The BEST Places to Stay in Sapporo, Japan (2025)

Last Updated on May 18, 2025 by Audrey

Looking for where to stay in Sapporo? Here are the BEST places to stay while visiting Hokkaido's biggest city!

Sapporo is a magical place. Known as the biggest city in the northern Hokkaido region, this city is pretty awesome. But with great size comes great accommodation options.

You'll have a lot of choices of where to stay in Sapporo. And look, I'm not saying the hotel makes or breaks the trip. But a crappy hotel will for sure dampen it a bit. But that won't happen to you, since you're about to read this post.

It's difficult to choose where you'll set up camp while exploring this amazing city, but I've made that easy for you. I've compiled the best places to stay in Sapporo, based on your traveler preferences!

After this read, you'll know exactly where you want to stay and will be ready for your trip to the North!

My top picks of the best places to stay in Sapporo:

Sapporo Cheat Sheet

👶 First timers: Sapporo Station

💑 Couples: Jozankei or Susukino

👩 Solo Travelers: Odori Park or Susukino

👨‍👩‍👦 Families: Nakajima Park

💲 On A Budget: North Sapporo

💃 Nightlife: Susukino

🍜 Foodies: Susukino

Sapporo Neighborhoods

Sapporo Station

⭐ Best for: the traveler who wants to explore Hokkaido.

Sapporo Station is one of my favorite neighborhoods to stay in when I’m in Sapporo because it makes traveling around so much easier! You can use Sapporo as a base and travel around northern Japan with ease.

In addition to ease of travel, there are tons of restaurants and shops near the train station. There are three different shopping malls in Sapporo Station: Paseo, Stellar Place, and Apia, and there are a couple more department stores adjacent to the station that are geared towards bargain shoppers as well. 

Due to its convenience, easy accessibility to the subway and shops, and delicious food all around the area, I think it’s one of the best places to stay in Sapporo for first timers or if you plan on traveling to other cities! 

Odori Park

⭐ Best for: the traveler who wants to explore the entirety of Sapporo.

This huge park is located right in the city center of Sapporo! Odori Park is a street park area that stretches for 12 blocks and takes 30 minutes to walk the whole length. It’s an oasis in the middle of a vibrant city.

Featuring 92 types of trees and flowers, it’s a beautiful place to walk through on a sunny afternoon. It also hosts several festivals every season, such as the Snow Festival in the winter or the Lilac Festival in the spring.

It’s very close to iconic landmarks of the city such as the Sapporo Clock Tower and the Sapporo TV Tower, an iconic 147-meter-high tower that is a notable symbol of the city, located at the end of Odori Park. 

It’s perfectly in the middle of everything, and is about a 10-minute walk to all your favorite places: Nijo Market, Hokkaido Shrine, Susukino, and Sapporo Station. 

Susukino

⭐ Best for: the solo traveler and the nightlife lover.

Alright, I’ll be honest. Susukino is my favorite neighborhood in Sapporo. If you enjoy a fun nightlife in the city, love to make new friends, or are a big foodie, this is probably the best neighborhood for you.

Susukino is Sapporo’s entertainment district and one of the largest in Japan. It has tons of stores, bars, restaurants, clubs, and pachinko parlors. You can go out and do anything you want, really! However, it is also a red-light district, so you may see some adult-only areas. 

Want to play arcade games until 4 in the morning? Or go to a fun bar or club? Then Susukino it is. I went out to a club at 9:30 PM on a Tuesday night, and there were still a lot of people in the club! A TUESDAY! Have I hyped it up enough for you?

Regardless of where you end up, you’ll have a ton of fun in Susukino. A lot of places are open, and lots of people are around to meet and make friends with.

Nakajima Park

⭐ Best for: families and the traveler who wants a relaxing retreat.

Nakajima Park is a beautiful urban park located right next to Susukino, in downtown Sapporo. It's next to an astronomical observatory, a zoo, and several places to eat or shop around. But the highlight of this neighborhood is of course the stunning park itself.

The park has several trees and flower viewing areas, and the central highlight is the large Shobu-ike pond that you can even go boating in. In the winter, the park has a cross-country skiing course with free equipment rentals!

It's the perfect place in Sapporo to take a relaxing stroll through. If you want a more scenic area, are bringing your family and want a large area for kids to play in, or just want to take in a different sight of the city, Nakajima Park may be the place for you.

