Sapporo: City Center History and Art Walking Tour
ID: GYG1098447-1686888
Category:
Country: Japan
Duration:
03:00 hours
Description
Explore the history and art of Sapporo on a guided walking tour. Visit the Sousei River Park, the Nijo Fish Market, and Hokkaidō Government Office.
This walking tour begins at one of Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks—Sapporo TV Tower. But it’s more than just a spot for great city views. The tower stands at the edge of Odori Park, a green space running through the heart of the city. Here, you’ll learn about the park’s role in Sapporo’s unique city planning and its historical significance.
From there, we’ll take a relaxed walk along the Sosei River, which played a key role in the city’s early development during the pioneering era. Today, the riverside offers a peaceful path lined with public art and seasonal plants. Some sculptures reflect local culture and history, while others are more modern and whimsical.
Next, we’ll explore Nijo Market—a small, local fish market that has served the community for generations. It’s also the area where my father was born and raised, so I’ll share personal stories and local insights you won’t find in guidebooks. It’s a chance to discover a deeper side of Sapporo that most visitors miss.
After the market, we can make an optional stop for Hokkaido milk soft-serve ice cream, if everyone in the group would like. No purchase required.
The tour continues through Tanukikoji, Sapporo’s lively covered shopping arcade, and then into the underground walkway leading to our final stop: the Former Hokkaido Government Office, known for its striking red-brick architecture. If time allows, we may go inside.
We’ll cover close to 10,000 steps, so this tour may not be suitable for those unaccustomed to walking longer distances.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the history and art of Sapporo on a guided tour
- Stroll through Tanukikoji and the Sapporo Underground Walkway
- Learn about the history of the Sousei River and its importance to Sapporo
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please meet near the entrance on the first floor of Sapporo TV Tower. I’ll be waiting outside a little before the meeting time. If the weather is bad, we may wait inside the building.
INCLUDED
- Guided walking tour in English
- Insights into Sapporo’s history, culture, and local life
- Visit to Sapporo TV Tower (admission ticket included)
- Walk along the Sosei River with commentary on public art and seasonal highlights
- Visit to Nijo Market
- Walk through Tanukikoji Shopping Street and the underground walkway
- Final stop at the Former Hokkaido Government Office (admission ticket included)
- Local tips, personal stories, and off-the-beaten-path insights
- Photos taken during the tour (upon request)
NOT INCLUDED
- What’s not included:
- Hotel pickup (unless arranged in advance for group bookings within walking distance)
- Transportation to/from the meeting point
- Personal expenses and additional food or drinks not mentioned
- Travel insurance
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.