Sapporo isn’t just famous for its beer and snow festivals—it’s also a fantastic place for outdoor enthusiasts. Thanks to its proximity to mountains, forests, and hot springs, the city offers a wide variety of hiking and trekking options suitable for all levels. Whether you’re after a gentle snowshoe stroll or a challenging mountain trek, Sapporo’s landscape makes it easy to swap urban views for fresh mountain air. Our favorite? The Snowshoe Hike Tour from Sapporo, which combines snowshoeing with a relaxing soak in a hot spring and promises friendly guides and memorable scenery.
For those interested in exploring Hokkaido’s lush forests during green season, there are half-day and full-day hiking tours that take you off the beaten path to discover wildlife, panoramic vistas, and peaceful trails. For a truly comprehensive experience, a full-day hike offers multiple routes with varying difficulty levels, including the popular Jozankei Tengu-dake and Sapporo-dake trails. And if you want to see Sapporo’s city lights from above, consider an evening night hike, where you can walk under the stars and enjoy spectacular night views.
No matter your fitness level or interests, Sapporo’s outdoor tours provide a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Below, we detail each of the top options to help you find the perfect match for your hike.
1. Snowshoe Hike Tour from Sapporo
At number one, this Snowshoe Hike Tour from Sapporo takes you about an hour outside the city into the pristine winter woods. Starting in Nakayama Pass, you’ll explore untouched snow-covered forests, where your guide will help beginners learn snowshoeing techniques. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Hokkaido’s legendary winter scenery without the need for advanced skills. The hike lasts roughly two hours, during which you might glimpse local wildlife like foxes or birds—if you’re lucky.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a peaceful snowshoe trek with a visit to Hoheikyo Onsen, where entry and a warm soak are included. The tour also offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy. After the trek, there’s a traditional Japanese lunch in Jozankei, followed by time to relax in the hot springs—an experience that’s both invigorating and relaxing. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and perfect weather, often calling it the “best day in Sapporo.” This tour suits beginner snowshoers or anyone wanting a gentle winter adventure with the reward of onsen warmth at the end.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic winter walk with the bonus of a hot spring soak. Ideal for those new to snowshoeing or visitors wanting a peaceful escape from the city.
2. Green Season Half Day Hikes in Sapporo and Hokkaido with Onsen
Second on our list is the Green Season Half Day Hikes in Sapporo and Hokkaido with Onsen. This tour offers a delightful exploration of Hokkaido’s forests during the warmer months. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll wander well-maintained trails through lush, emerald-green woods, where you’re likely to spot local wildlife and enjoy quiet moments in nature.
One of the unique aspects is the chance to discover hidden viewpoints and scenic vistas that are hard to find on your own. The highlight is an authentic visit to a local onsen, where you can unwind in natural mineral waters—no crowds, just peaceful relaxation. During the tour, guests frequently mention guides like Chris, who took them to a ridge overlooking an old caldera, making the experience both intimate and special. The tour’s value lies in its knowledgeable guiding and access to pristine locations, perfect for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Bottom Line: A half-day escape into forests and mountains with an authentic hot spring experience—great for nature lovers and those short on time but eager for fresh air.
3. Full Day Green Season Hiking in Sapporo and Hokkaido with Onsen
Third, the Full Day Green Season Hiking in Sapporo and Hokkaido offers a comprehensive look at the region’s trails and panoramic vistas. With about nine hours of activity, this tour is perfect for hikers who want to explore multiple routes. Options include the popular Jozankei Tengu-dake, where you ascend to 1145 meters, or Sapporo-dake, with views of Mount Yotei and the city below.
This tour is versatile—guides tailor the route based on your fitness level and interests. It’s suited for those looking for a full-day adventure with a mix of challenging climbs and scenic rest stops. After the hike, there’s the chance to relax in a local onsen, which many guests find restorative after a day of walking. The itinerary includes options for different routes, so you can choose an experience that matches your energy and skill level.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a full day of hiking with impressive mountain views and a relaxing onsen afterward, this tour delivers a well-rounded outdoor experience.
4. Sapporo Night Hike and Night View Private Guided Experience
Next up is the Sapporo Night Hike and Night View, a unique opportunity to see the city from above after dark. This 2.5-hour private guided walk includes city and nature combined, with a focus on enjoying Sapporo’s illuminated skyline and winter night atmosphere. The guide will pick you up from your hotel, making it a hassle-free experience.
