28 must-visit Sapporo City attractions: add these to your itinerary!

Here are the must-visit Sapporo City attractions with information on how to get there, entrance fees, and golden travel tips for visiting each attraction.

Sapporo, Japan, is best known for its annual Snow Festival, featuring spectacular ice and snow sculptures that draw visitors worldwide.

It’s also renowned for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, ramen, and its namesake Sapporo beer. The city serves as a gateway to Hokkaido’s stunning natural landscapes, offering outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.

Its blend of modern and historic attractions, including the historic Clock Tower and Odori Park, further enhances its appeal.

Visiting Sapporo is worth it for its unique combination of cultural events, culinary delights, and natural beauty. The Sapporo Snow Festival alone is a bucket-list experience, showcasing incredible artistry in ice and snow.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in Hokkaido’s famed seafood and dairy products. Outdoor adventurers will appreciate the easy access to prime skiing and hot springs, particularly in nearby areas like Niseko and Noboribetsu.

Plus, Sapporo’s welcoming atmosphere, efficient public transportation, and vibrant city life offer a fulfilling urban experience amidst the natural wonders of Hokkaido.

Here are the must-visit Sapporo City attractions with information on how to get there, entrance fees, and golden travel tips for visiting each attraction.

1. Sapporo Clock Tower

The Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of the city, stands as a testament to Sapporo’s development during the Meiji Period.

Constructed in 1878, it originally served as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College, now Hokkaido University, and houses a clock made in Boston, USA, which has been running since its installation.

Here, you can explore the small museum inside the tower that details Sapporo’s history and the tower’s significance.

Watching the clock chime on the hour is a simple yet profound experience. Additionally, the photographic exhibits provide deeper insights into the city’s cultural heritage.

Entry to the Sapporo Clock Tower costs around 200 yen ($1.36 USD) for adults. It’s easily accessible by public transport, located just a short walk from Sapporo Station, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

2. Susukino Street: best of the best Sapporo City attractions

Susukino, Sapporo’s premier entertainment district, has evolved significantly since its establishment in the late 19th century.

Today, it’s known for its vibrant nightlife, but its history is rooted in the development of Sapporo as a hub of commerce and social life.

Its bustling streets are lined with an array of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops, making it a paradise for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts alike. The neon-lit landscape at night provides a visually stunning backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

Here, you can sample local delicacies at various eateries, enjoy karaoke sessions with friends, or explore the myriad of shops selling everything from souvenirs to high fashion.

The Ramen Yokocho, a narrow lane filled with ramen shops, is a must-visit for noodle lovers.

3. Sapporo Beer Museum

The Sapporo Beer Museum, established in the former Sapporo Sugar Factory’s premises, is a historic building dating back to 1890.

It is dedicated to the history of beer in Japan, with a focus on Sapporo Breweries, one of the country’s oldest and most famous beer manufacturers.

This is one of the most unique Sapporo City attractions, and it offers beer enthusiasts and history buffs alike a fascinating insight into the brewing process and the evolution of beer culture in Japan.

Here, you can take a self-guided tour of the museum to learn about the history of Sapporo Beer, enjoy beer tasting sessions at the end of the tour, and visit the gift shop for exclusive Sapporo Beer merchandise.

Tasting sessions offer a range of Sapporo beers, including some limited editions not available elsewhere.

Entrance to the Sapporo Beer Museum is free, but beer tasting sessions are available for a fee starting at around 500 yen ($3.40 USD).

The museum is accessible by a short bus ride from JR Sapporo Station, making it an easy addition to any travel itinerary.

4. Hokkaido Shrine

Hokkaido Shrine, established in 1869, is a Shinto shrine located in Maruyama Park. It was built to enshrine the soul of Emperor Meiji and three other deities significant to Hokkaido’s development.

The shrine is an important cultural site representing the region’s spiritual heritage. As one of the most important Sapporo City attractions, Hokkaido Shrine offers visitors a tranquil escape from the urban bustle.

