Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido and Japan’s fifth largest city, became worldwide famous when the Olympic Winter Games in 1972 were held there. The largely hilly region attracts more than two million visitors of domestic and international tourists during winter to enjoy its winter attractions just on the outskirts of the city. Other than that, the city is also a major cultural destination offering some of the best-known culinary delicacies in the country, such as the juicy hairy crabs, iconic Sapporo beer, and slurping good ramen. The city also has theatrical and musical events, as well as points of interest and attractions such as museums and lovely parks that are well worth including on your travel itinerary.
Spring, summer, fall or winter, discover the different charm the city has to offer every season with Travelodge Hotels Asia.
Sapporo Beer Museum
Do you know that Hokkaido is the birthplace of beer in Japan? Sapporo Beer, one of the country’s most popular and oldest beer brands, has been brewing its beer in Sapporo since 1877. The only museum in Japan dedicated to beer, the museum first opened in 1987 as a place where you can explore the long history of beer making. After the museum tour, visitors can gulp freshly brewed beer shipped directly from the Sapporo Breweries Hokkaido Brewery and the Sapporo Kaitakushi Brewery. When you’re there, try various beers such as Sapporo Draft Kuro Label, which locals widely love, the Hokkaido exclusive Sapporo Classic, or the Kaitakushi Beer Kaitakushi Brewery produces in Sapporo.
Susukino
Are you looking for some entertainment in Hokkaido? Look no further; Susukino is the answer. The largest entertainment district in the north of Japan, the bustling neighbourhood is packed with an array of nightclubs, restaurants, karaoke shops, and pachinko parlours. Whether you’re looking for a hidden speakeasy bar to enjoy the infamous craft beer to the latest dance club scene, Susukino offers them all. It is also the best place to enjoy Japan’s nomihodai, or “all you can drink” drinking culture! That’s not it – Susukino is also famous for its Ramen Yokocho, or ramen alley hidden in the Tanukikoji shopping street. The entire alley features popular ramen shops specializing in different types of ramen in each region.
Sapporo Clock Tower
An icon of the city of Sapporo, Sapporo Clock Tower is the city’s oldest remaining structure from the past. The clock tower was first built in 1878 as a theatrical hall of the Sapporo Agricultural School, known as Hokkaido University today. The clock tower was an idea from then vice principal, Dr. John Clark, to design it for a drill hall for students to do their physical education, military training, and ceremony hall. For many foreigners, the clock tower seemed rather familiar because the tower’s design was inspired by the mid and western regions of America during the frontier era. The clock tower is now home to different exhibitions, photos, and development information on the history of agriculture in Sapporo. In 1970, Sapporo Clock Tower was designated an ‘Important Cultural Property’ and by 2019, it was certified as ‘Mechanical Engineering Heritage’ of Japan. To this date, the bell chimes every hour.
Sapporo TV Tower
Nope, you are not about to watch TV, although it is a TV and radio broadcasting tower. The 147,2m tall tower is famous for its observation deck, which allows you to experience the beautiful panoramic view of the whole city day and night. Besides observation deck, the tower also features a gourmet food court, an underground shopping street in Aurora Town, and a tourist information center. The observation deck is wrapped with big windows, allowing you to see the clear view. They also provide a telescope you can use to see the city in greater detail. The observation deck is particularly popular during the annual Sapporo Snow Festival in February as the next-door attraction, Odori Park, transforms into a winter wonderland.
Hokkaido Jingu Shrine
A resting place of four deities, the shrine is among the most popular in the city. Three gods were first selected to watch over the reclamation of Hokkaido, which are Okunitama, Onamuchi, and Sukunahikona, before Emperor Meiji became the fourth god to be enshrined in Sapporo-jinja. Although the shrine burned down in 1974, it was successfully restored in 1978. As you walk toward the shrine, avoid walking or shooting from the main path, as it is the causeway of the Gods. A trip to the shrine is not complete without also exploring the spacious 70 hectares Maruyama Park, next to the shrine. The park is a thriving natural ecosystem where nature lives and breathes, with more than 330 plant varieties, 100 species of birds, and a zoo.
Discover the best of Sapporo with the best offer from Travelodge Hotels Asia at https://www.travelodgehotels.asia/japan/
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