The Best Sapporo Day Tours You Shouldn't Miss

Last Updated on March 8, 2025 by Audrey

Looking for the best Sapporo tour? Here's all the best Sapporo day tours in an easy list!

Sapporo is one of my favorite places to visit in Japan. While Sapporo is the largest and busiest city in Hokkaido, there’s a lot to explore both inside the city and beyond. You’ll find incredible regional delicacies, steaming onsens, glimmering caldera lakes, and much more–and the best way to experience as much of Hokkaido in a short amount of time is by taking a day tour.

The first time I visited Sapporo, I spent one day on a full-day tour to explore Hokkaido. I saw smoking sulfur springs at Noboribetsu, explored Lake Toya, and bought Hokkaido exclusive products at boutique shops in Otaru, a quaint port town.

I loved going on a tour because it let me explore Hokkaido without a car and visit some top sights that aren't easily reached by public transportation. Tours are underrated, and they're not just for older folks (though my mom does love them).

If you prefer staying in one area and doing a deep dive into the culture, there are a couple of highly rated tours in Sapporo that I think will satiate your curiosity.

After doing the research and experiencing some tours myself, here are the best Sapporo day tours I’ve found, covering scenic landscapes, foodie tours, and cultural activities. Here are all the saucy details so you can find what suits you best!

Top 3 picks: Best Sapporo Tours

Are day tours in Sapporo worth it?

I have to admit that I’m pretty pro-tour.

Although I’m perfectly able to plan my own itinerary (in case my blog didn’t give anything away), I still think taking a tour is worth it.

Convenient transportation without hassle

You’ll learn much more from someone who knows the culture and history rather than exploring on your own, and some towns and areas in Hokkaido aren’t easily accessible by public transportation. Sapporo is also a terrific base for exploring Hokkaido, as many day tours start here and provide transportation to top destinations around the region. 

For example, if you want to explore Shikotsu-Toya National Park, it’s very difficult without renting a car, as it takes 2.5 hours to get there and requires both a train and a bus. I tried to organize getting there on my own and found that it wasn’t really feasible, so I ended up booking a tour that took me there along with three other different cities. If you’re not renting a car, then a tour is worth it!

Get out and Explore Hokkaido

I don’t necessarily think a guided tour of Sapporo itself is needed, as the city has well-developed public transportation and plenty of English translations at major landmarks. For the best value, I'd recommend using a day tour to get outside of Sapporo and explore Hokkaido.

The only exception would be specialized Sapporo tours (ex: food tours/horseback riding), which offer unique experiences you can’t get on your own.

However, if you’re traveling with kids, seniors, or prefer to have someone take you around the city so you don’t have to organize it, then a personalized guided tour of the city would be helpful.

Best Nature & Scenic Tours

1. Noboribetsu Hot Springs, Jigokudani Sulfur Lake, and Lake Toya Tour

Tour Time: 11 Hours | Rating: 4.7/5 (1,000+ reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: First time visitors to Hokkaido
• Languages: English/Chinese/Japanese
• Best Season: All year

This is a tour that I personally went on myself and had a great time on! We visited Noboribetsu, Hell Valley (Jigokudani), Lake Toya, Bear Park, and Mitsui Outlet Park. It was a full day tour and I got to see so much of Hokkaido in just one day.

First, we rode to see dramatic sulfur hot springs in Jigokudani, and explored the hot spring town area nearby. Then, we visited Lake Toya, a caldera lake in Shikotsu-Toya National Park that had been on my Hokkaido bucket list but was difficult to reach without a car. Since it was a bright and sunny day, I also got some wonderful photos of the cherry blossoms nearby and saw Mount Usu. 

Finally, we concluded the day with a visit to Hokkaido’s largest outlet shopping mall, Mitsui Outlet Park. I saw a ton of items exclusive to Hokkaido, and picked up Hokkaido dashi seasoning that I currently make my soups at home with! And our last visit of the day was Otaru, a charming port town that has boutique shops, water canals, and tons of street food. 

