A private onsen in Sapporo Japan

The 15 Best Hotels in Sapporo with Onsens

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Looking for an onsen hotel in Sapporo? We’ve got you covered! 

Sapporo might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of onsen stays, but it absolutely deserves a spot on your list. The city is best known for its food scene and winter festivals, but it also offers some fantastic hotels with onsen facilities built right in! Whether you’re warming up after a snowy day outside or winding down after hours of sightseeing, believe me when I say that there’s nothing better than ending the day with a soak. 

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best hotels in and around Sapporo with onsens. Whether you want convenience, relaxation, or a bit of both, these are the best places to book!

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

This is the onsen hotel we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Susukino. It’s Sapporo’s liveliest neighborhood, packed with nightlife and food, yet still walkable to Odori Park.

For the perfect balance, La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido offers relaxing onsen-style baths right in the city center.

Bailey stands in Ramen Alley in sapporo, Japan

Ramen Alley in Sapporo

Where to Find the Best Hotels with an Onsen in Sapporo

Nakajima Park in Sapporo Japan
Nakajima Park in Sapporo
Bailey holds beer in Sapporo Japan
Enjoying the craft beer and nightlife in Susukino

Sapporo is best known for its food, festivals, and winter sports, but it’s also a great base for onsen lovers. While the city itself isn’t a traditional hot spring town, many hotels feature onsen-style baths or sento facilities, so you can still enjoy a soak without leaving town. It also serves as a gateway to some of Hokkaido’s most relaxing onsen areas.

An onsen is a Japanese hot spring bath, typically filled with naturally heated mineral water. Some hotels use genuine hot spring water sourced from nearby areas, while others offer high-quality baths that replicate the onsen experience, known as sentos. We’ve included both in this list so you can choose what works best for your trip.

Many travellers stay in central Sapporo for sightseeing and food, then venture just outside the city to places like Jozankei Onsen, which feels super remote but is actually less than an hour from downtown. It’s easy to mix convenience and relaxation here, so let us show you how!

  • Sapporo StationBest for convenience Located in the Kita ward, this is the most convenient area to stay near Sapporo Station, with easy citywide access. Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo features elegant rooms, great service, and relaxing spa-style baths, all within walking distance of transport and major sights.
  • Susukino – Best for nightlife – Sapporo’s liveliest neighborhood, packed with bars, izakayas, and nightlife. La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido adds a relaxing twist with comfortable rooms and onsen-style baths, all just steps from the buzz.
  • Nakajima Park – Best for a quiet stay  This peaceful, leafy area is ideal for travelers who want to stay somewhere quiet but still be close to the action. HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park sits steps from Nakajima Park, offering modern rooms, a natural hot spring bath, and excellent breakfast options.
  • JozankeiBest for an onsen retreat Located just outside Sapporo, this tranquil hot spring town is surrounded by forested hills and a peaceful river. HanaMOMIJI offers excellent value with spacious onsen baths, seasonal views, and a classic onsen-town experience.

Important Tip

Multiple Sapporo trips have taught me that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Sapporo accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

The Best Hotels in Sapporo with an Onsen 

Sapporo Station

Walking the undercover mall in Sapporo, Japan
Walking through one of the malls
Equipment used to brew beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum in Sapporo
Equipment used to brew beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum

BEST FOR CONVENIENCE

Pros

  • Super convenient location for transportation and day trips
  • Excellent shopping, dining, and underground access—especially in winter

Cons

  • Lacks the character and nightlife of other areas like Susukino
  • Can feel a bit busy and corporate, especially during rush hours

If it’s your first time in Sapporo, staying near Sapporo Station is a no-brainer. This is the city’s main transportation hub, where JR trains, subways, and buses all converge—making it incredibly easy to get around the city or head out on day trips to Otaru, the mountains, or the airport. It’s also home to massive shopping complexes like JR Tower, Daimaru, and Stellar Place, plus countless restaurants, cafés, and underground walkways that are a lifesaver in the winter.