The shrine’s beautiful traditional architecture and Maruyama Park’s surrounding natural beauty provide a peaceful setting for reflection and exploration.

Here, you can participate in traditional Shinto rituals, such as purchasing omikuji (fortune slips) and offering prayers.

The park surrounding the shrine is perfect for leisurely walks, especially during cherry blossom season in Hokkaido, when the scenery is particularly breathtaking. Seasonal festivals also offer a glimpse into local traditions and customs.

There is no entrance fee to visit Hokkaido Shrine. It’s located within Maruyama Park, easily accessible by subway, with the closest station being Maruyama Koen.

5. Sapporo Crab Market

The Sapporo Crab Market is renowned for its fresh seafood, with a particular focus on Hokkaido’s crab varieties. It has become a symbol of the region’s rich marine resources and culinary expertise, attracting seafood lovers from around the world.

It is one of the not-so-famous Sapporo City attractions and is a paradise for seafood aficionados. The market showcases the freshest catch from Hokkaido’s waters, offering an unparalleled opportunity to taste various types of crab and other local seafood specialties prepared in traditional and contemporary styles.

You can enjoy sampling different crab dishes, from succulent crab legs steamed or grilled to perfection, to rich and hearty crab soups. The market also offers the chance to purchase fresh seafood to take home or have prepared on the spot by skilled chefs.

There is no entrance fee to explore the Sapporo Crab Market. Prices for seafood and dishes vary depending on the season and market rates.

The market is conveniently located near downtown Sapporo, making it easily accessible by public transport or a short taxi ride.

6. Okurayama Viewing Point

The Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, featuring the Okurayama Viewing Point, has been a significant site since its construction for the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo.

It offers panoramic views of Sapporo and beyond, symbolizing the city’s winter sports heritage.

Okurayama Viewing Point is one of the must-see Sapporo City attractions for its breathtaking views and historical significance.

Here, you can take the chair lift to the viewing point, experience the ski jump simulator, and visit the on-site Winter Sports Museum. The panoramic view from the top is ideal for photography enthusiasts, offering a stunning backdrop of Sapporo and its natural surroundings.

Access to the Okurayama Viewing Point involves a small fee for the chairlift, around 500 yen ($3.40 USD) for a round trip. The site is accessible via a short bus ride from Maruyama Park, making it an easy addition to a day out exploring the area’s attractions.

7. Sapporo TV Tower

Constructed in 1957, the Sapporo TV Tower is an iconic landmark in Odori Park. It serves as a television broadcast antenna and a viewpoint, offering a glimpse into Japan’s post-war development era and Sapporo’s urban landscape.

The Sapporo TV Tower is one of the prominent attractions in Sapporo City. From its observation deck, the tower offers spectacular views of the city.

The tower, especially beautiful at night when lit up, provides a panoramic vista of Odori Park, the surrounding cityscape, and, on clear days, the distant mountains.

Here, you can ascend to the observation deck for stunning city views, explore the tower’s base area, which features exhibits and souvenir shops, and enjoy the seasonal illuminations of Odori Park from an elevated perspective.

Entrance to the observation deck typically costs around 720 yen ($4.90 USD) for adults.

The Sapporo TV Tower is centrally located at the eastern end of Odori Park, easily accessible on foot from Sapporo Station or Odori Subway Station.

8. Sapporo Teine

Sapporo Teine, a ski resort area, was one of the venues for the 1972 Winter Olympics, highlighting its long-standing contribution to winter sports in Sapporo.

It offers a range of slopes suitable for beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Sapporo Teine is one of the thrilling Sapporo City attractions for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort provides diverse terrain, including Olympic runs, and stunning views over the Sea of Japan.

It’s an excellent destination for those looking to experience the powder snow Hokkaido is famous for.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy snow rafting, take ski or snowboard lessons, and relax at the on-site restaurants with a view of the slopes and sea.

The Highland Zone is perfect for advanced skiers, while the Olympia Zone caters to families and beginners.

Lift ticket prices vary depending on the season and age, with a full-day pass costing around 5,000 yen ($34 USD) for adults.

