Here are 10 things to do in Hokkaido (Sapporo and Otaru).

Sapporo Beer Museum

Opened in 1987, this is the only beer museum in Japan. The brick building, designated as a Hokkaido Heritage Site, was built as a sugar factory in 1890 and was used as a malt factory until 1965. It then became the museum it is today. It introduces the history of Sapporo Beer and the development of Japan's beer industry, and also offers a guided "premium tour." After the tour, you can sample the beer that was made at the time the company was founded.

Susukino

This entertainment district stretches south of Odori, roughly from Minami 4-8-chome north to south and from Nishi 2-5-chome east to west. The neon street, familiar for its Nikka Whisky sign, is famous as the town that never sleeps. This area is characterized by its large number of stores, with about 3,500 shops. There are many local cuisine restaurants, izakayas, clubs, bars, karaoke, show pubs, ramen shops, and hotels.

Nijo Market

It is said to have started as a market where fishermen from Ishikari Beach sold fresh fish, and has a history of about 150 years. Although it is located in a city in Hokkaido, entering the market will transport you to a retro world that feels like a time warp to the Showa era. There are fresh seafood from Hokkaido available, such as crabs, oysters, and sea urchins, but there are also ramen shops, izakayas, and souvenir shops lined up. It is a popular place for breakfast, but there are also restaurants that are open until late at night.

Hokkaido Shrine

It was founded in 1869 by Emperor Meiji, who ordered the worship of the three pioneer gods in Hokkaido as a spiritual anchor for the pioneers. The person who designed the Sapporo cityscape decided to build it on land surrounded by mountains on three sides and open to a plain on the other side. There are five torii gates on the grounds, which are said to bring good fortune in terms of breaking off relationships and money. The stainless steel "Reiwa Torii" is fresh and unusual, so please come and see it.

It is surrounded by mountains and the green trees are very beautiful.

Shiroi Koibito Park

You can see the manufacturing process of "Shiroi Koibito," a famous Hokkaido confectionery that is also popular outside of Japan. There is a booth where you can make your own original "Shiroi Koibito original can" and can magnets using your own photos and drawings, and you can also experience making sweets. There is a rose garden in the "Courtyard (Rose Garden)" where 200 roses are in bloom, which is beautiful.

They also sell products exclusive to Shiroi Koibito Park, so why not pick one up as a souvenir?

Otaru Canal

The canal, completed in 1923, was used by small ships to transport cargo from main ships, and is currently 1,140m long, with stone warehouses and old buildings surrounding it. It has become a tourist destination, with restaurants and eateries serving seafood dishes.

There is a 40-minute "Otaru Canal Cruise" that takes you around the canal. You can enjoy the different views depending on the season and the time of day, such as before sunset, during the day, or after sunset.

Otaru Triangle Market

The market started around 1948, shortly after the war. It started with 7-8 street vendors opening up in front of Otaru Station, and has since developed into a morning market. The name "Sankaku Market" comes from the triangular shape of the land and roofs. Currently, there are 15 stores lined up, and you can enjoy cheap and fresh seafood in the lively atmosphere that is unique to the market.

Kitaichi Glass

Asahara Glass, the predecessor of Kitaichi Glass, was founded in 1901 and first produced oil lamps, then floats for the fishing industry and tableware. The current store, Kitaichi Glass No. 3, was formerly a fishing industry warehouse and the actual trolley tracks still remain. A wide range of Japanese and Western style items are on sale, so you're sure to find something you like! There is also a workshop where you can try sandblasting, where you can blow sand onto the surface of glass to create your own unique pattern.

Otaru Sushi Street

Hokkaido has a unique sushi culture that is different from Edomae sushi. Many restaurants use fresh seafood as is, without preserving the toppings in vinegar or salt. Sushi Street, which has around 20 restaurants on the corner heading towards the canal from Otaru Station, has high-quality toppings and slightly sweet rice that is large and delicious, and also a great deal.

Blue Cave

Hokkaido is also home to the beautiful, sparkling blue "Blue Cave," which was created by a combination of various coincidences, including the unique topography caused by seawater erosion, the direction of the sun, and the transparency of the seawater. Otaru, which faces the Sea of Japan, has a very beautiful contrast between the rugged rocks and the blue surface of the sea. The entrance to Otaru is wide, so you can enter by boat.

summary

We have introduced 10 things to do in Hokkaido (Sapporo and Otaru). Hokkaido is full of nature, but it is also bustling with activity, with the city center of Susukino and markets. If you like sushi and seafood, be sure to try the seafood of Hokkaido. It's very fresh and delicious.