We Rank Sapporo’s 15 Top Tours & Experiences

Sapporo is a city that offers more than just its famous beer and snow festivals. For travelers eager to dive into local flavors, culture, and hidden corners, Sapporo’s tours & experiences provide a rich palette of options. Whether you want to sip craft cocktails at underground bars, learn how to make authentic soba noodles, or explore the city with a local guide, Sapporo has something for every curiosity. One particularly memorable experience is the Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour, which combines the thrill of discovering underground bars with tasting local Hokkaido treats—perfect if you’re after an authentic night out with a side of local insights.

For those who prefer hands-on culinary skills, the city offers unique opportunities like learning to make handmade soba or trying a Japanese wagashi sweets class. Plus, guided city tours—whether private or group-based—help you get oriented and uncover hidden spots, from historic landmarks to local markets. These experiences truly enhance your understanding of Sapporo beyond typical sightseeing.

Quick Overview of Tours & Experiences in Sapporo

Our list covers a broad range of activities, from food-focused outings like bar hopping and sushi classes (#1, #9) to cultural workshops, including wagashi and soba making (#10, #2). If you’re after city exploration, private guided tours in Sapporo offer customization (#4, #14). For longer day trips, multi-stop private car tours take you to places like Lake Toya and Noboribetsu (#6, #12), perfect for nature lovers and explorers.

1. Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour

If you’re wondering how to navigate Sapporo’s lively bar scene and sample its best-kept secrets, the Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour is a top pick. This 3-hour outing visits three local izakayas recommended by Sapporo locals, including a hidden underground bar that’s tricky to find on your own. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy Sapporo’s nightlife without the language barrier and get insider tips on top spots. The tour includes trying regional treats like Hokkaido ramen and local drinks—plus, photos afterward to remember your night.

Guests love Kay, the guide, for her personalized approach and deep knowledge of the city’s food scene. With reviews praising her for her friendliness and the tour for its authentic vibe, this experience is ideal for foodies and night owls alike. The cost of $108.11 makes it a good value considering the quality and local insight you receive. Bottom line: if you want to taste Sapporo’s best bars and dishes with a relaxed guide, this tour hits the mark.

2. Experience authentic hand-made soba at a real soba shop!

For around $72.67, the soba-making experience offers a hands-on look at traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Over roughly an hour, you’ll learn how to make soba from scratch using authentic techniques supported by visual demos. The shop has been operating for over a decade in Sapporo, and guides make the process accessible for English speakers. Guests often comment on how engaging and encouraging the hosts are, making it more than just a demonstration.

This tour shines in its authenticity—you’re not just watching, but actively making each step of soba production. The final product is delicious, especially when paired with tempura (at extra cost). Reviewers mention the clear instructions and friendly hosts, making it suitable for beginners and food lovers. Bottom line: if you want a genuine look at Japanese culinary tradition, this soba experience is a top choice.

3. Mondo’s most popular plan! Experience making soba noodles and tempura!

Priced at $85.79, this 1-hour experience combines making soba with tempura, both staples of Japanese cuisine. Held at a well-known soba restaurant, the activity takes you back to the Edo era, where soba and tempura have been loved for centuries. You’ll learn the art of noodle making and enjoy tempura made with fresh local ingredients—an excellent way to experience traditional flavors firsthand. The guide is friendly and professional, and guests note the fun atmosphere.

Guests particularly appreciate the opportunity to understand the history and techniques behind these dishes. Reviewers rave about the tempura, calling it “delicious” and the experience “memorable.” The only potential drawback is the location being slightly tricky to find, but the warmth of the hosts makes up for that. Bottom line: this is perfect for those wanting a brief, authentic culinary immersion with a focus on classic Japanese fried foods.

4. Sapporo Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems

For $109.98 per person, this private 3-8 hour tour offers a flexible way to explore Sapporo’s top sights and lesser-known spots. Your guide will customize the itinerary based on your interests, taking you from Odori Park’s seasonal blooms to the historic wooden buildings and Japan’s only beer museum. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience without the hassle of navigating alone.