Sapporo Teine is accessible by car or shuttle bus from central Sapporo, offering a convenient getaway for a day on the slopes.

9. Sapporo Agricultural Museum

The Sapporo Agricultural Museum, located within Hokkaido University, explores the development of agriculture in Hokkaido and its impact on the region.

It’s housed in a historic building that exemplifies early academic architecture in Japan.

This museum is one of the most fascinating Sapporo City attractions for those interested in agriculture, science, and history.

It offers insightful exhibits on the technological advances and historical context of farming in Hokkaido, demonstrating the island’s significant role in Japan’s agricultural sector.

Here, you can explore interactive displays, historical artifacts, and learn about the evolution of agricultural practices in Hokkaido. The museum also offers educational programs and seasonal exhibits, making it an engaging experience for all ages.

Admission to the Sapporo Agricultural Museum is free, making it an accessible educational experience. It’s located within the Hokkaido University campus, easily reached by a short walk from Sapporo Station.

10. Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park, established in 1951, is known for its expansive green spaces and as the site of the Hokkaido Shrine. The park is a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing in spring and offers a peaceful retreat within the city.

It is one of the verdant Sapporo City attractions offering a natural oasis in the urban environment. It’s ideal for picnicking, leisurely walks, and enjoying the changing seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn.

Here, you can explore the Hokkaido Shrine, take leisurely strolls along the park’s walking paths, engage in bird watching, and participate in seasonal events like the cherry blossom festival.

The park also features sports facilities and playgrounds for children. There is no entrance fee to Maruyama Park, making it a freely accessible natural escape.

The park is easily reached by subway, with the Maruyama Koen Station located nearby, providing a convenient gateway to this lush, green haven.

11. Historical Village of Hokkaido

The Historical Village of Hokkaido is an open-air museum in Sapporo, showcasing buildings and architecture from the Meiji and Taisho periods of Japan (1868-1926).

It aims to preserve the history and culture of Hokkaido’s early pioneers. This is one of the most cultural Sapporo City attractions and offers a unique journey back in time to experience the pioneering days of Hokkaido.

It’s spread across four sections: a town, fishing village, farm village, and mountain village, each meticulously reconstructed to offer an authentic glimpse into the past.

The village is both educational and visually stunning, especially during the changing seasons.

You can explore over 60 buildings, including a school, post office, and railway station, all transported and reconstructed on-site.

Activities like horse-drawn carriage rides and traditional craft workshops are available, providing a hands-on experience of historical Japanese life.

Entrance fees are around 800 yen ($5.44 USD) for adults. The village is easily accessible by public transportation from central Sapporo, with buses running regularly to the site.

12. Mount Moiwa Ropeway

The Mount Moiwa Ropeway was established to provide easy access to the summit of Mount Moiwa, offering panoramic views of Sapporo and its surroundings. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to admire the cityscape.

It is one of the premier Sapporo City attractions, Mount Moiwa offers breathtaking views, especially at night when the city lights sparkle below.

The ropeway journey itself is a thrilling experience, presenting picturesque vistas of the natural landscape as you ascend.

At the summit, you can enjoy the observation deck, take romantic walks along the Lover’s Sanctuary, and dine in the restaurant with a view. It’s also a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts aiming to capture Sapporo’s beauty.

The round-trip fare for the ropeway and the Moriscar (mini cable car) is about 1,700 yen ($11.56 USD) for adults. A free shuttle bus from the Maruyama Park area facilitates access to the base station.

13. Sapporo Shiryokan

The Sapporo Shiryokan, formerly the Sapporo Court of Appeals, is a neoclassical building designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

It now serves as a museum showcasing the history of Sapporo and the building itself.

This is one of the architecturally significant Sapporo City attractions and provides insight into Japan’s judicial history and the development of Sapporo.

Its elegant design and historical exhibits offer a distinct cultural experience, differing from Sapporo’s natural and winter sports-related attractions.

