Where to stay in Sapporo, Japan: Best areas and hotels For 2024

Planning a trip to Sapporo and wondering where to stay? Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido, the northernmost and second-largest island of Japan. It’s a popular destination in the winter for the Snow Festival and in the summer for nature lovers.

Sapporo has so much to offer, and it’s often the getaway city to a longer Hokkaido itinerary. Sapporo is known for its delicious seafood and hearty ramen made with rich pork broth, as well as top attractions, local beer and stunning flower gardens.

When you’re visiting Sapporo for the first time, I recommend staying in Odori Park. This area is the core of Sapporo and has easy access to many shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.

For a nightlife, entertainment and food scene, Susukino is the perfect area to stay in. It’s the area with the most bars, clubs, and restaurants, which makes Susukino a popular spot for when you’re looking to enjoy Sapporo’s nightlife.

Sapporo Station is a great option for when you’re looking for convenience in terms of transportation. Located near the train station, this area has plenty of amenities at your doorstep. It’s ideal for easy access to the city’s main attractions, but also ideal for day trips and onward travels.

Nakajima Park is a fantastic area to stay in if you’re looking for nature and calm. This neighbourhood has a beautiful park and lake, ideal for lovely walks.

For authentic, everyday life in Sapporo, Kita Ward is a great place to stay in. This residential neighbourhood is located to the north of the city centre and has plenty of amenities as well as easy access to attractions such as Maruyama Park and the Sapporo Beer Museum.

Sapporo has plenty of neighbourhoods and areas to explore, and picking the right area can make or break your holiday. My guide will help you make an informed decision by highlighting the best areas to stay in Sapporo, complete with recommendations for hotels that cater to your budget and travel style.

Sapporo neighbourhoods

  • Odori Park – Odori Park is an urban park right in the centre of Sapporo. It’s the ideal place to stay for first time visitors because of its key location. You’ll be in the heart of the city with easy access to restaurants, bars and other attractions as well as public transport to reach other areas in the city. Odori Park is a fantastic year around with various floral display on each season. The park is home to Sapporo TV Tower for great views of the city, and it hosts the annual Sapporo Snow festival in the winter.
  • Susukino – Sukino is a vibrant area with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it the ideal place for entrainment in Sapporo. Susukino is just south of the main train station, and it’s the place to go for izakayas and cool restaurants with diverse cuisine. Expect shopping streets and cool shopping arcades.
  • Sapporo station – Sapporo Station is the main transportation hub of Sapporo. Much like most Japanese major JR stations, Sapporo has plenty of amenities, including over 200 shops and restaurants to pick from. The Sapporo station is very well-connected to the rest of the city and a great starting point for taking day trips of visiting the rest of Hokkaido.
  • Nakajima Park – Nakajima Park is a beautiful park in Sapporo, with beautiful walking paths and a lovely lake, perfect for a romantic row or paddleboarding session. The park is peaceful with gentle trails, ideal for a nature escape in the city, away from the busy streets of Sapporo.
  • Kita Ward – Kita Ward is a residential neighbourhood located in the northern part of Sapporo. It’s a quiet and peaceful area, more tailored for those who want to enjoy an authentic side of the city and experience how it’s like to enjoy the everyday life of Sapporo. There are still several restaurants nearby as well as easy access to attractions such as Maruyama Park, Hokkaido University, and the Sapporo Beer Museum.
❤️ Best Area for first-timers:Odori Park
💎 Best luxury hotel:The Royal Park Canvas
🏨 Best mid-range hotel:Sapporo Park Hokkaido
🛏️ Best budget hotel:Keihan Hotel
Where to stay in Sapporo Summary

Where to stay in Sapporo

When planning a trip to Sapporo, it’s important to consider where to stay. For first-time visitors, Odori Park is the perfect location, as it offers easy access to many shops, restaurants, and hotels in the heart of the city. It also offers easy access to public transport, so you can visit other attractions and areas.

In terms of neighbourhoods, Sapporo is divided into several wards, each with its own unique character. The south of the Sapporo station is where you’ll find most of the areas suitable for visitors who want to either see the main highlights, eat in cool restaurants and enjoy some of the natural beauty of the city. Most of the festivals in Sapporo will be held in Odori Park.

