It was a cold saturday during a snowfall. I was planning to go shopping in Costco but ended up going to see Clark Statue in Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill since it was on the way. I went there driving with my wife and my friends and it was great experience (Partly because I have never been to Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill). We did not spend much time there despite paying 880 yen for each of us, but still it was worth it! If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Even though we were visiting in the winter, there were quite a lot of activities that you can do in Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill. There is also several buildings that has small restaurants and shops inside. The famous Clark Statue is located in the observation hill, in which you can see great scenery of Sapporo city. There were some winter activities held outdoor in the area, such as sliding, snowman-making and other family-oriented fun activities! Here are some photos from our visit!
I think this is a church
Inside one of the rest area
Photo booth limited to Hitsujigaoka
Sliding area
Quite a long line
sliding time!
weeee!!!!
Good thing we drove
Clark Statue
outdoor activities
Wanna build a snowman?
Whole area
Monument
Sapporo scenery
Looks amazing in the winter as well!
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
I went to Sapporo snow festival in 2023 so I did not feel like visiting one held this year because I thought it would be same as previous year. But since my wife asked me to go together because it was a holiday, I decided to go there again. But it was unexpectedly great experience! This event stretched 11 blocks along Odori Park, and not only various snow sculptures, but also some merchandise shops, food stalls, and other many fun activities! Make sure to check photos from Susukino Ice Festival 2024 It was definitely different than one held the previous year! If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Visit Date: 2024, February 11th
Entrance Fee: FREE
Address: 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042 ~ 11 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042
This festival is held outdoor, so make sure you wear enough clothes to keep yourself warm in a freezing weather! We decided to start from 1 chome, which is area near the Sapporo TV Tower. There are some food stalls and even wine tasting kiosk; you can also try curling in this area! Make sure to check art installation in 2 chome and some snow sculptures in 3 chome areas!
Crowded place!
Want to try curling?
Wanna taste wine?
Labyrinth?
Great weather
Art installation
I think I have seen this somewhere
Cool castle, literally
Another mascot sculpture
4 chome: Free Beer samples and Golden Kamuy
Arriving in 4 chome area, there was a long line for free Asahi Beer samples! We got plenty of time so we decided to line up, the line moved quickly so in 10 minutes we got our free beers! You know, the best kind of beers is one that is cold and free!
Golden Kamuy Anime Sculpture
Free beer anyone
Long line
Got our beers!
Tamagotchi, anyone remember?
Designated Smoking place
5 chome: JRA Horse Race
5 chome area has a big JRA horse racing sculpture as well as various other fun activities. Make sure to check this area as well!
Want to play piano
Do you want to build a snowman?
JRA giant sculpture
6 chome
This area has some kiosks in which you can participate in answering survey questions to get some free merchandises like Korean herbal tea. Make sure to check every kiosk available!
Korean Herbal Tea
Blue Eyes White Dragon
Some other sculptures
7 chome – 10 chome
Along these areas, there are some more snow sculptures, either sculpted by some big companies for some promotions, or by some citizens. Make sure to check each of them! Here are pictures of some of them that caught my attention!
Made by a citizen
Super Mario! Citizen-made
Citizen-made sculptures
Nipponham (promotional)
Logisteed (promotional)
Nissin Cup Noodles (promotional)
Gundam! (Professional)
German Castle (Professional)
Old Sapporo Station (professional)
Projection Mapping
Projection Mapping
Projection Mapping
11 chome: World Competition:
11 chome is the last block in Sapporo Snow Festival 2024. In this area, there were competition being held among 8 countries (Other than Japan). Participating countries were: South Korea, USA (Portland and Hawaii), Indonesia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Poland, Singapore, and Thailand. Congratulations for Mongolia for winning 1st place!
Made by a citizen
1st place: Mongolia
2nd place: Thailand
3rd place: South Korea
4th place: Indonesia
5th place: Lithuania
Susukino Ice Festival 2024
After walking around Odori Park watching amazing snow sculptures, we proceeded to another festival held in Susukino Area, it was dark already so the ice sculptures looked more mesmerizing with all the lighting! Check some of the pictures here!
