Sapporo Station Area Sapporo
A modern, sprawling transport hub seamlessly integrated with shops, restaurants, and underground passages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, snowy charm
Sapporo Station Area Sapporo
Best Time
Crisp air, snowy charm

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern, sprawling transport hub seamlessly integrated with shops, restaurants, and underground passages.
"Excellent station. Tons of food options and Daimaru and shopping malls all around and under."
🎯 Navigate with Google Maps
Use Google Maps for all subway and JR trains; it shows routes, transfers, times, and fares.
🚇 Underground Advantage
Leverage the extensive underground network to connect malls and stations, staying warm in winter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sapporo Station Area
Central Sapporo
A bustling nexus of shopping, dining, and transport, seamlessly connected by underground passages.

Odori Park
Short walk from Sapporo Station
A beautiful urban oasis perfect for strolls, especially during seasonal festivals.

Tanukikoji Shopping Street
Near Susukino, accessible via underground
Hokkaido's oldest shopping street, offering a vibrant mix of shops and eateries.

Susukino Entertainment District
South of Odori Park
Sapporo's vibrant nightlife hub, famous for its neon lights and the iconic Nikka billboard.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Underground
Winter Travel Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Navigate with Google Maps
Use Google Maps for all subway and JR trains; it shows routes, transfers, times, and fares.
🚇 Underground Advantage
Leverage the extensive underground network to connect malls and stations, staying warm in winter.
🍣 Sushi Spot: Nemuro Hanamaru
Skip other chains for conveyor belt sushi; Nemuro Hanamaru is a top local choice.
🍜 Ramen Alley Experience
Ganso Ramen Yokocho offers a classic Sapporo ramen experience, though locals suggest exploring other spots too.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Navigate with Google Maps
Use Google Maps for all subway and JR trains; it shows routes, transfers, times, and fares.
🚇 Underground Advantage
Leverage the extensive underground network to connect malls and stations, staying warm in winter.
🍣 Sushi Spot: Nemuro Hanamaru
Skip other chains for conveyor belt sushi; Nemuro Hanamaru is a top local choice.
🍜 Ramen Alley Experience
Ganso Ramen Yokocho offers a classic Sapporo ramen experience, though locals suggest exploring other spots too.
🦀 All-You-Can-Eat Seafood
Nanda Seafood Buffet is a highly recommended, albeit pricey, all-you-can-eat seafood feast.
🛍️ Tanukikoji Shopping
Explore Hokkaido's oldest shopping street for a wide variety of shops and souvenirs.
🐧 Penguin Walk at Zoo
Don't miss the adorable penguin walk at Maruyama Zoo; arrive early for a good view.
🍫 Shiroi Koibito Park
Dedicate half a day to this charming chocolate theme park for a sweet experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sapporo Station is a highly efficient and convenient hub, praised for its extensive shopping, dining, and excellent connectivity via underground walkways and public transport. Visitors appreciate its cleanliness and ease of navigation, especially for accessing other parts of Hokkaido. While it can be chaotic during peak hours, its comprehensive amenities and proximity to key attractions make it a standout destination.
"One of the best places in Japan. Plenty of stores, restaurants and parks. You will enjoy shopping here specifically Don Quixote, GU, UNIQLO and many more. Don't forget to visit the clock tower, the radio station tower and the Odori park."
Wilbert Ong
"Easy to navigate if you have navigated the busy tokyo or shibuya station. Great connections to local sapporo and northern areas. Underground shopping mall all the way to Odori and Susukino is wow!
Has several elevators though not very visible on digital maps but its available in most exits useful for those who are with elderly and kids.Has several lockers too!
Has many convenient stores and food shops restaurants in different levels and connected to Sapporo Stellar and Daimaru Mall.
Can be chaotic in the morning for those tryif to queue for tickets in JR lines. If you have suica in your apple wallet its a life saver."
ConnoisseurToBe
"Excellent station. Tons of food options and Daimaru and shopping malls all around and under. Yodobashi closeby and bic camera and Tokyu department store. Just an insanely busy station only drawback. Can use IC card to go straight to the airport. Convenient! Underground walkway goes all the way to Susukino Cocono with many branches so you can stay out of the cold. Overall excellent"
David T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by JR train. The Rapid Airport service takes about 40 minutes and runs frequently. You can also use your JR Pass if you have one.
Yes, Sapporo Station is a major hub for JR trains and the city's subway lines. The extensive underground network also connects you to key areas like Odori and Susukino, making navigation easy, especially in winter.
Absolutely! Google Maps is highly recommended for navigating Sapporo's subway and JR trains, providing routes, transfers, travel times, and fares.
Yes, the Hokkaido Shinkansen connects Shin-Hakodate Hokuto Station to Sapporo Station. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. [^SEO keyword: shin hakodate to sapporo shinkansen]
To reach Mt. Moiwa, you'll typically take a tram or bus from Sapporo Station to the base of the mountain, then the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. The view from the top is spectacular.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For popular attractions like the Shiroi Koibito Park or the Sapporo TV Tower, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Some attractions, like the Maruyama Zoo, may offer discounts if booked via platforms like Klook.
Sapporo Station itself operates for train services from early morning until late at night. Individual shops and restaurants within the station complex will have their own operating hours, typically from around 10 AM to 9 PM. [^Reviews]
Odori Park is a public park and is free to enter. However, specific events held within the park, such as the Snow Festival, may have associated costs for certain activities or areas.
Admission to Maruyama Zoo is ¥1,000 per adult. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts.