The north of Sapporo station is more residential, with a more authentic charm. While still connected to the city centre, the north is mainly recommended for when you have a longer stay in Sapporo and want to feel the everyday life of the city.

When it comes to transportation, Sapporo has an affordable and convenient public transport system, including a well-timed subway that stays open late, an easy-to-use bus system, streetcar network and affordable taxis that can be flagged down. Just get a rechargeable IC card for your convenience (SAPICA or KITACA).

Where to stay in Sapporo - city snow at night with neon lights

The top 5 best hotels to stay in Sapporo

There are many great hotels in Sapporo, but I picked the top 5 based on reviews, price, and proximity to attractions and restaurants. The top hotel in the city is The Royal Park Canvas, a superb 4 star property right in the heart of Odori Park. When it comes to price – facilities ratio, this hotel is the best is the most attractive.

The Royal Park Canvas – As already mentioned, this is the top pick for Sapporo. The hotel is very well located, right in the heart of the city. Each room comes with a private bathroom and there are two restaurants on site. The lobby of the hotel looks incredible and features a lot of natural wood elements. Don’t miss the rooftop for a cosy drink with superb views over Sapporo. Check prices for The Royal Park Canvas.

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo – A luxury 5 star hotel for a very decent price tag. This is perfect for those who are looking for affordable luxury and want to be as close to the JR in Sapporo as possible. The hotel has 4 dining options and 2 of the restaurants are located on the 35th floor offering panoramic views of the city. Fantastic amenities at such a great price, this is one of the top 5 hotels for Sapporo. Check prices for JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo.

Sapporo Park Hotel – Couples who want affordable luxury right next to the Nakajima Park should consider the 5 star Park Hotel. Prices per night are very reasonable and the hotel comes with great amenities, including restaurants, its own shopping arcade, a beauty salon and a boutique too. Check prices for Sapporo Park Hotel.

The Base – My top pick for families who need a family room that can accommodate up to 6 people. The Base is a 3 star hotel located in Susukino. The family room has bunk beds for everyone’s comfort, as well as a private bathroom and private kitchen. There is even a working station in the room. Check prices for The Base.

Miidokoro House Hotel – This is the top hotel for those travelling in a group who need a larger apartment. The two bedroom apartments can accommodate up to 6 people and their superior apartment can accommodate up to 11 people travelling together. Prices are very reasonable, and every apartment comes with its own private kitchen and bathroom. Check prices for the Miidokoro House Hotel.

Odori Park

Odori Park is the best place to stay in Sapporo for first time visitors

Stay in Odori park for first time visit

Odori Park is the best place to stay in Sapporo for first time visitors because it’s located right in the heart of the city. It’s less than a five-minute walk from the Sapporo station and it’s surrounded by restaurants, bars, hotels and shops.

Odori Park is incredible year around with its stunning floral display but also where you’ll enjoy fun festivals in Sapporo. In December, you can enjoy the Sapporo White Illumination and Sapporo German Christmas Market, while February brings the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival, drawing crowds from all over the world. Summer in Odori is just as lively with the Yosakoi Soran Festival kicking off in early June, and the open-air Odori Beer Garden running from late July to mid-August. You won’t want to miss the most notable is the Autumn Fest, which is the newest addition to the lineup.

One of the main attractions is the Sapporo TV Tower, which you can climb to admire stunning views of Sapporo from the top. On a clear day, you will get to see the nearby Maruyama Mountain too.

Where to stay in Odori Park

Odori Park is incredibly popular which means that hotels here tend to book quite a few months in advance. I recommend booking your room as soon as you make travel plans, especially if you’re planning on attending one of the main festivals. There are several hotels around Odori Park including luxury, mid-range and budget hotels. The budget hotels here are mainly simple and clean business hotels.

The Royal Park Canvas
Affordable Luxury Hotel8.8

The Royal Park Canvas – Sapporo Odori Park is a 4-star hotel in Sapporo with air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, and a restaurant. It’s located near popular attractions and our top hotel pick for Sapporo.

Click here for prices and book The Royal Park Canvas

Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo
Mid-range Hotel 8.8

Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo is a 3-star hotel situated just a one-minute walk away from Odori Subway Station, overlooking Odori Park. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation with air-conditioned guestrooms that feature modern interiors.

