As the leaves shift into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, Sapporo and Otaru transform into a picturesque autumn wonderland. During our late autumn visit, Christmas illuminations were already being set up—yellow and blue lights evoking the nostalgic warmth of families gathering in the cold season. With stunning autumn foliage and the unique charm of each city, Sapporo and Otaru are must-visit destinations in Japan during this time of year.

🍁 When to Visit

Best Time for Autumn in Sapporo

Autumn in Sapporo is a treat for the senses, showcasing a brilliant spectrum of seasonal colors. The best time to visit is from late September to early November, when foliage peaks across the city’s parks and gardens. The crisp weather (10–18°C / 50–64°F) is perfect for exploring outdoors.

Best Time for Autumn in Otaru

Otaru, with its romantic canals and nostalgic charm, is especially captivating in autumn. The cool air sharpens the colors and reflects beautifully along the canal’s surface. It’s an easy day trip from Sapporo, thanks to frequent trains and buses.

🕒 How Many Days?

Spend two full days in Sapporo and one full day in Otaru to enjoy both cities without rushing. The compact nature of both destinations makes this itinerary ideal for a short yet fulfilling trip.

🇯🇵 Japan Visa Requirements (for Filipino Travelers)

If you’re a Filipino citizen planning to visit Japan, you’ll need:

1. A valid passport
2. A completed visa application form
3. A recent passport-sized photo
4. Proof of financial capability (e.g., 6 months’ bank statement)
5. A travel itinerary
6. An invitation letter (if applicable)

🗺️ 3-Day Itinerary Overview

🏙️ Day 1 – Sapporo City Center Highlights

1. Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office)

   Many of Sapporo's historical buildings exhibit a Western design style compared to other Japanese cities. The Former Hokkaido Government Office Building is a prime example of this unique architectural blend. It was constructed in 1888 in the American Neo-Baroque style and was the city hall for 80 years. Today, it houses exhibits featuring documents and pictures related to the history of Hokkaido.

2. Sapporo Clock Tower

   Standing in the centre of Sapporo's business district, the Clock Tower is an iconic landmark of the city. Built-in 1878 as a lecture hall for Hokkaido University. The bell chimes every hour, and the clock tower is illuminated at night. Inside, it serves as a museum showcasing the history of Sapporo and the Agricultural College.

   

    

   

3. Odori Park

   Just a short walk from the Clock Tower is the vast Odori Park, spanning one and a half kilometres. Among its many attractions is a famous sculpture by Isamu Noguchi.

   

    

4. Sapporo TV Tower

   Offers a 90-meter-high observation deck with panoramic views of Sapporo city, Sapporo TV tower was designed by Tachū Naitō, the same architect behind Tokyo Tower. It was the first TV tower built in Japan.

   

    

5. Nijo Market

   The rival of Tsukiji Market, Nijo Market has been a bustling hub for seafood lovers for over a century. Originally started by fishermen from Ishikari Bay selling their fresh catch, it has grown into a vibrant marketplace. It is not just a place to buy seafood—many stalls will prepare your purchases on the spot.

6. Lunch Ganso Ramen Yokocho Sapporo

   Ramen Yokocho in Sapporo is the birthplace of the famed miso ramen. This narrow alleyway, lined with numerous ramen shops, became a culinary hotspot when Morito Omiya of Aji no Sanpei introduced miso ramen to the world. Many of the recipes have been handed down through generations, with each shop offering its unique twist on the classic dish. It's a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts looking to experience authentic Sapporo flavours.

   

7. Sapporo Factory

   Sapporo Factory, a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex, sits on the historic site of Japan's first beer brewery. It features an indoor atrium with a large glass ceiling, creating a unique space where visitors can shop, dine, and even enjoy seasonal events, surrounded by a piece of Sapporo's brewing heritage.

8. Sapporo Beer Museum

   The Sapporo Beer Museum is housed in a former brewery building dating back to the Meiji period. It is Japan's only museum dedicated to beer. It not only showcases the brewing process and history but also allows visitors to sample various Sapporo beers, including exclusive brews that aren't available elsewhere. Visitors can learn about the early pioneer life in Sapporo, as well as the history and brewing process of this famous beer brand. The tour is free, and you can try beer tasting at the end of the tour for a small fee.

9. Nakajima Park

   Nakajima Park is a serene oasis in the heart of Sapporo, originally transformed from a lumberyard into a public space. Covering over 21 hectares, the park features a beautiful Japanese garden, Shobu Pond, and several cultural landmarks, including the historic Hoheikan, a former hotel built in 1880.

10. Mount Moiwa Observation Deck

    The Mount Moiwa Observation Deck offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Sapporo and its surroundings. Accessible via a scenic ropeway and a unique mini cable car, the observation deck sits atop a mountain that has been a popular spot for locals and tourists since the early 20th century. It is considered a "Lovers' Sanctuary," where couples can attach padlocks to symbolise their eternal love and ring the "Bell of Happiness" together.

    Head back to Susukino and Sapporo Ramen Yokocho to try some miso ramen.

11. Susukino Street

    End your day in Susukino, Sapporo's entertainment district. Susukino Street is Sapporo's vibrant entertainment district and one of Japan's largest nightlife areas outside Tokyo. Originally developed to cater to the needs of labourers working on the Hokkaido frontier, it has evolved into a bustling hub of activity, boasting an array of bars, restaurants, karaoke shops, and pachinko parlours.

🏞️ Day 2 – Day Trip to Otaru

On our second day, we travelled to Otaru, a historic port city northwest of Sapporo, known for its charming canals, historic buildings, and delicious seafood.

