Family-Friendly Adventures in Sapporo, Hokkaido!

Shiroi Koibito Park

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful day at Shiroi Koibito Park, a chocolate wonderland located in Sapporo, Japan, which combines a love for confections with a fairytale-like charm perfect for families!

### Morning Arrival:

Start your journey at Shiroi Koibito Park by taking the subway from Sapporo Station to Miyanosawa Station, which is about a 20-minute ride. From Miyanosawa, it"s a quick 7-minute walk to the park. Arrive early to beat the crowd and fully enjoy the charming European-style gardens and architecture.

### Chocolate Factory Tour:

Kick off with the Chocolate Factory tour, where you can witness the meticulous process of making Shiroi Koibito cookies, a beloved Hokkaido souvenir. Here, the observation deck lets you and your kids peek into the fascinating world of chocolate production. Don’t miss the chance to try your hand at making your own custom cookie, a fun and tasty activity for all ages!

### Explore the Park:

After your factory tour, explore the park’s various attractions. Visit the "Candy Labo" where colorful candies are artistically made, or drop by the Shiroi Koibito Railway, an adorable train that tours around the park - a definite hit with the little ones.

### Lunch and Leisure:

For lunch, head to the on-site restaurant that serves meals and sweets featuring local ingredients. Post lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the rose garden or relax by the beautiful European-style fountains.

### Souvenir Shopping:

End your visit with a trip to the gift shop. It offers a wide range of sweets, including the exclusive Shiroi Koibito cookies, perfect for taking a piece of this magical experience home with you.

### Departure:

As your day winds down, make your way back to Miyanosawa Station, carrying sweet memories of a day well spent at one of Sapporo’s most enchanting attractions.

Enjoy your magical family day at Shiroi Koibito Park!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jozankei

Why Visit?

Jozankei, nestled in the lush valley of the Toyohira River, is a delightful escape for families seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Here’s a perfect itinerary for a family-friendly journey through this scenic Hokkaido gem.

Day 1: Explore the Natural Beauty of Jozankei

- Morning: Arrival and Futami Suspension Bridge

Begin your Jozankei adventure by driving from Sapporo, which takes about an hour. Upon arrival, start with a gentle walk to Futami Suspension Bridge, an excellent spot for a family photo with views of the surrounding mountains. The bridge is just a 5-minute stroll from the center of Jozankei.

- Afternoon: Jozankei Nature Village

Head to Jozankei Nature Village for an afternoon of outdoor fun. You can try activities like canoeing or craft workshops such as making Ainu coasters. It’s educational and allows kids to learn through hands-on experiences.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

- Morning: Houheikyo Dam

After a traditional Japanese breakfast, take a short drive to Houheikyo Dam. Enjoy the panoramic views and learn about its construction and role in hydroelectric power production in the region. The area also offers some gentle hiking trails suitable for families.

- Afternoon: Onsen Experience

Return to Jozankei and unwind at one of its famous onsens like Jozankei Onsen Hotel. These hot springs are perfect for relaxing tired muscles and offer a serene experience immersed in nature. Many onsens in Jozankei have family-friendly facilities.

Evening: Local Cuisine

Conclude your visit by savoring some local delicacies at a nearby restaurant. Try dishes like soup curry or seafood donburi, highlighting the region’s rich culinary traditions.

This itinerary not only promises relaxation and scenic beauty but also an engaging cultural experience that is perfect for families looking to explore beyond the urban landscapes of Japan.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hoheikyo Onsen

Why Visit?

Morning: Departure and Arrival

Begin your family-friendly adventure to Hoheikyo Onsen by departing from Sapporo. Take the Jotetsu Bus from the Makomanai Subway Station, an approximately 60-minute ride that takes you directly into the scenic landscapes of the area. The bus itself is part of the experience, winding through the lush forests and mountains, offering first glimpses of Hokkaido’s stunning natural beauty.

Midday: Hoheikyo Onsen Experience

Arrive at Hoheikyo Onsen, known for its natural sulfur hot springs that offer therapeutic benefits - perfect after a journey! This onsen is unique because it features outdoor baths that allow you to soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and greenery, making it a serene experience for all ages. Enjoy a family dip in the gender-separated areas, ensuring a comfortable and culturally immersive experience.

