Hokkaido Winter Snow Show

#JanuaryDestinations2025 Sapporo, the gateway city of Hokkaido, is a tourist destination that blends nature, history, and culinary delights. This time in Sapporo, I specially planned a day trip, starting with classic city attractions and continuing with a glimpse into local life and culture. Start the morning with a stroll in Odori Park. This long, lush park stretches across the heart of Sapporo. In spring, it blooms with flowers, and in winter, it transforms into the main venue for the Sapporo Snow Festival. The Sapporo TV Tower, a landmark in the center of the park, offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. From atop this tower, the neatly arranged streets and distant mountains create a magnificent panorama. Next, we visited the Former Hokkaido Main Office. The red brick building exudes a rich European atmosphere and stands as a key witness to Hokkaido's pioneering history. The museum displays numerous historical materials, offering a deeper understanding of Sapporo's development from a barren wasteland to a modern city. A short walk takes you to the Sapporo Clock Tower. Despite its unassuming appearance, it's a symbol of Sapporo, attracting countless visitors who stop to take photos. For lunch, I headed to Nijo Market, a great place to enjoy seafood. The fresh sea urchin, salmon roe, and crab rice bowl were a feast for the eyes, and the moment you sip, you'll savor the freshness of the ocean. Afterward, we continued on to Shiroi Koibito Park. The factory-cum-museum design evokes a fairytale atmosphere, where you can witness the making of Hokkaido's most iconic dessert and even try making your own. In the evening, I took the subway to the Mt. Moiwa Cable Car Station. As the cable car ascended, the streetlights of Sapporo gradually illuminated. From the mountaintop observatory, the night view before me shimmered like a jewel, renowned as one of Japan's three most beautiful night views. The cool breeze and the romantic atmosphere were unforgettable. Though the day in Sapporo was packed, it was full of surprises. From the relaxed atmosphere of Odori Park to the delicious seafood at the market and the dazzling night view of Mount Moiwa, every step I took deepened my appreciation for this city's unique charm. Sapporo is not only the starting point of my journey, but also the most colorful page in my memories of Hokkaido.