Snow was something we had only seen in movies. But on a cold January night in Sapporo, as we stepped outside near Sapporo Station, tiny white flakes began falling from the sky. For a moment, we simply stood there in silence. Then the laughter started. We ran, played, and caught snowflakes like children experiencing winter for the very first time. That magical moment became the beginning of our unforgettable journey in Hokkaido, Japan.
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo and Our First Snowfall
January 19
We are the group from Manila to Hokkaido 
Quick 7/11 coffee stop before heading to our first destination ☕️
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| Heading to Mitsui Outlet Park to see what we can find 🛍️ |
Our winter adventure began the moment we landed in Sapporo. Fumiya, our guide, warmly welcomed us at the airport with a black Grandia van, making our arrival smooth and comfortable. After completing the arrival procedures, we headed straight to Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima, a popular shopping destination just outside the city. Known for its mix of international brands and Japanese labels at discounted prices, it was the perfect first stop for our trip.
After shopping, we made our way to JR Tower Observatory T38 in Susukino to take in the breathtaking panoramic view of Sapporo from above. The sparkling city lights and snowy scenery made the experience even more memorable.
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| the stunning view from the observatory |
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| enjoying the view even with no sleep |
Later in the afternoon, we checked in at Hotel Keihan Sapporo, a cozy hotel conveniently located near Sapporo Station, making it easy for us to explore the city during our stay.
After a quick rest, we headed out into the heart of Sapporo for dinner. The cold winter air, glowing city lights, and gentle snowfall made the evening feel magical as we enjoyed walking through the snowy streets together.
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| Sapporo Station |
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| our neighborhood scene |
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| the river beside the hotel |
That evening brought one of the most memorable moments of the trip. As we stepped outside near the station, snow began to fall. For many of us coming from the Philippines, it was our first time experiencing snowfall. We could not help but laugh, run around, and play in the snow like children discovering winter for the first time. The cold air, glowing street lights, and gentle snowflakes made the night feel magical.
Day 2: Snow Adventures and Chocolate Discoveries
January 20
After breakfast at the hotel, we departed for a full day of winter activities. Our first stop was a snow park located about an hour from the city. The snow-covered landscape was the perfect place to enjoy the season.
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| we are on our way to Sapporo's Winter Wonderland |
One of the highlights of the day was dining at a mountain hut where we enjoyed Genghis Khan, Hokkaido’s famous grilled lamb barbecue. Cooked on a dome-shaped grill and enjoyed while surrounded by snow-covered scenery, the meal was both hearty and memorable.
Later, we visited the Royce' Chocolate World. The experience was fascinating because visitors can watch the chocolate-making process through glass panels. From raw cacao beans to the final beautifully packaged chocolates, the production line showcases the craftsmanship that has made Royce' chocolates famous worldwide.
After a sweet and snowy day, we returned to Hotel Keihan Sapporo for a well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Otaru and Sapporo City Exploration
January 21
Our third day took us outside the city to the charming port town of Otaru, known for its historic streets and romantic winter atmosphere.
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| The famous Otaru Canal |
We continued exploring several local attractions including the Otaru Music Box Museum, where thousands of music boxes fill the space with soft melodies. Nearby, glass workshops showcased the delicate art of Japanese glassmaking, a tradition that Otaru is well known for.
Walking along Sakaimachi Street was another highlight. This historic street is filled with dessert shops, souvenir stores, and cafes, making it a pleasant place to explore on foot.
We continued exploring several local attractions including the Otaru Music Box Museum, where thousands of music boxes fill the space with soft melodies. Nearby, glass workshops showcased the delicate art of Japanese glassmaking, a tradition that Otaru is well known for.
Walking along Sakaimachi Street was another highlight. This historic street is filled with dessert shops, souvenir stores, and cafes, making it a pleasant place to explore on foot.
Beyond the city lights and famous food spots, Sapporo also holds spaces that feel deeply peaceful. A visit to Hokkaido Shrine became one of the quietest yet most unforgettable parts of the trip. Surrounded by snow-covered trees and wrapped in the calmness of winter, the shrine carried a different kind of beauty — serene, timeless, and deeply grounding. The cold air, the soft crunch of snow beneath our feet, and the stillness surrounding the temple made everything feel almost cinematic. It was a reminder that while Sapporo is vibrant and alive, it also has a gentle side that lets you pause, breathe, and simply take in the moment.
In the afternoon, we returned to Sapporo for a city tour. We visited Odori Park, the central green space that stretches across the city, followed by a stop at the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, one of the oldest landmarks in the city. We also passed by the former Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, known for its distinctive red brick architecture.
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| Frozen streets, warm memories, and a timeless view at Sapporo Clock Tower ❄️🕰️ One of Sapporo’s oldest landmarks standing gracefully through every season |
Before returning to the hotel, we explored Tanukikoji Shopping Street, a lively covered shopping arcade where visitors can find everything from souvenirs and cosmetics to Japanese snacks.
Day 4: Free Day Before Departure
January 22
Our final morning in Sapporo was a relaxed one. After checking out of Hotel Keihan Sapporo, we had free time to explore the area before our evening pickup at 7 PM.
Some chose to revisit Sapporo Station for last-minute shopping, while others simply enjoyed walking around the snowy streets one more time. We also headed across the hotel area near Nakajima Park where we got to experience ice skating for only 1,000 yen from 1 PM to 4 PM — definitely one of the most fun and memorable parts of our winter trip. Sliding across the ice surrounded by snow-covered scenery truly felt like a scene from a movie.
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| Buffet Breakfast at the hotel |
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| Having a cup of coffee at Nakajima Park |
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| Walking around Nakajima Park, Sapporo |
Later in the day, we returned to Sapporo for a little shopping spree and finally got our hands on On Cloud and New Balance shoes at much cheaper prices compared to back home. A perfect way to end our Hokkaido adventure — a mix of experiences, memories, and a few great finds to bring home with us.
A Winter Memory Worth Experiencing
From the excitement of seeing snow for the first time to discovering chocolate factories and historic towns, our trip to Sapporo offered a glimpse into the beauty of winter in Japan.
It was not just about sightseeing. It was about moments. Running through fresh snowfall, warming up with good food, and wandering through streets that tell stories of history and culture.
For travelers from tropical countries, a winter journey to Hokkaido is more than a trip. It becomes a memory that stays long after the snow melts.
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