Where To Stay In Sapporo For First Timers: Sapporo Station

If you're coming to Sapporo for the first time, I would choose to stay around Sapporo Station. My reasoning is that you probably will want to hop around Hokkaido a little bit and see as many sights as possible.

Being near the station will help you tremendously and save precious time spent commuting around the city. Not only that, but it will be easy to take day trips, and it'll be a quick walk back home when you return late in the evening.

There are also a ton of shops and restaurants located inside the JR station. I'm talking about three different malls in the station alone! You won't run out of places to eat at, either.

Here are my top choices for accommodations for first timers around Sapporo Station.

1. HOTEL MYSTAYS Sapporo Station ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 (9,900 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget Travelers, Couples, Business Travelers
• 💎 Known for: On-site restaurants, excellent service, English speakers
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

HOTEL MYSTAYS is a great budget option for anyone. It's also probably the cheapest hotel option on this list close to the JR station.

If you get lucky, a room with a double-sized bed can be as cheap as $60 a night! Double beds can be a little hard to find when you're looking for budget options, as many lower-priced hotels will opt for twin beds.

It's in a prime location, being only a 2-minute walk to Sapporo Station. There's even a breakfast option and free cancellation!

"The reception team on duty is very helpful. "Tang" spoke good English and was exceptionally patient and thorough in helping us with getting to our next sight-seeing place in Rusutzu Ski and Convention Hotel. We arranged for free transfer from Sopporo Station! Very impressed and appreciate such efficient and thorough service."

- Joseph (Read more reviews)

2. Sapporo Washington Hotel Plaza ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.8/10 (2,300 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget Travelers, Business Travelers
• 💎 Known For: Parking Available, Amazing reviews, Breakfast buffet
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Sapporo Washington is another affordable option, located 5 minutes away from the station. Rooms have air conditioning, a TV with satellite, a fridge, and even a desk if you need to work remotely.

There is a buffet breakfast available every morning. The front desk is staffed 24/7, so you can check in anytime!

"Very convenient location. 5 minute walk to JR station. Hotel room seems like just renovated. Very new and clean. The room design is very compact. Hotel staff also friendly and I love the self check-in service. Will definitely come back again!"

- Ying (Read more reviews)

3. Mitsui Garden Hotel Sapporo West ($$$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 (6,300 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Couples, Luxury Lovers
• 💎 Known For: Relaxing amenities, Onsen, Spacious rooms
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

If you want to try staying in an onsen during your stay in the city, Mitsui Garden has fantastic reviews. A public onsen is available here for those who’d like to experience public bathing (with tattoo stickers if needed)!

Located in the city center and just a 5-minute walk from Sapporo Station, Mitsui Garden is equipped with large, comfortable rooms. A big hotel room is rare in Japan, and these rooms have a luxurious atmosphere to them.

There's a delicious Western-style breakfast and plenty of available amenities such as coffee and soda machines, robes, washers and dryers, and more. You won't regret it if you stay here.

"The room has a luxurious feel, and it is also more spacious than the standard hotel room in Japan. The bed is comfortable. They have a lounge area that provides free snacks. The service is also excellent, they helped to keep our luggages when we traveled to another city."

- Irwan (Read more reviews)

4. JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo ($$$)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.1/10 (6,500 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Luxury stays, families, couples
• 💎 Known For: Best location, Restaurants and shops, top-of-the-line service, amazing views, convenience
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

This four-star hotel has it all. It’s located inside the train station, making it the ultimate place for transportation. You’ll have all the restaurants and shops to choose from, and inside the hotel are two restaurants with panoramic views of the city on the 35th floor of the building.

There's a public onsen with skyline views, a sauna, a hot tub, and a spa and wellness center.. on top of the train station! It’s simply beautiful and top-of-the-line! Visitors can add on a relaxing massage for an extra cost.

If you plan on taking the subway and exploring a lot of Hokkaido, you’ll love staying here. It has everything you could possibly need, with tremendously easy transportation. If you have the budget for it, and don’t mind a splurge, this is the best luxury option out there.

"Beautiful view, lovely staff, wonderful breakfast, and great access to trains and shopping!"

