Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido Island, is a popular destination for tourists who appreciate both great hotels and tourist attractions, especially in winter with its cold weather, heavy snowfall, and major festivals.
Recommended Hotels in Sapporo:
Sapporo offers a variety of hotels, from luxury and business to value-for-money options. Recommended areas include those near Sapporo Station, Odori Park, and Susukino (conveniently located near shopping and dining).
JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo — Luxurious, right next to JR Sapporo Station, stunning views, spacious rooms, excellent breakfast. Perfect for those who value convenience.
InterContinental Sapporo (Opening late 2025) — The first world-class luxury brand in Sapporo. Near Nakajima Park, beautiful city and river views, high-level service.
Sapporo Hotel by GRANBELL (Newly opened 2025) — Modern, clean, comfortable rooms, onsen/spa, top floors with city views. Suitable for families:
Vessel Inn Sapporo Nakajima Park — Good value, has a natural onsen in the hotel, good breakfast, close to Nakajima Koen and Susukino stations.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Sapporo or Keio Prelia Hotel Sapporo — Close to Sapporo Station, easy to get around, delicious buffet breakfast, clean and modern rooms.
Hotel Sosei Sapporo MGallery — Luxurious boutique hotel near the city center, chic atmosphere.
Hotel booking tip: If you're going during the Sapporo Snow Festival (February), you need to book 3-6 months in advance because hotels near Odori Park and Susukino fill up very quickly and prices will skyrocket.
Top tourist attractions in Sapporo: Sapporo can be visited year-round, but winter (December-February) is the most romantic and fun because of the snow and festivals.
Main highlights:
Sapporo Snow Festival — February 4-11, 2026 (76th edition). Spectacular giant snow and ice sculptures throughout Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome. This year's special theme is Chiikawa and giant Star Wars! Free admission. The nighttime illuminations are beautiful.
Odori Park — A 1.5 km long city park, the main venue for the Sapporo Snow Festival. The Sapporo TV Tower is located there, offering city views and snow sculptures from the top.
Susukino — Hokkaido's largest nightlife district, with plenty of restaurants, ramen, kari soup, yakiniku (grilled meat), and bars. There are also ice sculptures from the Snow Festival.
Mount Moiwa — Take a cable car up to enjoy the city view at night (one of the most beautiful night views in Japan). The snowy landscape in winter is very romantic.
Sapporo Beer Museum — Visit a historic brewery, sample fresh beer, and learn about the history of Japanese beer.
Shiroi Koibito Park — A charming chocolate and cookie factory with a beautiful garden, perfect for photos. It features stunning illuminations in winter.
Jozankei Onsen — Relax in a hot spring amidst the snow, conveniently located near the city (approximately 1 hour away).
Other winter activities: Skiing at Teine or Kokusai, enjoying the snow views at Nakajima Park, and savoring hot kari soup and Hokkaido miso ramen.