If you’re planning a scenic drive near Sapporo, this article is your guide! Sapporo, surrounded by Hokkaido’s rich nature and historic tourist spots, offers breathtaking views just a short drive away. In this article, we selectively introduce popular day trip driving spots near Sapporo.

• Sapporo city panorama from Mt. Moiwa
• Experience nature at Maruyama Park
• Gourmet and sightseeing around Otaru Canal
• Lavender fields in Furano
• Noboribetsu’s Hell Valley hot springs
• Year-round enjoyment of Hokkaido’s four seasons at Shikisai no Oka

Read on to plan a delightful drive around Sapporo and capture stunning photos along the way!

Explore the Scenic Drive Spots Near Sapporo!

Sapporo’s surroundings boast many spectacular driving spots. These destinations offer natural beauty and panoramic views, perfect for a drive. Popular spots that allow you to experience Hokkaido’s great outdoors and changing seasonal landscapes are abundant. Additionally, nearby gourmet and hot spring facilities ensure a full day of enjoyment.

This time, we introduce the best scenic driving locations near Sapporo. Visiting these will let you fully enjoy the charm of Hokkaido on a day trip. We also provide recommended routes and access information, so be sure to plan your journey with our guide.

Popular Scenic Spot: Sapporo City Panorama from Mt. Moiwa

Mt. Moiwa is a popular scenic spot easily accessible by car from Sapporo. The observation deck at the summit offers a stunning panorama of the city. Especially renowned for its night views, it attracts couples and tourists alike.

Moreover, the surrounding area features excellent restaurants and cafes, allowing you to enjoy a meal or tea with a view. Convenient car access and ample parking make it an easy and enjoyable visit.

Experience Nature at its Best! Refresh at Maruyama Park

Located in Sapporo, Maruyama Park is a refreshing spot surrounded by abundant nature. The park, with its beautiful seasonal flowers and trees, is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. It also hosts a zoo and art museum, making it ideal for family visits.

The area is rich with local gourmet spots, worthwhile to visit during your Sapporo tour. If driving, parking is available for a stress-free visit. Embrace Hokkaido’s nature and find relaxation at Maruyama Park.

Delight in Gourmet Delicacies around Otaru Canal’s Tourist Spots

The Otaru Canal is a popular tourist destination in Hokkaido, inviting visitors with its historic architecture and scenic views. Its surrounding area also boasts an abundance of eateries where you can enjoy local delicacies!

Cafes and restaurants are scattered along the canal, offering menus featuring locally sourced ingredients. Especially recommended are seafood bowls and sushi. For souvenirs, Hokkaido’s famous confectioneries are available in abundance.

As for attractions, Otaru Art Village and the Otaru Warehouse District are among the favorites. From observation decks, you can enjoy panoramic views of the canal, and during certain seasons, the nightscape is romantically illuminated.

Access by car is convenient, with just an hour’s drive from Sapporo city center. Public transportation is also well-organized, providing easy access by train or bus.

The Otaru Canal area offers a wealth of attractions to enjoy all day, so be sure to visit!

Be Enchanted by a Sea of Lavender at Furano’s Flowerland Kamifurano

Flowerland Kamifurano in Furano is renowned for its breathtaking lavender fields, a stunning sight especially during the blooming season from July to August, providing a serene escape into nature.

The scenery of the flower fields changes with the seasons, ensuring a delightful experience every visit. Tulips and muscari bloom in spring, while cosmos and dahlias grace the gardens in autumn.

Within the premises, cafes and souvenir shops offer lavender ice cream and sweets. You can also purchase lavender essential oils to bring home some relaxation.

Furano is about a 2.5-hour drive from Sapporo, with train access also available. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing views and spend a rejuvenating time for both mind and body!

Experience the Wonders of Nature at Noboribetsu Hot Spring’s Hell Valley

Noboribetsu Hot Spring is one of Hokkaido’s famous spa destinations, known for its awe-inspiring natural wonder, Hell Valley, attracting many visitors.

Hell Valley features fumaroles and sulfur springs, presenting a mystical landscape. Walking along the trails, you can enjoy the expansive views enveloped in the scent of sulfur.

Located in a naturally rich area, Noboribetsu also offers nearby attractions like Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe and Noboribetsu Bear Park. After refreshing in the hot springs, engaging in enjoyable activities is recommended.

Conveniently located about an hour’s drive from New Chitose Airport. Feel the wonders of nature at Noboribetsu Hot Spring’s Hell Valley, embracing its magnificent scenery for a peaceful retreat!

Experience the Four Seasons of Hokkaido at Shikisai no Oka

Shikisai no Oka, located in Hokkaido, is a breathtaking place where you can enjoy the beauty of all four seasons! In spring, a multitude of flowers bloom, in summer, the lush green scenery captivates, autumn brings vibrant foliage, and winter offers picturesque snow-covered landscapes. One of its attractions is the scenic observation deck, along with seasonal events in the area. Surrounding the site are ample gourmet and souvenir options, ensuring a full day of enjoyment. Be sure to visit during your drive or sightseeing trip by car!

Recommended Day Trip Destinations Near Sapporo

The vicinity of Sapporo has numerous recommended spots for enjoyable day trips. You can admire stunning views in Otaru, wander through lavender fields in Furano, or indulge in delicious cuisine in Hakodate. At Lake Shikotsu, you can relax and soak in the natural surroundings. Additionally, visiting hot springs or parks for a moment of relaxation is highly suggested. Make the most of a day trip with these fantastic experiences near Sapporo!

