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Sapporo

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About Sapporo

Located on a rare plain against the dramatic backdrop of Hokkaido's snow-clad mountains, Sapporo, the island's capital, is Japan's fifth-largest city. A buzzing metropolis, it’s a wonderful starting point for an exploration of the island, or a popular business destination in its own right. Accommodation options range from simple ryokans to swish city hotels, with some of the best places to stay in Sapporo boasting expansive views of the city’s rising skyline.

Long home to the Ainu people but founded as an administrative centre for Hokkaidō in the 19th Century, Sapporo quickly became famous for brewing Sapporo beer. The Sapporo Beer Museum, housed in a red brick brewery is now a Hokkaido Heritage Site. Take a guided tour to delve into the story of the beer, which dates back to 1876. Other cultural highlights include the Hokkaidō Museum of Modern Art and the Hokkaidō Museum, which charts the region’s fascinating ancient past. This is a vibrant city with a superb foodie scene; gather at a plethora of excellent eateries, bars and nightlife spots in the evenings.

Sapporo is particularly popular in February, when visitors pour in for the famous week-long Snow Festival, when hundreds of striking snow and ice sculptures stud the city’s streets. The best places to stay in Sapporo inevitably fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Sapporo

For City Style

  • JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo promises impressive views from the upper floors of the JR Tower. Stylish interiors feature big beds and large windows, whilst a number of restaurants and bars invite guests to feast on top-notch French and Japanese cuisine. For business or leisure.
  • Cross Hotel Sapporo is a swish city base for romantic couples and well-heeled travellers alike. Kick back in rooms clad in soothing, earthy tones, with modern art pieces and lots of natural wood. Highlights include the excellent restaurant and the hip bar. Very cool.

For Great Value

  • Nakamuraya Ryokan is a simple, traditional ryokan with 26 rooms. Located downtown, this historic property promises regional cuisine, a 24-hour onsen bath and a real sense of tranquility. Affordable and offering space for couples, friends and families in rooms with low tables and futon beds.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Tokyo's Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport and catch a connecting flight to New Chitose Airport, a short train ride from Sapporo.
  • Hokkaidō is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Sapporo is a year-round destination. Come in the summer for sunshine, outdoorsy activities and temperatures of 20 - 26°C. Spring and autumn are cool and picturesque, whilst snowy winters are all about skiing and snowboarding in the mountains. Travel between December and April for the best powder snow in areas such as Niseko after a stay in the city.

Still Not Sure?

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Monthly Weather in Sapporo

Best Hotels in Sapporo

  • Cross Hotel Sapporo Sapporo 181 rooms from £101

    Local exploring  -  Set a five-minute walk from the main station, this hotel makes a great base for local sightseeing in the city
    Romantic Break  -  With a romantic guest-only lounge and observation deck, book this hotel for your next couples' city break
    City Style  -  With contemporary interiors and a central city location, book this hotel for local Sapporo charm
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Sapporo TV Tower located close to the hotel and head up to the top for great views from the observation deck
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    This sleek city bolt-hole is located in central Sapporo, Japan - five minutes' walk from JR Sapporo Station. Stylish suites are zoned by wooden screens and feature cosy soft furnishings and contemporary artwork. Head to the top floor lounge for skyline views after drinks at the romantic bar. See More

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  • Nakamuraya Ryokan Sapporo (Hokkaido Prefecture) 26 rooms from £134

    Museums  -  The Sapporo Beer Museum, the Hokkaidō University Museum and the Hokkaidō Museum of Modern Art are all well worth visiting
    Value chic  -  A simple, well-priced and historic stay for couples, families and groups in the heart of the city
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the Hokkaidō University's Botanic Garden, just five minutes' walk away
    Local exploring  -  Within walking distance of Hokkaidō University, Odori Park and a number of key museums
    Air conditioningParkingNo pets

    Nakamuraya Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn located in downtown Sapporo. The air-conditioned rooms have woven-straw floors and futon bedding whilst there's also a spacious 24 hour bath to relax in. Enjoy meals served in a true Ryokan style with plenty of small dishes. A unique and friendly spot! See More

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  • JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo Sapporo (Kita 5, Chuo-ku) 350 rooms from £246

    Great walks  -  Take a guided city walking tour or a scenic stroll around Hokkaidō University's gorgeous Botanic Gardens
    Total relaxation  -  Enjoy rejuvenating massages and long soaks in hot spring baths after days of exploring
    City Style  -  A swish city hotel in central Sapporo, perfect for business or leisure travellers
    Theatre  -  Catch a show at The Hokkaidō Shiki Theatre, less than a mile from the hotel
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    On the 23rd to 34th floors in the JR Tower, this hotel provides chic contemporary with splendid views over Sapporo's skyline. A restful spa and smart interiors encourage peace and tranquility whilst slick restaurants serve stunning French and Japanese cuisine! A top spot for business or leisure. See More

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