Guests praise guides like Emilio for their knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning how the tour reveals Sapporo’s hidden favorites. The ability to tailor the route means you can include favorite spots or skip the less interesting. With reviews highlighting the tour’s flexibility and insightful local perspective, this is perfect for those who want a deep, personalized look at the city. Bottom line: if you value customization and local insight, this private tour offers great value.

5. Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

At $155.22 per person, this 6-hour private guided tour lets you cover many of Sapporo’s highlights efficiently. You’ll start at the Snow Festival site in February or explore Moerenuma Park, then visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido. The flexible itinerary means your guide, who is licensed and knowledgeable, can customize your experience, including top landmarks and local spots.

Guests consistently mention how guides like Roy and Kumiko make the city come alive with stories and insights. The tour is suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire to see both the must-see sites and some hidden spots. The value lies in expert navigation and personalized attention. Bottom line: for a compact, insightful look at Sapporo, this private tour offers a good balance of depth and convenience.

6. Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo)

For $465.14 per group, this private 8-10 hour trip (from Sapporo) takes you across Hokkaido’s scenic northern countryside. Highlights include Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its innovative enclosures, and the Blue Pond—a surreal, blue-stained water marvel. You’ll also visit Shirahige Falls and Ningle Terrace, a charming craft shopping area in a forest setting. This tour is perfect for families or nature lovers wanting a full day of varied scenery and wildlife.

Guests note the driver’s attentiveness and the flexibility of the schedule. While water levels at Blue Pond can vary by season, the overall experience remains impressive. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a longer day and interested in nature and wildlife. Bottom line: this tour offers a comprehensive day exploring some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots.

7. One Day Highlights Tour of Sapporo

At $138.71, this half-day private tour packs a lot into six hours. It includes visiting Nijo Market, Odori Park, and the Sapporo TV Tower, with stops tailored to your interests. A guide ensures you see the city’s main landmarks efficiently, with hotel transfers included for convenience.

Reviews rave about guides like Shuinn and Roy, who make the city’s history and culture come alive through engaging stories. The tour is suited for travelers who want a quick but thorough introduction to Sapporo’s highlights. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but still want a personalized experience. Bottom line: practical, well-organized, and flexible, perfect for first-time visitors.

8. Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with a Licensed Guide

For $122.20, this 4-hour private tour is ideal if your schedule is tight. The guide will come to your hotel and create a personalized route, including top sights like the Snow Festival and Moerenuma Park. It’s perfect for a quick intro to Sapporo’s must-see spots.

Guests appreciate the flexibility and the local guide’s knowledge, who helps navigate the city smoothly. This tour suits travelers who want a snapshot of Sapporo’s key attractions without a full day commitment. Bottom line: a solid choice for efficient sightseeing with personalized touch.

9. 2 hours sushi class

Priced at just $20.08, this sushi making class is a delightful hands-on activity. Under Yuki’s guidance, you’ll learn how to craft beautiful and tasty sushi, including decorative rolls. The class lasts around two hours and is suitable for all levels, with participants often taking home their own creations.

Guests praise Yuki’s patience and friendliness, calling the experience “fun” and “meaningful.” It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone interested in Japanese cuisine. The affordable price makes it an excellent value for a memorable culinary lesson. Bottom line: if you want a brief, engaging cooking experience in Sapporo, this is a top pick.

10. Wagashi traditional Japanese sweets class

At $59.31, the wagashi sweets class offers a cozy, authentic way to learn Japanese confectionery crafts. Hosted by Yuki in her lovely home, you’ll create beautiful traditional sweets, learning about their cultural significance. The class lasts about two hours and includes tasting your own creations.

Reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and the uniqueness of the experience, as it’s the only Wagashi class available in Sapporo. Participants often mention how relaxing and enjoyable it is. Ideal for those wanting a peaceful, artistic activity that connects them to Japanese culture. Bottom line: a charming, delicious way to spend part of your day in Sapporo.

11. [Biei/Furano] One-day sightseeing by private car!

This full-day tour for up to 8 people costs $596.33. It covers Farm Tomita, Shikisai no Oka, Blue Pond, and Shirahige Waterfalls, offering a comprehensive look at Hokkaido’s famous flower fields and scenery. The private car allows a flexible, relaxed pace—perfect for photography and leisurely exploration.

