Complete Sapporo Station Travel Guide: Walkable Attractions, Itineraries, Food, and Souvenirs

The most significant effect of the redevelopment on visitors is the location of the bus terminal.
The former bus terminal on the first floor of ESTA is temporarily closed, and buses currently depart from temporary stops.
If you plan to take a highway bus or airport shuttle, check the latest boarding location in advance.
Station facilities are also being renovated and reorganized, so ticket gates, pedestrian routes, and facility layouts may change in the future.
However, the underground pedestrian walkway, Chi-Ka-Ho, remains open, and disruption to sightseeing routes is limited.

The area in front of Sapporo Station will be transformed into a new gateway to Hokkaido.
A mixed-use building approximately 245 m tall is planned for the redevelopment area that includes the former ESTA site. It will surpass JR Tower as the tallest building in Hokkaido.
In addition to shops, a hotel, and offices, the project will include a bus terminal designed to improve convenience.
The West Block 2 development, including retail facilities and the bus terminal, is scheduled for completion in fiscal 2030, while West Block 1, containing offices and a hotel, is targeted for fiscal 2034.
An entrance to the future Hokkaido Shinkansen station is also planned, creating a more seamless transportation hub connecting trains, buses, and the underground pedestrian walkway.

JR Tower is a mixed-use complex in Sapporo connected directly to JR Sapporo Station.
JR Tower Observation Deck T38 is located on the top floor, the 38th floor.
From 160 m above ground, visitors can see Ishikari Bay New Port to the north, Mount Teine to the west, and central Sapporo's grid-like streets and Sapporo Dome to the south.
To the east are natural landscapes including the Ishikari River, Nopporo Forest, Mount Yubari, and Mount Ashibetsu. Each direction offers a different view across the 360-degree panorama.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want panoramic views regardless of the weather
・Couples planning a nighttime date
・Travelers who want an efficient overview of Sapporo

Located inside JR Tower, Sapporo Stellar Place is one of Japan's largest shopping centers.
It has more than 200 stores spanning fashion, lifestyle goods, restaurants, cafés, and many other categories.
With convenient direct access from the station, it is a central Sapporo destination visited regularly by locals as well as tourists.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to shop for quality souvenirs and classic Hokkaido sweets in one place
・International visitors interested in tax-free shopping
・Families with children visiting the Pokémon Center

Hokkaido Dosanko Plaza Sapporo is the food section of the Hokkaido-Sapporo Food & Tourism Information Center and is popular with locals as well as visitors.
Along with food, it sells cosmetics made with ingredients such as salmon and crab.
The store carries around 2,000 items, including regional specialties and processed foods from across Hokkaido, as well as new products that can otherwise be difficult to find outside their local areas.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to browse souvenirs immediately after arriving
・Those who want to compare specialties from across Hokkaido efficiently
・Travelers with limited time

Located underground just outside Sapporo Station, APIA offers fashion, drugstores, everyday goods, shopping, and dining.
Its dining options are especially varied, with familiar Hokkaido dishes such as soup curry and miso ramen, onigiri rice balls, casual izakaya-style Japanese cuisine, conveyor-belt sushi, and more.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to shop and dine while staying indoors on rainy or snowy days
・Those looking for a convenient stop while using the subway
・Travelers who want to make the most of spare time

This shopping destination is easy to reach directly from JR Sapporo Station.
It offers a wide selection of current products, including gourmet food, luxury brands, cosmetics, and lifestyle goods.
At Hoppe Town on basement level 1, you are likely to find the Hokkaido sweets you have been looking for.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to shop for quality souvenirs and classic Hokkaido sweets in one place
・International visitors interested in tax-free shopping
・Those who want to shop efficiently in a short time

The building was originally constructed as a military drill hall for Sapporo Agricultural College, which trained leaders involved in Hokkaido's development.
At its completion ceremony, Kiyotaka Kuroda, head of the Hokkaido Development Commission, directed that a clock tower be added. It has since become a beloved Sapporo landmark.
Extensive preservation and repair work was carried out from 1995 to 1998, and the building was developed into a museum.
The first floor displays materials related to Sapporo's cultural properties and the Clock Tower.

