally, in February, during the snowy season, Susukino hosts its own snow festival featuring impressive three-dimensional ice sculptures.
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