Sapporo, Japan

Tripadvisor ▪ Wikitravel ▪ Virtual Tourist ▪ Japan-guide

Sapporo (札幌, "important river flowing through a plain" in Ainu language) is the capital of Hokkaido and Japan's fifth largest city. Sapporo is also one of the nation's youngest major cities. In 1857, the city's population stood at just seven people. Sapporo became world famous in 1972 when the Olympic Winter Games were held there. Today, the city is well known for its ramen, beer, and the annual snow festival held in February.

Attractions/Sightseeing:

• Sapporo White Illumination (Web) (late Nov-Feb)
• Doraemon Wakuwaku Sky Park (Web) (at the airport)
• Clock Tower (Web) (時計台): said to be the symbol of Sapporo, clock purchased from Boston in 1881.
• Curb Market (Web) (札幌場外市場): try a meal of fresh local seafood served over rice (domburi) at one of the local restaurants.
• Odori Park (Web) (大通公園): 12-blocks city park in the middle of Sapporo, view from Sapporo TV Tower
• Susukino (Web): entertainment district, Ramen Yokocho (alley) is a narrow lane lined with shops serving Sapporo's famous ramen.
• Mt. Moiwa (Web) (藻岩山) Viewpoint: ropeway (mini cable car), view of Sapporo
• Moerenuma Park (Web) (モエレ沼公園): Hidamari glass pyramid, play mountain, mount Moere with great views of the park and surrounding.