For first-time visitors to Sapporo, choosing the right area to stay can enhance your experience by providing easy access to major attractions, local dining, and transportation. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to consider when booking your accommodation:
1. Odori & Sapporo Station Area
Why Stay Here: This is the heart of Sapporo and an excellent base for exploring the city. It’s close to many of the city's top attractions, such as Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower, and the Sapporo Clock Tower. The area also offers great shopping and dining options.
What to Expect: Easy access to public transportation, including the subway and JR train lines. The Sapporo Station area is a major hub, making it convenient for day trips outside the city.
Highlights:
Close to shopping districts like Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade.
Plenty of dining options, from casual ramen shops to high-end restaurants.
Vibrant nightlife, especially around Susukino.
2. Susukino
Why Stay Here: If you're interested in the nightlife and entertainment scene, Susukino is the place to be. This area is known for its bustling nightlife, bars, clubs, and izakayas (Japanese pubs). It’s a lively district perfect for those looking to experience Sapporo’s night culture.
What to Expect: This area is filled with entertainment, and while it's vibrant at night, it’s also well-connected to other parts of the city.
Highlights:
The Susukino Ice Festival in winter and various entertainment options in the area.
Close to Odori Park and the subway station, making it easy to reach other tourist spots.
Numerous restaurants offering local dishes like Sapporo ramen and seafood.
3. Tanukikoji Shopping Street Area
Why Stay Here: This is a great area for those who want to stay in a lively district with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, but without the hustle and bustle of Susukino.
What to Expect: A covered shopping arcade filled with boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops. It’s a great place for a casual stroll and is close to several subway stations.
Highlights:
Tanukikoji is one of the oldest shopping streets in Sapporo.
Excellent local food spots and souvenir shops.
Easily accessible to Odori Park and Sapporo Station.
4. Maruyama & Hokkaido Shrine Area
Why Stay Here: For those who prefer a quieter, more scenic area, Maruyama is a peaceful neighborhood with easy access to parks, temples, and cultural attractions. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a more relaxed vibe.
What to Expect: Proximity to Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine, perfect for a leisurely walk through beautiful natural surroundings. This area is also known for its local dining options and quieter atmosphere.
Highlights:
Visit Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Park.
Close to Maruyama Zoo and Mount Maruyama for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
A more local experience compared to the bustling city center.
5. Jozankei Onsen Area
Why Stay Here: For a more relaxing experience, the Jozankei Onsen area, located about 30 minutes from central Sapporo, is perfect for those looking to enjoy hot springs and natural beauty.
What to Expect: This is a famous hot spring town surrounded by mountains and rivers, ideal for a peaceful retreat. Many hotels and ryokan (traditional inns) offer hot spring baths, giving you a unique opportunity to relax.
Highlights:
Onsen resorts and ryokan for a traditional Japanese experience.
Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring local waterfalls.
Great for a day trip or an overnight stay away from the city hustle.
6. Sapporo Teine
Why Stay Here: If you're visiting Sapporo in winter and are interested in skiing or snowboarding, the Sapporo Teine area, which is home to a ski resort, is a great choice.
What to Expect: Sapporo Teine is located slightly outside the city center, but it offers winter sports activities and a peaceful retreat from the city. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a ski trip with exploring Sapporo.
Highlights:
Skiing and snowboarding at Sapporo Teine Ski Resort.
Access to beautiful winter landscapes and outdoor activities.
A quieter, more scenic area away from the city.
Tips for First-Timers:
- Public Transportation: The Sapporo Subway system is efficient and easy to navigate. Stay close to a subway station for convenience, especially if you're planning to explore multiple districts.
- Weather: In winter, pack warm clothing as Sapporo can get quite cold with heavy snowfall. In summer, the weather is pleasant, but it can be humid, so lightweight clothing is ideal.
- Accommodation Types: Sapporo offers a variety of accommodation options, from high-end hotels near the station to more traditional ryokan in the Jozankei Onsen area.
Whether you prefer staying in a lively city center or a tranquil area surrounded by nature, Sapporo has a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different types of travelers. Choosing the right area can help you maximize your experience and easily explore the best of what the city has to offer.