Click here for prices and book Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo

Tokyu Stay Sapporo
Budget Hotel8.8

Tokyu Stay Sapporo is a hotel located just a 3-minute walk from Sapporo TV Tower and a 5-minute walk from Sapporo Clock Tower. This hotel features rooms with free Wi-Fi, and is near several local attractions, such as Odori Park, Former Hokkaido Government Office, and Hokkaido University.

Click here for prices and book Tokyu Stay Sapporo

Susukino

Susukino Sapporo is the best place to stay for nightlife

Stay in Susukino for nightlife and food

If you’re looking for an adult only entertainment district, then Susukino area is the place to stay in Sapporo. You will be just walking distance from bars, restaurants, clubs, and entertainment establishments.

Susukino is a lively red-light district in Sapporo, the largest entertainment district in Japan after Kabukicho in Tokyo and Nakasu in Fukuoka.

Susukino is a great place to stay in Sapporo for those who enjoy nightlife and food, with plenty of options to keep you entertained. Don’t miss the famous Ganso Ramen Yokocho which dates back from the 1950s. You’ll find so many small ramen restaurants, each with a distinctive flavour. The district hosts various events such as the Hokkaido Marathon and the Susukino Festival. The are has been featured in video games and anime.

Where to stay in Susukino

Staying in Susukino is affordable with many budget hotels. Generally speaking, some hotels are more tailored for the entertainment crowds, so you expect some noise at night. You can easily find economy rooms in business hotels. It’s not the area for luxury hotels, though.

Rembrandt Style Sapporo
Mid-range Hotel 8.8

Rembrandt Style Sapporo is a 3-star hotel located in the center of Sapporo, close to Susukino Station and Odori Park. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a private bathroom.

Click here for prices and book Rembrandt Style Sapporo

Hotel Nets Sapporo
Mid-range Hotel 8.8

Hotel Nets Sapporo is a mid-range hotel in Susukino. All air-conditioned guest rooms come equipped with heating, a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, refrigerator, and a private bathroom.

Click here for prices and book Hotel Nets Sapporo

Hotel MYSTAYS
Budget Hotel8.8

The hotel has an on-site restaurant, and each room features a flat-screen TV, a kettle, and a private bathroom. The property also has a business centre, and Sapporo TV Tower and Sapporo Clock Tower are less than a mile away.

Click here for prices and book Hotel MYSTAYS

Sapporo station

Sapporo station is the best place to stay for easy transport access

Stay in Sapporo station for easy transport

Many tourists use Sapporo as a quick stop before heading to a longer and more nature focused Hokkaido itinerary. This is precisely why staying near the Sapporo station is a great choice, especially for those who will need to travel onward or take several day trips from the capital.

Staying close to the Sapporo stations also means less hassle hauling the luggage across the city. Besides, Sapporo Station is a transportation hub for various train lines, including the JR Hokkaido lines, and the Sapporo Municipal Subway. This means that you can easily get to other parts of the city and even venture outside of Sapporo to other parts of Hokkaido.

Sapporo station has plenty of amenities too, including over 200 shops and restaurants to find your Japanese souvenir and favourite Japanese food. Don’t miss the Sapporo clock tower, a historic landmarks which dates back to the 20th century.

Where to stay near Sapporo station

There’s a great concentration of hotels right next to the Sapporo station, making it an ideal place for finding accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes. Prices are usually in the mid-range category here and rooms tend to be simple and clean, but with great access to the public transport and all the amenities. If you want to stay in a more upscale hotel, the JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo is located directly above the station complex.

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
Luxury Hotel8.8

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo offers accommodations with free Wi-Fi and wired internet, featuring direct access from JR Sapporo Train Station. It offers four dining options, two of which are located on the 35th floor, providing panoramic views of Sapporo city

Click here for prices and book JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo

Solaria Nishitetsu
Mid-range Hotel 8.8

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Sapporo is a 4-star hotel located 0.8 miles from Sapporo Station. The hotel features a restaurant, private parking, and a spa and wellness center. Air-conditioned rooms come with a flat-screen TV, safety deposit box, kettle, fridge, and private bathroom.

