Choosing the right area to stay in Sapporo can completely change your travel experience.
Each district has a very different atmosphere, level of convenience, and hotel quality.
As a local from Hokkaido, here is my complete guide to the best areas to stay in Sapporo—based on travel style, convenience, and hotel value.
Best Areas to Stay in Sapporo (Quick Summary)
These four areas are the best choices for most travelers:
- Sapporo Station — Best for convenience
- Odori Park — Best for sightseeing
- Susukino — Best for food & nightlife
- Nakajima Park — Best for quiet, relaxed stays
Choose based on your travel purpose and you won’t go wrong.
Sapporo Station Area — Most Convenient & Best for First-Time Visitors
Who Should Stay Here
- First-time visitors
- Travelers with a lot of luggage
- People using JR trains or airport access frequently
- Winter travelers who want easy indoor connections
Why This Area Is Great
- JR / Subway / Bus all in one hub
- Direct access to the underground walkway (very useful in winter)
- Plenty of restaurants and shopping
Recommended Hotels
- JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo (Hot spring & station-connected)
- Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Sapporo (Renovation: Feb 1, 2026)
- Hotel Gracery Sapporo (Directly connected to the station)
Odori Park Area — Central, Walkable, and Perfect for Sightseeing
Who Should Stay Here
- Sightseeing-focused travelers
- Visitors who want to walk to major attractions
- Snow Festival visitors
Why This Area Is Great
- Perfect central location
- Easy access to subway lines
- Shops, cafés, and restaurants nearby
Recommended Hotels
- The Royal Park Canvas Sapporo Odori Park
- Sapporo Grand Hotel
- Sapporo View Hotel Odori Park
Susukino Area — Best for Food, Nightlife & Local Dining
Who Should Stay Here
- Travelers who love food (ramen, jingisukan, seafood)
- Nightlife lovers
- Those seeking a wide range of hotel prices
Why This Area Is Great
- Sapporo’s largest entertainment and dining district
- Endless food options
- Good mix of budget to upscale hotels
Recommended Hotels
- Mercure Sapporo
- SAPPORO STREAM HOTEL
- Fairfield by Marriott Sapporo
Nakajima Park Area — Quiet, Relaxed & Best for Families
Who Should Stay Here
- Families
- Travelers wanting a quiet stay
- People who want good value hotels
- Visitors who enjoy morning walks
Why This Area Is Great
- Calm, nature-rich environment
- Walking distance to Susukino yet quiet at night
- High-quality hotels with better value
Recommended Hotels
- Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo
- Sapporo Park Hotel
- Tokyu Vacations Sapporo
Which Area Should You Choose? (Quick Guide)
- First time in Sapporo: Sapporo Station or Odori
- Snow Festival: Odori or Susukino
- Food trip: Susukino
- Quiet stay: Nakajima Park
- Family trip: Nakajima Park or Odori
- Traveling by JR: Sapporo Station
Hotel Price Range in Sapporo
- Budget hotels: ¥4,000–¥9,000
- Mid-range: ¥10,000–¥18,000
- High-end: ¥20,000–¥40,000
Winter and summer are peak seasons, so early booking is recommended.
Winter Travel Tips for Sapporo
- Choose hotels near the subway or underground walkway
- Check heating quality and room comfort
- Be aware of price spikes during Snow Festival
- Hotels with strong breakfast options are highly rated
Final Thoughts
Each area in Sapporo offers a different mood and level of convenience.
If you choose based on your travel style, you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free stay.
Sapporo Station = Most convenient
Odori = Sightseeing hub
Susukino = Food & nightlife
Nakajima Park = Quiet & relaxed
Whatever you choose, Sapporo is a welcoming and easy-to-navigate city for all travelers.
