Sapporo: Features, Popular Tourist Attractions, Gourmet

Sapporo City in Hokkaido continues to flourish as the region’s political, economic, and cultural hub. The city is renowned as an attractive tourist destination where meticulously planned urban development since the Meiji era harmoniously blends with the natural beauty of all four seasons.

The Sapporo Snow Festival, globally acclaimed as a celebration of snow and ice artistry, is a major winter event attracting over 2 million visitors annually. Odori Park features massive snow and ice sculptures that transform into a magical spectacle when illuminated at night.

The city’s culinary scene proudly showcases dishes utilizing fresh seafood and unique cold-climate ingredients. Many tourists visit specifically to savor Sapporo’s signature dishes, including Sapporo Ramen, Genghis Khan (grilled lamb), and Soup Curry. The Central Wholesale Market and Tanukikoji Shopping Street are particularly popular spots to fully experience Hokkaido’s flavors.

Tourist attractions abound, from historical structures like the Clock Tower and Former Hokkaido Government Office Red Brick Building to the Sapporo Beer Museum and the night view from Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. Within an hour’s drive from the city center, natural attractions like Lake Shikotsu and Jozankei Hot Springs offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy a diverse travel experience combining urban sightseeing with hot springs and outdoor activities.

Transportation access is highly rated by domestic and international visitors, with a convenient 40-minute express train ride from New Chitose Airport and an extensive network of subway lines and streetcars making it an easily navigable tourist destination.