Sapporo

Sapporo

Japan

Wander through the enchanting Odori Park in winter to experience Sapporo's legendary snow festival with glittering ice sculptures and festive markets.

💱 Currency Japanese Yen (JPY)
🗣 Language Japanese
🕐 Time Zone JST (UTC+9)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Feb–May
🚢 Typical Duration 22-43 nights
💰 Price Range From $5,990 pp
Port Type Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port No

Gateway to Japan's Hokkaido region, offering access to vibrant Asian culture and as a key stop on extended Pacific and Alaska cruises.

Cruises that visit Sapporo

Build Your Day in Sapporo

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
Shiroi Koibito Park Good fun with interactive displays and delicious snacks Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 24k
JR Tower i love the underground walks all the way to various shopping center!! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 19k
Sapporo Beer Museum The museum has one big copper kettle and then a series of reproduced photos. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 18k 🕐 Opens soon · 11 AM
Tanukikoji Shopping Street They had an ice bar with cool sculptures. Business park · ★ 4.2 · 18k
Sapporo TV Tower Mini activities all year round. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 17k
Sapporo Clock Tower Very cheap admission fee. Tourist attraction · ★ 3.9 · 17k
Daimaru Sapporo Spacious department store with a wide selection of brands. Department store · ★ 4.1 · 14k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Nijo Market And this visit is a thrilling experience to share. Tourist attraction · ★ 3.8 · 13k
Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima Real branded stuff , many stores , have food court , competitive price Outlet mall · ★ 4 · 11k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Maruyama Park We had a great time exploring, making snow men and having snow ball fights. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 10k
Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo Kids 13 and below is free only paid for the adult. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 10k
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill Lots of activities, scenic and easy to get to via subway and bus! Tourist attraction · ★ 3.9 · 9k
Nakajima Park There are also lots of open spaces to do activities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 9k
Sapporo Factory As a temporary visitor, you can get goods for tax free and 5% discount. Shopping mall · ★ 3.9 · 9k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Ario Sapporo They have so many stores for kids and a huge arcade + indoor playground. Shopping mall · ★ 3.9 · 8k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
Sapporo Stellar Place Nice mall with local brands and shops, plus a restaurant floor. Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 7k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Soup Curry GARAKU Sapporo Main Restaurant The location is larger, but the food and atmosphere feels mass produced. Japanese Curry · ★ 4.3 · 5k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store Excellent service and quality of goods. Department store · ★ 3.8 · 5k 🕐 Open · Closes 7:30 PM
Moerenuma Park Many free events as well such as a museum and water show. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 5k
Sapporo Underground Shopping Malls Aurora Town Plenty of shops to browse and food stops. Shopping mall · ★ 3.8 · 4k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Akarenga Terrace A mix of shops and restaurants. Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 4k 🕐 Open · Closes 11:30 PM
Sapporo PARCO Neat and tidy, well stocked, staff were great.. keep up the good work Shopping mall · ★ 3.8 · 4k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Sapporo Ramen Haruka The chef prepares each dish after your order and it’s cooked to perfection. Ramen · ★ 4.8 · 4k 🕐 Opens soon · 11 AM
Historical Village of Hokkaido I spent 2.5 hours exploring different sections of the historical village. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 4k
AOAO SAPPORO They have interesting exhibits and kid friendly. Aquarium · ★ 4.3 · 3k
Teshikaga Ramen great location great food, good music, quiet atmosphere, not crowded. Ramen · ★ 4.6 · 3k 🕐 Opens soon · 11 AM
Odori Park Such a public park that have a lot of fun, the TV tower was so nice. Park · ★ 4.5 · 3k
Takino Suzuran Hillside Park Place is wide and beautiful with lots of fun activities to do. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 3k
JR Tower Observatory T38 It features a Tcafe, Tshop, art work and soundscape. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 3k
Asahiyama Memorial Park And there is no entrance fee. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 3k
GYUMON Sapporo Delicous food, great vibe and super friendly staff. Halal · ★ 4.9 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Pole Town Great shops, ambience, design and connects to many major areas in Sapporo Shopping mall · ★ 3.9 · 2k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Hyousetsu No Mon Really superb meal and the service staff were excellent. Japanese · ★ 4.3 · 2k 🕐 Opens soon · 11 AM
Sapporo Olympic Museum Museum offers fun activities for the family Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Moliere Meals are creative, tasty, well presented and delicious. French · ★ 4.7 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Daiichi Kaisenmaru Food, environment, and service are really excellent! Seafood · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Sapporo Gyouzayasan The food is beautifully plated and so flavorful. Izakaya · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Bar CRAFTSMAN Great atmosphere, great cocktails and an amazing bartender. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 PM
WAGYU SUKIYAKI 龍 RYU 札幌店 Sapporo Wagyu beef is tender with the right marbling that melt in your mouth. Sukiyaki restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4:45 PM
BAR THE HUBRIS Excellent cocktails made by a really kind, meticulous, and creative owner. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 PM
TAKE 5 Bar & Cigar good vibe, good drink, good service, cozy vibe, good place to chill. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 PM
BAR ReCalm The barman are so professional and the cocktails were the best we had! Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
BAR crusta A great intimate space with delicious cocktails. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
Rock Bar Fxxk Up Lovely atmosphere, great drinks and absolutely legendary staff. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 PM
Bar Calico Small bar with a great atmosphere, view of Sapporo, and a lovely host. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
immix Bar+Karaoke The bar owners were incredibly friendly and made excellent conversation. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 PM
Bar OWL&ROOSTER The owner is very welcoming, the cocktail menu & the atmosphere are great. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
Mantenya Tempura and Seafood Restaurant The food, the presentation, the services, all absolutely top-notch. Tempura · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
BAM – Music Bar & DJ Lounge Sapporo Great music, good shisha and very cheap drinks. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 PM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Sapporo