Delight in Chic Cafés in the Kotoni Area

The Kotoni area in Sapporo boasts an array of stylish and delectable cafés. For instance, there are cafés known for their exquisite coffee and sweets, as well as bakeries cum cafés offering homemade bread. The unique interiors of some cafés are also a noteworthy feature. Moreover, many cafés serve dishes made with local ingredients, providing a delightful café-hopping experience in Kotoni. When visiting Sapporo, don’t miss the chance to explore the cafés in the Kotoni area!

Discover the Charm of Sapporo City Zoo for Family Fun

Sapporo City Zoo is a fantastic place for both adults and children to enjoy. The opportunity to interact with a variety of animals is highly appealing. You can get up close to adorable penguins, tigers, kangaroos, and more. Moreover, you can observe the animals in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats. The zoo also hosts regular events, providing entertaining experiences. Spend a wonderful time with your family at Sapporo City Zoo and enjoy interacting with the animals!

Summer Adventures Await! Experience Canoeing and SUP at Lake Shikotsuko

When it comes to summer, nothing beats enjoying activities in the cool surroundings of Sapporo’s outskirts in Hokkaido, fully immersing yourself in nature. Lake Shikotsuko, in particular, stands out with its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters, making canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) must-try activities.

Around Lake Shikotsu, you’ll find several facilities offering canoe and SUP experiences, guided by professional instructors ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing. The lake, boasting some of the clearest water globally, offers the chance to engage in activities amidst breathtaking vistas.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned adventurer, canoeing and SUP here provide a delightful way to glide across the lake with family or friends, soaking in Hokkaido’s natural beauty. After an exhilarating day on the water, relish delicious local cuisine at lakeside eateries. For a memorable summer day near Sapporo, be sure to try canoeing or SUP at Lake Shikotsuko!

Year-Round Delight! Explore Whisky Production at Yoichi Distillery

When in Hokkaido, a tour of Yoichi Distillery to uncover the whisky production process is a must. This distillery offers guided tours year-round, allowing visitors to delve into the art of whisky making and explore the secrets behind its rich aroma.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the selection of base ingredients like barley and water, as well as the processes of fermentation, distillation, and aging. This offers a glimpse into the techniques and history of whisky production. Post-tour, enjoy tasting sessions that showcase the distinct flavors of Hokkaido-produced whisky.

The distillery’s surroundings boast a variety of gourmet treats and tourist attractions, allowing for a full day of exploration. Whether you’re a whisky aficionado or just curious, the experience at Yoichi Distillery is sure to delight.

Indulge in Ice Cream Delights! Experience Hokkaido’s Flavors at Rokkatei

Hokkaido is renowned for its delectable ice creams and soft serves. Rokkatei, in particular, is a popular spot for tourists seeking ice cream created with locally sourced ingredients from Hokkaido.

Rokkatei offers an array of ice creams and soft serves featuring rich milk and seasonal fruits unique to the region. The facility also includes a cozy café space where you can leisurely savor their delightful offerings.

Nearby, numerous other attractions and gourmet spots await, making Rokkatei an ideal stop during your travels. After indulging your sweet tooth with ice cream from Rokkatei, wrap up your wonderful Hokkaido journey with happiness!

Unique Experience: Clam Digging at Ishikari Bay New Port’s Mudflat

In Hokkaido, Ishikari Bay New Port offers a rare opportunity for clam digging in the region. The mudflats here are blessed with rich natural beauty, hosting a variety of shellfish. Enjoy a leisurely time searching for clams in this wonderful area.

Clam digging is an activity enjoyed by both children and adults, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. It’s guaranteed to be a memorable day, especially when you savor delicious gourmet dishes made from your catch.

Surrounding Ishikari Bay New Port, there are plenty of scenic drive spots and historical attractions. After clam digging, exploring these charming places is highly recommended. Access to Ishikari Bay New Port is easy by car, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Sapporo or Otaru.

Be sure to make clam digging at Ishikari Bay New Port a highlight of your Hokkaido experience!

Capture Your Drive: From Smartphones to Photo Studios!

On a drive near Sapporo, it’s important to capture beautiful scenery and cherished memories through photos. While it’s convenient to take pictures with a smartphone, photos taken by professional photographers in a studio are also recommended.

When using your smartphone, take photos at scenic spots and spectacular viewpoints along the way. Capture landscapes and moments with family and friends, as well as the views from your car window for unforgettable memories.

Conversely, in a photo studio, professional photographers can bring out natural expressions and poses. You can enjoy selecting costumes and customize sets and backgrounds for unique photos.

There are many photo studios near Sapporo, so check websites and reviews to find one that suits you. Capture wonderful photos that preserve the memories of your delightful drive!

Summary of Sapporo Vicinity Day Trips & Recommended Spots for Upcoming Seasons

For a day trip drive near Sapporo, participating in clam digging at Ishikari Bay New Port and visiting picturesque spots can create lasting memories. As seasons change, enjoy various appealing locations like lavender fields, hot spring areas, and zoos.

In summer, indulge in fresh seafood at gourmet spots, while in winter, appreciate the snowy beauty of ski resorts. Embrace the diverse pleasures each season offers as you explore the natural richness of Hokkaido from Sapporo.

Finally, we will continue to provide information on Sapporo vicinity drives, so be sure to check our site to assist in planning your next trip!