Where to Stay in Sapporo • 5 Top Areas + Hotel Guide

As you’re planning where to stay in Sapporo, hop on this virtual guide around one of the most exciting cities in Northern Japan. 

Below I’ve included the 5 top neighborhoods in Sapporo, each with a list of the best hotels that I ordered from most to least expensive. 

In short, Odori Park is the best area to stay in Sapporo, as that’s where you’ll find the main attractions and some fab hotels. But I’ve compared 4 more neighborhoods, in case you’d prefer something different. 

I’d recommend booking your hotels in advance as Sapporo is a super popular holiday destination! 

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Want to quickly book your hotel in Sapporo? Then check out this list which has the best accommodations, all located in Odori Park:

budget hotel

Best Western

Best affordable accommodation in the center

A bit confused by all these areas? Don’t worry, the map below will help you visualize all the best places to stay in Sapporo, Hokkaido that I’ll talk about in the post:

1. Odori Park – where to stay in Sapporo for the first time

An aerial view of a cityscape with a wide boulevard lined with trees, surrounded by buildings, and mountains in the background.

Looking for a central location in the city? You can’t go wrong with Odori Park!

This vibrant and lush area is set just a 15 minute walk away south from Sapporo Station (map), and it’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to stay in a central neighborhood, close to everything in the city! Not only will you find a huge park (Odori Park means large street in Japanese) and lush greenery but also tons of attractions!

PRO TIP 1: If you’re planning to visit other towns in the country, I’d recommend getting the Japan Rail Pass that lets you travel as much as you want for a number of days!

The neighborhood is not only home to all the city festivals (Sapporo Snow Festival for instance, when you get to see some massive snow and ice sculptures) and the Hanami parties (which celebrate the cherry blossoms in April), but also to so many attractions.

PRO TIP 2: If you’re visiting Sapporo in winter (although it snows heavily during that time) you should definitely use the Chi-Ka-Ho Underground Passageway (map), which links Sapporo, Odori & Susukino stations, and has some shops too. 

During your time in the city you should definitely visit the Gallery Odori Museum, the Sapporo TV Tower with a beautiful 360 view to the city and the famous Sapporo Beer Museum. 

Odori Park is also home to Nijo Market (map) where you can indulge in some delicious and fresh seafood! There are so many stalls that no doubt you’ll leave this place with a full belly. 

Luxury hotel

Looking for a luxury place to stay in Sapporo? This hotel offers amazing city views and it’s located just a 5-10 minute walk away from all the attractions. Each room has great style and it’s decorated with soft beige colors. 

Other accommodation options in Odori Park

Mid-Range

Located a 5-minute walk from Odori Station, this modern hotel offers a hot spring bath and breakfast

Budget

A simple budget hotel that has air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast each morning

Airbnb

Perfect for 4 guests, this 2 room apartment comes with air-conditioning, a kitchen and a flat-screen Tv


Since Odori Park is such a popular neighborhood where most tourists will want to stay, I thought I’d offer you 3 extra hotel options in case the ones above are already sold out:

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Sapporo: the hotel's exterior under a clear blue sky, a comfortable room with twin beds and modern decor, and a luxurious hot tub with ambient lighting
  • Luxury: Karaksa Hotel – this hotel combines authentic Japanese style with Western contemporary elements and offers guests a unique stay in the city. It features rooms with lots of space and a hot spring bath. 
  • Mid-range: Tmark City Hotel – each room at this hotel comes with a private bathroom, a modern style and air-conditioning. 
  • Budget: Tokyu Stay – finish your search, I’ve found the perfect budget hotel for you! With a central location this place offers rooms with a flat-screen tv and private bathroom. 

Things to do in Odori Park

  • Check out the Sapporo TV Tower and Clock Tower
  • Grab a delicious curry soup at Garaku restaurant (map)
  • Visit the Gallery Odori Museum
  • Stop by the Miyoshi Shrine (map)
  • Eat yummy food at Nijo Market 
  • Have fun at the AoAo Sapporo Aquarium (map)
  • Learn new things at Chitosetsuru Sake Museum

2. Sapporo station (Downtown) – for a great transportation link

A bustling city center with a high-rise building and Sapporo Station, surrounded by snow-covered streets and parked cars.

The area around Sapporo Station, the city’s main train and subway station, is technically the Downtown area.

This is the best location to stay in Sapporo for people who want to use the train or subway a lot and also stay in the middle of all the action, this neighborhood is definitely a keeper.

NOTE: The Hokkaido island is super famous for its ski resorts, especially the Niseko area which has 4 ski resorts in total. If you’re headed there, you’ll probably pass through Sapporo. But if you’re not going that far you can head to Teine, an area set a 30 min train ride away from Sapporo that has a ski resort and hit the slopes there!

Staying here means you’ll be located within walking distance of Odori Park, so you can easily just head there, without using public transport.

Downtown Sapporo offers a blend of urban vibes and nature and tons of fun attractions that you should check out!

Some of the main ones are the Beer Museum, the Sapporo TV Tower (map) and the Clock Tower (map).

