7 Nights and 8 Days Staying in Sapporo: A Full Bus Tour Itinerary
We’ll be showing you a trip itinerary to visit sightseeing spots and major ski resorts around Sapporo with accommodations based in the city. All of the transport will be ski resort shuttles and public transit, allowing for worry-free travel even for guests wary of driving on foreign snowy roads. With opportunities to enjoy both the exciting town life of Sapporo and skiing or snowboarding, this tour itinerary has it all.
Day１：
Arrival at Shin-Chitose Airport and Night Skiing
Morning
After arriving at Shin-Chitose Airport, travel to Sapporo via public transit
Morning
To get to inner Sapporo City from Shin-Chitose Airport, you can use the JR Airport Express or the airport connection buses operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus and Hokuto Kotsu. These do not require a reservation.
Shin-Chitose Airport 🡪 Sapporo City (70 min drive / 60 min airport shuttle)
Lunchtime
Try out gourmet lunches in Sapporo
Start your exploration of the Sapporo gourmet scene with lunch. Let’s take a look at some menu items popular among inbound tourists.
Sapporo miso ramen
When it comes to the Sapporo gourmet scene, none is more iconic than Sapporo ramen, specifically, Sapporo miso ramen. Sapporo is home to some of the best ramen places in Hokkaido. The noodles are commonly medium-thick and curly with a chewy texture, and the mainstream soup base is a thick, flavorful pork bone broth. The famous ramen street in Susukino, Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho is definitely worth a visit.
Kaisendon (seafood rice bowl)
Surrounded on all sides by the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the Pacific Ocean, Hokkaido is a renowned treasure trove of fresh seafood. Topped with all of Hokkaido’s signature seafood, like sea urchin, crab, and scallops, to try all at once with some rice, kaisendon is a staple gourmet dish.
Sushi
With seasonal seafood coming in from fishing ports all over Hokkaido, Sapporo has some of the best sushi in the country. Nigiri in Hokkaido has unmatched taste and freshness. Sapporo is also known to have great sushi-go-round places. Shushi shops with counter seats where guests can watch the chefs prepare the sushi are especially popular among international visitors.
Afternoon
Visit popular sightseeing spots in Sapporo
In the afternoon, explore Sapporo to see iconic landmarks like the Sapporo Clock Tower, Sapporo TV Tower, Moerenuma Park, and Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill.
Evening to night
Enjoy night skiing at Sapporo Bankei and the stunning night views
A convenient ski resort only 20 minutes from Sapporo
Bankei Ski Reosrt
Bankei’s strong suit is night skiing, open late until 10 pm. The temperature dropping at night makes for excellent snow quality and much less crowds. At only 20 minutes from Sapporo City, it’s great for stopping by after a day of sightseeing. They also offer high-spec gear rentals, which are sure to satisfy hard-core riders even if you don’t bring your own. Bankei is perfect for guests who want to do it all in a day.
<Accommodations: a hotel in Sapporo City>
Day ２：
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Jozankei Hotsprings
Morning and afternoon
Let’s head to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort from the inner city. The convenient bus package offered by Sapporo Kokusai includes a lift pass for the day and bus rides to and from the resort at an affordable 7,800 yen. The buses can be boarded from major hotels in the city.
More information on bundle packs: https://www.sapporo-kokusai.jp/price/tourpack.php
Online booking for the bus package: https://teikan.chuo-bus.co.jp/course/12403
Near Sapporo with plenty of snow and easy access to famous hot springs
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Popular for its closeness to Sapporo City at just an hour away and abundant powder, Sapporo Kokusai is a favorite among skiers and snowboarders visiting Sapporo in the winter. The biggest attraction is the ungroomed downhill run with a maximum incline of 30 degrees. With just one gondola ride, you can enjoy an untouched slope running around 2.2 km from the summit to the base. It’s also conveniently located to stop by the Jozankei Hotsprings, making for the perfect powder and hot spring combo.
https://www.sapporo-kokusai.jp
Evening to night
Sightsee and relax at Jozankei Hotsprings
Jozankei Hotsprings
With great access from Sapporo at just a 40-minute drive, this hot spring is a must-try if you’re visiting Sapporo. They offer a day-use onsen, and the outdoor onsen with a stunning view of the snow-covered valley comes second to none.