Click here for prices and book Solaria Nishitetsu

JR Inn Sapporo
Budget Hotel8.8

JR Inn Sapporo is a convenient hotel situated a 2-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a simple complimentary breakfast.

Click here for prices and book JR Inn Sapporo

Nakajima Park

Nakajima Park is the ideal place to stay for couples and nature lovers

Stay in Sapporo for nature and walks

Nakajima Park is a city park in the centre of Sapporo and the ideal place to stay for nature lovers and couples looking for a romantic stay in the city. Nakajima Park has a lake, two streams, a museum, a concert hall, an observatory, a tea shop, several lawns, and forests.

Take a gentle stroll on one of the many walking paths, or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. The park’s ponds and bridges add to its charm, and I recommend that you rent a rowboat or swan boat to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The park looks especially stunning in the spring and autumn during the cherry blossoms and koyo festival. You’ll see over 5000 trees including red spruce, gingko and elms.

Attractions of the park include the Sapporo Concert Hall, Sapporo Astronomical Observatory, Puppet Theatre, and the Hokkaido Museum of Literature.

Where to stay in Nakajima Park

There are a handful of hotels located right next to the Nakajima Park including a couple of mid-budget hotels and guest houses for those who prefer self-catering options. Families will find family rooms in the area which offer more spacious rooms for their kids too. The hotels are just less than 30 minutes walking distance from the city centre, or just 10 minute on the public transport.

Sapporo Park Hotel
Luxury Hotel8.8

The Park Hotel Sapporo is a hotel located in central Sapporo. It offers comfortable rooms and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel features 4 dining options and bicycle rental. The hotel overlooks Nakajima Park, and JR Sapporo Station is a 5-minute subway ride from the property.

Click here for prices and book Sapporo Park Hotel

Premier Hotel Nakajima Park Sapporo
Affordable Luxury Hotel8.8

Premier Hotel Nakajima Park Sapporo, situated next to Nakajima Koen Park, offers free Wi-Fi and a Teppanyaki restaurant with city and park views. Rooms have a contemporary decor with a flat-screen TV, fridge and electric kettle. The hotel is a 3-minute walk from Nakajima Koen Subway station.

Click here for prices and book Premier Hotel Nakajima Park Sapporo

Daiwa Roynet Hotel
Budget Hotel8.8

The hotel features a restaurant, a shared lounge, and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a private bathroom.

Click here for prices and book Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Kita Ward

Kita ward is the ideal place to stay for a local experience

Stay in Kita Ward for everyday life

Kita Ward is located in the northern part of the city and it’s the perfect place to stay if you are staying in Sapporo for a longer period of time. Kita is a residential area with a mix of locals and expats. You’ll have a quiet and peaceful area a bit further from the vibrant central location.

There are plenty of amenities in the area still, including supermarkets and restaurants as well as shops and convenience stores. Students live here too, as the Kita Ward is home to the Hokkaido University.

The ward is easily accessible by subway, bus, and car, making it a convenient location to stay in while exploring Sapporo. Don’t miss the Shiroi Koibito Park, a theme park with a chocolate factory, museum, and play areas. Another top attraction is the Yurigahara Park which features thousands of plant varieties, a golf course, and an observatory tower. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Mount Okura Ski Jump Stadium and Sapporo Teine ski resort are nearby too.

Where to stay in Kita Ward

I recommend staying in hotels and guesthouses that are located close to the parks or public transportation, so it’s easier to access other attractions and the centre of the city. You’ll find accommodation options for all budgets here but expect a wider variety of self-catering apartments and houses.

Kotoni
Apartment Hotel8.8

COLORE KOTONI is a great apartment for groups located in Kotoni, just 3.1 miles from Sapporo Station. The apartment features river views, free WiFi, free private parking, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a flat-screen TV. The apartment is large enough to accommodate groups, making it an ideal choice for families or groups of friends travelling together.

Click here for prices and book Kotoni

Hotel Keihan
Budget Hotel8.8

The hotel features a restaurant, massage services and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a fridge, and toiletries. Restaurant Pemonte serves Japanese and Western food and offers breakfast options.

