A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Sapporo for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a laid-back, park-filled, and snowy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sapporo than Chichibu-Tama-Kai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sapporo is better known for its skiing, museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sapporo is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. Also, Sapporo is famous for Odori Park. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sapporo and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for skiing. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Is the Food Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sapporo. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Sapporo for the nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for hiking. However, Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sapporo. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo are great to visit with kids.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very family-friendly destination. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Sapporo is a very kid-friendly national park. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Sapporo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Sapporo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Students?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Sapporo is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Sapporo is fairly effecient and thorough. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Sapporo

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo are great when it comes to walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very walkable. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Sapporo is a very walkable national park. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

For even more information, also check out Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting? and Is Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sapporo than in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sapporo.

Families should spend more time in Sapporo than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Sapporo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Sapporo than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sapporo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sapporo than Chichibu-Tama-Kai if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Sapporo.


  • How many days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2 
    Sapporo 2-3

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

When visiting Sapporo, people usually allow for lots of time. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.


A weekend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer.

When visiting Sapporo, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the snowy big city of Sapporo. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many people enjoy the when visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Sapporo is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.


Which place is cheaper, Sapporo or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $75, while the average daily cost in Sapporo is $114. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $36
    Sapporo $68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $72
    Sapporo $136
Compare Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo

Looking for a hotel in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai


Hotels in Sapporo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sapporo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $22
    Sapporo $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sapporo

Also for Sapporo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: between Sapporo and Upopoy: $470
  • Private Departure Transfer : Sapporo City to New Chitose Airport: $237
  • New Chitose Airport CTS Private Transfer to/from Sapporo: $235
  • Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport (ENG): $235
  • [Airport Transfer] Smoothly move between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport with a private car! one way: $227
  • Horseback-Riding in a Country Side in Sapporo - Private Transfer is Included: $172
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS): $140
  • Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport: $131
  • Shared Departure Transfer : Sapporo City to Shin Chitose Airport: $113
  • Shin Chitose Airport to/from Sapporo City: Shared Transfer: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Prices for flights to both Sapporo and Chichibu-Tama-Kai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $26
    Sapporo $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sapporo

For Sapporo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Enjoy a Japanese Cooking Class with a Charming Local in the Heart of Sapporo: $67
  • Private Cooking Class with a Sapporo Local Kanae in her Home: $72
  • Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with a Professional in her Home: $88
  • Recommended! [Hand-rolled sushi experience] is a standard at Japanese celebrations, and can be enjoyed for dinner or lunch! !: $96
  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.69
    Sapporo $18

Tours and Activities in Sapporo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sapporo.

  • Departing from Sapporo Stargazing Experience Private Tour: $230
  • Experience traditional Japanese cuisine, making soba noodles in Sapporo, in a fun and casual way.: $62
  • Exploring Hokkaido Nightlife Susukino Evening Walking Tour: $137
  • From 10-hour Customized Private Tour to Noboribetsu: $2,362
  • From Private Customized Day Tour to Biei+Furano: $607
  • From Private Customized Day Tour to Otaru: $608
  • Full Day Private Skiing / Snowboarding Tour in Sapporo: $55
  • Hokkaido Day Tour from Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond Japan: $125
  • Hokkaido Day Tour from with Bear Park Option: $115
  • Hokkaido Noboribetsu Lake Toya Tour from Sapporo: $61
  • Hokkaido Noboribetsu, Lake Toya & Otaru Panoramic One-Day Tour: $125
  • Hokkaido Washi Crafts Experience in Oritos Studio Tour: $246

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.94
    Sapporo $8.60


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo, we can see that Sapporo is more expensive. And not only is Chichibu-Tama-Kai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chichibu-Tama-Kai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Sapporo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sapporo than you might in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive? and Is Sapporo Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo in the Summer?

Both Sapporo and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally a little warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 25°C (78°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F) 
    Sapporo 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sapporo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much warmer than Sapporo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Sapporo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sapporo. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F) 
    Sapporo 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Sapporo. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sapporo in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Sapporo can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In the winter, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sapporo averages at about -5°C (24°F).

Sapporo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F) 
    Sapporo -5°C (24°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Sapporo. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Sapporo for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 13°C (56°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F) 
    Sapporo 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai Sapporo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) -4°C (24°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) -0°C (32°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in) 17°C (63°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) -1°C (30°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)