Overview
Take a trip to Sapporo on your Japan Vacation
Considered one of Japan’s nicest and newest cities, Sapporo is the capital and largest city of the northern island of Hokkaido. Holding a population of seven in 1857, it now features the fourth largest population in Japan with 2 million people.
Once home to indigenous Ainu settlements, Sapporo’s development began at the end of the Edo Period in 1866 on a canal running through the area, while the new Meiji government established it as the administrative centre of Hokkaido. Featuring an American-style grid plan, Sapporo features tree-lined boulevards and modern architecture to be enjoyed on a Japanese vacation.
The annual Sapporo Snow Festival first began in 1950. Held in the first week of February, the famous festival attracts artists from all around the world to compete in the creation of elaborate ice sculptors.
Ideal for its cooler climate, Sapporo is famous for its ski resorts and played host to the 1972 Winter Olympics, the first ever to be held in Asia. With its newly constructed Sapporo Dome, the city also played host to three FIFA World Cup matches in 2002.
While Sapporo’s major industries include information technology, retail, and tourism, it is well known for Sapporo Brewery and features the Sapporo Beer Museum where visitors on a Japan vacation can learn the history of the brewing process as well as sample various beers.
Other sites include the Clock Tower, Sapporo’s oldest building, as well as Sapporo TV Tower. Asahiyama Park is ideal for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, while Odori Park, located in the heart of Sapporo, hosts various festivals and events held throughout the year, all making this modern city an eventful place to visit on a Japan vacation.
Ideal for its cooler climate, Sapporo is famous for its ski resorts and played host to the 1972 Winter Olympics, the first ever to be held in Asia. With its newly constructed Sapporo Dome, the city also played host to three FIFA World Cup matches in 2002.
While Sapporo’s major industries include information technology, retail, and tourism, it is well known for Sapporo Brewery and features the Sapporo Beer Museum where visitors on a Japan vacation can learn the history of the brewing process as well as sample various beers.
Other sites include the Clock Tower, Sapporo’s oldest building, as well as Sapporo TV Tower. Asahiyama Park is ideal for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, while Odori Park, located in the heart of Sapporo, hosts various festivals and events held throughout the year, all making this modern city an eventful place to visit on a Japan vacation.
At a Glance
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Japanese Yen (JPY)What do the experts say?
You should try a Zen meditation session. Imagine slipping into a silk kimono for the day—carefully tied by an expert dresser, every fold precise, every colour chosen to suit the season. It’s a ritual that feels as personal as it is timeless.
What do I love about Japan? In a word - EVERYTHING. The incredible contrast that Japan offers - new/innovative vs old/traditional, the warm and welcoming people, the incredible rich culture, the culinary wonders awaiting around every corner, the cleanliness, efficiency and safety. It's one of the best places to visit in Asia in my opinion.
Every season offers something to fall in love with, but autumn feels especially magical—fewer tourists, crisp weather, and foliage that rivals the famous blossoms.
Sapporo's clock tower is always a great photo o...
Festival lights
Old city hall
Night view of Sapporo TV Tower
Snow sculpture of the Taj Mahal
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