The area is best suited for first-time visitors, shoppers, and anyone planning to use public transit frequently. It’s also ideal if you’re arriving in Sapporo by train or need quick access to New Chitose Airport. While the vibe is a bit more commercial than charming, the convenience factor here is unbeatable.

Nearby sights include the Sapporo Beer Museum, Hokkaido University’s picturesque campus, and the northern edge of Odori Park, which has the famous TV Tower. It’s also a great base during the Sapporo Snow Festival, with events often spilling over from Odori and Susukino.

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo – $$$

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 3
Photo credit: JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 2
Photo credit: JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo is one of the most convenient luxury hotels in the city. In fact, it sits directly above Sapporo Station! So if easy transport, comfort, and views are high on your list, you can’t beat a stay here! We love the fact that you can arrive by train, drop your bags, and be soaking in an onsen in a matter of minutes.

The hotel’s onsen facilities are located high above the city, offering impressive skyline views while you relax. The rooms are modern and well-sized, with a more international hotel feel rather than a traditional ryokan atmosphere.

This hotel is best suited to travellers who want premium comfort and unbeatable location, especially during winter when staying connected to the station is a big plus. Prices usually start from around 30,000 JPY ($190 USD) per night.

ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Sapporo – $$$

ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Sapporo
ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Sapporo in Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Sapporo

ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Sapporo is a standout option if you want a ryokan-style experience without leaving the city. It blends a modern, minimalist aesthetic with traditional Japanese elements for the ultimate calm and intentional experience.

The onsen uses natural hot spring water sourced from outside Sapporo, which definitely gives it a more authentic feel than many city-based baths. This hotel is ideal for couples or solo travellers who want a peaceful stay with a strong sense of Japanese design, all within walking distance of central Sapporo sights. Rates typically start from around 38,000 JPY ($250 USD) per night.

Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo – $$

Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 2
Photo credit: Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo
Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo

Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo is a refined stay just north of Odori Park, about a 7-minute walk from Sapporo Station and close to the Clock Tower and TV Tower. The style leans European-classic, with spacious rooms, plush beds, and thoughtful touches like air purifiers, slippers, and luxe toiletries.

One of the standout features is the 14th-floor spa, which includes a sauna and onsen-style baths—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a Japanese restaurant on-site and a buffet breakfast with both Western and local dishes.

Rooms start as low as ¥13,500 per night ($90 USD) and range from compact doubles to premium suites. It’s a great option if you’re after a more serene, upscale vibe without sacrificing location.

SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL – $$

SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL in Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL
SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL

SAPPORO HOTEL by GRANBELL is a stylish 4-star hotel within easy reach of Susukino and Odori that combines modern design with relaxing onsen facilities. It has a sleek, urban feel that appeals to travellers who prefer contemporary spaces over traditional décor.

The onsen is clean and well designed, making it a great place to unwind at the end of the day. The rooms are modern and functional, and the overall atmosphere feels fresh and uncluttered.

There’s also a gym, a spa, and a restaurant on site, so we think this works well for anyone looking for a comfortable, design-forward stay that still includes the onsen experience. Rates typically start from around 24,000 JPY ($160 USD) per night.

Japan Rail Pass!

The Easiest Way to Travel Japan By Train

If you’re planning to explore Japan, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is hands down the easiest and most affordable way to get around. It’s a special 7, 14, or 21 day pass for foreign visitors that gives you unlimited rides on Japan’s famous JR trains, including the high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains)!

Why We Love the JR Pass

  • Unlimited travel on most JR trains across Japan (and even some buses and ferries).
  • Fast and flexible – reserve seats if you like, or simply hop aboard most trains without booking in advance.
  • Big savings if you plan to visit multiple cities (think Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka and beyond).
  • Convenient – no need to buy separate tickets for every trip.

Pro Tip: If you’re only exploring one region of Japan, consider a Regional Pass instead (like the Kansai, Hokkaido, or Kyushu Pass). They’re cheaper and perfect for smaller trips!