Platforms like Klook often offer discounts on attractions and activities in Sapporo, especially during promotional periods. Using codes like 'CAMSDEGUZMAN9BDAY' can provide additional savings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sapporo Station is directly connected to numerous shopping malls like Daimaru and Stellar Place. The underground walkway also leads to Tanukikoji Shopping Street and the Susukino area, offering a vast array of retail options.
[^Reviews]Susukino is Sapporo's entertainment district, famous for its neon lights, the Nikka whiskey billboard, numerous restaurants, bars, and the Ramen Alley. It's a lively area, especially at night.
Yes, Sapporo Station and its connected malls offer a huge variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. You can find everything from ramen and sushi to international cuisine.
[^Reviews]Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring Nakajima Park for a calm stroll, or visiting unique cafes like 'poool' for espresso and work.
Yes, Sapporo Station has elevators available at most exits, making it accessible for those with strollers or elderly companions. There are also many convenient stores and food options. [^Reviews]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sapporo is famous for its miso ramen, soup curry, and Genghis Khan (grilled lamb). Don't miss out on fresh seafood, especially sushi and crab.
While Ramen Alley (Ganso Ramen Yokocho) is a popular spot, locals suggest exploring other ramen shops for potentially better quality. Ramen Shin is also recommended, but be prepared for a line.
Yes, Nanda Seafood Buffet offers an all-you-can-eat experience with crab legs, oysters, prawns, and more. It's a popular choice but can be pricey.
Nemuro Hanamaru is highly recommended by locals and visitors as a superior alternative to chains like Kura or Sushiro for conveyor belt sushi.
Sapporo has many charming cafes. 'poool' is noted for its espresso and work-friendly atmosphere, and there are many aesthetic cafes perfect for a coffee break.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the Sapporo TV Tower overlooking Odori Park, the Susukino Nikka billboard, and the scenic views from Mt. Moiwa. The snowy landscapes in winter also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
The Sapporo TV Tower offers a 360-degree panorama of the city and surrounding mountains. The Mt. Moiwa Ropeway also provides stunning nighttime city views.
The underground shopping malls themselves can offer interesting architectural shots. The exterior of Sapporo Station, especially with snow, is also picturesque. [^Reviews]
Odori Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the Snow Festival. Asari Station near Otaru offers a unique 'snow on the beach' view.
Yes, Shiroi Koibito Park is very photogenic with its European-style architecture and themed areas. It's a great place for capturing charming photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Navigating the city is manageable with children. Sapporo Station and its connected malls are well-equipped with elevators, making stroller-friendly travel easier. [^Reviews] The underground walkways are a lifesaver during cold weather, allowing for comfortable transit between key areas. Consider purchasing an IC card for easy fare payment on public transport.
💰 Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, look beyond the tourist-centric Ramen Alley and explore local eateries or convenience store bento boxes from department store basements like Daimaru. Utilizing Google Maps for public transport planning will help you find the most economical routes and avoid unexpected costs. Consider staying in business hotels or hostels, which are often more budget-friendly and conveniently located near subway stations.
couples
Indulge in a cozy meal at one of Sapporo's many excellent restaurants, perhaps trying the local miso ramen or soup curry. For a unique date, visit the Shiroi Koibito Park for a whimsical, sweet experience. Consider a stay at a ryokan with a private onsen for ultimate relaxation and intimacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Sapporo's Public Transport
For seamless travel, especially during winter, leverage the extensive underground walkway network. This network connects Sapporo Station to major shopping malls, Odori Park, and the Susukino entertainment district, allowing you to travel comfortably without facing the cold. Google Maps is an invaluable tool for planning your routes, providing real-time information on train schedules, transfers, and fares.
When using the subway, particularly at busy stations like Odori, Redditors suggest a clever tactic: step off the train and to the side near the doors, even if it's not your stop. This allows you to re-enter the train first after the initial crowd disembarks, saving you time and hassle.
Culinary Delights of Sapporo
For a true taste of Hokkaido, indulge in Genghis Khan, a grilled lamb dish that's a local favorite, often enjoyed as a BBQ experience. Seafood is also a highlight, with Nemuro Hanamaru being a top recommendation for conveyor belt sushi, praised for its freshness and quality. If you're looking for an indulgent seafood experience, the Nanda Seafood Buffet offers an all-you-can-eat feast of crab legs, prawns, and more, though it comes with a higher price tag.
Beyond these specialties, Sapporo boasts a vibrant cafe culture. Explore charming spots like 'poool' for a relaxing coffee break or discover aesthetically pleasing cafes scattered throughout the city. Don't forget to explore the basement food halls of department stores like Daimaru for delicious bento boxes and local treats.
Winter Wonderland Experiences
For a unique wildlife encounter, the Maruyama Zoo offers the chance to see the adorable penguin walk, where penguins waddle through the zoo grounds. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot. If you're seeking a whimsical experience, the Shiroi Koibito Park, a chocolate theme park, is a delightful destination with its charming architecture and sweet treats, perfect for spending half a day.
For those seeking adventure, areas like Bibai Snow Land, a short train ride from Sapporo, offer activities such as ATV rides, snowmobiling, and snow tubing. The Asari Station near Otaru provides a unique 'snow on the beach' vista, offering a serene and picturesque winter scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit