Sapporo Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This walking tour in Sapporo explores the city center shaped during Hokkaido’s rapid development after 1869, when Sapporo was established as the prefectural capital. The route focuses on areas where early Western-style institutions, public parks, and later commercial spaces developed side by side, showing how government planning, education, and commerce influenced the modern layout of the city.
Available options
Sapporo Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems
What's included
Professional tour guide
2-hour walking tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Serve as the former headquarters of the Hokkaido prefectural government until 1968.
2
Mark time since 1881 as a clock tower originally built for the Sapporo Agricultural College.
3
Broadcast television signals and provide an observation deck above Odori Park since 1957.
4
Stop 4
Host public events and divide central Sapporo into north and south since its development in 1871.
5
Sell fresh seafood and local produce to the public since the late 19th century.
6
Connect Sapporo Station and Odori Station through an underground pedestrian and shopping passage.
What's not included
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the Former Hokkaido Prefectual Government Office Building.
About Hokkaido
Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, hot springs, and world-class ski resorts. With its vast wilderness areas, fresh seafood, and unique Ainu culture, Hokkaido offers a distinct experience from the rest of Japan.
Top Attractions
Sapporo Beer Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of beer in Japan, located in the birthplace of Sapporo Beer.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free
Otaru Canal
A picturesque canal lined with historic warehouses, now home to shops and restaurants.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to walk around
Niseko United
A world-famous ski resort known for its powder snow and excellent skiing conditions.
Adventure
Full day
Expensive
Shiretoko National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sapporo Ramen
A rich, miso-based ramen with a hearty pork broth, topped with corn, butter, and local ingredients.
Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)
Grilled lamb or mutton, cooked on a dome-shaped grill, often served with vegetables and dipping sauces.
Dinner
Contains meat
Ikura Don
A bowl of rice topped with salmon roe, often served with soy sauce and other accompaniments.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish
Soups Curry
A thick, hearty curry stew with vegetables and meat, served in a large pot and eaten with bread or rice.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Popular Activities
Skiing and snowboarding
Hiking
Wildlife viewing
Onsen (hot spring) bathing
Shopping
Dining
Visiting museums and historical sites
Experiencing local festivals
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to February)
Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Both seasons attract the highest number of tourists.
20-25°C (Summer), -5 to 5°C (Winter)
68-77°F (Summer), 23-41°F (Winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hokkaido is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, travelers should exercise caution in crowded areas and be aware of potential natural hazards, such as earthquakes and heavy snowfall.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being used.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- New Chitose Airport • 40 km from Sapporo
- Okadama Airport • 10 km from Sapporo
By train
Sapporo Station
By bus
Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and punctual, with options for day passes and rail passes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sapporo Station Area
Susukino
Odori Park
Day trips
Hakodate
240 km from Sapporo • Full day
A historic port city known for its well-preserved Meiji-era buildings, seafood, and stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait.
Furano
140 km from Sapporo • Full day
A charming town known for its lavender fields, cheese factories, and scenic landscapes.
Noboribetsu
120 km from Sapporo • Full day
A popular hot spring resort town known for its geothermal activity and healing waters.
Festivals
Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February
Lavender Festival • July
Nebuta Matsuri • Early August
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Try local specialties, such as Sapporo ramen, Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), and fresh seafood.
- Experience a traditional ryokan (inn) with onsen (hot spring) baths for a unique cultural experience.
- Explore Hokkaido's national parks and wilderness areas for stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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