Laurel (Read more reviews)

Best Things To Do Around Sapporo Station

• Since it's easy to hop on a train anywhere here, take a day trip to other areas of Hokkaido like Otaru, Jigokudani, or Toya Lake. You can check out easy day trip ideas from Sapporo to give you an idea of where to go. The natural beauty that you can find simply by hopping on a quick 30-minute train out of the city is incredible.
• Walk around Hokkaido University and check out their free museum and botanic garden.
• See the Former Hokkaido Government Office, which holds historical significance and is a beautiful building structure made of red brick.
• Shop until you drop at the shopping complexes inside the train station: Paseo, Stellar Place, and Apia. Or venture a few steps outside to Esta (discount shopping), Daimaru, and Sapporo Factory.
• Eat at one of the hundreds of delicious restaurants in the train station. My favorite was Kineya, Sapporo APIA, which served an amazing eel and udon special when I went in May!

Where to Stay in Sapporo for Couples: Susukino or Jozankei

I traveled to Sapporo with my partner and had an amazing time. There are so many things that you can do that are romantic and fun. I recommend that couples stay in the downtown area, near Susukino as there are bars and nice restaurants there, with lots of attractions nearby.

However, if you really want to have a special, romantic vacation, then I would encourage you to stay at a romantic ryokan with an onsen. It's an amazing experience to enjoy a private Japanese bath with your partner, and you'll never forget those memories. That was the most romantic thing I did during my entire stay in Japan, and I can't recommend it enough.

There are limited private onsen options in Sapporo, so you could consider taking a weekend trip to Jozankei Resort and Spa. Jozankei is very close to Sapporo (less than an hour) and is a very popular day trip and weekend getaway option. There is a convenient Kappa Liner bus that runs straight from Sapporo to Jozankei, and many tours that spend the day there.

Since it has become such a popular hot spring destination, there are tons of ryokan, restaurants, and shops for visitors to browse through. There are free foot baths with natural spring water to try out around town.

If you go during fall, Jozankei turns into a stunning red-gold landscape with changing autumn foliage. Regardless of the season, you'll enjoy a wonderful bath together with the quiet backdrop of nature. The romance meter will break off, I assure you.

6. Onsen Ryokan Yuen ($$$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 (1,500 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Couples, Adults, Tranquility Lovers, Luxury Minimalists
• 💎 Known For: Traditional ryokan experience, peaceful ambiance, retreat-like stay
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

It’s extremely rare to find a ryokan with an onsen in Sapporo itself. I think Onsen Ryokan Yuen is the best ryokan in Sapporo!

With beautiful, serene rooms decorated in a traditional modern style, a sauna, and a hot spring bath, 3-star ryokan Yuen is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic high-end ryokan experience without leaving the city.

The onsen is definitely the highlight of Yuen, featuring Karurusu hot spring water transported from Noboribetsu, in a soft stone open-air bath. Visitors will enjoy delicious Japanese set meals featuring high-quality, fine ingredients representing each season from areas of Hokkaido.

Overall, the quiet luxury and attention to fine details make Yuen the best ryokan in Sapporo for good reason.

Nearby attractions include the Botanic Garden Hokkaido University, and Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art. It's also only an 8-minute walk from the subway.  

"This hotel is extremely luxurious. The design and attention to details is remarkable. We got little Japanese treats like walnut mochi and corn tea and enjoyed yukatas we got for the stay. The bath was the most beautiful hotel bath we visited in our trip to Japan, and the free ice-cream was a fun little touch. Perfect stay in Sapporo."

- Shoval (Read more reviews)

7. Sapporo Stream Hotel ($$$)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.2/10 (7,700 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Solo Travelers, Couples
• 💎 Known For: Premium amenities, Rooftop Lounge, Onsen
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

This brand-new hotel just opened in January 2024, and it looks awesome! The rooms are big and modern and have stunning views of Sapporo's skyline.

If you want to splurge on a premium room, you also get access to a moody, luxurious lounge, a large onsen and sauna, and a rooftop lounge that all provide impressive views of the stars and the city.

This hotel provides the perfect intimate ambiance for a romantic vacation while also making you feel like a king and queen. Rooms start at $130/night.

"The hotel itself was one of the best we have stayed in, in Japan. It is relatively new with well presented rooms and an enthusiastic staff who are clearly proud of the hotel and keen to ensure that guests enjoy their stay."