You can explore the restored courtrooms and offices, view exhibits on the city’s history, and participate in special exhibitions and events throughout the year. The building’s architecture and the surrounding gardens are also worth exploring.

Entry is free, making it an accessible cultural experience. The museum is located within walking distance from the Sapporo Station, offering easy access to visitors.

14. Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill

Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is famous for its statue of Dr. William S. Clark, who is well-known for his contribution to the development of agriculture in Hokkaido and his enduring motto, “Boys, be ambitious!”

This is one of the most iconic Sapporo City attractions. It provides stunning views of the Ishikari Plain and Sapporo city. The hill is particularly beautiful during spring and summer, when the fields are green and lush.

Apart from taking in the views, visitors can learn about Dr. Clark at the memorial hall, enjoy seasonal flowers, and dine at the restaurant overlooking the plains. Sheep grazing on the hillside add to the pastoral ambiance.

The entrance fee is about 520 yen ($3.54 USD) for adults. Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is accessible by bus from the Fukuzumi subway station, making it a convenient excursion from the city.

15. Shiroi Koibito Park

Shiroi Koibito Park is a chocolate factory and theme park dedicated to Ishiya’s famous Shiroi Koibito cookie, a well-loved souvenir of Hokkaido. The park combines a European village’s charm with chocolate production’s delights.

As a delightful Sapporo City attraction, Shiroi Koibito Park offers a whimsical experience for visitors of all ages. The park provides a fascinating look into the cookie-making process, complemented by its enchanting, European-inspired architecture and landscapes.

Tour the chocolate factory, create your own custom Shiroi Koibito cookie, visit the chocolate lounge to sample various confections, and explore the beautifully landscaped park and its seasonal decorations.

Entry to the park is free, but factory tours and certain activities have fees starting around 600 yen ($4 USD). The park is easily accessible by subway and bus from central Sapporo.

16. Hokkaido University

Founded in 1876 as Sapporo Agricultural College, Hokkaido University is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

Its expansive campus is renowned for its blend of Western and Japanese architectural styles, beautiful landscapes, and historical significance.

Hokkaido University’s campus is one of the must-visit Sapporo City attractions, offering peaceful walks through its elm-lined avenues, historic buildings, and the renowned Botanic Garden.

It’s a perfect setting for those interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoying nature within the city.

You can take a leisurely stroll through the campus, visit the Hokkaido University Museum, explore the Botanic Gardens, and enjoy the seasonal beauty of the campus, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn.

The university campus and museum are open to the public free of charge. It’s located in the heart of Sapporo, within walking distance from Sapporo Station, making it easily accessible for a tranquil escape from the urban environment.

17. Sapporo Waterworks Memorial Museum

The Sapporo Waterworks Memorial Museum, located in the Higashi ward, is housed in a preserved water purification plant.

This historical site marks Sapporo’s modernization efforts in the early 20th century and showcases the city’s advancement in public health and infrastructure.

As one of the unique Sapporo City attractions, the museum offers an insightful look into the engineering marvels and societal changes accompanying modern waterworks’ development.

It’s a fascinating destination for those interested in history, science, and industrial heritage, providing a rare glimpse into the importance of water infrastructure in urban development.

Here, you can explore interactive exhibits detailing the process of water purification, admire the beautifully preserved architecture of the plant, and engage with educational programs designed to enhance understanding of water’s role in society.

Entry to the Sapporo Waterworks Memorial Museum is free, making it an accessible educational experience. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events.

It’s easily reached by public transport, with bus and subway options available from central Sapporo.

18. Gulliver Town Pokke

Gulliver Town Pokke is a family-friendly indoor play area located in the heart of Sapporo. It is designed to stimulate children’s creativity and adventure.

Inspired by the tale of Gulliver’s Travels, it offers a variety of themed play zones.

This imaginative Sapporo City attraction provides a safe and engaging environment for children to explore, play, and learn.

With its variety of activities tailored to different ages, it’s the perfect place for families to spend quality time together while fostering the development of physical and cognitive skills in children.