Reviews emphasize the professionalism of the driver and the thoughtful itinerary, with many noting the ability to customize stops. It’s suitable for families or groups wanting a hassle-free, scenic day. Keep in mind that some sites are seasonal, so check the best times to visit. Bottom line: excellent value for a personalized, all-inclusive exploration of Furano and Biei’s highlights.

12. Departure from Sapporo: Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Lake Toya, Cape Chikyu

For $404.16, this full-day private trip covers Jigokudani (Hell Valley), Lake Toya, and Cape Chikyu. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed tour of Hokkaido’s volcanic landscapes. The driver handles all navigation, and the itinerary includes stops at scenic viewpoints and hot springs.

Guests appreciate the calm, attentive driver and the ability to see a lot without the stress of planning. The route offers impressive geological sights and local flavor, ideal for nature enthusiasts. Weather can influence some sites, so check seasonal conditions. Bottom line: a well-rounded, low-stress day exploring Hokkaido’s volcanic wonders.

13. Hand-made soba experience and gibier from Hokkaido

At $85.66, this combined experience includes making soba from scratch and enjoying Yezo deer meat shabu-shabu. Led by a friendly host, you’ll learn traditional techniques and enjoy a memorable dinner of local game meat, which is rare outside Hokkaido. It’s suitable for adventurous eaters and those interested in regional cuisine.

Guests love the authentic atmosphere and the chance to try something different from standard fare. The experience is approximately an hour and offers a taste of Hokkaido’s culinary wild side. Some mention the difficulty finding the location, but overall, reviews praise the hosts’ warmth and the delicious meal. Bottom line: a unique, hands-on culinary experience for foodies and culture seekers alike.

14. Sapporo: Private Customized Guided Tour

This flexible 4-6 hour private tour costs $119 per person and allows you to tailor your sightseeing with a local guide. You can choose to focus on highlights like the Sapporo TV Tower, Odori Park, or local markets. The guide helpfully navigates and shares insights, making it ideal for travelers who want an intimate, personalized experience.

Reviews note how guides like Nozomi and Tracy make the city’s stories engaging and memorable. It’s perfect for those with specific interests or limited time. The customizable nature means you can include favorite spots or discover new ones. Bottom line: if you want a private, flexible experience, this tour delivers personalized attention.

15. Private Japanese Cooking Class with Chef Shiori

Priced at $108, this 3-hour cooking class offers an authentic lesson in making a full Japanese meal from scratch. Hosted in Shiori’s peaceful home, you’ll learn to prepare dishes like sushi and grilled sides, with a professional chef guiding each step. Participants rave about her warmth and the quality of the food, often mentioning how they learned techniques to replicate at home.

This experience is ideal for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine or wanting a cultural activity that’s both educational and delicious. The small class setting ensures personal attention. Reviewers emphasize how memorable and practical the skills learned are. Bottom line: perfect for food lovers seeking a comprehensive, hands-on cooking adventure.

How to Choose Your Best Sapporo Tour

When selecting from these options, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re after a culinary adventure, try the Bar Hopping Food Tour or the soba classes (#2), while those seeking city insight might prefer private guided tours (#14). For nature lovers and day-trippers, the Furano/Biei scenic tour (#11) or the Noboribetsu/Nature tour (#12) are excellent choices.

For short visits, the 4-hour private tour (#8) offers a quick yet personalized overview. If baking or sweets are your thing, the wagashi or sushi classes will turn your trip into a memorable hands-on experience.

Final Thoughts

Sapporo’s variety of tours means there’s something for every traveler—whether you want to sip local sake, learn traditional crafts, or explore scenic landscapes. For those on a tight schedule, private guided tours (#4, #14) offer tailored experiences, while culinary classes (#9, #10) ensure a deep dive into Japanese food culture. Longer day trips (#6) are perfect for nature lovers wanting to see more of Hokkaido. Whatever your interests, booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like sushi classes or guided tours in peak seasons. Prepare to enjoy Sapporo’s authentic atmosphere—your perfect experience awaits.