- Gina (Read more reviews)

Romantic things to do in Sapporo

• Rent out the Sapporo TV Tower, an iconic landmark of the cityscape, for only 10,000 yen ($60 USD). You'll get a complimentary bottle of wine and can light the tower up in any color you want! Plus you can display a personalized message!
• Enjoy a late-night date at Aoao Aquarium, a fun aquarium with a famous penguin exhibit that is loved by locals and tourists alike. It's open until 10 PM so you can go after a dinner date!
• Stroll around Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Park, which have a variety of blossoming trees throughout the year. Not only do you get to enjoy a beautiful sight, but you can pick fortunes and buy good luck charms for your future together!
• Eat dinner or visit a bar with a grand view of the Sapporo skyline. I recommend Sky J in Sapporo Station or The Jewels Restaurant at Mt. Moiwa Outlook!

Where to stay in Jozankei, Sapporo

If you decide to spend some time in Jozankei, hands down you must stay in a ryokan with an onsen. It's a hot spring town, so you have to get the whole experience here!

Jozankei is well known for its natural salt hot spring, which has a myriad of healing properties such as pain relief and muscle relaxation, and is said to aid several aspects of the body like gastrointestinal function, blood pressure, and autonomic dysfunction. The hot spring water is gentle and soothing to the skin.

Taking a romantic bath in a private onsen while sipping tea and watching the leaves fall... I'm impressing myself just imagining this right now.

Staying in a Ryokan

You'll find that most of the available hotels are ryokan, which come with public and occasionally private onsen. They typically will have breakfast and traditional kaiseki dinner options available.

Staying at a ryokan gives you the experience of staying at a traditional Japanese hotel, where every aspect of your stay is thought about and the staff provide the most comfortable experience possible. It is a little more expensive than a regular hotel, because you get many more amenities.

Most of them also offer free shuttle service to and from Sapporo Station, so you can come for a quick weekend getaway!

8. HanaMomiji ($$$)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.0/10 (6,300 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers
• 💎 Known For: Large Ryokan, Group-friendly amenities, Private Onsen, Close to Attractions
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Hanamomiji is a lovely 80-room ryokan has 3 public and 3 private baths that are accessible to guests, with stunning panoramic views of Jozankei National Park to enjoy during your bath! There is even a private family onsen that can be reserved ahead of time.

After soothing your muscles in the natural spring water, hop into one of the massage chairs available in the hotel and get even closer to complete serenity.

This ryokan has many activities available for guests, such as the music lounge or library for further relaxation. If you're bringing your family, make sure to visit the game room, outdoor pool, or karaoke facilities.

Hanamomiji has amazing breakfast and kaiseki dinner dining options, and visitors gush about the good food and spacious accommodations. It's also close to some of the top attractions in the town, such as the Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge.

"Absolutely above and beyond a dream getaway. The room was gorgeous and authentic, the food was phenomenal, and the views and location were straight from your dreams."

- Steven (Read more reviews)

9. Jozankei YurakuSoan ($$$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.6/10 (700 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Couples, Relaxing getaways, Zen seekers
• 💎 Known For: Multiple onsen options, nature-focused
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Yurakusoan is absolutely gorgeous and is the perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway. This ryokan focuses on fine details, incorporating earthy materials like stone and wood to put the spotlight on the amazing natural landscape.

There are seven different public baths and four different private baths that you can use for free as many times as you want! Each private bath has an absolutely stunning view of the forest.

The ryokan offers several other free amenities like free ice cream and drinks and complimentary yukata! Feel free book a massage here to enjoy an ultimate relaxation experience during your stay.

If you're looking to celebrate something special, or just want to treat yourself, look no further!

"Onsen is incredible, especially the 4 different private onsen available to all guests, whereas the onsen inside the room is also nice. Dinner and breakfast is very delicious and well-presented. All the facilities and amenities are great. I loved it so much that I ended up extending my stay."

- Iris (Read more reviews)

10. Jozankei View Hotel ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 7.8/10 (5,000 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Families, Resort seekers, Groups, Couples on a Budget
• 💎 Known For: Water slides, Mega resort amenities, Family-Friendly
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Jozankei View Hotel is a huge 16-story mega spa resort ideal for families, groups, or anyone who wants to experience Jozankei while saving a bit of money and doesn't mind staying in a larger hotel.

It has multiple huge communal baths, a grand buffet, and an indoor heated "lagoon" with water slides and a wave pool!

This hotel is only $115/night and is in a convenient location that is right next to a bus stop. You'll have spectacular views of the mountains which are especially stunning during autumn.

"Onsen facilities are amazing. The best onsen in Japan in my opinon. Two levels B1 and B2 are loaded with hot pools, saunas, rest areas, entertainment pools, outdoor hot pools. Comparing to other hotels with onsens in Japan, this one is the shining star."