Recommended for:
・Visitors interested in Sapporo's history and the atmosphere of its frontier era
・Those who want commemorative photos
・Travelers visiting classic sightseeing spots

Surrounded by approximately 4,700 trees representing 92 species, including lilacs and Japanese elms, the park also has lawns and fountains where visitors can relax. It is a popular retreat in the business district for residents and tourists alike.
The park's flower beds date back to 1875, when the Hokkaido Development Commission planted Western flowers. Today, they are maintained by the Sapporo Flower Bed Promotion Association.
A competition is also held in which member companies compete to create attractive flower beds.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to stroll through seasonal scenery and events
・Those looking for free sightseeing
・Travelers combining the park with a visit to Sapporo TV Tower

This building served as the administrative center of Hokkaido for approximately 80 years, until the current main government office was completed.
Commonly known as the Red Brick Office, the former government building was constructed with approximately 2.5 million bricks. Its rippled glass and American neo-Baroque architecture convey a strong sense of history and character.
Beside the Red Brick Office are the remains of the headquarters of the Hokkaido Development Commission, which played an important role in Hokkaido's development and industrial growth during the early Meiji period.

Recommended for:
・Visitors interested in Western-style architecture from the Meiji era
・Those who want to learn about Hokkaido's history
・Travelers who want to experience a distinctly Sapporo cityscape

Built in 1956 at Nishi 1-chome, the starting point of Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower has watched over the city's development and remains a familiar landmark for residents and visitors.
The observation deck, approximately 90 m above ground, offers views across Sapporo and, in clear weather, as far as the Ishikari Plain and the Sea of Japan.
In winter, it provides a prime view of the Sapporo White Illumination and Snow Festival below. The observation deck can also be reserved privately for 30 minutes after closing, making it especially popular with couples. Reservations are required.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want panoramic views of Sapporo
・Those combining sightseeing with seasonal events
・Couples planning a special anniversary date

Hokkaido University has an expansive, open campus.
Conveniently located within walking distance of Sapporo Station, the grounds are open not only to students and faculty but also to outside visitors for tours and walks.
One useful stop is Elm Forest, the university's information center.
Here, visitors can learn about campus highlights and events.
Campus guide maps and historic asset guide maps are available, making it a good place to begin your visit.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want a leisurely nature walk
・Those interested in historic buildings and academic exhibits
・Travelers looking for photogenic scenery

Susukino is known as Sapporo's leading entertainment district.
Along with Kabukicho in Shinjuku and Nakasu in Fukuoka, it is described as one of Japan's three major entertainment districts.
The area contains restaurants, entertainment venues, shopping facilities, and many other businesses.
It is also known for being relatively safe, even for groups of women going out for drinks. However, there have been cases of some establishments overcharging tourists, so research a venue before entering.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to explore Sapporo's nighttime dining scene
・Those interested in nightlife
・Travelers who want to experience a lively entertainment district

With more than 145 years of history, Tanukikoji Shopping Street is one of Hokkaido's oldest shopping streets.
Located in central Sapporo, it stretches approximately 900 m from east to west and contains around 200 stores.
Its covered arcade makes shopping, strolling, and dining convenient even in bad weather.
Long-established merchants, craft stores, souvenir shops, and other businesses give the area a retro atmosphere.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to shop even on rainy or snowy days
・Those looking for a broad selection of souvenirs and everyday goods
・Travelers who want to stroll while experiencing the local atmosphere

Sapporo Nijo Market is said to have originated in the early Meiji period when fishermen from Ishikari Beach began selling fresh fish.
Today, fishmongers, produce stores, izakaya, and other businesses gather here. Known as Sapporo's kitchen, it is popular with locals and visitors and remains lively each day thanks to its central location.
Approximately 20 seafood shops line the market, displaying fresh seafood purchased that day, fitting for a region known for its abundant marine products.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want fresh seafood early in the day
・Those shopping for seafood souvenirs
・Travelers who want to experience the energy of a market

This large mixed-use shopping complex occupies the former site of a Sapporo Beer factory whose origins trace back to the Kaitakushi Brewery, built in 1876.
Seven buildings, including brick structures from the factory era and a vast atrium, house a shopping mall, entertainment facilities, restaurants, a fitness club, a hotel, and more.

