Unique 9 Things To Do In Sapporo For First Time Visitors

Sapporo is the largest city on the island of Hokkaido in the northern part of Japan. Sapporo is the largest city on the island and has the largest business hub within the island thus attracting both local and international tourists. Sapporo’s annual snowfall and its successful blend of metropolitan and rural eras make it a place of interest for tourists. If you're visiting Sapporo for the first time.

1. Savor Delice at the Nijo Fish Market

This is why it is considered a must-visit attraction for anyone who is planning to visit Sapporo. Being one of the biggest wholesale fish and seafood markets in Japan, the focus is on the fish caught in the nearest waters. Visit the tuna market where there are very active auctions in the morning and then get to taste various food kiosks serving seafood bowls, sushi, and many others. Try the grilled scallops if you’re given a choice!

2. Take a rest in the Resorts of Jozankei Onsen

After the sightseeing, if you want to relax your muscles, the nearest hot spring village that can be reached within an hour's drive is the Jozankei Onsen hot spring village. These hot water springs having very high mineral content have been used for healing since 1,300 AD! Relax worn-out muscles or quench your thirst with hot spring-boiled eggs from Jozankei, which uses boiling onsen water.

3. Japanese Sapporo Beer Museum

Beer culture in Sapporo cannot be discussed, so yes, there is something to learn about the history of beer! It’s a beer lover’s paradise as visitors can learn about over 140 years of brewing history in Japan and taste the freshest Sapporo beer. Indulge in sweet beers chocolates, or soft-serve iced cream from the restaurant within the brewery.

4. Historic Buildings: Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens

This is the case with the Hokkaido University established in 1876 the campus of which is replete with structures that date back to the Meiji and Taisho periods. Enjoy a stroll around the gorgeous Botanical Gardens and marvel at the Japanese Peranakan architecture of this building that combines the best of East and West. One of the landmarks for you is the Furukawa Memorial Hall which is built with red bricks.

5. Genghis Khan Lamb BBQ

It became recently popular to try Genghis Khan, which is a lamb barbecue that is cooked on a convex iron skillet, and it is considered to be a traditional Hokkaido dish. Be sure to visit the first Genghis Khan restaurant in Sapporo Daruma Restaurant and marvel at how the chefs masterfully cook the soft and fresh Hokkaido lamb. The appeal of the taste can be seen in how it smells, and you will be drooling! There’s no need for a plate or utensils either, just dig into the delicious lamb straight from the pan with your bare hands.

6. For a city view, tourists can visit Odori Park & TV Tower.

One of the most popular and exciting parks in Sapporo which is nearly 12 blocks long and is located in the downtown area is Odori Park. Most attractive during the winter when there are known festivals all through summer have events like open-air concerts, beer gardens, and so on. Visit Sapporo TV Tower located beside Odori Park for a view of the city of Sapporo from its observation deck that is 90 meters high.

7. From Sapporo day trips to Otaru and Hakodate are fairly easy to organize.

Otaru City is just 40 minutes from Sapporo by train and the city is famous for the scenic light canal lined with renovated warehouse cafes, restaurants, and museums. Take a leisurely walk by the canal or make a trip to Shukutsu Peninsular which houses numerous small villages and craft works. Or travel a little bit out of the city for a day and visit the Hakodate morning market and then go up Mt Hakodate by cable car for some nice views over the sea.

8. Discover Sapporo’s Snow Magic During February

If you plan to visit Sapporo, then be sure to do it when the Sapporo International Snow Sculpture Festival which is held in February every year is on. Observe the sledding performance and amaze yourself with the splendid snow sculptures and ice architecture in Odori Park. The decorations are well-lit at night when certain parts of the building are lit in different colors. They get to have certain winter delicacies such as hot ramen, grilled corn as well and hot wine for a warmer stomach.

9. Making Purchases for Souvenirs at Tanuki Koji Shopping Arcade

Spend some time shopping in Tanuki Koji which is one of the shopping arcades with over one hundred and twenty shops filled with foods and other goods from Hokkaido. Try to find Hokkaido’s pride, the melon, or the Kit Kat chocolates flaunting the flavor of seafood. Or find yourself strolling through the Otaru section where visitors are offered a chance to explore the city’s glass-making culture. This arcade leads right into Susukino’s lively eating and drinking scene for even more excitement over grilled chicken yakitori and fresh draft beer at night.

Read More:

Antalya, Turkey Top 5 Amazing Places to See

Unique 9 Things to Do in Sapporo for First Time Visitors

Top 15 Must-Visit Destinations of Beijing

Top 13 Free + Paid Things to Do in Busan Korea

6 Amazing Things to Do in Fukuoka!

5 Spots You Must Visit on Your Trip to Edinburgh

Top 10 Places to Visit in Porto - From Great Views to Tasty Port Wine