<Accommodations: a hotel in Sapporo City>
Day３：
Sapporo Teine and sightseeing
Morning and afternoon
Riding in Sapporo Teine
Day trips are easy if you use the Bigruns, a bus line directly connecting Sapporo Teine and major hotels in the city. They offer a bundle deal on the bus rides to and from Teine and a 7-hour lift pass at an affordable 9,800 yen. (Reservation needed at least 10 days in advance)
Bus https://sapporo-teine.com/snow/plan/bus-pack
Some of the steepest slopes in the country
Sapporo Teine
A mere 40 minutes from Sapporo. Riding down from the summit with over 1,000m of elevation and abundant powder, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sapporo City and the Ishikari Bay. Teine boasts its iconic Kitakabe (North Face), an ungroomed tree run with a maximum incline of 36 degrees and varied terrain. For the seasoned riders, an irresistible Steep & Deep world of riding awaits. The sparsely wooded Nature Zone is also a highlight of the resort.
https://sapporo-teine.com/snow/
Evening
Stop by the Shiroi Koibito Park for some sightseeing
Based on the famous chocolate confectionery of Hokkaido, the Shiroi Koibito Park is a theme park with factory tours where you can watch sweets being made, candy-making experiences, and attractions that showcase the history of chocolate. They also have a café offering Shiroi Koibito ice cream and a great restaurant with their signature curry rice. (free entry to shop area / 800 yen entry fee / separate paid guided tour)
https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp
Be captivated by the nightlife of Susukino
Bar Yamazaki
Established in 1958 and known for its various original cocktails, Bar Yamazaki is one of the oldest privately owned bars in Japan. Their “Sapporo” is an exquisite cocktail that won a famous competition in Italy. You can experience a peaceful moment and the finest hospitality of Japanese “omotenashi” in a space filled with nostalgic charm.
Shime-parfait
A new staple in Sapporo nightlife, the “Shime-parfait” is a Sapporo-born culture of ending a meal or a night out drinking with something sweet, like a parfait. Shops offer a multitude of options, ranging from Instagram-worthy parfaits topped with overflowing fruits and toppings to limited-edition seasonal parfaits to parfaits with ice cream made from rich Hokkaido milk.
<Accommodations: a hotel in Sapporo City>
Day４：Kiroro Resort and Sightseeing
Morning and afternoon
Ride in Kiroro Resort
Take a shuttle from any of the major hotels in Sapporo to Kiroro Resort. Located only 1.5 hours from the city, this leaves you with plenty of time to ride all day.
Enjoy top-tier powder on a day trip from Sapporo
Kiroro Snow World
Even though located a mere 90 minutes away from Sapporo City, Kiroro receives almost nightly snowfall and boasts some of the most snow in Hokkaido during high season. With many courses with varied terrain perfect for powder riding and low temperatures, the resort boasts a superb environment where you can enjoy high-quality powder from early in the season.
Evening to night
Sampling Hokkaido local favorites for dinner in Sapporo
A favorite among Hokkaido locals is Jingisukan, a dish featuring lamb and vegetables cooked on a dome-shaped grill. Grilled meats pair exceptionally well with beer, and Hokkaido is known for its many unique craft brews. It’s a must-try anywhere in Hokkaido you go.
Jingisukan
Mutton and lamb are cooked on a special iron plate with vegetables. There are two ways to season the meat: cooking meat that’s been marinated in sauce or dipping the cooked meat into the sauce. There are many unique, original sauce flavors available.
