Day 1: Exploring Odori Park and TV Tower

To plan your trip, review Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) - Sapporo.

For the most up-to-date details, check New Chitose Airport Terminal before you go.

Visit the Sapporo TV Tower at the eastern end of the park. This tower offers a great view of the snowy city lights. Tickets for the observation deck cost about 1,000 yen per person. The view is best during the evening illumination hours.

You can enjoy local snacks from various stalls along the park. Try the grilled corn or hot potato cakes for a treat. These warm snacks are perfect for a cold winter day. Prices usually range from 500 to 800 yen per item.

Check the Sapporo snow festival 2026 guide for event times. The festival brings millions of visitors to this specific park area. Planning your visit for a weekday helps to avoid huge crowds. Wear sturdy boots to walk safely on the packed snow.

Day 2: Sapporo Beer Museum and Susukino

Start your second day at the historic Sapporo Beer Museum building. This red-brick landmark is a symbol of the city's brewing heritage. You can explore the museum exhibits at your own pace today. Most visitors spend about one hour looking at the displays.

Head to the nearby Beer Garden for a delicious lunch feast. The "Genghis Khan" grilled mutton is a famous local specialty here. This meal is a must-try for any meat lover in Hokkaido. You can expect to pay around 3,000 yen for lunch.

Spend your evening exploring the bright neon lights of Susukino. This district is the largest entertainment area north of Tokyo city. You will find hundreds of restaurants and bars in these streets. It is the perfect place to try authentic Sapporo ramen.

Look for the famous "Ramen Alley" tucked away in a small street. This narrow walkway hosts many legendary shops serving hot miso ramen. A bowl of steaming noodles costs roughly 900 to 1,200 yen. The warm soup is ideal for a chilly 2026 night.

Day 3: Romantic Day Trip to Otaru Canal

Take a short train ride to the charming town of Otaru. The journey from Sapporo Station takes about 35 to 45 minutes. This coastal town is famous for its preserved canal and glassworks. It offers a romantic atmosphere during the cold winter months.

Walk along the Otaru Canal to see the historic stone warehouses. In winter, small snow lanterns line the water at night time. This creates a soft glow against the white snow and ice. The path is very popular for taking beautiful travel photos.

Visit the Music Box Museum located at the end of Sakaimachi. You can browse thousands of unique music boxes in this shop. The building features a classic steam clock at the front entrance. It chimes every fifteen minutes for the passing tourists to hear.

Enjoy fresh seafood at the Sankaku Market near the train station. This market is known for its high-quality crab and sea urchin. A seafood bowl for lunch will cost about 2,500 yen. Make sure to check the train schedule for your return.

Day 4: Winter Sports at Moerenuma Park

Head to the outskirts of the city to visit Moerenuma Park today. This massive park was designed by the famous artist Isamu Noguchi. In winter, the rolling hills become a playground for snow lovers. It is a great spot for families and outdoor fans.

You can rent sleds or cross-country skis at the glass pyramid. Sledding down the "Mount Moere" hill is a thrilling winter activity. The rental fees are very affordable for a few hours of fun. This park offers a quiet escape from the busy downtown.

Explore the Glass Pyramid building to stay warm between your activities. This structure houses a gallery and a small snack shop inside. The architecture looks stunning against the flat white snow of winter. It is open from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM daily.

You should learn about using public transport in Sapporo during snow for this trip. Buses run regularly from the subway stations to the park entrance. Be sure to check the winter timetable before you depart. Travel time from the center is about 40 minutes.

Day 5: Shiroi Koibito Park and Shopping

Visit the Shiroi Koibito Park for a sweet end to your trip. This theme park is dedicated to Sapporo's most famous chocolate cookie. You can watch the factory production line through large glass windows. The park looks like a fairy tale village in winter.

Try a cookie-making workshop to create your own edible souvenir today. These classes are popular and require booking in advance for 2026. The cost for the workshop is about 1,500 yen per person. It is a fun activity for both kids and adults.

Stop by the JR Tower Observation Deck for a final view. This deck is located right above the main Sapporo train station. You can see the entire city grid from 160 meters high. It is a great place to reflect on your journey.

Use this time to buy gifts at the many station shops. Look for Hokkaido milk products and local crafts to take home. Most shops are open until 8:00 or 9:00 PM each night. This area is very convenient for last-minute winter shopping needs.

Tips for Your 5 Day Sapporo Winter Itinerary for 2026

Proper preparation is key for planning Sapporo winter trip 2026 successfully. Winter temperatures in Hokkaido often stay well below the freezing point. You must bring high-quality thermal layers to stay warm and dry. Proper gear ensures you can enjoy the outdoor sites comfortably.

You need to know what clothes to pack for Sapporo winter before you fly. Focus on waterproof boots with good grip for the icy sidewalks. A heavy down coat and wool hat are also essential items. Do not forget to pack gloves and warm wool socks.

Booking your accommodation early is vital for the peak festival season. Hotels near Odori Park fill up many months in advance. Expect higher prices during the first two weeks of February 2026. Consider staying near a subway station for easy city access.

Carry a small portable battery for your phone or digital camera. Cold weather drains batteries much faster than usual in the winter. Keeping your device in an inner pocket helps maintain its charge. This tip ensures you can take photos all day long.