Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is approximately one hour by car from New Chitose Airport, the gateway to Hokkaido for many travelers.

As the largest city in Hokkaido, Sapporo offers a wide variety of attractions, from historic landmarks and spacious parks to scenic viewpoints overlooking the city and lively entertainment districts where you can enjoy authentic Hokkaido cuisine.

When people think of sightseeing in Sapporo, popular landmarks such as the Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, and Susukino often come to mind.

However, there is much more to discover. From historic buildings and beautiful natural surroundings to places where you can experience Hokkaido's unique food culture, Sapporo has plenty of attractions beyond the usual tourist spots.

In this guide, we introduce some of the best places to visit in Sapporo, from must-see landmarks to lesser-known spots that can make your trip even more memorable.

We also introduce some of the best Hokkaido foods to try, as well as Otaru and Hakodate for travelers with extra time in their itinerary.

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Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Sapporo

Sapporo Clock Tower | Approximately 1 Hour by Car from New Chitose Airport

The Sapporo Clock Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

Located in the heart of Sapporo, this historic building is a popular place to visit and take photos, especially for first-time travelers.

The clock tower has continued to mark the passage of time for generations and has become one of the symbols of Sapporo.

Visitors can admire the historic exterior, while the interior offers exhibits about the building's history and Sapporo's development.

With attractions such as Odori Park and the Former Hokkaido Government Office nearby, the Clock Tower is also an easy stop to include in a walking tour of central Sapporo.

For first-time visitors, it is an excellent place to begin exploring the city.

Hokkaido Cuisine Near the Clock Tower

There are several restaurants around the Sapporo Clock Tower where you can enjoy fresh seafood from Hokkaido.

Why not make seafood rice bowls part of your lunch plans and combine sightseeing with one of Hokkaido's most famous culinary experiences?

Odori Park | Approximately 1 Hour by Car from New Chitose Airport

Stretching from east to west through the center of Sapporo, Odori Park is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.

The park hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year. In spring, summer, and autumn, visitors can enjoy flowers and greenery, while winter brings a beautiful snowy landscape that captures the atmosphere of Sapporo.

The area around Odori Park is also home to Sapporo TV Tower, shopping facilities, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a convenient place to combine sightseeing with a stroll through the city.

Since it is close to the Sapporo Clock Tower, visiting both attractions together is an easy way to explore central Sapporo.

Sapporo Beer Museum | Approximately 1 Hour by Car from New Chitose Airport

When you think of Hokkaido, you may think of its beautiful nature and fresh seafood, but beer is also an important part of the region's history and culture.

At the Sapporo Beer Museum, visitors can learn about the history of beer in Hokkaido and the development of Sapporo Beer.

Rather than simply visiting another landmark, the museum offers an opportunity to learn about Hokkaido's history, industry, and food culture.

It is a great choice for beer enthusiasts as well as travelers interested in Japanese food and manufacturing culture.

Mt. Okura Observatory | Approximately 1 Hour by Car from New Chitose Airport

Mt. Okura Observatory is another excellent place to enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo while learning about Hokkaido's sporting history.

The site hosted the ski jumping competition during the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics.

From the top of the ski jump, visitors can enjoy views across Sapporo and the Ishikari Plain, offering a unique perspective that is very different from viewing the city at street level.

It is an ideal destination for travelers interested in both scenic views and the history of the Winter Olympics.

Together with Mt. Moiwa, it is also a great way to experience different viewpoints of Sapporo.

Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill | Approximately 1 Hour by Car from New Chitose Airport

For wide-open landscapes that feel distinctly Hokkaido, visit Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill.

The site is famous for its statue of Dr. William S. Clark and the phrase associated with him, "Boys, be ambitious."

The expansive grasslands and views toward Sapporo offer a very different atmosphere from the city's urban center.

One of its biggest attractions is the opportunity to experience Hokkaido's vast landscape while still being within Sapporo.

If you want to feel that you have truly arrived in Hokkaido, Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is well worth a visit.

Experience Sapporo at Night in Susukino

Susukino | Approximately 1 Hour by Car from New Chitose Airport

If you want to experience Sapporo after dark, Susukino is a must-visit.

The streets come alive with neon lights, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, creating an atmosphere very different from daytime sightseeing.

After spending the day exploring Sapporo's attractions, Susukino is the perfect place to enjoy Hokkaido cuisine and experience the city's lively nightlife.

Hokkaido Foods to Try in Susukino

Jingisukan (Genghis Khan)

One of Hokkaido's signature dishes, Jingisukan features grilled lamb served with vegetables. Sapporo has many specialty restaurants where you can experience this local favorite.

Sapporo Ramen

Sapporo is particularly famous for miso ramen. A steaming bowl of ramen is perfect after a day of sightseeing.

Shime Parfait

Hokkaido is also known for its "shime parfait" culture, where people enjoy a parfait after dinner or drinks.

Finishing the night with a sweet dessert is a fun and distinctly Sapporo-style experience.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Attractions in Sapporo

Sapporo's famous landmarks are certainly worth visiting, but looking beyond the classic sights reveals another side of the city.

If you have visited Sapporo before or simply want to explore somewhere a little different, consider adding some of these destinations to your itinerary.

Former Hokkaido Government Office (Red Brick Office)

For a taste of Sapporo's history in the heart of the city, visit the Former Hokkaido Government Office.

The distinctive red-brick building is one of Sapporo's historic landmarks and provides an opportunity to learn more about the development and history of Hokkaido.

It is conveniently located near the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park, making it easy to include in a sightseeing route around central Sapporo.

Combining the Red Brick Office with the Clock Tower is a great way to discover the city's history.

Shiroi Koibito Park

Shiroi Koibito Park is a unique Sapporo attraction centered around one of Hokkaido's most famous souvenirs, Shiroi Koibito cookies.

Visitors can learn about the production process, enjoy sweets, and take part in hands-on confectionery experiences.

A visit here adds a different dimension to a Hokkaido trip: rather than simply sightseeing, you can experience the region's famous sweets and food culture.

With activities suitable for both children and adults, it is also a popular choice for families.

Nakajima Park

For a peaceful break close to Susukino, head to Nakajima Park.

Despite being located in central Sapporo, the park offers plenty of greenery and space for a relaxing walk.

Its calm atmosphere provides a pleasant contrast to the lively streets of Susukino.

It is an excellent place to take a break during a day of sightseeing and experience another side of Sapporo, where nature and the city coexist.

Hokkaido University

Hokkaido University is another interesting place to explore while staying in central Sapporo.

Located within easy reach of Sapporo Station, the campus features historic buildings, spacious grounds, and beautiful natural scenery that changes with the seasons.

Unlike many tourist attractions, the university offers a glimpse of a quieter, more everyday side of Sapporo.

Take a leisurely walk through the campus and enjoy a different atmosphere from the city's busy shopping and entertainment districts.

Nijo Market

For travelers who want to experience Hokkaido's food culture in central Sapporo, Nijo Market is a great choice.

The market is lined with shops selling fresh seafood and local specialties, including seafood rice bowls.

Rather than simply treating it as a place to eat, visitors can experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional market and discover some of the ingredients that make Hokkaido cuisine so popular.

Since some shops open early, Nijo Market can also be a good place to start your day with a Hokkaido-style breakfast.

Sapporo Central Wholesale Market Outer Market

For an even deeper taste of Hokkaido's seafood culture, consider visiting the Outer Market of Sapporo Central Wholesale Market.

The area features shops selling seafood and other Hokkaido products, creating a lively market atmosphere.

In addition to enjoying seafood dishes, it is a convenient place to look for local food products and souvenirs.

Together with Nijo Market, it offers another way to experience the food culture of Sapporo.

Hokkaido Foods to Enjoy in Sapporo

Sapporo is about more than sightseeing.

Hokkaido is blessed with abundant natural resources, including fresh seafood, meat, dairy products, and other high-quality ingredients.

Because Sapporo brings together food from across Hokkaido, it is an ideal place to sample a wide variety of local specialties.

Seafood Rice Bowls

A seafood rice bowl is one of the must-try foods when visiting Hokkaido.

Fresh seafood served over rice is a classic Hokkaido experience and makes an excellent lunch during a day of sightseeing.

Nijo Market and the Outer Market are both good places to enjoy Hokkaido's fresh seafood.

Jingisukan

Jingisukan is one of Hokkaido's signature meat dishes.

It is particularly popular as a dinner option in Sapporo, with many specialty restaurants located around Susukino.

If you want to try a dish that is strongly associated with Hokkaido, Jingisukan is a great choice.

Sapporo Ramen

Sapporo ramen is another local favorite.

Miso ramen in particular is closely associated with Sapporo and is a dish worth trying during your stay.

Shime Parfait

The "shime parfait" is a fun way to finish an evening in Sapporo.

After dinner or drinks, enjoy a parfait and experience one of the city's unique modern food cultures.

Explore More of Hokkaido from Sapporo

Sapporo itself offers plenty of attractions, but if your schedule allows, you can also use the city as a base for exploring other parts of Hokkaido.

Hokkaido is vast, and the scenery and atmosphere can change dramatically as you travel between different areas.

If you have extra time, consider adding one of these destinations to your itinerary.

Sapporo to Otaru | Approximately 1 Hour by Car

Otaru is one of the easiest destinations to visit from Sapporo.

The city is known for Otaru Canal, historic streets and warehouses, and fresh seafood.

Compared with the modern atmosphere of Sapporo, Otaru has a more nostalgic charm and is ideal for a leisurely walk.

If you have enough time during your Sapporo trip, combining Sapporo and Otaru can be an excellent way to experience two different sides of Hokkaido.

Sapporo to Hakodate | Approximately 4 Hours by Car

For travelers who want to explore more of Hokkaido, Hakodate is another option.

The city is famous for the spectacular views from Mt. Hakodate, its historic streets, and Hakodate Morning Market.

Because Hakodate is a considerable distance from Sapporo, it is better suited to a multi-city Hokkaido itinerary rather than a simple day trip.

When traveling long distances, the way you spend your travel time can make a significant difference to the comfort of your trip.

Enjoy Sapporo with a Combination of Classic Attractions and Local Experiences

Sapporo has plenty of must-see landmarks, including the Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, and Susukino.

At the same time, there are many other ways to experience the city, from enjoying panoramic views from Mt. Moiwa and Mt. Okura to discovering Hokkaido's history at the Red Brick Office and Hokkaido University.

You can also explore Hokkaido's food culture at Shiroi Koibito Park and the city's markets.

If it is your first time in Sapporo, start with the classic attractions such as the Clock Tower and Odori Park, then spend the evening enjoying Hokkaido cuisine in Susukino.

If you have visited before, combine the major landmarks with some of the city's lesser-known attractions to discover a different side of Sapporo.

And if your schedule allows, consider traveling to Otaru or Hakodate to experience another side of Hokkaido.

See, walk, taste, and discover.

By combining different experiences, you can make your Sapporo trip even more memorable.

Enjoy Comfortable Travel Around Sapporo and Hokkaido

When traveling around Hokkaido, transportation is an important part of the journey.

While public transportation is convenient within central Sapporo, visiting several attractions in one day—such as Mt. Moiwa, Mt. Okura, Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, and Shiroi Koibito Park—can involve considerable travel time.

Traveling from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo, or continuing from Sapporo to Otaru or Hakodate, can also involve longer journeys.

For travelers with large suitcases or those who want to avoid the hassle of transfers, a private chauffeur service can be a comfortable alternative.

Traveling directly between destinations by car can reduce the stress of transfers and help you make the most of your limited vacation time.

It also allows you to relax comfortably during longer journeys instead of worrying about connections or navigating unfamiliar transportation systems.

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For families and groups, travelers with plenty of luggage, or anyone who wants to make the most of a limited schedule, a private chauffeur can be an excellent transportation option.

Your travel time is part of the journey too.

Enjoy Sapporo and Hokkaido in greater comfort and style with TOKYO CHAUFFEUR SERVICE.

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