A 3-Day Slow Travel Itinerary to Experience Hokkaido’s Four Seasons in Sapporo

By Liu Jiawen | Compiled & Reported | Source: Monocle Editorial Department

Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido developed relatively late, boasts neatly planned streets, beautiful urban parks, unique local cuisine, festivals, as well as areas popular with young people for shopping. The city is also home to numerous historic sites and cultural landmarks, most of which were built during the pioneering period of Hokkaido (the latter half of the 19th century), retaining a distinct Western architectural influence. Compared to mainland Japan, you can feel a more unique historical atmosphere here. Slowing down your pace and strolling leisurely under Sapporo’s greenery, enjoying the scenery and food, is an experience that can’t be more comfortable.

Hokkaido is world-renowned for its famous powder snow, and now is the perfect season for skiing. When visiting Sapporo, why not add a skiing trip to nearby ski resorts? The Hokkaido White-Liner is a shuttle bus service connecting the airport, Sapporo, and various ski areas. This year, it has specially coordinated with flight schedules from Taipei on EVA Air, China Airlines, and Cathay Pacific arriving at New Chitose Airport, offering shuttle services to the Niseko ski resort. This provides added convenience for independent travelers. Additionally, there are routes from Sapporo to the Kiroro ski resort, from Sapporo to New Chitose Airport, and from Sapporo to Niseko and back to New Chitose Airport. For more shuttle schedules, please check online—all require advance reservation.

Recommended Must-Visit Spot: Hokkaido University

Walking from the north gate of Hokkaido University toward its Faculty of Agriculture and Faculty of Science, you’ll reach the famous Poplar Avenue. The straight-standing poplar trees under Hokkaido’s vast blue sky are the university’s most iconic sight. Another representative landscape on campus is the Ginkgo Avenue. The best time to view this tree-lined path is autumn when the leaves turn a stunning golden yellow.

Recommended Must-Visit Spot: Odori Park

Odori Park is a strip-shaped green park—whether you’re taking a stroll, lying on the grass, or sitting on a bench enjoying the fountains, it’s all very relaxing. Every early February, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held here, and from July 21 to August 10, the Beer Garden Festival takes place, making it one of the park’s most vibrant periods.