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
It was lazy Saturday and I had a chance to visit the first indoor aquarium in Sapporo, Aoao Sapporo Aquarium with penguins! It was definitely worth it, since it has its own special charm compared to other aquariums. This aquarium hosts many different kinds of sea animals, ranging from shrimps, fish, and even penguins! The photos shown in this blog do not reflect all the animals shown in the aquarium to not spoil the fun, make sure you check it by yourself ! If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Visit Date: 2024, January 27th
Entrance Fee: Adult 2200 yen, Junior (primary or middle school) 1100 yen, child (3 years old or above) 200 yen
This aquarium has three floors from the 4th to 6th floor, and each floor has different displays and atmosphere. Make sure to check each floor!
The entrance hall
Check the entry fee
Lucky we got free tickets!
4th floor: Mini Aquariums
Entering the aquarium area in the 4th floor, you can immediately see some mini fish tanks that each filled with different kind of sea creatures.
Mini fish tanks
This hermit crab looks cool
Axolotl? Salamander?
5th floor: Lounges and more Fish Tanks
Proceeding to the 5th floor, you will see more fish tanks filled with more interesting sea creatures. There is also a mini lounge in which you can take a quick break if you are tired from walking around too much. Personally, I think the 5th floor has more various interesting animals here.
More fish tanks!
This guy looks cool so I took picture.
Rest area lounge
Skeleton of giant sea lion?
Horseshoe crabs, I though they were extinct already!
Chinese/ Japanese Giant Salamander
More fish tanks!
Handsome guy
Even snake!
Flat frogs
Angler fish?
Dead leaf fish
6th floor: Penguins! and Jellyfish and Croissants
After taking a lot of pictures of interesting animals in 5th floor, we proceeded to the 6th floor, where there are Penguins! If you are lucky, you can also see penguin feeding (around 2 or 3 pm). There is also croissant cafe if you want to dine while watching penguins swimming in front of you. Make sure to check the jellyfish tanks as well!
Shops in 6th floor
World’s Smallest Penguin is shy
Check out the blue room!
Cute jellyfish tanks
Baby jellyfish
Mesmerizing isn’t it?
Penguins!
More penguins!
These two guys said hi to us
Feeding time!
line up please!
One at a time guys!
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
Hoshino Resort Tomamu The Tower is a luxurious retreat nestled in the scenic landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan. Boasting modern architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, this upscale resort offers a perfect blend of contemporary comfort and natural beauty. The Tower is part of the larger Tomamu Resort complex, known for its year-round recreational activities, including skiing in winter and outdoor adventures in the warmer months. Guests at The Tower can indulge in a variety of upscale amenities, including spacious and elegantly designed rooms, multiple dining options showcasing local cuisine, and rejuvenating spa facilities. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Hoshino Resort Tomamu The Tower provides a unique and unforgettable escape in the heart of Hokkaido’s breathtaking landscapes. It was cold Friday on February when I went there for a 2-day skiing trip with my Japanese relatives. If you also need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
We departed from Sapporo around 9 am in the morning by using a private charter from this site. We arrived around 12pm in Hoshino Resort Tomamu the Tower Hotel. It took around 2 or 3 hours from Sapporo to The Tower Hotel. There were a long line of overseas tourists trying to check in the moment we arrived, it took around 20 minutes for us to finally be able to check in. After you check in, make sure to check the free welcome drink!
After putting all of our luggage in our room, we proceeded to the indoor pool inside the resort area. There was a big blizzard during our stay, but the resort has a free shuttle bus going to each spot inside the resort. The temperature inside the indoor pool is maintained to room temperature, but it was still too chilly for me to swim so I just ended up inside the hot bath onsen all the time.
Enjoying free drinks in the lounge after checking in
Big indoor pool! It is warm inside despite the blizzard outside
Stark contrast outside compared to the pool inside.
Ice Village in Hoshino Resort
After enjoying the indoor pool, we ate some dinner in our room to be able to check the Ice Village as soon as possible. After finishing our dinner, we proceeded to the Ice Village immediately. It was definitely a must-visit place in the resort!
Outside gate of Ice Village
Ice Village from far away
Mesmerizing place!
Ice Lounge inside one of the building
Do you want to stay in ice hotel?
Even the convenience store is frozen!
Snowboarding in Hoshino Resort
After exploring the magical ice village the previous night, on the next day, we rented some snowboarding gears and proceed to the slope! None of us is professional snowboarder, so it was quite painful in the beginning since we fell a lot. But it took me around 15 minutes to finally be able to learn the basic of snowboarding, at least turning and braking.
Early morning but it was crowded already
Strapping onto the board, make sure you keep it tight enough!