My Overall Experience

Overall, I had a really positive experience on the tour. The tour guides speak English and Chinese fluently, and worked tirelessly to ensure we stayed on schedule. I didn’t need to drive, I learned a lot and got to explore so many areas that I wouldn’t have been able to without a tour. 

👍 Pro tip: There is an option to visit the Bear Park for an extra fee. I went and didn’t like the conditions the bears were kept in (people can throw apples at them), so I recommend skipping it. It’s not part of the main tour, which is great overall! 

This tour is terrific for first-time visitors to Sapporo and Hokkaido, as you get to see Hokkaido’s incredible natural landscapes and onsen towns. During February, the tour includes a visit to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, where you can see stunning grand ice sculptures. 

"I highly recommend this tour! Our tour guide Alex was very accommodating and knowledgeable in all of the places we visited. He even recommended us products to buy and routes to follow in each destination to maximize the time. The schedule was strictly followed. I will be booking future tours from them again!"

- Michelle (Read more reviews)

2. Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, Blue Pond, & Winter Forest Fairy Terrace

Tour Time: 11 hours | Rating: 4.6/5 (4,000+ reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: Families with kids, First time visitors
• Languages: English/Chinese/Japanese
• Best season: All seasons

This is the most booked tour in Sapporo, with over 50,000 bookings and 4,000+ reviews!

You’ll travel to Hokkaido’s most popular landmarks, including Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, and the Shirogane Blue Pond.

At the zoo, you’ll see penguins, polar bears, and seals up close. Shirahige Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall with hot vapors rising from the hot springs. Lastly, the Blue Pond is a natural phenomenon, featuring vibrant turquoise waters that stand out every day of the year.

During winter, you’ll also visit Ningle Terrace, a fairy-tale cabin area with elf cafes and workshops, and the Seven Star Tree, a famous photo spot. Plus, you can choose to enjoy a winter specialty buffet with Hokkaido regional cuisine.

👍 Pro tip: As you’ll be traveling all over Hokkaido in a short amount of time, keep in mind that the time spent at each destination is limited.

This tour features landmarks that are stunning in any season, and is worth a visit whether there’s sun or snow. While this tour appeals to all ages, I think families would have the most fun, as it includes a trip to the zoo and a Christmas-themed fairy terrace.

"I'm still reeling from the breathtaking experiences on this meticulously curated day tour! Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, Biei, and the Blue Pond – each destination was a masterclass in natural beauty, expertly woven together by our exceptional tour guide."

- Louis (Read more reviews)

3. Ningle Terrace, Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls Illumination Tour

Tour Time: 10 hours | Rating: 4.2/5 (450 reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Best for: Snow sports lovers, First-time Visitors 
• Languages: Chinese/English/Japanese
• Best season: Winter

This is a great alternative to Tour #2, without the Asahimayama Zoo. Personally, I tend to avoid visiting zoos in Asia because I often find that the animals aren’t treated as well as in America.

I have yet to visit Asahiyama Zoo so I don't want to poo-poo on the highest booked tour (#2) without my own experience, pardon my language. Anyways, this tour covers all the other major landmarks minus the zoo, so if you're apprehensive, this is a good backup. 

You’ll get to visit the Furano Fairy Terrace, see a dreamy waterfall, and visit the vibrant blue Biei Pond.

When you walk into the charming village that is Furano’s Ningle Terrace, you’ll get to explore 15 differently themed cabins that feel like a fairy tale in a wondrous forest. There are specialty craft shops, workshops, and cozy elf cafes.

You’ll also make a stop at Shiki-sai-no-oka in Biei, famous for their vast curvy hills with vibrant lines of colors. During the summer, the flowers bloom and create the incredible landscape. In the winter, the field turns into a snow park, where you have your choice between snowmobiles, snow rafting, or sledding! 