- Serge (Read more reviews)

Romantic Things to do for couples in Jozankei

• This one should be obvious, but… try out the onsen! Enjoy a romantic bath together in a private onsen and admire the lush color-changing landscape of Jozankei. Or take a dip in the public onsen individually, then reconvene for ice cream post-bath!
• Soak your feet in the Jozan Gensen Park foot bath, a spacious foot bath located in a beautiful park. Maybe even cook a hot spring egg while you’re there!
• Walk the Jozankei Futami Suspension Bridge, the iconic red bridge that overlooks Jozankei Town and shows off the bright, seasonal foliage.
• If visiting in the winter, try dog sledding or horseback riding for an exciting experience through the powder-white snow!
• Grab some lunch and picnic at the top of Hoheikyo Dam, which has one of the top autumn foliage viewing spots in all of Japan!

Where to Stay in Sapporo for Solo Travelers: Odori Park or Susukino

If you’re solo traveling to Sapporo, I recommend either Odori Park for its close proximity to Sapporo’s top attractions, or Susukino because it’s the best neighborhood to go out and meet other people.

If you want to meet other travelers or save a big on your lodgings, and don't mind sharing common spaces like bathrooms and lounges, definitely look into staying at a hostel. The hostels in Japan are very clean, and make excellent use of small spaces! You'll get to meet all kinds of different people and will make friends along the way.

11. Plat Hostel Keikyu Sapporo Ichiba ($)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.6/10 (3,600 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Groups
• 💎 Known For: Central location, Bar, Family Rooms
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Plat Hostel Keikyu is a short 6-minute walk to Odori station and very close to main attractions like Nijo Market, Odori Park, Susukino shopping districts and restaurants, and convenience stores.

Guests can choose between single beds in dormitory rooms with other travelers, double beds, or family rooms that can accommodate up to 8 people.

Amenities include a bar, laundry, and a common dining area. Certain rooms include working desks, making an ideal environment for digital nomads or business travelers. Rooms are as cheap as $26/night!

"Very modern and clean facilities, comfortable beds, and efficient room interior! Good and affordable food/ drink options in the restaurant. Located in front of great fresh fish market, which closes at night, so no noise problem. Close to the busy and popular Odori Station."

- Miriam (Read more reviews)

12. La'gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 (14,000 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Adults, Couples, Business Travelers
• 💎 Known For: Central location, large rooms, convenience
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

La’gent Stay is a 5-minute walk from Odori Station and close to all the main attractions. It features two stunning natural onsen. The restaurant serves Western and Japanese food, and visitors can enjoy drinks at the ship-themed bar.

Located in a great spot, the hotel is located across the popular Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade. I spent a lot of time shopping here during my time in Sapporo, and they have great vintage thrift options as well as a Mega Don Quijote. Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo TV Tower are only a few minutes' walk away. Nijo Market is conveniently close by as well.

In addition to an excellent breakfast buffet, La'gent Stay also has a convenient Family Mart on the first floor for when you want to grab a late-night snack before relaxing in the onsen to unwind for the night!

"(In) the perfect location that enables walking to almost every tourist spot. A very spacious room with plenty of space to reorganize your suitcases. Nice public onsen bath. Good design with attention to very minor details."

Ted (Read more reviews)

13. Theatel Sapporo ($)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.2/10 (1,700 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Adventure seekers, Small groups
• 💎 Known For: Movie projectors, Making friends, Central Location
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Theatel is a capsule hotel hostel, with futuristic bed pods that have excellent space utilization. Common facilities like showers and lounges are shared.

You can book a cool capsule bed in a gender-separated or mixed dormitory, or also have the option to book a private quadruple room that comes equipped with a projector for a movie night. Beds are available for $30/night.

"I loved Theatel! Such a great common area for working, or hanging out. Comfortable beds, even in the dormitory. Friendly, helpful staff, plus, a great location. SO central. Would stay again, and highly recommend."

Eloise (Read more reviews)

14. Wise Owl Hostels Sapporo ($)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 (3,200 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Small groups
• 💎 Known For: Bar, Kitchen, Table tennis, Making friends, Central Location, Great reviews
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Wise Owl Hostels Sapporo have a variety of different room options, such as mixed dormitories, gender-separated dormitories, or even private rooms with double beds. It's a great accommodation choice for solo travelers, pairs, or even groups of four who would like to meet other travelers.