Free gondola service to the top
On the rest stop on the peak
Passed out for a bit from exhaustion
Make sure to check these seats for great view!!
Exploring Tomamu The Tower Hotel
Even though our buttocks were in pain and our bodies are exhausted from the snowboarding, we still had some energy left, so we decided to explore the resort area for a bit! Some buildings in the resort area are connected through glass tunnel, so you can stay warm while exploring the place!
One of the lounge in the Hotel
Fireplace outside
Well, one last cup before going to bed
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
Otaru is a city steeped in history and adorned with quaint canals, historical architecture, and a vibrant local culture, and you will see them in this otaru day trip blog. In this post, we guide you through the cobblestone streets of Otaru’s nostalgic district, where preserved merchant houses showcase the city’s rich maritime past. Discover the allure of the Otaru Canal, lined with charming gas lamps and embraced by artisan shops. Our exploration extends to the renowned Otaru Music Box Museum and the delectable delights of Otaru’s seafood market. Join us on this virtual adventure as we share the essence of an Otaru day trip, blending tradition, craftsmanship, and culinary delights in a harmonious symphony of experiences. Whether you’re planning your own visit or seeking inspiration, let our blog be your companion in unlocking the enchantment of Otaru. If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Otaru Day Trip Blog: Experience
Stroll in Otaru Canal
If you spend a day in Otaru, it is better to start your morning by visiting Otaru Canal. Whether or not you want to get a seafood breakfast or shopping for souvenirs to bring back to your country, this place is highly recommended!
After strolling the canal for a bit, we decided to get lunch near Otaru Station, since we heard that there are many famous seafood restaurants near the station. We were craving for some seafoods so we decided to go to this random seafood restaurant called “Hokkaido Sakana Yoruzu”. That was the first time I ate so many raw seafood products, but it was worth it, it was more delicious than I thought!
This restaurant looks fancy, so we decided to eat here
First time eating this much raw seafood, but it was delicious!
Otaru Sakaimachi Shopping Street
After eating so much raw seafood, we continued our journey to the infamous Sakaimichi Street to do some sightseeing and strolling. There were so many little cute shops everywhere, mostly selling merchandise and local goods. If you have enough time, make sure to check every single one of them!
Visit Date: 2023, June 16th
Entrance Fee: FREE
Address: Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027
Great place to stroll!
Each shop is unique!
Orgel Music Box Museum
One of the famous place along Sakaimachi Street is the Orgel Music Box Museum. You should definitely check out that place if you like to visit some beautiful and elegant places! You can shop for some cute little music boxes for you to take back home!
After strolling the Sakaimachi Street and shopping a bit. We proceeded to Otaru Aquarium. It was a bit of drive, but with car it did not feel so far! It was way more convenient than taking public transportation.
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
Hakodate day trip experience in Hokkaido travel blog. Nestled on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Japan, Hakodate boasts a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and culinary delights. In this blog post, we delve into the highlights of our Hakodate day trip, uncovering must-visit attractions, hidden gems, and local flavors that define this charming city. From the iconic Goryokaku Fortress to the mesmerizing night views from Mount Hakodate, our exploration captures the essence of Hakodate’s allure. Join us on this virtual journey as we share insights, travel tips, and the sheer joy of a day well spent in Hakodate. Whether you’re planning your own day trip or simply seeking travel inspiration, this blog is your gateway to unlocking the wonders of Hakodate. Join me on this cultural odyssey as we explore the artistry and symbolism that make this hill an extraordinary gem within Sapporo’s vibrant tapestry. If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Hakodate Day Trip: Experience
Hakodate Asaichi Morning Market
If you spend a day in Hakodate, it is better to start your morning by visiting Hakodate Asaichi Morning Market. Whether or not you want to get a seafood breakfast or shopping for souvenirs to bring back to your country, this place is highly recommended!
After strolling in the Morning Market and enjoying great breakfast (and shopping), we proceeded to Goryokaku Park to see the famous star-shaped Fort. We were still a bit full from eating breakfast in the morning market, but I remembered my friend told me to try Lucky Pierro Hamburger if I visited Hakodate. There is one restaurant right across the park area so we decided to take a quick bite before entering the park
After lunch and strolling the Goryokaku Park area, it was almost dark since we visited during winter time. We headed back to the Harbor area to do some shopping and strolling in Kanemori Red Brickhouse Warehouse area, as well as watching the christmas tree light up.