Where to Get Your Pass

We personally recommend buying your pass online in advance through JRPass.com — they’re an official reseller with fast worldwide delivery and English support, making the whole process super simple. They even offer handy add-ons like pocket WIFI and meet & greet services! Still not sure if the JR Pass is right for you? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Japan Rail Pass for a full breakdown of costs, inclusions, and when it’s worth it!

Susukino

Daniel-eats-ramen-in-Sapporo-Japan
All of the best ramen is here!
Sake-drank in Sapporo Japan
And sake bars

BEST FOR NIGHTLIFE

Pros

  • Lively area with Sapporo’s best nightlife, dining, and entertainment
  • Plenty of hotels with onsen or sento-style baths

Cons

  • Can feel busy and noisy, especially at night

Susukino is Sapporo’s main entertainment district and the liveliest area in the city. It’s where you find all of the bars, izakayas, and late-night ramen shops! There’s a constant buzz here, and that carries on well into the wee hours of the morning. If food and nightlife are a big part of your Sapporo plans, this is definitely where you should stay!

Many visitors also choose Susukino because it’s close to major sights like Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower, and Tanukikoji Shopping Street. In fact, these are all within walking distance of the area! It’s also very well connected by subway. It’s easy to reach Sapporo Station, and from there, the entire city is your oyster! 

While Susukino isn’t a traditional onsen area, there are still several hotels here that offer excellent onsen or sento-style baths. Staying here gives you the best of both worlds: lively evenings, incredible food options, and the comfort of a relaxing soak before bed. We love exploring and then being able to unwind in style—I mean, who wouldn’t? But if you’re after a super serene experience, Susukino is probably not for you.

La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido – $$

La'gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido in Sapporo Japan (1)-2
Photo credit: La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido
La'gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido in Sapporo Japan (1)
Photo credit: La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido

La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori Hokkaido is one of the most popular hotels in central Sapporo. It has lovely onsen-style facilities, and it’s easy to see why. It has very comfortable and modern rooms, as well as a very traditional and atmospheric sento bath, so you really do get the best of both worlds here! 

The location is great, too. The hotel is situated between Odori Park and Susukino, so it puts you within walking distance of shops and nightlife while still feeling peaceful inside. This place isn’t a ryokan.

We think that this hotel is a great option for first-timers in Sapporo who want access to a bath without committing to a full onsen town stay. Prices usually start from around 20,000 JPY ($130 USD) per night.

Sapporo Prince Hotel – $$

Sapporo Prince Hotel in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Sapporo Prince Hotel
Sapporo Prince Hotel in Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Sapporo Prince Hotel

Sapporo Prince Hotel is a large, modern hotel located just west of the main Susukino area. It’s not right in the heart of the nightlife district, but that can actually be a positive for some, as this means you can enjoy a calmer stay while still benefiting from easy access to Odori Park and central Sapporo.

One of the main draws here is the onsen-style bath, which makes it a solid choice if you want to combine sightseeing with relaxation. The rooms are spacious by city standards, and the overall feel is more classic than trendy.

This hotel may not be the most cutting-edge property out there, but it’s comfortable, dependable, well-located, and has a great bath, so we really can’t fault it! Rates typically start from around 22,000 JPY ($145 USD) per night.

Premier Hotel-CABIN-Sapporo – $ 

Premier Hotel-CABIN-Sapporo in Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Premier Hotel-CABIN-Sapporo
Premier Hotel-CABIN-Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Premier Hotel-CABIN-Sapporo

Premier Hotel-CABIN-Sapporo is one of the best-value hotels in Susukino with onsen-style baths. It’s a practical, budget-friendly option that still delivers, especially if you want to soak after a long day out. The rooms are simple and compact, but clean and comfortable.

The onsen facilities are the real highlight here and are well-maintained for a hotel at this price point. This is a great choice for solo travellers or budget-conscious visitors who want to stay central, enjoy Sapporo’s nightlife, and still have access to a relaxing bath at the end of the day. Prices usually start from around 15,000 JPY ($100 USD) per night.

