Hi everyone!
My family and I (5 people) are planning our first trip to Japan, focusing on Sapporo from December 22-26, since we'll go there first then December 26 to January in Tokyo (which I'll likely do another post some other time). I'd love to get your thoughts on our itinerary so far, especially regarding its feasibility, if feels like a tight schedules, and additional recommendations for Christmas Day in Sapporo.
Day 1 (Dec 22): Arrival in Sapporo
- Arrive at Narita Airport at 10:25 AM.
- Flight from Narita to New Chitose around 5:00 PM (open to earlier flight suggestions, waiting for the airline to possibly add a new schedule but this seems the best option).
- Arrive in Sapporo late evening.
- Hotel stay in Sapporo city (near Odori Park, Clock Tower, and Sapporo TV Tower).
- Evening walk around Odori Park, possibly visit Tanukikoji Shopping Street, and dinner in Susukino or Ramen Alley.
Day 2 (Dec 23): Guided Tour
- Asahiyama Zoo
- Seven Stars Tree
- Shirahige Falls
- Shirogane Blue Pond
- Ningle Terrace
- Return to Sapporo by 6-7 PM.
- Dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden.
Day 3 (Dec 24): Exploring Sapporo and Otaru
- Morning: Mt. Moiwa Ropeway.
- Late morning/lunch: Nijo Market.
- Shiroi Koibito Park.
- Visit Otaru, including Otaru Canal, Sankaku Market, and Sakaimachi Street.
- If the Snow Light Festival is on, we'll visit; otherwise, we'll return to Sapporo.
Day 4 (Dec 25): Christmas in Sapporo
- Attend Mass at Church Guardian Angels Cathedral. according the the website of the church, at 12:30 PM would be the English mass for Nativity of the Lord. Any additional information on Mass times, especially for Christmas Day, would be greatly appreciated!
- Current ideas:
- Maruyama Park
- Moerenuma Park
- Another visit to Tanukikoji Shopping Street
- Any other suggestions for Christmas Day activities in or around Sapporo?
Day 5 (Dec 26): Departure
- Flight from Sapporo to Tokyo at 10 AM.
A few specific questions:
- How does the overall itinerary look? Is it too packed or too relaxed?
- Recommendations for Christmas Day in Sapporo. Any must-see spots or unique activities?
- Any good ramen spots or local restaurants in Sapporo that you recommend?
- Are there any other attractions or areas in Hokkaido that we should consider, given our time constraints?
Thank you in advance for your help and suggestions!
by do-you-fear-it