Recommended for:
・Visitors interested in retro architecture
・Those who want to shop without worrying about the weather
・Travelers interested in the history of the birthplace of Sapporo Beer

Although located in central Sapporo, Nakajima Park is surrounded by abundant greenery.
Its scenery changes with the seasons throughout the year, making it one of Sapporo's popular parks for visitors.
Cherry blossoms and wisteria bloom in spring, while yellow irises flower in summer.
Fall foliage is another attraction.
The park also features a Japanese garden.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want a relaxed walk away from the city's bustle
・Those interested in historic architecture and Japanese gardens
・Travelers who want to take photos while enjoying nature

This first itinerary covers classic attractions for first-time visitors to Sapporo.
It efficiently connects the Sapporo Station area with Odori and Susukino for a well-rounded day of sightseeing.
Allow approximately ¥8,000 per person, plus souvenirs.

This plan lets you experience some of Sapporo Station's highlights in 30 minutes.
It focuses on facilities connected directly to the station or linked underground, keeping travel time to a minimum.
It is easy to fit between connections and is largely unaffected by the weather.
Allow approximately ¥1,500, plus souvenirs.

This itinerary is suitable if you want a taste of Sapporo in a short time.
It balances sightseeing, food, and shopping while covering major attractions within a manageable walking distance of the station.
In bad weather, replace Odori Park with Odori Bisse or Sapporo Underground Shopping Malls to stay indoors.
Allow approximately ¥5,000, plus souvenirs.

This sample itinerary is suitable for couples planning to explore Sapporo together.
The relaxed date plan is designed around a romantic atmosphere.
Although not included in the table, Hokkaido University is also popular for the contrast between its ginkgo avenue and historic campus.
Allow approximately ¥15,000 to ¥20,000 for two people.

This sample itinerary is for visitors who want to focus more on food and shopping than sightseeing.
It combines freshly baked sweets and fresh Hokkaido seafood with plenty of souvenir shopping.
It is easy to use on your arrival or departure day and offers experiences characteristic of Sapporo.
Budgets vary, but allow approximately ¥6,000 to ¥10,000.

The restaurant emphasizes carefully selected Hokkaido ingredients and prepares fresh, aromatic ramen.
Its custom noodles are made entirely from Hokkaido-grown wheat and paired with carefully prepared soup and house-made lard for a bowl made with dependable ingredients.
It also values local production and consumption, using nutritious ingredients such as whey-fed pork and the Hokkaido mountain vegetable known as gyosha garlic.
The handmade gyoza are also highly regarded, with both the wrappers and filling made from Hokkaido ingredients.

Based in Nemuro, a fishing town rich in seafood, this popular restaurant is known for freshness, a broad selection of traditional sushi toppings, and the value associated with conveyor-belt sushi.
There is almost always a long line in front of the restaurant, with around 30 parties waiting at any given time and nearly 90 during busy periods.
Freshness is the priority, with traditional seasonal sushi such as tokishirazu salmon from spring, surf clams, Pacific saury, scallops, and cod milt in winter. The quality is enough to impress sushi enthusiasts and is worth the wait. Enjoy its extensive menu of straightforward sushi rather than elaborate creations.

Matsuo Jingisukan Sapporo Ekimae is a directly operated location of a long-established jingisukan restaurant founded in 1956.
Located 3 minutes on foot from Sapporo Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway and connected directly to the station, it offers convenient access to authentic jingisukan.
For the first order, staff carefully explain the meat and cooking method while preparing it, making the restaurant especially suitable for first-time diners.
The cooked meat is tender and is well received even by people who dislike the distinctive flavor of lamb.