Nakajima Park

Nakajima Garden in Sapporo Japan
Part of Nakajima Park
Nakajima Tea House in Sapporo Japan
The Nakajima Tea House

BEST FOR A QUIET STAY

Pros

  • Walkable to both Sapporo Station and Odori Park
  • Well-connected by subway and bus, central to major sights
  • Upscale feel with government buildings, cafés, and refined dining

Cons

  • Quiet at night, with fewer restaurants and bars
  • More business-like, with less character than Susukino or historic areas

Just north of Odori Park, you’ll find a polished, central slice of Sapporo that’s ideal for travelers who want convenience without the chaos. This area bridges the space between Sapporo Station and Odori, making it perfect if you want to explore both ends of the city without constantly hopping on transit. It’s well connected by subway, super walkable, and packed with solid hotel options—many of them a little quieter and more business-like in feel.

It’s a great base for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone who wants to be close to Odori Park’s big seasonal events like the Snow Festival or Summer Beer Garden, without staying right in the middle of the action. You’ll also be within walking distance of the Sapporo Clock Tower, Nijo Market, Former Hokkaido Government Building, and shopping arcades like Tanukikoji and Sapporo Factory.

The vibe here is clean and comfortable—less nightlife, more neat rows of trees, cafés, and wide sidewalks. It won’t win awards for character, but it’s central, quiet, and super easy to explore from!

HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park – $$ 

HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park
HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park in Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park

HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park is a popular mid-range hotel in Nakajima Park that offers one of the best onsen-style bath experiences within the city. It’s located right next to the park, and it has a calmer, more relaxed feel than central Sapporo. It’s also well-connected by the subway, so it’s easy to explore the city from here.

The onsen facilities are a major highlight of this hotel. They’re especially welcome during winter after a cold day outdoors! The rooms offer more space than you’ll find in many city hotels.

This hotel is a great choice for travellers who want to have green space nearby, but don’t want to give up the convenience of staying in Sapporo itself. Prices usually start from around 22,000 JPY ($145 USD) per night.

Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo – $$

Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo in Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo
Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo in Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo

Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo is a smart mid-range pick just a short walk from Nakajima-Kōen Station and directly across from the park’s lush lake and green trails. Opened in 2024, this clean and bright hotel features contemporary rooms with comfy beds, free Wi‑Fi, and minibars—perfect for relaxing after a full day spent exploring the city.

Start your morning with a solid buffet breakfast, then unwind in the Japanese-style public bath onsite after sightseeing or a workout in the 24-hour fitness center. Dining is covered with two on-site options: Substance, serving Hokkaido-inspired dishes all day, and a cozy lounge bar for evening drinks. Plus, there’s private parking if you’re driving.

With rates usually between ¥22,500 and ¥37,500 ($150–$250 USD) per night, this is a great choice for anyone who wants style, convenience, and a touch of local flavor.

Related Read: Visiting in the colder months? Check out our 3-day Sapporo winter itinerary here for an easy, well-paced plan that covers the city’s highlights, food scene, and best day trips.

Jozankei

View of the town Jozankei in Hokkaido fall Japan
The town of Jozankei
A statue in Jōzankei near Sapporo Japan
We love how quaint and traditional this town is

BEST FOR ONSEN RETREATS

Pros

  • One of the best onsen destinations near Sapporo, with natural hot spring water
  • Peaceful mountain setting that feels far removed from the city

Cons

  • Not located in Sapporo city and requires extra travel time
  • Better suited to relaxation-focused stays rather than sightseeing

Jozankei is a well-known onsen town located just outside Sapporo. It’s about a 40-minute drive if you’re hiring a car, or a 75-minute trip via public transport. Despite being so close to the city, it feels a whole world away! It’s surrounded by forested hills and set along a quiet river, and it’s this contrast from Sapporo that makes Jozankei such a popular escape for both visitors and locals.

We think that Jozankei is the clear choice if relaxation is your main goal. Most people come here to stay in a ryokan or onsen hotel, enjoy a kaiseki dinner, and spend time soaking in the baths. The town itself is small and easy to explore on foot, with scenic walking paths and footbaths all over. This area is always pretty, but we find it especially lovely during autumn and winter.

