15 Top-Rated Sapporo Tours

Sapporo is a city that rewards curiosity. Unlike many destinations, it offers a blend of culinary delights, hidden local spots, and stunning natural scenery. Whether you want to sample authentic Hokkaido cuisine, explore its lesser-known neighborhoods, or enjoy scenic day trips to nearby natural wonders, Sapporo’s tour options are diverse and well-crafted. We particularly like the Bar Hopping Food Tour, which takes you through local izakayas while avoiding tourist traps, and the Private Day Trip to Biei and Furano for its breathtaking flower fields and scenic landscapes. These experiences give you a taste of what makes Sapporo special, all while providing practical insights and insider tips.

If you’re after a personalized experience, the Sapporo Private Tour with a Local Guide is a fantastic way to customize your day. For those who prefer learning something new, the Soba Making Classes offer a hands-on way to get closer to Japanese culinary traditions. Whatever your interests, this list will help you find the perfect Sapporo tour to match your travel style.

Quick Overview of the Best Tours in Sapporo

Our list covers a broad spectrum of experiences, from food tours like the Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour that explores local bars and treats, to cultural classes such as making soba noodles or wagashi sweets. For those who want to see the city’s top sights with a flexible guide, the Sapporo Private Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems offers a personalized approach. Nature lovers can explore the stunning Biei and Furano region or venture to Noboribetsu and Lake Toya. For families and animal lovers, the Asahiyama Zoo and Blue Pond Day Trip combines wildlife and natural scenery. Each tour offers a unique perspective on Sapporo and its surroundings, making it easier to tailor your trip.

1. Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour

Getting a good sense of Sapporo’s local food scene can be tricky if you don’t speak Japanese or know where to go. This 3-hour bar-hopping food tour simplifies the process by taking you through three local favorite spots, including a hidden underground bar you might never find on your own. Your guide will translate and help you navigate Sapporo’s izakayas, so you can focus on enjoying authentic Hokkaido flavors like ramen or parfait desserts. Guests often appreciate the insider tips and the chance to see a less touristy side of the city, especially at night when Sapporo’s nightlife comes alive. Photos are provided after the tour, making it easy to remember your adventures.

Highlights include visiting underground bars, sampling local drinks, and learning about Sapporo’s vibrant food culture. Guests often mention how Midori, their guide, is friendly and accommodating. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, social experience that mixes food, drinks, and local insights.
Bottom Line: A lively, authentic way to explore Sapporo’s nightlife and food scene, especially for newcomers craving local flavor without the hassle.

2. Experience traditional Japanese cuisine, making soba noodles in Sapporo, in a fun and casual way.

If you’re curious about Japanese culinary traditions, this one-hour soba noodle-making experience is a delightful choice. Using buckwheat flour from Hokkaido, the guide will walk you through the entire process of preparing and shaping fresh soba noodles. Since Hokkaido is the top producer of buckwheat in Japan, the noodles you make are full of flavor and quality. Guests rave about how the instructor explains techniques carefully and encourages hands-on participation, making it ideal for foodies and beginners alike. Plus, you can add tempura at an extra cost and enjoy your freshly made noodles with a bowl of duck soup, creating a satisfying meal.

The tour’s value shines through its intimate setting, friendly hosts, and the opportunity to learn a core Japanese skill. Reviews highlight how fun and accommodating the experience is, with many saying it’s a perfect rainy-day activity.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, enjoyable way to learn about soba noodles and try your hand at Japanese cooking, suited for all ages and skill levels.

3. Mondo’s most popular plan! Experience making soba noodles and the king of Japanese cuisine, tempura, in Sapporo!

This popular hands-on experience combines two of Japan’s most beloved dishes: soba noodles and tempura. Held at a well-known soba restaurant, the 1-hour activity guides you through the process of making noodles from scratch, followed by enjoying tempura made with fresh, local ingredients. The hosts are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, creating a relaxed environment for learning and tasting. Guests mention that the process is fun and the tempura is especially delicious, making this tour a hit for families and foodies.

The experience offers a deep dive into Japanese cuisine within a traditional setting, providing insights into why soba and tempura are cornerstones of Japanese food culture. Reviewers appreciate the authentic feel and the opportunity to understand kitchen techniques.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a comprehensive hands-on food experience that combines making noodles and tempura in one sitting.