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
Perched atop the picturesque Makomanai Takino Cemetary in Sapporo, the Sapporo Hill of Buddha and Moai Statues emerges as a unique fusion of cultural diversity and artistic expression. As you ascend the gentle slopes of the park, a sense of tranquility envelops you, preparing the senses for the breathtaking sight that awaits. The Hill of Buddha, adorned with the serenity of a massive Buddha sculpture, serves as a spiritual centerpiece, offering a place for contemplation and reflection amid the lush greenery. Nearby, the enigmatic Moai statues, reminiscent of Easter Island, add an unexpected touch of Polynesian mystique to the Hokkaido landscape. This harmonious convergence of Eastern spirituality and Pacific island allure creates a captivating atmosphere, making the Sapporo Hill of Buddha and Moai Statues a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of cultural intrigue and natural beauty. Join me on this cultural odyssey as we explore the artistry and symbolism that make this hill an extraordinary gem within Sapporo’s vibrant tapestry. If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
It was a lazy Sunday during a big snowstorm in Sapporo, as I was sipping a hot coffee in the morning, I was invited to visit The Hill of the Buddha and Moai Statues located in Makomanai Takino Cemetary. Since I had never visited that place, and I was always sitting down doing coding works the entire week, I decided to go. The trip was better than I expected since visiting the place during winter gave me different kind of serene experience! Makomanai Takino Cemetary is located on the south outskirt of Sapporo. Since it is located quite far away from the downtown area, if you are planning to go visit during the weekdays, be prepared to prepare around 1420 yen for transportation (580 yen for roundtrip subway fare from Sapporo Station, and 840 yen for roundtrip bus fare from Makomanai Station).
Make sure you take the right bus!
Make sure you wait in the right spot!
Finally arrived!
Succulent Shop in the bus station
It was so freezing during blizzard, so when we arrived, we immediately seeked shelter inside a flower shop near the bus stop! The flower shop is called “Takino Flower Marche” and it sells a lot of plants, mainly succulents, and it was so warm inside the shop so we ended up resting there for a while.
Inside the flower shop
Cute little flower shop
We ended up buying one of these!
Moai Statues
Moai Statues are located a bit away from the bus station, you need to walk around 5 minutes to the site. These Moai Statues are actually directly visible when you enter the front gate of the cemetery.
Look small from far away
Up close
They are actually really big!
Buddha Statues
While everyone was busy taking pictures around Moai Statues, I decided to go first to the Giant Buddha Statue. This 13.5m (44ft) tall statue was sculpted by Tadao Ando, and the statue is encircled by artificial hill planted with 150,000 Lavender plants! There are also some smaller buddha statues around the giant statue, make sure to walk around the giant statue to find them!
sapporo hill of buddha
sapporo hill of buddha
sapporo hill of buddha
sapporo hill of buddha
Headless Buddha statues from China
Wants to donate? Scan the QR code!
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
Sapporo Maruyama Zoo stands as a captivating haven for wildlife enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike. This immersive zoological wonderland is more than just a collection of enclosures; it’s a living testament to Japan’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare. As you meander through the lush pathways of Maruyama Zoo, the symphony of animal sounds and the rustling of leaves create a harmonious atmosphere, transporting you to diverse habitats from around the globe. From the majestic polar bears to the playful red pandas, every resident of Maruyama Zoo contributes to a tapestry of biodiversity, making it a compelling destination for those yearning to connect with the natural world. Join me on an exploration of this remarkable sanctuary, where education, conservation, and the sheer joy of encountering fascinating creatures seamlessly blend into an unforgettable experience. If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Maruyama Zoo area is a huge area containing various different animals, not only animals that can only be discovered in Japan, but also from all over the world! Animals exhibit are separated mostly based on their habitat and types. Primates (chimps, baboons, orangutans, gorillas and etc) exhibit located close to each other. There were also wolves and hyenas exhibit located inside the zoo!
Baboon in primate exhibit
Chimps have their own names!
Wolf exhibit
If you want to see bears, you can check out the bear exhibits. Brown and Polar bears are located separately. You can watch Polar Bears swimming around inside an aquarium! You can also check a giant bird cages, in which the temperature is maintained to mimic tropical habitat of the birds!
