Things to Do in Sapporo

A long green strip running through central Sapporo. In winter it hosts the famous Snow Festival, but year-round it's a good place for a stroll with views of the TV Tower.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Walk to the west end for a quieter section and a good view of the mountains, especially in early morning.

A peaceful park with a large pond, walking paths and several historic buildings including the Hoheikan — a wooden Western-style guesthouse from the Meiji era.

🕐 Open 24 hours (Hoheikan interior open 09:00–17:00; entry ¥200, but exterior free)

💡 Enter from the south side near the Hoheikan to avoid the crowds; you can see the house's exterior for free any time.

A natural history and cultural museum on the university campus. Good collection of Hokkaido fossils, Ainu artefacts and old scientific instruments.

🕐 10:00–17:00 (closed Mondays, year-end and New Year)

💡 Combine with a walk through the campus — the Ginkgo tree-lined avenue in autumn is spectacular and free.

A red-brick building tracing the history of Japan's oldest beer brand. Free entry to the museum, though tastings cost extra.

🕐 11:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30)

💡 Skip the paid tour and just go straight to the tasting bar — a small glass of fresh beer costs ¥200 and is poured straight from the tank.

A 90-metre tower in Odori Park with an outdoor observation deck. Tickets are cheap — ¥720 for adults — and offer a clear view over the city grid.

🕐 09:00–22:00 (last entry 21:30)

💡 Go just before sunset for the best light, and stay 20 minutes to watch the city lights come on. Queues are shortest on weekday late afternoons.