Inside Gulliver Town Pokke, children can climb, slide, and discover through themed play areas, participate in craft workshops, and engage in interactive games that encourage exploration and learning. Parents can join in the fun or relax in dedicated lounging areas.

There is an admission fee for children, with rates varying depending on age, while accompanying adults enter for free.

Gulliver Town Pokke is centrally located in Sapporo, easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient family outing.

19. Nakajima Park

Established in the early 20th century, Nakajima Park is an urban oasis in the heart of Sapporo.

The park is home to historical buildings, including the Hoheikan, a Meiji-era guest house, and provides a green retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Nakajima Park is one of the most popular Sapporo City attractions for its scenic beauty, cultural sites, and recreational facilities. Its sprawling lawns, serene ponds, and shaded paths offer a peaceful escape for visitors and locals alike.

You can enjoy boating on the park’s pond, explore the Hoheikan and other historical buildings, stroll through the Japanese garden, and attend concerts at the outdoor amphitheater. The park also features sports facilities and playgrounds for children.

Nakajima Park is open to the public free of charge. It’s conveniently located within walking distance from Nakajima Koen Subway Station, making it easily accessible for anyone looking to enjoy nature and culture within the city.

20. Sapporo Dome

Opened in 2001, the Sapporo Dome is an architectural marvel, hosting various sporting events, including football and baseball games.

It’s renowned for its retractable surface, which can switch between grass for football and an artificial turf for baseball.

As one of the most prominent Sapporo City attractions, the Sapporo Dome offers visitors the chance to experience the excitement of live sports in a state-of-the-art facility.

Attend a live game to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Japanese sports culture, take a guided tour of the facility to learn about its architectural features and operation, and visit the adjacent sports park for recreational activities.

Ticket prices for events vary. Guided tours of the dome are available for a fee.

The Sapporo Dome is accessible via the Toho Subway Line, with shuttle buses available on event days, making it an exciting addition to a Sapporo itinerary.

21. Odori Park

Spanning across the center of Sapporo, Odori Park is a large, green strip that divides the city into north and south. It hosts major events like the Sapporo Snow Festival, transforming into a vibrant venue of sculptures and festivities in winter.

Odori Park is a central Sapporo City attraction, offering a year-round venue for leisure, culture, and events. Its expansive lawns, beautiful fountains, and seasonal flower beds provide a picturesque setting for relaxation and entertainment in the heart of the city.

You can enjoy seasonal festivals, stroll along the flower-lined paths, relax by the fountains, and climb the Sapporo TV Tower at the eastern end for panoramic city views.

The park also serves as a cultural hub, with art installations and performances throughout the year.

Access to Odori Park is free, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. It stretches across several city blocks and is easily accessible from multiple subway stations along its length, including Odori Station.

22. Heisei Period Poplar Avenue

The Heisei Period Poplar Avenue, located within the expansive grounds of Hokkaido University, is a tree-lined path that has become emblematic of the campus.

Planted to commemorate the Heisei era, it offers a serene and picturesque walkway through the university.

This is one of the most instagrammable Sapporo City attractions. It is not only a beautiful example of landscape architecture but also a symbol of the passing of time and the continuity of nature.

Take a walk along the avenue to appreciate the beauty of the poplar trees in different seasons, from the fresh green of spring to the golden hues of autumn.

The university campus also offers other attractions, including botanical gardens and historic buildings.

There is no entrance fee to walk along the Heisei Period Poplar Avenue or explore the Hokkaido University campus.

It’s easily accessible on foot from Sapporo Station, inviting visitors to enjoy a peaceful break amidst their city explorations.

23. Hohei Kan

The Hohei Kan, built in 1880, is one of the oldest Western-style buildings in Sapporo. Originally used for entertaining important guests, it has been relocated to Nakajima Park and now serves as a cultural heritage site.

This Sapporo City attraction is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The Hohei Kan beautifully showcases Western influence on Japanese architecture during the Meiji Period.