If you want to do a bit of shopping while in the city, head to Akarenga Terrace Mall (map) where there are countless stores and also restaurants, in case you want to grab a bite.You should definitely end a day of exploring the city on the JR Tower Observation Deck (map) where you can admire some stunning views!

Luxury hotel

With super elegant style decor, spacious rooms with large windows that overlook the city, and a delicious breakfast, this hotel is perfect for your stay in Sapporo. After a long day of walking around the city, you can head to the spa center on-site and just relax!

Other accommodation options in Downtown Sapporo

Mid-Range

A great hotel that offers free breakfast and spacious family rooms with large windows and a seating area

Budget

This budget hotel has a 24h front-desk plus all the necessary facilities including a continental breakfast

Airbnb

Guests will love this apartment that comes with a park view, a kitchen and a balcony


Sapporo Grand Hotel – since there are lots of hotel and hostel options around Sapporo Station, I’d thought I’d add one more option. Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at his hotel that has a contemporary decor, rooms with a flat-screen Tv and a bar. 

Things to do Downtown Sapporo 

  • Visit the Beer Museum
  • See the Sapporo TV Tower and Clock Tower
  • Shop for souvenirs at Akarenga Terrace Mall
  • Go on a trip to Atsubetsu Ward to visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido
  • Admire the views from the JR Tower Observation Deck 
  • Take the ropeway up to Mt. Moiwa

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3. Susukino – best place to stay in Sapporo for nightlife

A vibrant night view of a bustling city street lined with brightly lit billboards and neon signs.

Want to do some bar hopping and enjoy the city’s nightlife? Then there’s no better place than Susukino! 

Susukino is the second largest entertainment district in Japan, after Kabukicho in Tokyo, so you can imagine that many tourists come here to party the night away

Which is why I wouldn’t recommend this neighborhood to those of you who’d prefer something quiet, tranquil or to those traveling with families.

It’s not only the tourists that enjoy Susukino’s vibrant atmosphere, locals usually come here as well (yep it can get pretty crowded at night). But don’t let that put you off, because if your favorite bar in Susukino is too full then you can always hang around the streets to watch some cool performances.

If you’re looking for some places to start the night, you can head to Nikka Bar (map) or Immix Bar (map) where they also have karaoke! 

Another thing that puts Susukino on the map is the amount of local restaurants that serve the most delicious ramen (among many other Japanese dishes), you can find them all on the Ramen Alley (map). Trust me, after a night out, the ramen will taste heavenly!

And if you want to easily explore the rest of the city, head to the subway station (map) which connects you to the central part of the city. You can reach Odori Park and Downtown Sapporo in no time!

Luxury hotel

The perfect place to crash after a night out! This awesome hotel in Susukino comes with modern spacious rooms, equipped with a private bathroom and a small kitchenette. 

Other accommodation options in Susukino

Mid-Range

All the guest rooms at this Susukino hotel have a flat-screen Tv, a fridge and a kettle 

Budget

Looking for a budget-friendly place? This one offers modern rooms, a restaurant, and bike rentals 

Airbnb

Such a cozy place! And it has all the necessary facilities including a kitchen, a balcony and a washer


Hotel Nets Sapporo – here’s another budget-friendly hotel in Sapporo, Susukino, that has a 24-hour front desk, a restaurant and a great location. 

Things to do in Susukino

  • Grab a drink at Nikka Bar
  • Catch the live performances on the streets of Susukino
  • Dance all night at D-mode club (map)
  • Visit the Otaru area on a trip 
  • Go for a walk in Maruyama Park (map)
  • Eat a yummy ramen on the Ramen Alley 
  • Catch a sunset by the Toyohira River (map)

4. Nakajima Park – best place to stay in Sapporo for families

A historic red brick building framed by trees with autumn foliage, set against a backdrop of a modern skyscraper.

Looking for the best area to stay in Sapporo for you and your family? Then this area may be perfect for you!

PRO TIP: If you’re planning to visit multiple cities in the country, in a short amount of time, you can look into the Japan Explorer Pass from Japan Airlines, which grants access to various domestic flights. That way you can fly in from Tokyo to Sapporo, or to other places. The prices start from US$50 and can go up to US$90. 

Nakajima Park is located within walking distance from Odori Park (just 20 min south) but it offers a more tranquil setting and a large green area where you can take the kids out to play and have fun!

The neighborhood is named after the huge park (map) where honestly you can spend hours exploring the tree-line lanes and also visiting some of the attractions inside the park like Iyahiko Shrine (map) and the Hokkaidō Museum of Literature.

Inside the park you’ll also find the Sapporo City Observatory (map) where you can go with the fam to see the skies during the day or night! To be honest I’d recommend both, although at night it might be more exciting. If you’re coming during the cherry blossom season (late March – early April), then you might spot a couple in the park, especially around the Iris pond (map).

Luxury hotel

An awesome hotel for your stay in Sapporo with the family that offers views of Nakajima Park! Located within walking distance from the metro station, Park Hotel offers spacious rooms, 4 dining options and spa services.