4. Sapporo Private Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems by a Local

Looking for a personalized exploration of Sapporo? This private tour offers a flexible, customizable itinerary designed by a local guide. You’ll visit iconic spots, like Odori Park, plus hidden places that only locals know. The guide will tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s culture, history, food, or all three. Guests rave about guides like Akihiro and Zarina, who share stories about the city’s 19th-century wooden architecture and local beer history at the Sapporo Beer Museum. The tour can be as short as four hours or extend up to eight, making it adaptable for different schedules.

This tour is perfect if you want a deep dive without wasting time on tourist traps. Reviewers love how the guide’s flexibility and local knowledge enhance the experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a personal touch and want to see a mix of sights and secrets.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for travelers seeking a deeply personalized and flexible way to experience Sapporo with a knowledgeable local.

5. Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

For those with limited time but a desire to cover more ground, this half-day private tour hits the essentials. With a government-licensed guide, you’ll explore top spots like Moerenuma Park, Mount Moiwa, and Nijo Market. You can customize the itinerary beforehand, with the guide helping you craft a route that suits your interests. Guests find it handy that the guide picks you up at your hotel, saving time and hassle.

Reviewers praise the guide’s local insights and ability to adapt to weather or interest changes. The tour is great for first-time visitors or those wanting a compact overview without missing key sights. The price reflects its premium level of service and personalized approach.
Bottom Line: A smart, flexible way to see Sapporo’s highlights in a short time, especially if you value expert guidance and customization.

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

This full-day tour packs in some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights—from the famous Asahiyama Zoo to the visionary Blue Pond. The 8-to-10-hour trip is perfect for families or wildlife lovers, with visits to Shirahige Falls and Ningle Terrace, a craft shopping spot in a forest setting. The guide ensures a safe and comfortable experience, especially in winter months when icy conditions can be tricky. Reviewers emphasize the careful driving and local knowledge of the guide, who helps enrich the visits with interesting facts.

The tour offers a comprehensive day out suitable for various interests, but be prepared for a long day on your feet. It’s great for those wanting to see nature, animals, and scenic spots in one go.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one day trip for nature, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes, ideal for families or those with a whole day to explore.

7. One Day Highlights Tour of Sapporo

This 6-hour private tour covers Sapporo’s most famous sights with a focus on efficient sightseeing. The itinerary includes Nijo Market, Odori Park, and the Sapporo Beer Museum—allowing you to sample local seafood and beer. The guide, like Roy or Tamaki, provides a personalized experience that’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights. The tour is praised for its smooth organization and ability to balance sightseeing with cultural insights.

Guests mention how guides like Kumiko and Roy make the day enjoyable with local stories and helpful tips. The tour is a fantastic way to get a first taste of Sapporo’s culture and history without the commitment of a full-day program.
Bottom Line: A practical, well-organized tour perfect for travelers with limited time who want a curated experience.

8. Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

If your schedule is tight but you still want a personalized overview, this half-day private tour is a good choice. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and explore top sites like Moerenuma Park, the Sapporo Beer Museum, and Odori Park. The guide will tailor the route to your interests, ensuring you see what matters most to you. Guests appreciate how the guide navigates the city smoothly, making the most of limited time.

This tour is best suited for travelers who don’t want to rush but still want to cover key sights in a manageable half-day. The price reflects the private, flexible service.
Bottom Line: A compact, personalized tour for travelers eager to get a quick but meaningful overview of Sapporo.

9. 2 hours sushi class

This two-hour sushi-making class offers a quick, memorable peek into Japan’s celebrated cuisine. Led by Yuki, an experienced instructor, you’ll learn to craft decorative sushi rolls—often featured on TV. She provides a friendly, patient environment, and many guests leave with a beautiful, edible souvenir and new skills. The class is perfect for families or solo travelers who want a hands-on cultural activity.

Participants praise how Yuki explains techniques clearly and makes the process fun. After the class, you’ll get to enjoy the fruit of your labor, often with some hot green tea. It’s an inexpensive, engaging way to understand Japanese cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A fun, practical activity ideal for food lovers and those who want a culinary souvenir from their trip.

10. Wagashi traditional Japanese sweets class

This unique workshop lets you create Wagashi, traditional Japanese confections, with Yuki in her cozy Sapporo home. It’s the only Wagashi class in the city and includes making beautiful flower-shaped sweets. Guests rave about Yuki’s skill and her engaging teaching style, which combines cultural insights with hands-on work. The class lasts around two hours and is perfect for anyone interested in Japanese arts and crafts or culinary traditions.

Yuki’s warm hospitality and beautiful creations make it a memorable experience. Most reviewers say it’s a peaceful, artistic break from sightseeing, with the added bonus of taking home your own Wagashi.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a calm, creative activity that deepens appreciation for Japanese sweets and craftsmanship.