There are several convenient amenities available. If you're the type who likes to cook when you travel, Wise Owls provides a shared kitchen where you can cook and make friends.

The staff are highly proficient in English, which is a huge plus for getting recommendations and navigating through Sapporo. The subway system can get a little confusing sometimes!

An average night is $28/night for a dormitory room or $40-80/night for a private room.

"I liked staying at Wise Owl so much that I rebooked twice. The staff was very friendly and warm-hearted. They all spoke very good English. The rooms were cleaned everyday. The hostel is located close to restaurants, grocery stores, and it’s a short walk into downtown. If you’re a solo traveler or/and want to meet people, I recommend this hostel."

Mara (Read more reviews)

15. Quintessa Hotel Sapporo Susukino ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 (5,500 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Luxury lovers on a budget, Solo Travelers, Small groups
• 💎 Known For: Prime location, On-site restaurant, Classy spacious rooms
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Quintessa has a perfect location in the heart of the city's nightlife district, right next to the subway entrance, with many restaurants and bars close by.

The rooms are modern, clean, and spacious, and breakfast is available.

Solo travelers can book a room for as little as $50/night! This is a great option if you want to go out at night and enjoy Susukino.

"Location was great, convenient and accessible. Staffs were very friendly and helpful. Went extra mile to help us out even with language barrier. Buffet spread was great too."

Nur (Read more reviews)

Things to do in Sapporo for Solo Travelers

• Take a guided tour to explore the surrounding areas of Hokkaido, and see natural wonders like "Hell Valley" Jigokudani, Lake Toya, and Jozankei.
• Sample fresh seafood at Nijo Market, and try Hokkaido specialties like crab, uni, and sashimi.
• Watch a concert performance at Sapporo's Concert Hall Kitara.
• Visit a local bar where you can mingle with locals and other foreigners alike. I recommend Bearfoot Bar!

Where To Stay In Sapporo With Family: Nakajima Park

Nakajima Park is best for families who are exploring Sapporo because it's next to several attractions that families will love: a zoo, an observatory, and the amazing Nakajima Park, which has blossoming trees and a large pond.

Kids will love the large open spaces that they can roam and explore safely, and it's a wonderful place to take a stroll through that older adults will enjoy.

It's a bit farther away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and is quieter, safer, and features beautiful nature views.

16. Vessel Inn Sapporo Nakajima Park ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.0/10 (15,400 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Families, Nature lovers, Business Travelers
• 💎 Known For: On-site restaurant, spacious rooms, Amazing reviews, Free drinks
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Vessel Inn is only a 1-minute walking distance from Nakajima Station and Nakajima Park, ideal for enjoying the natural beauty of the park while still being close to the city center.

There's a delicious breakfast and free drinks, and the rooms are spacious and tidy. Family rooms are available that can accommodate up to five adults, and kids stay for free!

The average night is around $100/night.

"Totally satisfied with this hotel: dedicated service, clean and spacious room conditions. And it was totally affordable. Amenities were overall of high quality and abundance. Nakajima Park is a good place for exercising in the morning and enjoying (the) winter vibes of Hokkaido."

In (Read more reviews)

17. HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.2/10 (5,200 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Large Groups, Families
• 💎 Known For: Child-friendly amenities, Fitness center, On-site dining
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Hotel Mystays is great stay for large groups or families, featuring large rooms with lots of comfortable, modern amenities. Cribs are also available upon request!

This hotel has an awesome onsen with a facility for kids that includes baby soap, bathing mats, chairs, and toys. Massage services are also available.

A fitness center and several restaurants are on-site. Breakfast can either be a Japanese set menu or you can choose to eat at the international buffet. Either way, you'll get to taste dishes locally produced in Hokkaido.

Hotel Mystays is only a 4-minute walk to Nakajima station and Nakajima Park, so families are conveniently located next to many family-friendly attractions such as the zoo, park, and observatory.

“Booked the baby friendly room. Very spacious and plenty of amenities provided. Very close to the subway station for Namboku line (direct line to Susukino, Odori and Sapporo). Wonderful restaurants provided for breakfast and dinner.”

Andrew (Read more reviews)

18. Daiwa Roynet Hotel Sapporo Nakajima Koen ($$)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.8/10 (3,000 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Groups, Business travelers, Families
• 💎 Known For: Onsen, modern amenities, On-site restaurant, Helpful staff
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Agoda

Daiwa Roynet has an amazing public onsen, spacious rooms, an awesome breakfast buffet, and... (wait for it) TVs have Netflix and Chromecast available! Okay, that might not really seem like a big deal, but it's actually quite hard to come by in Japanese hotels.