Click here for prices and book Hotel Keihan

Untapped Hostel
Super Budget Hotel8.8

Untapped Hostel offers private and dormitory-style rooms with free WiFi. Guests can use shared lounge and kitchen areas, laundry machines, safety deposit box, and luggage storage.

Click here for prices and book Untapped Hostel

Arrival & Getting around Sapporo

Sapporo can be reached by air, train, and bus. The city has its airport, New Chitose Airport, which is about 45 km away. The airport is connected to the city centre by JR trains, buses, and taxis.

The Rapid Airport Service by JR Hokkaido is the fastest and most convenient option, taking around 37 minutes and costing 1,150 yen.

Limousine bus services are slightly cheaper and run directly to some Sapporo hotels, while rental cars offer more freedom to explore the countryside.

Taxis are an option but are generally considered expensive, with the cost ranging from 15,000 to 18,000 yen. It is possible to save money by booking a fixed-fare taxi service in advance, but this option is only available in Japanese.

Getting around Sapporo is easy and convenient. The city has a well-developed public transportation system that includes subways, buses, and trams. The subway system consists of three lines, and the bus network covers almost all areas of the city. Visitors can purchase prepaid IC cards.

Arrival to Sapporo - Sapporo Tower

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Sapporo?

Odori Park is one of the best areas to stay in Sapporo due to its central location and proximity to major attractions. The park is in the heart of the city and is surrounded by many shops, restaurants, and hotels. Many of the city’s most famous attractions are within walking distance, such as the Sapporo TV Tower, the Clock Tower, and the Former Hokkaido Government Office.
Odori Park is home to the Sapporo Snow Festival, which is a major winter event that attracts visitors from all over the world. The park is a great place to relax especially during the warmer months when the flowers are in bloom. The best hotel to stay in Odori Park is The Royal Park Canvas.

How many days in Sapporo is enough?

Two to three days is enough time to see the major sights in Sapporo such as Odori Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, and the Sapporo Clock Tower. If you want to explore more of the city such as its unique food scene, nightlife, and shopping districts, then you may want to spend four to five days in Sapporo.
For those who would like to visit nearby attractions and make use of the nearby sky slopes, I recommend adding a few extra days to the itinerary.

Is it worth visiting Sapporo?

Yes, Sapporo is definitely worth visiting. It is a beautiful city in Hokkaido that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional Japanese culture. Visit and enjoy the delicious food, beautiful parks, and interesting museums.
Sapporo is a fantastic city to visit for winter sports, as it is near some of Japan’s most excellent skiing and snowboarding slopes.
Sapporo is a wonderful destination, especially for visitors interested in exploring Japan in the summer and want a more off the beaten path Japan itinerary beyond the typical tourist destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto.

Is Sapporo better than Tokyo?

Sapporo is very different to Tokyo, and each city has something unique to offer but generally speaking, most visitors are more drawn to Tokyo.
Tokyo is a massive, bustling metropolis with endless attractions, while Sapporo is a smaller, more relaxed city with a strong focus on nature and outdoor activities.
Tokyo is significantly larger than Sapporo in terms of population and size. Tokyo has a population of over 13 million people, while Sapporo has a population of around 2 million.
Tokyo is a lot more fast-paced with so many districts it can take a lifetime to explore it all. Sapporo, on the other hand, has a more laid-back atmosphere with a distinct Hokkaido culture.
Tokyo has many iconic attractions which are very well known internationally, such as the Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku, Ginza, Yanaka Ginza, Asakusa and more. Sapporo is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as Odori Park and the Sapporo Beer Museum being much less of the beaten path.
Tokyo has a wider variety of food options, including sushi, ramen, and tempura. Sapporo is famous for its Hokkaido seafood, miso ramen, and Sapporo beer.
Tokyo is easily accessible by train or plane, with two major airports and a vast public transportation network. Sapporo is more remote and requires a flight or train ride from Tokyo to reach.

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Cory from You Could Travel entering Senso-ji in Tokyo, Japan

Cory Varga – Cory is a published travel writer and award-winning photographer. She travels full time with her husband and is passionate about creating in-depth travel guides. Cory published her first book on Japanese customs and manners because she’s obsessed with everything Japan. She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester.

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