Text by Liu Jiawen | Compiled and Reported | Source: Monocle Editorial Department
Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido developed relatively late, boasts well-planned streets, beautiful urban parks, unique cuisine, festivals, as well as areas popular with young shoppers. The city is also home to numerous historical sites and landmarks, most of which were built during the Hokkaido pioneering period (latter half of the 19th century), still retaining a touch of Western influence. Compared to mainland Japan, you can feel a more distinctive historical atmosphere here. Slowing down your travel pace and strolling leisurely under Sapporo’s greenery while enjoying delicious food is truly a delightful experience.
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 a nearby ski resort? The Hokkaido White-Liner is a shuttle bus connecting the airport, Sapporo, and various ski areas. This year, it has specially coordinated with flight schedules from Taipei to New Chitose Airport by EVA Airways, China Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, offering shuttle services to the Niseko ski resort. It's very convenient 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 booking.
Now is the perfect time to go skiing in Hokkaido. (Photo by Scenic Spots Home / Li Xinyi)
Hokkaido offers a variety of snow activities, including those suitable for families. (Photo by Scenic Spots Home / Li Xinyi)
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 arrive at the famous Poplar Avenue. The tall poplar trees standing straight 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.
Hokkaido University is one of Japan’s Seven Imperial Universities, with a vast campus that showcases nature’s changing beauty throughout the four seasons. (Image provided by Monocle Editorial Department)
Recommended Must-Visit Spot: Odori Park
Odori Park is a strip-shaped green park—whether you’re taking a stroll, lounging 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 21st to August 10th, the Beer Garden Festival (Beer Garden) takes place—both making the park their main venue.
Odori Park is a strip-shaped green park—whether you’re taking a stroll or lounging on the grass, it’s all very relaxing. (Image provided by Monocle Editorial Department)
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