Brown Bears exhibit
Up close and personal with Polar Bear
Peacock (birds exhibit)
You can also check the reptilian/ amphibian exhibits, in which you can watch different types of reptilian/ amphibians, ranging from giant tortoise, poisonous frogs, and even crocodiles! There are many shops inside the zoo, ranging from merchandise shop as well as restaurants you can dine in (a bit expensive inside so it is better to bring your own foods). It took me around 3 hours to fully explore the zoo, and this spot is one of recommended spot to visit in Sapporo, Hokkaido! Of course the photos shown in this blog does not represent all the animals inside the zoo! You should explore the zoo yourself!
monitor lizard in reptilian exhibit
Tortoise in reptilian exhibit
Bonus photo from elephant exhibit
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
Nestled in the enchanting city of Sapporo, Japan, Shiroi Koibito Park beckons travelers into a whimsical world where confectionery craftsmanship and cultural charm converge. This delightful destination is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat for those seeking a unique blend of artistry and sweetness. As you step into the park, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked white chocolate cookies wafts through the air, setting the stage for an immersive experience that combines the rich history of Hokkaido’s famous white chocolate treats with the magic of a meticulously designed theme park. Join me on a journey through the delectable landscapes of the Park, where every corner unfolds a sweet story waiting to be savored. If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
To be honest, Shiroi Koibito Park is smaller than I thought. but still, is not size that matters, but the inside! When you get inside the gate, you will be welcomed with beautiful European-style building and parks. You can take pictures outside the park for your SNS, since there are many great photoshoot spots outside!
shiroi koibito park outside
Shiroi Koibito Park Landscape
Yes, this bus is only decoration
Inside the Park
After strolling and taking enough pictures outside the park, you can enter one of the free area building (there was a paid-tour area in which you can watch the process of making chocolate!). Inside the free area building, there were various stores selling the famous Shiroi Koibito Chocolate cookies. I tried some of their white chocolate cookies, and yes, it worths every penny!
Gate outside the free area building
shiroi koibito park inside
Shop like a royalty here!
Shopping Area
The free area building is also connected to the paid-tour area. There are many shops inside the free-area building, ranging from cookies shop as well as restaurants you can dine in! You can explore the whole park area within 1 – 2 hours, and this spot is one of recommended spot to visit in Sapporo, Hokkaido!
Stairs leading to the 2nd floor
Don’t forget to take pics!
Can you find this spot inside?
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
It has been almost three years since the last Sapporo Snow Festival was held in 2020. There was no Snow Festival held the past three years due to covid-19 pandemic. Finally I got to visit the first Snow Festival after covid-19 pandemic! It was packed with people, as many as before the covid pandemic! If you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo, you can use our trip planner!
Date: 2023, February 4th ~ February 11th
Entrance Fee: FREE
Address: 2 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042
This festival is held outdoor, so make sure you wear enough clothes to keep yourself warm in a freezing weather! From 10 chome to 7 chome, there are a few roofed heated rest area in which you can take a break from the freezing weather! There are a fixed path in which you need to follow; so please do not walk against the designated walking path! If you like Hatsune Miku, make sure to check some of the small merchandise shops along the path!
sapporo snow festival
Spy Family snow sculpture
Hatsune Miku Merchandise Shop
6 chome: JSDF
In this section you can enjoy some light projection show. The light simulation show is held twice every 10-minutes, make sure you line up to get a nice view on the show! Houhei Palace in the pictures below are built by Japanese Self-Defence Force (JSDF) themselves! There is also rest area belonged to JSDF in which you can keep yourself warm and watch video on how they built this amazing sculpture!
sapporo snow festival
First aid station
Inside rest area
5 chome: Horse Race
If you like horse racing, make sure to also watch light projection show on horse-racing sculpture built by Japan Racing Association (JRA). The light projection show is also held twice every 10-minutes!
Horse Race sculpture
Light up begins!
More holographic projection
4 chome: Dinosaurs!
If you like dinosaurs, make sure to see another giant dinosaur sculpture in this section. Also, if you are Hokkaido University Student, make sure to also check Hokkaido University shop/rest area!
sapporo snow festival dinosaur
Someone played piano inside!
Hokkaido University Stand
3 chome – 1 chome: Sapporo TV Tower!
This area is close to Sapporo TV Tower area, and if you are lucky, you can try curling and ice-skating around this area!
How did they make this?
If you like, thumbs up please!
Looks nice!
Thank you for reading this short travel blog! Feel free to contact us if you need help arranging private tour in Sapporo! Make sure you enjoy your stay in Hokkaido!
