Hokkaido Day Trips from Sapporo: Otaru, Muroran, and More
2025/12/06
For many visitors, Sapporo serves as the perfect base for exploring Hokkaido. While enjoying the cityscape at night, you can also access the sea, mountains, hot springs, and ski resorts within a few hours. This article introduces some popular spots you can visit from Sapporo and explains how Susukino and Sapporo fit into your travel plans. Seaside Towns: Otaru, Yoichi, and Ishikari One of the most popular day trips from Sapporo is the charming port city of Otaru, located about an hour by train. The famous Otaru Canal is lined with stone warehouses, retro streetlights, and small museums. During the day, you can stroll along the canal, sample fresh seafood and sweets, and shop for glassware and music boxes. At night, the canal is softly illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere completely different from Susukino. Just beyond Otaru is Yoichi, known for its whiskey and sea. Many visitors come to tour historic whiskey distilleries, sample a few whiskeys, and learn about Hokkaido’s connection to Scotch whiskey. The coastline around Yoichi is also beautiful, with rugged cliffs and secluded beaches. For a relaxing day away from the city, Otaru and Yoichi are an easy and satisfying combination. North of Sapporo, Ishikari City faces the Sea of Japan. While less well-known than Otaru, it offers expansive coastal views and a laid-back local atmosphere. Rent a car and drive along the Ishikari Coast for a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of central Sapporo. Everyday Life in Hokkaido: Kitahiroshima, Ebetsu, and Iwamizawa Sapporo is home to several smaller cities offering a glimpse into Hokkaido’s more “everyday” side. Located between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Kitahiroshima City is rapidly developing, with new shopping and sports facilities opening up one after another. To the east, Ebetsu City is a pleasant suburban area lined with brick buildings, cafes, and family-friendly residential neighborhoods. Iwamizawa City lies further inland and is often included on road trips around central Hokkaido. While it may not be as well-known as Niseko or Otaru, these towns are home to many locals, who live, work, and raise their children. If you’re interested in experiencing local life beyond the tourist attractions, a short visit to these towns is well worth it. Muroran and Tomakomai: Port and Night View Further south along the coast are Tomakomai and Muroran. Tomakomai is an important port city with ferry connections to Honshu. While it prioritizes practicality over glamour, you can enjoy delicious local seafood and a vibrant port town atmosphere. Muroran is known for its factories and steel mills, but it also takes on a whole new beauty at night. The industrial lights, illuminated bridges, and coastline create a breathtaking night view. Some visitors join special night view tours or capture beautiful views from designated viewpoints. Susukino and Our Town After day trips to Otaru, Yoichi, Jozankei, Niseko, Muroran, and other destinations, many travelers return to Sapporo to enjoy shopping, gourmet food, and nightlife. At night, many head to Susukino, the city’s downtown. Late-night ramen shops, laid-back izakayas, standing bars, and international pubs are all within walking distance. The Hentai Sapporo team is based in the Susukino area.y guests who are in the middle of a longer Hokkaido route—maybe staying near Sapporo Station, doing a day trip to Otaru, then heading to Niseko the next day. That is why we use this staff blog to share English information about Sapporo and nearby destinations: we want foreign visitors to feel more confident about where to go and how to enjoy the region. If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido and are based in Sapporo, and would prefer a more private and relaxing evening away from the busy streets and noisy bars, we hope this guide will be helpful. Also, if you’re visiting Susukino, please check out our website, where we’ll help you have a safe and comfortable night.
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