Other accommodation options in Nakajima Park

Mid-Range

This hotel boasts nice city views that offers family rooms with a flat-screen Tv and breakfast 

Budget

Overlooking the park, this hotel offers a restaurant, a free breakfast and family rooms 

Airbnb

Enjoy your stay in Sapporo in this apartments that has room for 4 guests, a kitchen and air conditioning

Things to do in Nakajima Park

  • Visit the Hokkaido Museum of Literature
  • Explore Nakajima Park with the kids 
  • Admire the night sky at Sapporo City Observatory 
  • Check out the historical Hohei Kan building (map)
  • Stop by the peaceful Sapporo Gokoku Shrine
  • Go on a trip to Art Park (map) 

5. Jozankei Onsen – where to stay for tranquility 

A scenic view of Jozankei Onsen, showcasing buildings nestled among colorful autumn trees and a flowing river.

Jozankei Onsen is located around a 1h train ride away from Sapporo Station, in a lush green that’s part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. 

This hot spring resort area is perfect for those who want to relax in the famous Japanese onsens!

For anyone who doesn’t know, an onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. Usually there are lots of ryokans (a traditional Japanese inn) that offer these kinds of hot springs to share or private ones. If you get the opportunity, I’d recommend experiencing it at least once in your life.

Jozankei Onsen, which is part of the Minami Ward is one of the most famous hot spring resort areas on the island, and with good reason since it looks incredible!

You can spend your days hiking and exploring the gorgeous National Park (map), go for walks in the peaceful places like Jozankei Gensen Park (map), admire the gorgeous waterfalls (map) and relax in one of the many onsen baths (most of them are set in hotels).

And since it’s only an hour away by train, you can always head into Sapporo on a day trip!

NOTE: If you’re coming during winter you can even hit the slopes, in the Jozankeimikasa Ski Area (map)!

Luxury hotel

Relax in the natural hot springs of this hotel that comes with a stylish and modern Japanese design, a restaurant where you can indulge in delicious food and fine teas and a spa center, where you can enjoy some massages and other treatments.

Other accommodation options in Jozankei Onsen

Mid-Range

Surrounded by mountains, this hotel offers a hot spring bath, rooms with futon bedding and 3 restaurants

Airbnb

This spacious apartment comes with a kitchen, a hot tub, mountain views and a Tv 

Things to do in Jozankei Onsen

  • Explore the Shikotsu-Toya National Park
  • Relax in a hot spring
  • Go for a walk in the Jozankei Gensen Park 
  • Hit the slopes in the Jozankeimikasa Ski Area 
???? Luxury price: US$140
???? Mid-range: US$70
????️ Budget: US$40
???? Best area: Odori Park
????️ Best luxury hotel: 41 Pieces
???? Best mid-range hotel: La’gent Stay
???? Best budget hotel: Best Western

FAQs about hotels in Sapporo

A vibrant night scene of a snow-covered street with a glowing red lantern and a person holding an umbrella.

❄️ Where should I stay in Sapporo in winter?

I recommend staying in Odori Park as that’s where the Sapporo Snow Festival takes place. Plus it’s right in the city center so you’ll be close to everything. Some great places to stay there are 41 Pieces and La’gent Stay.

???? Is Sapporo cheaper than Tokyo?

Yes, Sapporo, Hokkaido, is cheaper to visit (and live in) than Tokyo. So if you’re looking for a more affordable place to visit in Japan, then Sapporo would be the right option.

???? What is Sapporo known for?

Sapporo became popular back in the 1970s when the Winter Olympic Games were held here. Now the city is known for the annual snow festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) held in February and its ramen and beer.

♨️ Which are the best hotels in Sapporo with an onsen?

???? How many days is enough for Sapporo?

I would recommend spending between 3 to 4 days in Sapporo! That way you’ll have time to explore all the attractions and even take some day trips.

???? How do you get around Sapporo, Japan?

You can use the metro, trams and buses to get around Sapporo.

???? Is Sapporo a walkable city?

Yes, Sapporo is a walkable city except in the winter when there’s snow everywhere on the streets! 

???? What is the best month to visit Sapporo?

March to May when the cherry blossoms fill the town, September to November and February when the Snow Festival is on, are some of the best months to visit Sapporo 

????️ Is English spoken in Sapporo?

Just a few people speak English in Sapporo, definitely not as many as you’d find in bigger cities like Tokyo.

Final thoughts on where to stay in Sapporo

An aerial view of a brightly lit cityscape at night, showcasing numerous buildings and streets.

Already packing your bags? Well, now that you’ve read this guide on where to stay in Sapporo, Japan, I’m sure you feel more than ready to hit the road!

But remember that you should definitely book your hotels in advance, before anything else! That way you can score the lower rates and find a much wider range of options.

If you’re still not sure, which hotels to pick then check out my top 2 favorite ones, both located in Odori Park:

  • 41 Pieces – set south of Sapporo Station, this modern hotel offers family rooms with large windows, a terrace and a great location
  • La’gent Stay  – a great mid-range option that has spacious rooms, private parking spaces and a bar

By the way, if you have any questions on Sapporo, don’t shy away from leaving them in the comment section below! I’ll make sure to answer them as soon as I can!

Happy exploring,

Victoria


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