You can tour the interior to see its well-preserved rooms and furnishings, learn about its history and the distinguished guests it hosted, and enjoy the surrounding park.

Special events and exhibitions are often held here, offering deeper insights into its cultural significance.

There is a small entrance fee of around 300 yen ($2 USD) for adults. The Hohei Kan is located in Nakajima Park, easily accessible by subway, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the park.

24. Kappa Daio Statue

The Kappa Daio Statue is a whimsical tribute to the mythical Kappa, a creature said to inhabit the waters of Japan. It reflects the city’s sense of humor and love for folklore.

As one of the unusual Sapporo City attractions, the Kappa Daio Statue offers a light-hearted photo opportunity and a chance to dive into Japanese mythology.

It’s a fun, quirky stop that adds a unique twist to your Sapporo itinerary, showcasing the city’s cultural charm.

Take photos with the statue, explore the surrounding area for more kappa-themed decorations, and visit nearby cafes and shops. Local legends and stories about the kappa can add an intriguing layer to your visit.

Visiting the Kappa Daio Statue is free. It’s located in a public area, easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions and transport links, making it a hassle-free addition to your city tour.

25. Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park, designed by the renowned architect Isamu Noguchi, was transformed from a waste disposal site into a sprawling public park. It opened in 2005, offering a blend of art, architecture, and nature.

This is one of the vast Sapporo City attractions is an incredible fusion of art and landscape design, offering a unique outdoor experience.

Moerenuma Park features sculptures, playgrounds, and beautifully designed green spaces that invite exploration and relaxation.

Climb Mount Moere for panoramic views, visit the Glass Pyramid, “Hidamari,” explore the art installations scattered throughout the park, and enjoy seasonal activities like swimming in summer and cross-country skiing in winter.

Entrance to Moerenuma Park is free. The park is located on the outskirts of Sapporo and is accessible by bus from Kanjodori Higashi Subway Station.

26. Nijo Market

Established in the early 20th century, Nijo Market is a bustling seafood market in the heart of Sapporo. It is renowned for offering a wide variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and gourmet delicacies.

Nijo Market is one of the vibrant Sapporo City attractions that provides a glimpse into the culinary culture of Hokkaido.

Food enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to sample fresh seafood, such as crab, sea urchin, and scallops, and explore the array of local specialties available.

Sample fresh seafood at one of the market’s eateries, shop for local delicacies and souvenirs, and engage with the friendly vendors to learn about Hokkaido’s rich culinary traditions.

Don’t miss trying a seafood bowl (kaisendon) for a true taste of the region.

There is no entrance fee to explore Nijo Market. The market is easily accessible on foot from the Sapporo Subway Station, making it a convenient and enticing option for foodies and curious travelers alike.

27. Sapporo Fujino Winery

Sapporo Fujino Winery, located on the outskirts of Sapporo, is a relatively new addition to Hokkaido’s burgeoning wine scene. It specializes in crafting wines that capture the essence of the local terroir.

This Sapporo City attraction offers wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike the chance to experience Hokkaido’s wine-making prowess.

Enjoy a guided tour of the winery to learn about the wine-making process, partake in a tasting session to sample various wines, and relax in the scenic vineyard setting.

The winery also features a shop where visitors can purchase their favorite wines.

Sapporo Fujino Winery may charge for tours and tastings, with prices varying. It is accessible by car or taxi from central Sapporo, offering a peaceful escape into the countryside for wine lovers.

28. Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the outskirts of Sapporo. It’s known for its white, thread-like streams of water cascading down a lush, green backdrop, offering a serene natural setting.

As a tranquil Sapporo City attraction, Shiraito Falls is perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.

The waterfall’s beauty changes with the seasons, from the vibrant greens of summer to the stunning hues of autumn.

Enjoy a leisurely walk to the waterfall, take in the serene beauty and soothing sounds of the cascading water, and explore the surrounding trails for more scenic views. Picnicking near the falls is a popular activity!

There is no entrance fee to visit Shiraito Falls. It’s accessible by car or public transport, followed by a short walk.