Guide Velo Sapporo

With an annual snowfall that can exceed 15 meters and a thriving beer culture, Sapporo is a northern gem that offers unique experiences for busy travelers seeking a weekend getaway.

Getting There and Around

Reaching Sapporo is straightforward, particularly if you fly into New Chitose Airport (CTS). Direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities take around 1.5 hours. Tickets typically range from ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 (approximately $70 to $105) one way, depending on the season. Once you arrive, take the JR Rapid Airport train to Sapporo Station, which costs ¥1,070 ($7.50) and takes about 40 minutes.

Getting around the city is simple with the Sapporo City Transportation Bureau. The subway is the most efficient method, with a single fare of ¥250 ($1.75) taking you to major attractions like Odori Park and Susukino. You can also purchase a One-Day Card for ¥830 ($5.80), which allows unlimited travel on the subway and streetcars. Alternatively, consider using the hop-on, hop-off JTB Sapporo City Loop Bus for ¥600 ($4.20) to cover key sites in a short amount of time.

Where to Stay

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your Sapporo experience. If you want proximity to nightlife and dining, stay in the Susukino area. The Cross Hotel Sapporo offers modern rooms starting at ¥14,000 ($98) per night, just a short walk from vibrant bars and eateries. For a more traditional experience, consider a ryokan like Jozankei Grand Hotel, located in a serene hot spring area about 30 minutes from the city center, where rates start around ¥19,000 ($133) per night including dinner and breakfast.

If budget is a concern, the Sapporo City Hotel in the Odori Park area offers clean and comfortable rooms from ¥7,000 ($49) per night. This location provides easy access to many attractions and is conveniently near the subway. Remember to book early, especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, when accommodations fill quickly and prices can surge.

What to Eat

Sapporo is renowned for its culinary delights, particularly its seafood and ramen. Start your food adventure at the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, where you can enjoy fresh sushi. Try a kaisendon bowl, featuring sea urchin and crab, for around ¥2,500 ($17.50). For a local favorite, visit Ramen Alley in Susukino, where you can experience the rich miso ramen at Sapporo Ramen Kyowakoku. Expect to pay around ¥1,000 ($7) for a hearty bowl.

Don’t miss the iconic Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) barbecue, featuring grilled lamb. The best place to indulge is at Sapporo Beer Garden, where you can enjoy the experience alongside a pint of Sapporo beer for about ¥1,200 ($8.50). For dessert, head to LeTAO in the Odori area for their famous double fromage cheesecake, priced around ¥1,250 ($8.75). This culinary journey will give you a taste of Sapporo’s rich food culture, perfect for recharging after a day's exploration.

Practical Tips

Here are essential tips to maximize your Sapporo visit:

• Consider purchasing a prepaid Suica card for convenient travel on public transportation, which can be topped up as needed.
• Check the local weather forecast; winters can be extremely cold, so layer up, especially if you plan to enjoy outdoor activities like skiing or snowshoeing.
• Many attractions close early, so plan your itinerary around opening hours to ensure you don’t miss out.
• Cash is king in Sapporo. While some places accept credit cards, street vendors and small eateries may only take cash, so keep yen handy.