👍 Pro tip: I recommend choosing Option B, so you can see Shirogane Blue Pond’s colorful water brightly illuminated at night. It’ll be so different than seeing the pond during daylight hours.

"Incredibly beautiful place. This tour was a fantastic way to see some of Hokkaido’s highlights in one day. I was absolutely blown away by the beauty of Shirahige falls, it’s definitely a must see if you’re in the area. Ningle Terrace was just like a winter wonderland, and the way the snow flakes lit up with the Biei Blue Pond Illumination felt like a dream. Would definitely recommend!"

- Secret Klooker (Read more reviews)

4. Shikisai-no-Oka & Furano

Tour Time: 10 hours | Rating: 4.8/5 (500 reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Best for: Nature Lovers, Relaxing Pace, Instagrammable Spots
• Languages: English/Chinese/Japanese
• Best season: Summer

This is your chance to explore the vast and beautiful fields of Hokkaido on this full-day tour to Furano and Biei.

You’ll visit Shikisai no Oka, a stunning landscape of rolling rainbow fields filled with 30 different flowers in full bloom. You’ll also make a stop at Shirogane Blue Pond, a natural lake phenomenon on the outskirts of Biei that features vibrant turquoise waters. 

👍 Pro tip: If you have time, I recommend checking out the Alpaca Farm in Shikisai-no-Oka!

The tour also includes a visit to Biei patchwork Road and roller coaster road, an iconic 4 kilometer road that seems to stretch on for days while showing off the rural beauty of Hokkaido.

After enjoying a delicious buffet with fresh regional ingredients, you’ll head to Farm Tomita in Furano. Here, you’ll get to walk through abundant fragrant lavender fields that go on forever. There are also tons of amazing lavender products you can take home as souvenirs or gifts!  (Note: During winter, Farm Tomita is replaced with Fairy Terrace.)

👍 Pro tip: I highly recommend trying the lavender ice cream at Farm Tomita, it’s delicious!

This tour is perfect if you want to explore the natural beauty of northern Japan at a relaxing pace. While dates are available all season, I think it shines best during summertime, when you can enjoy peak bloom and taste seasonal foods like melon ice cream and corn.

"We were very fortunate to have Joe as our tour guide, he was very humorous and engaging - sharing lots of interesting tidbits on the Japanese culture and history of Hokkaido. We also appreciate the way he customized the itinerary so that we could avoid the crowd. Would recommend this tour for its convenience and overall comfort. Sufficient time to grab light bites and desserts to enjoy."

- Wan (Read more reviews)

Best Cultural Experiences

5. Visit an Onsen in Jozankei

Tour Time: Half day 5 hours | Rating: 4.7/5 (400 reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: Relaxation seekers, Japanese Culture lovers
• Languages: English/Japanese
• Best season: Autumn and Winter

There are limited onsen around Sapporo, so if you were considering an onsen during your trip, this tour may interest you. Relaxing in an onsen is one of my favorite things to do whenever I come to Japan, so I highly recommend trying it at least once.

This tour takes you to Mori no Uta resort, a new 4-star hotel with awesome amenities including massages, saunas, and of course natural hot springs in the middle of the Hokkaido forests. It's actually not so much of a tour as it is a voucher for a half day stay in an onsen hotel with convenient transportation to Jozankei, a hot spring town just an hour away from Sapporo. 

At the hotel, you have multiple indoor and outdoor onsen options. The outdoor hot springs have a stunning view of the mountains, providing the perfect relaxing retreat after long days exploring Sapporo.

👍 Pro tip: Make sure to exchange your tickets at the information center in the Sapporo TV Tower at least 1 day before your tour date! 

Transportation on the Kappa Liner and a delicious buffet lunch made of local delicacies are included, so don't sweat about how to get there. Overall, this is a perfect way to experience an authentic onsen affordably and conveniently without the extra cost of having to stay the night.