Depending on snow conditions, you may walk without snowshoes, but the experience remains magical. Reviewers mention the peacefulness of the twilight hike and the friendly guide, Mr. Miyakawa, who shared insights about Sapporo’s nightscape. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a gentle, less strenuous outing with stunning views of the city lights shimmering in the snow.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, intimate evening walk that combines city vistas and winter tranquility, perfect for families or couples looking for an evening adventure.
$0.00
5. 1 Day Tour in Sapporo Mt Maruyama Hike and Okurayama Ski Jump
Fifth on our list is this One-Day Tour in Sapporo, ideal for those wanting a mix of mountain hiking and Olympic history. Starting at Sapporo Station, the guide takes you to Mt. Maruyama, where a comfortable 2-hour hike leads you to the summit with panoramic views of the city, Mount Yotei, and surrounding landscapes.
Afterward, the tour moves to the Okurayama Ski Jump, which hosted Olympic competitions. Visitors can explore the Olympic Winter Museum and ride the ski jump chairlift for sweeping views from the top. This combination makes it perfect for travelers interested in outdoor activity and sports history alike. Reviewers appreciate the seamless mix of nature and cultural sights, noting guides are clear and friendly.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for fans of outdoor hiking combined with a touch of Olympic history, suitable for active travelers with limited time.
$149.94 per person
6. Sapporo: Mt. Maruyama Hike & Okurayama Ski Jump
This tour is similar to the previous but slightly shorter or less detailed, focusing on the highlights of the two mountains. It offers a 2.5 km hike up Mt. Maruyama with an English-speaking guide and visits the ski jump facility, including the museum and observation deck. If you’re pressed for time but want a taste of Sapporo’s outdoor scenery, this is a practical choice.
Although fewer reviews are available, the tour’s emphasis on combining scenic hikes with Olympic sights makes it a good option for families or casual hikers who want a straightforward, well-organized experience. The logistics are simple, and it’s priced at $160 per person, offering good value.
Bottom Line: A concise, accessible outdoor experience balancing mountain views with cultural highlights, ideal for those with limited time.
$160 per person
7. Sapporo: Guided Morning Hike
Finally, the Guided Morning Hike offers a flexible, family-friendly option for early risers. You can choose from trails like Mt. Maruyama, Moiwa, or Teine, and enjoy a light breakfast with panoramic views. The hike lasts between 2 and 4.5 hours, depending on your pace and chosen trail.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a gentle start to the day with great scenery. The meeting point is centrally located at Starbucks inside Maruyama Class, providing easy access and a comfortable place to gather. It’s especially suited for families with kids or those new to hiking, with guides tailoring the route to your ability level.
Bottom Line: An easy, guided morning adventure that combines light trekking with scenic views and a cozy breakfast—great for families and beginners.
$44 per person
8. National Park Day Hike from Sapporo by Private Car
Rounding out the list is a private car-driven visit to Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The tour includes stops at Lake Toya, the Sairo Observatory, and Showa Shinzan—a volcanic mountain born in 1943. You’ll experience sweeping scenery, ride the Mt. Usu Ropeway, and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Toya and beyond.
This tour is the most exclusive and expensive, at $833 per person, suited for travelers seeking a private, all-encompassing experience of Hokkaido’s volcanic landscapes. Since reviews are unavailable, it’s best for those who prioritize comfort and personalized service. It’s an excellent choice for travelers with a strong interest in volcanic geography and panoramic vistas who want to avoid group tours.
Bottom Line: An all-day private exploration into Hokkaido’s volcanic parks—best suited for travelers who value comfort and exclusivity over budget.
$833.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Sapporo
When choosing a tour, consider your fitness level, time availability, and whether you prefer winter snowshoeing or summer hiking. For a gentle introduction to winter landscapes, the Snowshoe Hike Tour is ideal, especially with onsen afterward. If you’re more interested in mountain vistas and cultural sites, the full-day hikes or Olympic ski jump visit offer more depth.
For travelers wanting a shorter, family-friendly outing, the guided morning hike provides an easy start, while those seeking nighttime views can opt for the night hike. Budget-wise, the tours range from around $44 to over $800, so plan based on your desired level of comfort and exclusivity.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like winter festivals or summer holidays, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
To sum it up, Sapporo offers a wide spectrum of outdoor adventures that suit all kinds of travelers—from serene snowshoe walks to challenging mountain hikes and cultural explorations. If you’re visiting during winter, the snowshoe and night hike options are particularly memorable, while summer visitors will appreciate the lush green trails and panoramic mountain views. Two standout choices are the Snowshoe Hike Tour for a cozy winter escape, and the Full Day Green Season Hike for a comprehensive summer adventure. To get the most out of your trip, book early and tailor your choice to your activity level and interests.