About Sapporo

Sapporo serves as a fascinating port of call for cruise travelers exploring Asia, with Viking Ocean Cruises offering regular sailings through this vibrant Japanese port. With 22 upcoming cruises and extended itineraries averaging 22 nights, passengers have excellent opportunities to experience this dynamic destination alongside other highlights like Tokyo, Hong Kong, and ports throughout Alaska. Peak travel seasons in spring and early fall offer ideal weather for exploring what Sapporo has to offer.

When your ship docks in Sapporo, you'll discover a modern Japanese city that beautifully blends contemporary culture with traditional heritage. Shore time here allows you to wander through distinctive neighborhoods, sample the region's renowned culinary scene, and experience authentic Japanese hospitality. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Japan or a returning traveler, Sapporo's accessible port location makes it an ideal embarkation or port-of-call stop on your Asian cruise adventure.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Hokkaido Shrine's Serene Forest

Escape into the peaceful grounds of Hokkaido Shrine, nestled within a pristine forest just minutes from the port. This iconic Shinto shrine, surrounded by towering trees and tranquil pathways, offers a spiritual retreat and stunning photo opportunities. Experience authentic Japanese religious traditions while breathing in the crisp Sapporo air.

2

Slurp Sapporo's Famous Miso Ramen

Dive into Sapporo's most celebrated culinary treasure at Ramen Yokocho, a charming alley lined with authentic ramen shops. This miso-based broth, rich with pork flavor and topped with fresh toppings, is a Sapporo specialty you won't find elsewhere. A steaming bowl is the perfect way to warm up and experience local food culture.

3

Maruyama Park's Panoramic City Views

Hike or ride the ropeway up Maruyama for breathtaking 360-degree views of Sapporo's urban landscape and surrounding mountains. The park offers seasonal beauty year-round, from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage, with walking trails suitable for all fitness levels. On clear days, distant peaks create a stunning natural backdrop to the modern city below.

4

Tanuki Koji's Vibrant Shopping Street

Browse Sapporo's bustling covered shopping arcade, where traditional shops blend with modern boutiques selling everything from local crafts to contemporary fashion. This lively pedestrian street captures the energy of Sapporo's downtown and offers unique souvenirs like Hokkaido dairy products and regional artisan goods. The arcade provides shelter while you explore authentic local shopping culture.

5

Odori Park's Green Urban Oasis

Stroll through Sapporo's iconic 1.5-kilometer green belt, a beloved gathering space that showcases seasonal events and sculptures. This expansive park connects the city's neighborhoods and offers peaceful walking paths, local food vendors, and views of the TV Tower. It's the perfect spot to experience how Sapporo residents enjoy their city's outdoor spaces.

Cruise Lines at Sapporo

Cruises Departing From Sapporo

Cruises Visiting Sapporo

Ship Schedule at Sapporo

Sapporo Location

Other Cruise Ports in Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Sapporo?

Viking Ocean Cruises operates cruises from Sapporo, Japan. With 22 upcoming cruises available, Viking offers ocean cruise experiences departing from this Asian port of call.

When is the best time to cruise from Sapporo?

The peak months for cruising from Sapporo are February, March, April, May, and September. These months offer the best availability and represent the most popular times to depart from this port, with spring and early fall providing pleasant weather for exploring Japan and nearby regions.

How much do cruises from Sapporo cost?

Cruise prices from Sapporo range from $5,990 to $41,990 per person, depending on the cruise length, cabin type, and itinerary. Viking Ocean Cruises offers various options within this price range to accommodate different budgets and preferences.

What destinations can I visit on cruises from Sapporo?

Cruises from Sapporo visit top destinations including Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shimizu, Seward, Alaska, and Hiroshima. These itineraries showcase the best of Asia and extend to Alaska, offering diverse cultural and natural attractions throughout the region.

How do I get from Sapporo port to the city center?

Sapporo port is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. Taxis are readily available at the port, or you can use public transportation including buses and trains that connect the port area to downtown Sapporo. Many cruise passengers also book organized shore excursions through their cruise line.

What can I see and do in Sapporo during a port day?

Sapporo offers attractions including Maruyama Park, the Sapporo TV Tower, and the historic Hokkaido Shrine. The city is also famous for its ramen and local cuisine, vibrant shopping districts, and beautiful gardens. With a full day in port, you can explore the city center, visit museums, or take a day trip to nearby natural attractions.

Is Sapporo a port of call or a home port?

Sapporo is primarily a port of call, meaning cruises stop here as part of a larger itinerary rather than serving as an embarkation point. This allows passengers to experience Sapporo and the surrounding Hokkaido region as part of their broader Asian or Alaska cruise adventure.