It's right next to the beautiful Nakajima Park for the kids to explore, and is also a short walk to the train station or Susukino.

Triple rooms are available for small family groups, or you could separate the rooms if your kids are slightly older.

“Location of the hotel is great! Close to the Nakajimakoen Station AND Seicomart is just across the street. Staff members were VERY helpful, especially Matsumoto. She helped us book a dinner reservation at Sapporo Beer Garden on the same night we arrived!”

Jerica (Read more reviews)

Best Things To Do In Sapporo for Families

• Take a scenic stroll in Nakajima Park, and go boating next to the ducks in Iris Pond.
• Check out the stars and planets with the telescope in Sapporo City Observatory!
• If visiting in winter, go sledding in Nakajima Park, then hop over to Odori Park to check out the awesome ice sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival.
• Visit Shiroi Koibito Park, a famous chocolate theme park where you can make your own cookies!
• Watch the Northern Rockhopper penguins hop around their hexagon habitat at Aoao Aquarium in Susukino.

Where To Stay In Sapporo On A Budget: North Sapporo

If you're looking for a decent, private place to stay in Sapporo and don't mind traveling a bit farther to reach the main attractions of the city, then I recommend venturing out farther north.

The Toyo River separates North and South Sapporo into two distinct areas. However, I'll exclude the densely populated neighborhoods of Susukino, Sapporo Station, and Nakajima Park that technically fall under the area of North Sapporo.

19. Wayado Sapporo Ciao ($)

• ⭐ Rating:
• ✔️ Perfect for: Families, Groups, Extended Stays, Business Travelers
• 💎 Known For: Computer, Workstation, Apartment living, Stovetop, Fireplace
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com

Head up a few blocks north from the Sapporo Beer Museum, and you'll find Wayado Sapporo Ciao, cozy apartments that have everything you need for daily life.

Awesome modern amenities are included, such as a kitchen, TV, game console, a desk, and even a fireplace to keep you warm during Hokkaido's winter season. You'll have everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay in Hokkaido's greatest city.

Apartments are available to rent for the low cost of $50/night.

“Really nice apartment, high-tech and nicely decorated. Bed was very comfortable, and the place was quiet, so I slept very well. Lots of nice little touches, like the bedroom desk that could be adjusted, and the variable brightness lamp. The kitchen made a big difference - nice to be able to cook your own meals. Location was handy - 5 minute walk to the nearest subway.”

James (Read more reviews)

20. APA Hotel TKP Sapporoeki-Kitaguchi Excellent

• ⭐ Rating:
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Small groups
• 💎 Known For: Bar, Kitchen, Table tennis, Making friends, Central Location, Great reviews
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com

I think APA Hotels are so great! They're affordable, the front desk is very helpful and kind, and they have simple, functional amenities that cater to the needs of budget-conscious travelers. TKP Sapporoeki-Kitaguchi has great amenities (toothbrushes, lotion, combs, the works). It has both an indoor and outdoor onsen for use as well!

There is an on-site breakfast buffet that guests can enjoy, or you can walk to the Lawson and Family Mart which is conveniently next to the hotel.

It’s a few blocks up north from Sapporo Station and is a quick 7-minute walk. Guests can easily explore Sapporo's top attractions like Odori Park and Hokkaido University. Parking is available for only 1,500 yen a night if you have a car.

"Wonderful, smooth, comfortable experience. They even allowed one member of our group to check-in early, despite not being the main reservation name, so they didn't have to stay out in the snow."

Dana (Read more reviews)

Things to do in Sapporo on a budget

• Wander through Odori Park and check out the seasonal blooms, ending your stroll at the top of Sapporo TV tower to get a great view of the city.
• Check out the Sapporo Clock Tower, Hokkaido University Museum, and Hokkaido University Botanic Garden all for free around Northern Sapporo.
• Visit Mt. Moiwa Outlook and get a stunning view of the city for around 2,000 yen.
• Walk through the Torii gate tunnel at Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine, and get some stunning photographs of a beautiful cultural landmark, modeled after the iconic shrine in Kyoto.
• For 1,400 yen, visit the Hokkaido Museum and Historical Village of Hokkaido, which provides knowledge on the culture and history of Hokkaido. Learn about the lives of the people during the frontier days when Sapporo was just beginning!