1. Sankaku Market

   Start your day early with a visit to Sankaku Ichiba Market, where breakfast is served as early as 6:30 am. Enjoy a traditional Hokkaido-style breakfast with the freshest seafood in a rice bowl, kaizen donburi, where you can choose your favourite toppings. Sankaku Market is renowned for its triangular shape, so it got its name—'Sankaku', which means triangle in Japanese.

2. Miyako dori Shopping Street

   Explore Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street, home to over 65 shops, including glassworks, cafes, wineries, and craft stores. For a unique experience, hire a rickshaw to tour the street in style. Make sure to pace yourself, as there are many more attractions to see!

3. Otaru Canal

   Stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal, lined with beautifully preserved warehouses that now house museums, shops, and restaurants. The canal is incredibly charming at dusk when the gas lamps are lit, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

4. Otaru Canal Boat Cruise (optional)

   For a different perspective, consider taking a boat cruise along the canal, which could provide memorable views and photo opportunities. However, we preferred to walk to the canal's pathways.

5. Stained Glass Museum

   Visit the Stained Glass Museum to admire beautiful stained glass artworks, many of which are sourced from old European churches. The intricate designs and vibrant colours are truly mesmerising. The museum is housed in a former bank building, adding to its historical charm.

6. Otaru Music Box Museum

   Enter the whimsical world of the Otaru Music Box Museum, which houses 25,000 music boxes. The brown-brick building, constructed in 1902, exudes a nostalgic charm. Be sure to listen to the enchanting melodies that fill the air. The museum's collection includes one of the world's largest music boxes, which plays a tune every hour.

   

    

7. Sakaimachi Hondori Street

   Walk along Sakaimachi Hondori Street, a continuation of Sakaimachi-dori, where you can find more unique shops and cafes. This area is perfect for picking up souvenirs and enjoying a leisurely afternoon.

8. Sakaimachi

   Explore the broader Sakaimachi area, which is known for its historical buildings and charming atmosphere. It's a great place to take in the local culture and architecture.

9. LeTAO Pathos

   LeTAO's name is derived from "La Tour Amitié Otaru," which means "The Tower of Friendship in Otaru." Indulge your sweet tooth at LeTAO, which is famous for its delicious sweets. Try their Double Fromage, a rich, milky cheesecake with a no-bake mascarpone layer on top of a baked cheesecake.

10. Kitaichi Glass Otaru

    Kitaichi Glass was established in 1901 and has been a staple of Otaru's glassmaking industry ever since. Kitaichi Glass is a renowned glassware shop where you can watch artisans create beautiful glass pieces. The shop is famous for its oil lamps, which create a warm and inviting glow.

11. Otaru Steam Clock

    Check out the Otaru Steam Clock, a unique landmark that chimes and releases steam every 15 minutes. This clock was a gift from Vancouver, Canada, and adds a touch of whimsy to the area. The Otaru Steam Clock is one of only two steam clocks worldwide, the other being in Vancouver.

12. Tanaka Sake Brewery

    Experience the unique flavours of Otaru's local sake at Tanaka Sake Brewery. This traditional wooden building, over 100 years old, offers a free self-guided tour where you can see the brewing process. Take advantage of the free sake tastings at the end of your tour. Tanaka Sake Brewery produces sake that is exclusively available in Otaru, making it a truly unique souvenir.

13. Otaru Beer Otaru Warehouse No.1

    End your day at Otaru Beer Otaru Warehouse No. 1, a microbrewery pub housed in a renovated warehouse. Enjoy German cuisine and freshly brewed beer while closely examining the brewing process. Raise a pint with a hearty "Kanpai" or "Prost" to celebrate your day in Otaru.

By 6 pm, it will likely be dark and chilly, making it the perfect time to head back to Sapporo. Remember to stop for photos on the Otaru Bridge before you leave!

🌳 Day 3 – Sapporo Highlights & Hidden Gems

For our final day, we visited Hokkaido University and Shiroi Koibito Park, with optional visits to Maruyama Zoo and Hokkaido Shrine.

1. Ōno Pond

   Start visiting Ōno Pond, a serene spot on the Hokkaido University campus. The pond is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. It is a popular spot for birdwatching, particularly in the spring and autumn when migratory birds stop by.

2. Hokkaido University

   Explore the vast campus of Hokkaido University, which is unique for being centrally located in a major city. The campus features numerous historical buildings and picturesque natural sites. One of the highlights is the street lined with ginkgo trees, which is especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves turn golden.

   

    

3. Shiroi Koibito Park

   Shiroi Koibito Park features a beautiful blend of British and Hokkaido cultures, with charming buildings and gardens that create a whimsical atmosphere. Chocolate lovers should head to Shiroi Koibito Park, a theme park dedicated to the famous Hokkaido confection, Shiroi Koibito (White Lovers). The park offers a tour of the Ishiya Chocolate Factory, where you can see the production process and enjoy various chocolate-themed activities.

   

If time permits, visit Maruyama Zoo, the oldest zoo in Hokkaido.

Optional: Hokkaido Shrine (Hokkaido Jingu)

The shrine, built in 1869, enshrines three deities that protect Hokkaido. It is a significant cultural site, especially crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring and on New Year's Day.

Optional: Maruyama Zoo

Maruyama Zoo, the oldest zoo in Hokkaido, is known for its efforts to create natural habitats for its animals and offers a variety of events, including the special Night Zoo, where visitors can observe nocturnal animals. Maruyama Zoo is home to popular animals like Polar Bears and Red Pandas, which are major attractions for visitors.

✨ Travel Tips

1. Weather & Clothing: Bring layers! Autumn can be crisp, especially in the morning and evening.
2. Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must—many parks and streets have cobblestones or walking trails.
3. Cash is King: Smaller ramen shops and souvenir stalls may only accept cash.
4. Train Convenience: Sapporo to Otaru takes just 30–40 minutes by train, with frequent departures.