Jozankei is not the place for packed itineraries or late nights, but that’s kind of the point! If you want to enjoy a peaceful day experiencing some of the best hot springs in Hokkaido, Jozankei allows you to do that without having to travel too far from Sapporo.

Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta – $$$

Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta near Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta
Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta near Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta

Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta is one of the most stylish and refined onsen resorts in Jozankei. Surrounded by forest, it has a calm atmosphere and a big focus on nature. It’s a 5-star property through and through, with excellent onsen facilities and a strong emphasis on wellness and quiet luxury. 

The rooms are elegant and comfortable, and the overall experience feels very polished. We think it would be a great pick for a romantic trip or any trip where the focus is rest and relaxation! It’s the ideal spot to charge your batteries. 

Prices usually start from around 40,000 JPY ($255 USD) per night, including breakfast and dinner.

Shogetsu Grand Hotel – $$$

Shogetsu Grand Hotel near Sapporo Japan 2
Photo credit: Shogetsu Grand Hotel
Shogetsu Grand Hotel near Sapporo Japan 4
Photo credit: Shogetsu Grand Hotel

Shogetsu Grand Hotel is a classic luxury ryokan perched above the river, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. It feels more traditional than some of Jozankei’s modern resorts. If you’re looking for the quintessential, timeless onsen experience, this is the stay for you!

The open-air baths are a major highlight, especially during the fall foliage and snowy winter months. The rooms are spacious and traditionally styled, and there are a variety of onsen baths on site. We think that this is a great option if you want a refined ryokan stay that feels distinctly Japanese and very serene. Rates typically start from around 40,000 JPY ($255 USD) per night.

Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan – $$$

Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan near Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan
Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan near Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan

Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan is a beautifully designed ryokan set in the heart of Jozankei Onsen that feels super cozy, with a big emphasis on traditional onsen culture. The onsens are sleek, and many offer great views of the surrounding forest and hills, and the rooms are super spacious with separate seating areas. And as well as bathing, spa treatments are available on site. 

This place is ideal if you’d prefer a more boutique-style onsen stay over a big resort. Prices usually start from around 58,000 JPY ($370 USD) per night. We definitely recommend opting to include breakfast and dinner when you book your stay.

HanaMOMIJI – $$

HanaMOMIJI near Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: HanaMOMIJI
HanaMOMIJI near Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: HanaMOMIJI

HanaMOMIJI is a popular onsen hotel that offers excellent value without sacrificing atmosphere. It sits along the river and is especially well known for its seasonal views, particularly during autumn when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange!

The onsen facilities are spacious and relaxing, and the hotel strikes a good balance between traditional and modern. This is a solid choice for travellers who want a full onsen town experience at a more accessible price point. Prices usually start from around 30,000 JPY ($200 USD) per night.

Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione – $$ 

Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione near Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione
Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione near Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione

Jozankei Manseikaku Hotel Milione is a larger onsen hotel set along the river in Jozankei with a resort-style feel. It’s a popular option for travellers who want plenty of facilities and a lively atmosphere alongside traditional hot spring baths. Speaking of amenities, the hotel even offers a free shuttle from Sapporo station—how handy is that?

The onsen areas are generous in size, and the hotel offers a range of room types. While it doesn’t feel as intimate as smaller ryokans, it delivers solid comfort and convenience. This is a good pick if you prefer a more social, full-service onsen experience! Rates typically start from around 25,000 JPY ($160 USD) per night.

Jozankei View Hotel – $ 

Jozankei View Hotel near Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Jozankei View Hotel
Jozankei View Hotel near Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Jozankei View Hotel

Jozankei View Hotel is one of the most budget-friendly options in Jozankei and a practical choice for travellers who want access to hot springs without a high price tag. It’s a large but no-frills property that focuses on value rather than luxury.

Oh, and true to its name, it offers some really great views of the river and lush green hills! The onsen facilities are extensive, and while the hotel itself feels a bit dated in places, it remains popular for its affordability and scenic location.