Soup Curry GARAKU is a popular specialty restaurant that draws lines every day and even distributes numbered tickets for the wait. It is very well known among local residents.
The soup is its defining feature. The inventive combination of Japanese-style broth and spices is said to have helped establish the restaurant's popularity.
Its special soup uses 30 ingredients, including pork bones, three cuts of chicken, aromatic vegetables, onions, herbs, and Western liquor, combined with a blend of 21 spices.

This Rokkatei building stands close to JR Sapporo Station.
The 10-story building contains a store selling Rokkatei's Japanese and Western-style sweets, a café, a gallery, and a music hall, where exhibitions and performances are held.
The second-floor café is also popular for its sweets, including original menu items.
Enjoy a leisurely moment while looking down over a garden planted with Hokkaido's native mountain and field plants.

Shiroi Koibito is a famous Hokkaido confectionery known throughout Japan.
More than 40 years after its release, it remains one of Hokkaido's most popular classic souvenirs.
It consists of an original blend of white chocolate sandwiched between langue de chat cookies, a traditional French baked confection. Its defining qualities are its smooth texture and gentle sweetness.
The contrast between the light, crisp cookies and smooth chocolate makes it difficult to stop at just one.

Recommended for:
・Those looking for a classic souvenir
・Visitors buying gifts for a broad group, such as coworkers or relatives
・First-time buyers of Hokkaido souvenirs

This long-selling product comes from Rokkatei, a long-established confectionery maker that has continued producing affordable everyday treats since its founding in 1933.
Since going on sale in 1977, its timeless flavor has made it a beloved classic Hokkaido souvenir.
Crisp, aromatic biscuits baked with specially selected flour sandwich a cream made with white chocolate, raisins, and butter produced entirely from fresh Hokkaido milk.
The rich fragrance of raisins and mellow butter pair perfectly with the toasted flavor of the biscuits.

Recommended for:
・Those who prefer richly sweet, satisfying confections
・Visitors looking for a souvenir long favored by Hokkaido residents
・Those who want a Hokkaido sweet that feels a little special

Jaga Pokkuru is produced by Calbee, one of Japan's leading snack manufacturers.
In the Okhotsk Salt flavor, Okhotsk salt accounts for 95% of the salt used.
Seawater drawn from Lake Saroma, a brackish lake along the Sea of Okhotsk coast, is slowly simmered in kettles to create a mild flavor.

Recommended for:
・Those looking for a classic snack available only in Hokkaido
・Visitors buying for someone who does not like sweets
・Those who want a souvenir suitable for both children and adults

These Sapporo Agricultural College milk cookies are made with plenty of Hokkaido milk.
Made with Hokkaido wheat and butter to highlight the ingredients' natural flavors, they have a light, crisp, delicate texture, a rich milk flavor, and a gentle buttery aroma that never becomes tiring.
This popular product is carefully made using a time-intensive method in which the dough is rested thoroughly before baking.

Recommended for:
・Those looking for souvenirs to distribute to a large group at work or school
・Visitors who want an affordable gift with a distinctly Hokkaido character
・Those who like baked sweets

This long-selling product comes from Kitakaro, a confectionery maker known for its commitment to Hokkaido ingredients.
Made with high-quality seafood from Hokkaido, these rice crackers currently come in 10 varieties.
Popular flavors include squid from Hakodate, sweet shrimp from Mashike, autumn salmon from Shibetsu, scallops from Esashi, kelp from Erimo, Pacific giant octopus from Shiranuka, and cod roe from Kojohama in Shiraoi, as well as three limited-time varieties.
The glutinous rice at the heart of the crackers is carefully selected Hokkaido-grown rice known for its stickiness, firmness, and fine texture.

