Hokkaido Self-Guided Sapporo Attraction #2 Maruyama Park
Located next to Hokkaido Shrine, Maruyama Park isn’t a must-visit for most travelers exploring Hokkaido on their own, but I truly recommend that you don’t miss this winter spot in Sapporo. With its vast woods and snowy landscapes, it’s incredibly fun and photogenic when the weather is nice. More importantly, seeing such beautiful scenery really lifts your mood.
Hokkaido Self-Guided Sapporo Attraction #3 Sapporo Station
There are many department stores near Sapporo Station, including Daimaru, PASEO, Daiso, TSUTAYA, and Kinokuniya, to name a few. You can be sure that whatever you want to buy, you’ll find it within a 30-minute walk. In winter, there are also beautiful Christmas lights outside the station—be sure to take some time to stroll around when passing by.
Hokkaido Self-Guided Sapporo Attraction #4 Sapporo Clock Tower
If you enjoy a more cultural and artistic vibe, consider visiting the Sapporo Clock Tower in central Sapporo. Its official name is the “Former Sapporo Agricultural College Drill Hall,” and because of the clock tower on its roof, it’s also known as the “Sapporo Bell Tower.” It has been borrowed by various government agencies over the years and, after several instances of damage and restoration, has become a cultural property of Sapporo.
The Sapporo Clock Tower has two floors. The first floor is an exhibition hall showcasing the history of Sapporo, architectural materials, and the relationship between the Clock Tower and the Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University). The second floor is a spacious high-ceilinged area, where a statue of Dr. Clark, an important figure at Hokkaido University, stands at the front. Further inside, you can get up close to the massive clock face of the tower—it’s quite interesting.
■ Address: North 1 West 2, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
■ Business Hours: 8:45–17:10 (last entry at 17:00)
Recommended Reading:10 Family-Friendly Activities in Eniwa, Chitose, and Lake Shikotsu in Suburban Hokkaido
Hokkaido Self-Guided Sapporo Attraction #5 Sapporo Beer Garden
I highly recommend a visit to Sapporo Garden Park. Though it’s a bit off the beaten path, you can take a direct bus from Sapporo Station. The Sapporo Beer Garden is huge, featuring Meiji-era red-brick buildings, each serving different purposes. One of them is a museum where you can learn about the history and brewing process of SAPPORO beer—and, of course, enjoy a drink.
Most importantly, there’s an amazing all-you-can-eat buffet here, featuring dishes like Mongolian lamb barbecue, king crab, snow crab, and a variety of cooked foods, plus unlimited SAPPORO beer. It’s guaranteed to leave you completely satisfied.
■ Note: Entry is free for just visiting; reservations are required for the all-you-can-eat buffet.
■ Address: 2-10, North 9 East 7, Higashi-ku, Sapporo
■ Phone: 0120-150-550
■ Business Hours: 11:30–22:00 (last order at 21:30)
Hokkaido Self-Guided Travel Map: Central Hokkaido
In fact, Central Hokkaido covers a vast area. Aside from central Sapporo, it is divided into Northern Hokkaido, Eastern Hokkaido, Southern Hokkaido, and Central Hokkaido. Central Hokkaido includes destinations such as Noboribetsu, Tomakomai, New Chitose, and Yubari. Today, let’s briefly introduce a few hidden gems in Central Hokkaido, so you have plenty of self-guided travel options beyond Sapporo.
Hokkaido Self-Guided Central Hokkaido Attraction #1 Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is located in Chitose City and is surrounded by mountains such as Mount Eniwa, Mount Fuppushidake, and Mount Tarumae. With a shoreline stretching 40 kilometers, it’s enjoyable year-round. In summer, you can take a boat ride on the lake, and in winter, you can enjoy the snow and hot springs. As the northernmost non-freezing lake in Hokkaido, it’s a very popular destination near Sapporo.
Lake Shikotsu in winter is extremely cold, but once the sun comes out, the sunlight and snowy landscape create a uniquely expansive and tranquil beauty. Just remember to dress warmly—the outdoors are reeeally cold.
Hokkaido Self-Guided Central Hokkaido Attraction #2 Noboribetsu Onsen
A little further south of Lake Shikotsu is Noboribetsu Onsen, a must-visit hot spring destination in Hokkaido. It’s one of Japan’s top ten hot springs, known for its rich natural resources and over 11 different types of hot spring water. Since the opening of the first hot spring inn in 1858, it has remained a beloved hot spring resort.
Additionally, the retro-style “Jigokudani Shopping Street” is a must-visit hot spring town, featuring a variety of shops. At the end of the street lies “Noboribetsu Hell Valley,” where billowing white steam emerges, creating the feeling of entering a fantastical space—an unforgettable experience you shouldn’t miss on your Hokkaido self-guided trip.
Recommended Reading:Experience Something Special This Winter: Explore 5 Unique Hidden Gems in Eastern Hokkaido
Hokkaido Self-Guided Central Hokkaido Attractions #3 Miyajima Marsh
Miyajima Marsh is a small marsh located northeast of Sapporo in Hokkaido, with a lake circumference of approximately 2.7 km. The surrounding area features vast wetlands and serves as the northernmost and largest habitat of the greater white-fronted goose (Greater White-fronted Goose).From mid-to-late April to early May, and from late September to early October each year, over 60,000 greater white-fronted geese migrate here to rest, creating a spectacular sight.
In addition, nearby Tsukigata Onsen and Kairokuen Park are also popular birdwatching spots for many Japanese visitors. In summer, you can go fishing, and in winter, enjoy a soak in the hot springs — it’s perfect for relaxation. Most importantly, don’t forget to try the local Meipei-yaki and yakitori donburi (grilled chicken rice bowls)!
Hokkaido Self-Guided Central Hokkaido Attractions #4 Usu Volcano
Usu Volcano is located south of Lake Toya in Hokkaido and is a highly active volcano. It was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Geological Sites in 2007. The classic way to explore it is by taking the Usuzan Ropeway up the mountain, where you can enjoy an unobstructed panoramic view of the beautiful and expansive Lake Toya from the summit. After visiting the Usu Volcano crater, you can also stroll around and grab a bite at the “Volcano Village” at the mountain’s base.
■ Ropeway fare: Round trip 1,600 yen
■ Official website: Usu Volcano Ropeway
Hokkaido Self-Guided Central Hokkaido Attractions #5 Rusutsu
The last attraction to introduce is the “Rusutsu Resort,” which is arguably one of the largest ski resorts in Hokkaido. It boasts 37 ski runs and offers a variety of snow activities such as sledding and snowmobiling. Plus, it’s just a 90-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, making it a highly popular must-visit destination for self-guided trips to Hokkaido in winter.
After checking out the above introduction to the Hokkaido self-guided travel map, are you tempted to fly to Hokkaido, Japan right away? In fact, Hokkaido has distinct seasons — spring is great for cherry blossom viewing, summer offers comfortable and pleasant temperatures, autumn is known for its vibrant foliage, and although winter is cold, it brings romantic snowscapes and skiing opportunities. No matter the season, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Start planning your own Hokkaido self-drive adventure now!
Authorized reprint from [Tripbaa Quba] Original article source: [Hokkaido Self-Guided Travel Map?Read This One!: Central Hokkaido – Recommended for Strolls & Skiing]
Executive Editor: Hovis
Copy Editor: Reese