Where To Stay In Sapporo For Nightlife: Susukino

This should be a no-brainer, but if you want to be where the action happens, you'll want to stay in Susukino (can you tell I'm a little biased?) All the latest bars, clubs, and restaurants are bound to be in or around this area, so staying in Susukino will make it easy for you to return home after a fun night out!

Best Things To Do In Susukino for Nightlife

• Grab a drink at Bearfoot Bar, which is popular for intermingling locals and foreigners who are looking to meet new friends and exchange conversation.
• Win some crane machine toys at the 24-hour Round 1 in Susukino, where people play all night long!
• Gamble at a Pachinko Parlor in Sususkino. Pachinko is a popular gambling game in Japan reminiscent of pinball and slots.
• Drop by Precious Hall, an underground nightclub known for its amazing sound system featuring techno, house, and dancing music.

Where to Stay in Sapporo for Foodies: Susukino

Susukino stays winning for being the place to stay if you're looking for the best bites. Most of the best restaurants are located around this area, so if you're coming for the food, make sure to stay around here!

Best things to do in Susukino for foodies

Where to Stay In Sapporo, Japan: FAQs

How do I get to Sapporo?

You can't fly internationally into Sapporo, you'll have to make a stop at Tokyo (either Narita or Haneda Airport) first before you're able to travel to Sapporo.

You can either hop on a second flight for a few hours (recommended) or take a very long 8-hour train ride (do not recommend) to get there. I go more in-depth about this topic in my Sapporo Guide post.

Where should I stay in Sapporo?

My favorite neighborhoods are around Susukino or around Sapporo Station. It ultimately depends on your travel goals and who you are traveling with!

When is the best time to go to Sapporo?

That depends on your interests! You can check out this post for a good idea of what to expect in each season. Personally, I prefer February or May.

How Many Days Is Enough For Sapporo?

3-5 days are perfect to explore the city, while also getting to take a day trip or two to see the adjacent areas of Hokkaido. However, Hokkaido is such a vast region, that even up to a week or more to explore the area wouldn't be excessive. You can check out my 3-day or 5-day Sapporo itinerary for some ideas.

Where is a good place to stay in Sapporo for the Winter?

It gets really cold in Sapporo, and I hate being outside when it's raining or snowing! I'd recommend either staying in Susukino to be close to restaurants and shops, Odori Park if you're coming for the festivals, or Sapporo Station for easy transit.

Is Sapporo Safe?

Sapporo and Japan in general are tremendously safe to travel in! Even Susukino, the city's entertainment district, feels quite safe while walking around. People are very kind, considerate, and helpful. You should have no trouble while you are visiting.

What to Pack for Sapporo

🔋 Portable Battery

This first one is absolutely essential!!! You're going to be having the time of your life in Sapporo, and you don't want to stress about running out of battery and not being able to navigate your way home.

I like chargers that already have a cable built into them. I recommend this charger that I personally use and love!

👚 Extra Layers, Winter Coats

It gets very cold in Sapporo since it's far up north! Pack some layers and one thick coat for when the night comes. Even the short walk from the train station to your hotel can make your teeth start chattering. Or maybe it was just me.

💴 Just a little cash

There are a few places where you'll still use cash and yen, but you'll be able to get by mostly with credit cards. I brought $1,000 USD (around 150,000 yen) for a two-week trip and it was wayyyyy too much. You could definitely get by with a couple hundred USD (around 30,000 yen) for two weeks.

☂️ Umbrella

Even when I visited Sapporo in the springtime, it rained quite often. I'd recommend packing an umbrella just in case there's a chance of cloudiness or rain when you are visiting. I had to buy a budget umbrella from a convenience store and it was pretty poor quality.

👟 Walking Shoes

You're going to be hitting a lot of steps when you visit Japan, it's a walking city after all! Pack a pair (or maybe even two) of some comfortable walking shoes, because your feet will get quite sore after hitting 10,000 steps every day for multiple days on end.

The Wrap-Up: Where To Stay In Sapporo, Japan 2024

There you have it! I hope I was able to break down Sapporo's main neighborhoods and give you some good insights on where you might like to stay when you come over to Hokkaido. I absolutely loved my time there and I know that you'll enjoy it too, regardless of where you end up staying.

If you haven't already, you can check out my other Hokkaido posts for some more ideas and inspiration to plan your trip. If you have any questions or suggestions, leave me a comment, I'd love to hear what you think!