Walking Tour in Sapporo
General information
Group size
15 max
Starting time
Check our calendar!
Duration
2 hours
Price
From 45 USD
Language
English
Walking Tour in Sapporo
This walking tour in Sapporo explores the city center shaped during Hokkaido’s rapid development after 1869, when Sapporo was established as the prefectural capital. The route focuses on areas where early Western-style institutions, public parks, and later commercial spaces developed side by side, showing how government planning, education, and commerce influenced the modern layout of the city.
Highlights
- Learn how Sapporo was planned in the late 19th century as Hokkaido’s administrative center.
- See landmarks linked to early Western influence and public life in the city center.
- Experience how underground walkways and markets support daily life, especially in winter.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the Former Hokkaido Prefectual Government Office Building.
Itinerary
The walk covers the area around the Former Hokkaido Prefectural Government Office Building, a brick structure completed in 1888 that served as the prefectural headquarters until 1968. The building reflects early Western-style architecture introduced during Hokkaido’s development in the Meiji period and now functions as a public historical site with exhibits about Hokkaido’s history. From this area, the route continues toward central Sapporo streets laid out during the city’s planned development in the late 19th century.
Read more...
The itinerary then includes the Sapporo Clock Tower, built in 1878 as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College, now Hokkaido University. Its clock mechanism was imported from the United States and has been in operation since 1881. Nearby stands the Odori TV Tower, constructed in 1957 at the eastern end of Odori Park. Odori Park itself stretches about 1.5 kilometers across the city center and was originally designed as a firebreak, later becoming a public green space used for seasonal events.
The walk continues through Odori Underground Walkway & Shopping, an underground passage connecting key downtown areas and providing access to shops and transit, especially useful during winter. From there, the route reaches Nijo Fish Market, which has operated since the early 20th century and is known for seafood sold by local vendors. The market reflects Sapporo’s food distribution history and remains an active part of daily commerce in the city.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum of participants?
The maximum of participants is 15 people.
Can I pay with something other than PayPal?
Yes, after clicking on “Pay with PayPal” and the PayPal window opens, you will see the option to pay with a debit or credit card.
Can I book a private walking tour?
Yes, you can book a private walking tour by contacting us straight via email.
Can I bring my children?
Yes, in this walking tour in Sapporo everyone is welcome.
What should I bring?
Check out the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring an umbrella in case it’s raining. Bring comfortable shoes and a big smile 🙂