Sapporo Beer Museum
This nostalgic red brick building is registered as a Hokkaido heritage site and is home to the only beer museum in Japan. You can learn about the history of beer and try reissued beers you can’t find anywhere else. At the Sapporo Bier Garten located on museum grounds, you can fill up on Jingisukan and beer.
https://www.sapporo-bier-garten.jp
<Accommodations: a hotel in Sapporo City>
Day５：
Niseko, hot springs, and nightlife
Morning and afternoon
Ride in Niseko United
You can use the Highway Niseko Go Bus, departing from major bus stops, or the Sapporo <-> Rusutsu/Niseko Ski Bus to travel to Niseko from Sapporo City. Taking approximately 2.5 hours (reservation needed), if you leave early in the morning you can be on the slopes by noon.
You can use the IKON Pass and Mountain Collective Pass at Niseko United. For international guests with these passes, United is great to save time lining up at the ticket kiosk and save costs.
Niseko Ski Bus https://teikan.chuo-bus.co.jp/course/7768
Bus package with lift pass https://www.niseko.ne.jp/ja/otoku/
A relaxed ride enjoying stunning scenery
Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Characterized by the mellowest slopes in the Niseko area, Annupuri offers many vast, well-groomed slopes and a great environment to focus on improving technique. The field, spanning 13 runs, is located in an open area with a spacious feel and magnificent views. The area is also at a lower altitude, allowing for better visibility even with wind and snow. In addition to top-notch powder, the terrain is dotted by trees that make for lots of freedom in accessible tree runs.
Set apart by the convenience and luxury of ski in/ski out
Niseko Village Ski Resort
With luxury hotels like Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the Hilton Niseko Viallage and the Green Leaf Niseko Village, the shopping and dining center Niseko-Yo, and more directly connected to the resort, Niseko Village boasts superb convenience. The resort is comprised of 30 runs, the most out of Niseko United, including courses ranging from varied terrain and steep slopes to tree runs.
They also have a wide range pf activities for the non-skiers, such as snowmobile and snowshoe experiences, kids’ programs, and hot springs. Whether you’re looking to ski all day or relax and spread your wings, Niseko Village is the perfect place to enjoy a luxurious stay where everything you need is right there.
https://www.niseko-village.com/ja/white/mountain
An all-mighty resort with everything you’ll want
Niseko Hanazono Resort
Thanks to the consistent snowfall relative to the rest of the Niseko area and the many Northeast-facing slopes, the powder in Hanazono lasts extraordinarily long. With varied terrain and the perfect density of trees, the resort has exceptional tree runs great for a smooth and rhythmic ride. Hanazono also offers extensive park facilities that are efficiently accessible with high-speed chair lifts.
What’s more, Hanazono also has backcountry access via gates. With diverse courses, powder, tree runs, AND park facilities, this resort offers the most well-rounded experience in Niseko. The Symphony Gondola and the Hanazono First Chair Lift offer excellent comfort and accessibility to courses, making Hanazono increasingly popular.
Evening to night
Night skiing at Niseko Grand Hirafu
Mystic night riding in flurries of JAPOW
Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu
Blessed with rich, varied natural topography, Grand Hirafu is the largest resort in the Niseko Area. The resort has 12 courses, ranging from powder-dense steep slopes to tree runs through beautiful forests to pristine corduroy. Another highlight of Grand Hirafu is night skiing. With all 12 courses available until closing, it boasts one of the largest night skiing areas in Japan. Riding through the night, spraying up JAPOW amidst the falling snow illuminated by floodlights is sure to become an unforgettable memory.
This season marks the debut of the new Ace Gondola! With heated seats for 10 passengers, a first-class ride experience, and a 360-degree panoramic view, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Mt. Yotei.
https://www.grand-hirafu.jp/winter/gelande
Night
Hot springs and Niseko night life
How about the “Niseko Yu Meguri Pass,” a ticket that grants you access to Niseko’s various hot springs at an affordable price? In addition to hot springs at the base of Mt. Yotei, the pass is valid in 19 natural hot springs and has three types. You can also share it with a group, making it even more convenient.
