Major Attractions In Sapporo

Beer Museum

If you are here for the beer, which is possible because Sapporo beer is known throughout the world, then a visit to the beer museum in the historic Sapporo Brewery building is a must, together with a tour of the brewery itself, which, of course, ends with a tasting. The red brick brewery building has been home to the Sapporo Beer Company, third-largest beer producer in Japan, since 1876. One-hour tours are conducted at 15-minute intervals every day throughout the year; however these are in Japanese only. It is possible to book in advance and request an English interpreter.

Historical Village

The impressive and entertaining outdoor museum village depicting Hokkaido life in days of old is situated in Sapporo at Atsubetsu Ward, in a corner of the Hokkaido Nopporo Forest Park. The site features restored or recreated buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, and includes edifices like the old Sapporo railway station, old Otaru newspaper company buildings, fishermen’s cottages, mountain villas and the like. Horse-drawn trolleys run through the village and in winter horse-drawn sleighs carry visitors around the site.

Hokkaido Ainu Centre

The Ainu people with their unique culture have lived on the island of Hokkaido for hundreds of generations. The Ainu Centre in Sapporo details the history and culture of the island’s indigenous people using interesting exhibits and demonstrations.

Mount Moiwa

Fondly known as Sapporo’s ‘backyard ski resort’ Mt Moiwa offers 11 different courses for all grades of skiers from beginners to advanced. Most are well lit to enable visitors and locals alike to enjoy the fun of night skiing, taking in the breathtaking view of the city as they fly down the sparkling slopes under the stars.

Noboribetsu

The famous hot-spring resort of Noboribetsu Onsen is situated inside the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The spa is one of many found in Hokkaido, but being closest to Sapporo is very popular. Hot mineral springs gush out about 10,000 tons of water a day, said to have healing properties for a range of disorders. The resort is also known for its 2,000 cherry trees that make a stunning sight in spring.