Recommended for:
・Those who like savory Japanese snacks
・Visitors looking for a souvenir that also pairs well with alcohol
・Those who want a gift highlighting Hokkaido ingredients

These underground shopping malls in Sapporo, Hokkaido's tourism center, attract many visitors.
They connect to fashion buildings, department stores, and other shopping facilities above ground, making them highly convenient.
Travelers can buy anything they need during their trip at drugstores, fashion boutiques, and lifestyle shops.
A broad range of businesses serves different needs, from cafés where you can take a break and revise your itinerary to restaurants serving Japanese dishes such as soba and tonkatsu.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to travel toward Susukino entirely underground
・First-time winter travelers to Hokkaido
・Those who want to shop

This shopping facility stands beside the brick Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, commonly known as the Red Brick Office. Designed around the concept of “Sapporo's courtyard,” it contains approximately 26 restaurants, cafés, and fashion stores.
It also offers excellent views. A dedicated elevator on the third floor leads to the fifth-floor Viewing Gallery, a terrace overlooking the red brick former government office and the Sapporo cityscape.
The calm setting offers a relaxing place to enjoy the scenery.

Recommended for:
・Visitors combining it with the Red Brick Office
・Those who want a stylish lunch or café experience
・Travelers interested in strolling through a historic cityscape

Opened in July 2023, this urban aquarium is themed around “The Wonder of Life: Making the Invisible Visible.”
The facility is divided into three zones and provides a multifaceted experience exploring the relationship between people and water, including animal exhibits, behind-the-scenes areas, and immersive digital art that creates the feeling of being in a vast ocean.
A highlight is PENGUINS in the sixth-floor COMMONS area.
Visitors can observe the dynamic behavior of northern rockhopper penguins, which characteristically move by hopping on both feet, from close range.

Recommended for:
・Visitors looking for an indoor activity unaffected by the weather
・Families with children
・Couples who want a leisurely evening activity

This large mixed-use shopping complex opened in November 2023 in Susukino, Hokkaido's major entertainment district.
Designed to bring daytime energy to an area known for its nightlife, it combines shops and restaurants with a hotel and movie theater.
Across 20 floors from basement level 2 to the 18th floor, it brings together stores, a hotel, and entertainment facilities.
The supermarket on basement level 2 and market on basement level 1 carry a broad selection of products, including high-quality Hokkaido ingredients.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to see one of the city's newest destinations
・Those interested in dining and shopping
・Travelers who want to stay out late in Sapporo

This five-floor shopping facility was designed around the concept of “Northern Good Life.”
Centered on well-known restaurants and shops from across Hokkaido, it offers a broad range of dining, sweets, shopping, and beauty services.
The first-floor Bisse Floor, known as Bisse Sweets, features famous Hokkaido dessert shops.

Recommended for:
・Visitors who want to compare popular Hokkaido sweets in one place
・Those looking for a break during a walk
・Travelers who enjoy visiting cafés

Coin lockers are available at several locations throughout JR Sapporo Station, including the east and west concourses and around the north and south exits.
They come in small, medium, and large sizes, with space for standard-size rolling suitcases.
Locations may change due to redevelopment or renovation work, so check the signs at the station.
When sightseeing or shopping, coin lockers in station-connected facilities such as Daimaru Sapporo and Stellar Place are also convenient.
During peak travel seasons and major events, lockers fill quickly, so using one soon after arriving at the station is recommended.
Staffed luggage storage counters are another option.

For sightseeing information at Sapporo Station, visit the Hokkaido-Sapporo Tourist Information Center inside the Hokkaido-Sapporo Food & Tourism Information Center.
It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and is easy to find immediately outside the west ticket gate.
Tourism brochures are organized by area for all 179 municipalities in Hokkaido, including Sapporo, and seasonal event information is also available.
International visitors will appreciate the multilingual staff who speak Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.
Facilities also include Wi-Fi rental service, a foreign currency exchange machine, and battery charging booths.

Sapporo Station has taxi stands directly outside both the south and north exits, accessible from either the east or west ticket gates.
Details are provided below.
Choosing the taxi stand based on your destination can reduce the amount of walking required inside the station.