Niseko Yu Meguri Pass https://www.niseko-ta.jp/hot-spring-pass/
Ikoi no Yuyado Iroha（Day spa）
Open hours：12:30～21:00（Last admission 8 pm）
Proce：Adult 1,500 yen
https://www.niseko-iroha.com/
<accommodations: a hotel in the Niseko area>
Day６：
Niseko and Kutchan
Morning and afternoon
Backcountry experience
Niseko is also known to be the best in Japan for its multitude of backcountry courses accessible from ski resorts. The number of international visitors who come specifically for this is truly remarkable!
From the summit of Mt. Annupuri, there are a variety of courses descending in all directions, mostly to the north and south. The routes behind the resorts to Goshiki Onsen and Mt. Iwaonupuri are especially popular. Avalanche gear is a must-have for backcountry riding. For international guests, we recommend joining guided tours. Make sure to understand and take note of the “Niseko rules,” a set of guidelines to safely enjoy the backcountry of Niseko.
The Niseko Rules https://www.niseko.ne.jp/ja/niseko-rules/
Evening to night
Nightlife in Kutchan Town after skiing
Kutchan Town, only a 20-minute drive from Niseko, is a great spot to enjoy local culture and cuisine. Home to izakayas with Hokkaido seafood and regional sake, ramen shops, cafes, and souvenir stores and offering English services in many places, it’s a great option to enjoy your time after skiing.
<accomodations: a hote l in the Niseko aera>
Day７：
Rusutsu Resort
Morning and afternoon
Day trip to Rusutsu resort
Niseko and Rusutsu Resort are practically neighbors. A short 45-minute shuttle bus will easily take you on a day trip to Rusutsu. In addition to its unique atmosphere, Rusutsu also has slightly different snow from Niseko. Take a trip to Rusutsu and enjoy experiences you can’t find anywhere else!
Shuttle bus（RUSUTSU POWDER TRIP）until 2/28 https://rusutsu.com/access-shuttle-bus-niseko/
Enjoy beautiful power runs, only at Rusutsu
Rusutsu Resort
Rusutsu Resort has 37 courses spanning 3 peaks: West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola. Summing up to a whopping 42km, Rusutsu has the longest total trail length out of any single resort in Japan. Despite its vast scale, the artfully placed hooded chair lifts and gondolas offer comfort and efficient riding. The international Epic Pass is also valid here, perfect for inbound pass holders. With three hotels and a multitude of restaurants and activities, Rusutsu is also great for longer stays.
Rusutsu is said to have drier powder than Niseko. During high season, the semi-constant snowfall makes it likely to hit a day with fresh powder. The resort also offers incredible tree runs through its many beautiful forests.
In addition, Rusutsu is accessible from Sapporo as a day trip. Free shuttle buses run every day, leaving Sapporo at 8 am and arriving at the resort around 10. The return shuttle leaves at 5 pm, giving you the whole day to enjoy the resort.
Sapporo <->Rusutsu (Rusutsu-Go) https://rusutsu.com/access-shuttle-bus-sapporo/
A wide variety of activities, only at Rusutsu!
Even if the weather takes a turn for the worse, there’s no need to be disappointed. Another highlight of Rusutsu is the multitude of activities offered. You can enjoy activities such as snowmobiling, snow rafting, and dog sledding at the base of the resort. In addition, you can also create lasting memories of your trip with indoor activities like paper crafts of Hokkaido’s wildlife, glass art, and candle-making.
Day８：
Ride in Niseko and flight home
Morning and afternoon
Ride in Niseko and flight home
On your last day, you can ski in the Niseko area for as long as time allows before your return flight. It takes approximately 2.5 hours to get to Shin-Chitose Airport from Niseko via shuttle bus (reservation required).
Chuo Bus https://teikan.chuo-bus.co.jp/course/7768
Niseko Bus https://www.nisekobus.co.jp/timetable/
In addition to this suggested itinerary, you can mix and match the featured destinations and activities to create your own unique travel plan!