👍 Pro tip: Keep in mind Mori no Uta resort does not allow guests with tattoos to use the public onsen, and the private onsen requires an overnight stay. 

"My visit to Jozankei Tsuruga Resort was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in the resort’s tranquil ambiance and warm hospitality. Nestled amidst the lush natural surroundings of Jozankei, this resort offers the perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation."

- Chiat (Read more reviews)

6. Sapporo Private Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems by a Local

Tour Time: 3-8 hours| Rating: 4.8/5 (60 reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: City explorers, personalized itinerary
• Languages: English/Japanese
• Best season: All year

While I think Sapporo is certainly doable to explore on your own, having insight from a local is always priceless. This city tour offers a personalized itinerary based on your personal preferences, with a local host guiding you through Sapporo’s landmarks.

This would be a great option if you want to see the city from a local's perspective, if you want help with your schedule, or you’re confused by the Japanese train system and need some help navigating the city. The tour time is flexible, with options ranging from 3 hours to a full day, so you can adjust it to fit your needs.

You can expect to learn a ton about Sapporo’s history and culture, with visits to Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, Nijo Market, and Hokkaido Shrine. These are all essential spots that any first-time visitor to Sapporo shouldn’t miss. I also include all these spots in my own Sapporo itinerary.

Though this is primarily a walking tour, it’s suitable for all ages and mobilities, as public transportation is used and the guide can adjust to a more relaxed pace if needed.

"My tour guide was Zarina and she was awesome - communicated early and I appreciated her flexibility as my flight was delayed and which then delayed my arrival to the tour. I also appreciated that she took into consideration my “wants” from the tour which was to try local food - the soup curry was delicious! What is quite nice about the tour is the flexibility and catering to what you want to do and see."

- Audrey (Read more reviews)

7. Cape Kamui, Shiroi Koibito Park, Otaru & Shakotan

Tour Time: 10 hours | Rating: 4.6/5 (286 reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: Visitors short on time
• Languages: English/Chinese/Japanese
• Best Season: Spring/Summer

Okay, this tour is for the person who has very little time in Hokkaido. You got to do it all. You need to see Sapporo, visit the stunning landscapes of Hokkaido, do some shopping, but wait, you want to check out the famous chocolate Shiroi Koibito theme park too?!

Well you’re pretty lucky then, because this tour was basically made for you. I know, I’m shocked too.

On this full day tour, you get to visit Hokkaido Jingu Shrine in Sapporo, then stop by Shiroi Koibito park and grab some delicious chat de langue cookies. Afterwards, you’ll make your way to the port city Otaru and visit the cutest boutique shops.

The best part of this particular tour is that you'll visit the famous Cape Kamui, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sea of Japan. You can even walk down to the lighthouse at the end. Cape Kamui is one place I have yet to visit in Hokkaido and I really hope I can see it in the future! It's said to be utterly spectacular.

The spots you’ll visit will vary depending on the season, and if you come in summer, you may even get to go cherry picking at Nikiya Orchard in Yoichi.

It’s a super condensed trip all around Hokkaido’s best spots, so if you only have a day or two in the Hokkaido region you can’t beat it. Oh, and the free lavender ice cream that's included doesn't hurt either.

"The tour was as a great way to be able to see more of Hokkaido. The tour guide was very nice and gave a lot of information along the way. I think this tour gave enough time at each spot. Highly recommend!"

- Fion (Read more reviews)

Best Foodie Tours

8. Experience traditional Japanese cuisine making soba noodles

Tour Time: 1 hour | Rating: 4.8/5 (70 reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: Culture Connoisseurs, Noodle Lovers, Chefs
• Languages: English/Japanese
• Best Season: All Year

Did you know that Hokkaido is the number one producer of buckwheat in Japan?

Me neither, but thanks to northern Japan being the perfect environment for buckwheat to grow, you can even take a soba noodle making class here in Sapporo and make your own delicious soba to enjoy. Plus, you can add tempura shrimp and vegetables to it!