This hotel suits budget-conscious travellers or families who prioritise onsen access over atmosphere or design. Prices usually start from around 22,000 JPY ($140 USD) per night.

Jyozankei SHIKAnoYU – $ 

Jyozankei SHIKAnoYU near Sapporo Japan
Photo credit: Jyozankei SHIKAnoYU
Jyozankei SHIKAnoYU near Sapporo Japan 1
Photo credit: Jyozankei SHIKAnoYU

Jyozankei SHIKAnoYU is an approachable, no-frills hotel in the onsen town of Jozankei, with a calm, laid-back vibe. It’s a great choice for travellers looking for a comfortable stay, but don’t need all of the luxury trimmings that drive prices up.

The onsen baths are well-maintained and ideal for unwinding after a day in nature. While the rooms are simple, they’re clean and functional, so this is a solid budget choice in an otherwise pricey onsen town.

If you want to experience Jozankei without stretching your budget too far, this is a strong choice. Rates usually start from around 17,000 JPY ($115 USD) per night.

Related Read: If you’re still deciding where to base yourself or want something more traditional, check out our guide on where to stay in Sapporo here and the best ryokans in Sapporo here to help you find the perfect fit for your trip.

Top Activities to do in Sapporo

Bailey and Daniel holding Soba noodles they made during a cooking class in Sapporo Japan
Our soba noodles!
Bailey at Nikka whisky distillery in Sapporo Japan
At the Nikka Whisky Distillery

Now that you’ve found the perfect hotel with an onsen, you can start planning your itinerary! Sapporo is fun to visit in any season, and we have a few activities that are available year-round. Here are a few of our favorite things we did in Sapporo: 

  • Food and bar hopping tour – This 3-hour food tour was a great intro to Sapporo’s famous gastro scene. Known for its ramen and beer, we hopped through the city, stopping by izakayas and local watering holes – it was so fun and tasty!
  • Soba cooking class – Learning how to cook soba noodles in this cooking class is perhaps the best souvenir you can take home. We had the best time learning the art of rolling the dough and mixing the delicious sauce to top it, plus our local guide was so helpful!
  • Day trip to Otaru & Nikka Whisky Distillery – Step outside of Sapporo on this full-day tour to Otaru! The town was charming and beautiful, and we loved stopping by the Nikka Distillery to sample some locally made whisky. It made for a great day out!
  • Sapporo sightseeing tour – If you’re short on time, this guided sightseeing tour is the best way to experience Sapporo! The guides will take you to 3-4 of the main city sights, which makes travel logistics a breeze, and you get to so much more. 
  • Enjoy Hokkaido’s outdoors – Escape the city and experience the greater region of Hokkaido on this full-day tour. We visited Asahiyama Zoo, Biei’s Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and Furano’s Ningle Terrace all in one day – which would have been impossible on our own!

Related Read: Looking for more activities? Here is the full list of the top things to do in Sapporo. You’ll never be bored here!

Renting a Car in Japan

Mt Fuji in Japan and road at Lake Kawaguchiko

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Japan

  • Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
  • Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
  • Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
  • Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
  • Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
  • Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

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Thanks for reading!

Bailey and Daniel take a selfie in Sapporo Japan
Thanks for reading!

Staying at a hotel with an onsen is one of the best ways to experience Sapporo, especially after long days of eating, sightseeing, or exploring in the snow. From convenient city-center hotels to peaceful onsen towns just outside the city, Sapporo makes it easy to balance comfort, relaxation, and incredible food—all in one trip.

If you’re still narrowing down where to stay or what to do, be sure to check out all of our Sapporo guides here—we love helping fellow travelers plan unforgettable trips. Or scroll on for more of our favorites below for even more travel inspiration!

The 8 Best Ryokans in Niseko, Hokkaido

Where to Stay in Niseko, Japan: 4 Best Areas & Hotels 

40 Best Ryokans in Japan

The 20 Best Hotels in Kyoto with Onsens

The Services We Recommend

From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Japan with confidence.

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