Hokkaido Trip Itinerary: Sapporo Base with Day Trips (Oct 24 - Oct 27)

Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo & City Introduction

Morning: Arrive at New Chitose Airport and take the JR Rapid Airport train to Sapporo Station. Check into your centrally located hotel suitable for 3 guests.

Afternoon: Explore Odori Park and visit the Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of the city amidst vibrant autumn colors. Enjoy a light lunch at one of the nearby cafes.

Evening: Stroll through the lively Susukino District and indulge in classic Hokkaido dishes such as soup curry or fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Day 2: Day Trip to Otaru

Morning: Take a 30-minute train ride from Sapporo to Otaru. Wander along the historic Otaru Canal and browse the charming glassware shops and museums.

Afternoon: Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum and try fresh sushi at one of the renowned restaurants lining the streets.

Evening: Return to Sapporo and enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel or explore local izakayas for a casual dining experience.

Day 3: Day Trip to Noboribetsu

Morning: Travel by train and bus to Noboribetsu Onsen, famed for its hot springs and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Walk through the steaming Jigokudani (Hell Valley).

Afternoon: Soak in a public or private onsen bath to rejuvenate. Have lunch at a traditional ryokan or local eatery.

Evening: Head back to Sapporo in the evening. Consider visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum or enjoy a casual night stroll downtown.

Day 4: Exploring Sapporo & Departure

Morning: Visit the Hokkaido Shrine nestled in Maruyama Park, perfect for a peaceful morning walk. Optional stop at the nearby Maruyama Zoo.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping at the Sapporo Factory complex or explore the underground shopping arcades near Sapporo Station.

Evening: Head to New Chitose Airport via train for your departure flight home or continue your travels.

Time and Cost Estimates

• JR Rapid Airport Train (Airport to Sapporo): 40 minutes, ¥1,100 per person
• Odori Park & Sapporo TV Tower: 2 hours, free / TV tower ¥720 entry
• Sapporo Susukino District Dining: 2 hours, approx. ¥2,000 per person
• Train to Otaru (round trip): 1 hour total, ¥1,280 per person
• Otaru Canal & Shops: 3 hours, free / shopping costs vary
• Otaru Music Box Museum Entry: 1 hour, free
• Train & Bus to Noboribetsu (round trip): 3 hours total, ¥2,500 per person
• Jigokudani & Onsen Admission: 3 hours, onsen ¥1,000 approx.
• Sapporo Beer Museum Entry: 1 hour, free
• Hokkaido Shrine Visit: 1.5 hours, free
• Sapporo Factory Shopping: 2 hours, free entry / purchases extra
• Hotel for 3 pax (3 nights): Approx. ¥15,000 per night per room, total ¥45,000

Total estimated cost for transport, entry fees, and accommodation: approximately ¥70,000 - ¥80,000 per person (excluding food and shopping)

Tips

If you want to extend your trip, consider adding a visit to Furano for its flower fields or Asahikawa for its zoo and local ramen scene. To shorten the trip, focus on Sapporo and Otaru only, allowing more leisurely exploration without longer day-trip travel times.