Lunch: Indian Cuisine with a Local Twist

For lunch, try the on-site Indian restaurant, TAJ, which is quite popular among visitors for its authentic curry dishes that incorporate local ingredients. Dining here provides a delightful fusion experience that compleates your trip with exotic flavors.

Afternoon: Exploring Nearby Attractions

Post-lunch, take a short walk to explore nearby attractions. A popular choice is the Jozankei Dam, just a scenic hike away. Here, you can learn about the dam"s role in hydroelectric power generation and flood control. The area around the dam also offers some picturesque spots perfect for family photos.

Evening: Return to Sapporo

After a day full of exploration and relaxation, catch the return bus back to Sapporo from the same bus stop at Hoheikyo Onsen. The ride back is an ideal time for the family to share their favorite moments of the trip, against the backdrop of the setting sun over the Hokkaido landscape.

This itinerary promises a blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty, perfect for a memorable family day out.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mt. Moiwa (Moiwa-yama)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mt. Moiwa

Morning

Start your adventure to Mt. Moiwa by taking the streetcar from central Sapporo to the "Ropeway Iriguchi" station. From there, make your way to the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. Board this aerial lift for a scenic journey up the mountain, giving you and your family a breathtaking view of Sapporo city merging with the nature around it. To ensure everyone stays engaged, share the fun fact that Mt. Moiwa is one of the best places in Sapporo to view the cityscape, particularly beautiful at night due to its inclusion in the "New Three Major Night Views of Japan".

Midday

At the upper station, take the Mt. Moiwa Sightseeing Cable Car (Morris Car), which is the world"s only mini cable car that offers a panoramic view. Once at the summit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the restaurant which offers dishes that kids will love along with spectacular views. Post-lunch, explore the summit’s observation deck. Let the kids discover the "Bell of Happiness," ringing it promises good fortune.

Afternoon

After descending from the mountain, consider a visit to the nearby Maruyama Zoo, a short bus ride away, where children can see various species of animals. Alternatively, if the family prefers a more relaxed afternoon, the Moerenuma Park is perfect for a stroll and offers playgrounds designed by the famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi.

Evening

Wrap up your day with a visit back to the base of Mt. Moiwa and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at one of the local restaurants serving Sapporo’s famous ramen or fresh sushi, allowing you a taste of Hokkaido’s culinary delights as you reflect on the day’s adventures.

This itinerary provides a perfect blend of nature, panoramic views, and local culture, ensuring a memorable day for the entire family at Mt. Moiwa.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sapporo TV Tower

Why Visit?

Welcome to your family-friendly adventure at the Sapporo TV Tower! Nestled in the heart of Sapporo at Odori Park, this iconic landmark is not just a tower but a gateway to an unforgettable day packed with fun, education, and stunning views.

### Morning: Arrival and Ascent

Start your day early to beat the crowds. The Sapporo TV Tower is easily accessible by subway; take the Toho or Namboku Line to Odori Station, and exit directly into Odori Park. The tower opens at 9:00 AM. Purchase the tickets at the counter or book them online in advance to save time. Fun fact: The tower was built in 1957 and stands at 147.2 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, even the distant Ishikari countryside.

### Mid-Morning: Explore the Observatory

After ascending to the observation deck at 90 meters, engage with interactive displays that tell the story of Sapporo and the tower"s history. Don’t forget to take family photos with the scenic backdrop of Sapporo’s skyline!

### Lunchtime: Picnic at Odori Park

Descend to the base and step out to enjoy a delightful picnic at Odori Park. The park stretches 1.5 kilometers across the city center and is a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. Enjoy local treats like onigiri or bento boxes from nearby convenience stores.

### Afternoon: Visit Surrounding Attractions

Post-lunch, explore the Sapporo Clock Tower, a short 10-minute walk from the TV Tower. This historical building offers a glimpse into the development of Sapporo and hosts a quaint museum inside.

### Late Afternoon: Shopping and Snacking

Conclude your day by walking along the underground Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, accessible from Odori Station. It"s a great place to pick up souvenirs and try some local Hokkaido sweets or soft-serve ice cream.

Enjoy your Sapporo TV Tower visit with this family-friendly itinerary, ensuring a mix of education, relaxation, and fun!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.