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

This full-day guided trip covers some of Hokkaido’s most stunning scenery. With a private car, you visit Farm Tomita, Shikisai no Oka, and the Blue Pond—all celebrated for their vivid colors and natural beauty. The guide ensures a comfortable, flexible experience, with stops tailored to your interests. Guests appreciate the nice drivers and the chance to see flower fields in full bloom or snow-capped mountains, depending on season.

The tour is perfect for nature lovers and those wanting to see iconic landscapes in a single day. It’s a long but rewarding trip, with time to wander and take photos.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers eager to see famous scenic spots with minimal hassle and maximum comfort.

12. [Departure from Sapporo] Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Lake Toya, Cape Chikyu by private car

This full-day tour is a great way to explore Hokkaido’s geothermal and volcanic landscapes. Starting early from Sapporo, you visit Jigokudani (Hell Valley), famous for its steaming vents, then Lake Toya, with views of the active volcano. The trip includes a scenic drive along coastlines and stops at Cape Chikyu for panoramic Pacific views. The guide ensures a comfortable, informative ride, and guests love the personalized attention.

This tour suits travelers interested in geology, hot springs, and spectacular scenery. It’s a longer day but offers a well-rounded introduction to Hokkaido’s volcanic activity.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for fans of natural wonders and volcanic landscapes, especially in good weather.

13. in Sapporo! Hand-made soba experience and shabu-shabu experience plan of Yezo deer meat (Gibier meat) from Hokkaido

This combined experience offers both soba noodle making and a local game meat shabu-shabu dinner featuring Yezo deer. Guided by Taku, you learn how to prepare soba from scratch and then enjoy it with Hokkaido deer meat, a delicacy in the region. This activity is great for culinary adventurers who want to taste authentic local ingredients and learn cooking techniques. Reviewers mention the fun atmosphere and the delicious meal made from the experience.

The tour provides a unique taste of Hokkaido’s gourmet offerings and is perfect for foodies eager to experience local specialties. It’s a memorable way to combine cooking with a local dining experience.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a culinary adventure with a focus on regional ingredients, this tour offers both hands-on cooking and authentic dining.

14. Sapporo: Private Customized Guided Tour

This private, customizable tour allows you to pick your preferred spots or let your guide craft an itinerary based on your interests. Whether you want to visit historic sites, museums, or local markets, the guide will tailor the experience. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to control pace and content. It’s a flexible option for travelers who prefer independent exploration with expert guidance.

The versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of interests—from food lovers to cultural enthusiasts. Reviews highlight how guides like Nozomi or Tracy make the tour engaging and informative.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a bespoke experience that matches their specific interests.

15. Private Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with Local Chef Shiori

For food lovers, this private cooking class offers hands-on lessons with Chef Shiori, teaching you to prepare sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. The 3-hour session takes place in her home, providing an intimate, authentic environment. Guests rave about her patience and expertise, as well as the chance to learn techniques that can be recreated at home. Participants often leave with new recipes and the confidence to cook Japanese dishes back home.

This experience is perfect for culinary enthusiasts who enjoy interactive learning and culture. The reviews praise the warm hospitality and high-quality instruction.
Bottom Line: A solid pick for those eager to master Japanese cooking techniques with a professional chef in a relaxed setting.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Sapporo

When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time available, and personal interests. For foodies, the Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour or Sushi and Wagashi Classes offer delicious, hands-on experiences. If scenery and nature are your priorities, the Biei/Furano one-day trip or the Noboribetsu and Lake Toya tour are excellent choices. Want a more personalized approach? The Private Guided Tours let you tailor your day.

Also, think about your fitness level—active tours like the zoo or mountain trips require comfortable shoes, while cultural classes like Wagashi or soba making are more relaxed. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons like winter snow festivals or summer flower blooms, to secure your preferred date.

Final Thoughts

Sapporo offers a rich variety of tours catering to every interest—from culinary classes and nightlife explorations to scenic day trips and customized city tours. If you’re interested in authentic local food, the Bar Hopping Food Tour and soba classes are fantastic options. For a more comprehensive city experience, private tours like #4 and #14 provide flexibility and local insights. Nature lovers should consider the Biei/Furano trip or the Noboribetsu hot springs adventure.

Remember, the best tour depends on your schedule, budget, and personal curiosity. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on your top choices. Whichever you pick, Sapporo’s diverse offerings promise a memorable and enriching experience.