This interactive cooking class is suitable for all ages, and even small kids can come and learn how to make soba noodles from scratch. You’ll also get a fun history lesson in the process, teaching you how this traditional Japanese dish originated from the Edo period. 

This is a short and sweet tour that teaches you a lot about Japanese culture and cuisine! Cooking classes are one of my favorite activities because I love getting to eat everything at the end… but who doesn't love that?

"Very enjoyable experience with our family, learning how to make soba noodles from scratch. We now have a greater appreciation for those who make them everyday. The noodles were delicious as well!"

- Wendy (Read more reviews)

9. Lake Toya, Noboribetsu, & Mt. Uzu gourmet tour

Tour Time: 9 Hours | Rating: 4.8/5 (100 Reviews) | Book Now

• 🤩 Perfect for: Adventure seekers, Nature lovers, Solo Travelers
• Languages: Chinese/English/Japanese
• Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall 

I’ve mentioned this in other posts, but I found it’s extremely difficult to get to Shikotsu-Toya national park if you don’t have a car due to limited transportation options.

You’d have to take a train, and a bus, commute around 3 hours one way, and wouldn’t get to stay long as the last train leaves around 6 pm... it's a bit too tough. That’s why I think booking a tour that will take you to Lake Toya and Mount Uzu is perfect. 

In this tour you’ll get to see the amazing natural landscapes Hokkaido is famous for. You’ll see Lake Toya, a caldera lake created from a volcanic eruption. You’ll also make a stop at Noboribetsu hell valley and see the dramatic sulfur springs. I recommend skipping the bear ranch and using your time taking the cable car up Mount Uzu for a panoramic view of Lake Toya and the lush forest. 

You’ll also make a stop at Lake Hill Farm, which serves fresh Hokkaido milk gelato with a picturesque background of Mount Yotei. 

"My family and I truly had a blast on this tour. The tour guide was the most accommodating. She was constantly telling us facts about Sapporo and helped us with pictures and directions every time we asked. we had a great tour not just because of the tour, but also the kindness of the tour guide 🤗.

- Nikki (Read more reviews)

10. Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour

Tour Time: 3 hours | Rating: 5/5 (120 reviews) | Book Now 

• 🤩 Perfect for: Foodies, Nightlife Explorers, Solo Travelers
• Languages: English
• Best Season: All year
• Age group: 20+ 

In this highly rated tour (zero bad reviews!) you’ll get to explore Susukino, Sapporo’s electric downtown area with a local guide. This tour incorporates Hokkaido's local cuisine with a fun bar hopping experience. 

Here, you’ll visit 3 local izakayas, Japanese taverns, and get taken to a hidden underground bar with insider tips on the best spots in Sapporo. You’ll also get ramen or a parfait for free, and there are a lot of food and drink choices at each restaurant so you’ll never go hungry.  

This is a really good social tour that incorporates food, drinks, and is a great way to meet other travelers and form friendships! This tour is perfect for single travelers who are down to be adventurous and meet new people, or anyone who wants to experience Hokkaido’s bar scene. 

"Excellent food and drinks, our guide was friendly and very informative!! Loved the experience 👍🏻 All the visited venues were original and very good!"

- Marco (Read more reviews)

Best Sapporo Day Tours Comparison Table

Sapporo Travel Guide and FAQ

Final Thoughts: Sapporo Day Tours

There you have it, the ultimate culmination of my hours of research to find the best Sapporo day tours out there. Don’t worry, you were worth it!

I don’t really think you can go wrong with picking any of these, but if it’s your first time in Sapporo I’d still recommend picking the Lake Toya, Noboribetsu, Otaru Tour because you get to see so many of Hokkaido’s natural landscapes in one day. Plus, who doesn’t like doing some shopping at the end?

If you have any questions or need help with your trip, always feel free to reach out to me at audrey@getlostinjapan.com! I hope you have the most spectacular vacation to Hokkaido this year!

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