A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Hiroshima vs. Sapporo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a meaningful, park-filled, and memorable city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Hiroshima and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sapporo than Hiroshima. Sapporo is bigger than Hiroshima, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sapporo is better known for its skiing, nightlife, and big city activities, while Hiroshima is more popular for its museums. Sapporo is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. Also, Sapporo is famous for Odori Park. Hiroshima is well known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Hiroshima different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for skiing. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Hiroshima is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hiroshima has many famous sights for visitors. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Is the Food Better in Hiroshima or Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Dining out at restaurants in both Hiroshima and Sapporo can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Sapporo has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.


Is the Shopping Better in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

If you're looking to go shopping, Hiroshima and Sapporo both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hiroshima. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Sapporo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Families?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Sapporo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Sapporo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.


Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Students?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Is Hiroshima or Sapporo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Hiroshima and Sapporo both offer great public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Hiroshima can move around easily with public transportation. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

The public transit in Sapporo can get you around easily. 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.


Is Hiroshima or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Hiroshima
Sapporo

Hiroshima and Sapporo are great when it comes to walkability.

Hiroshima is very walkable. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

Sapporo is a very walkable city. 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 Hiroshima Worth Visiting? and Is Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Hiroshima?

How long in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hiroshima and Sapporo. In our opinion, Sapporo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sapporo than Hiroshima. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Sapporo than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima or Sapporo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hiroshima 2-3 
    Sapporo 2-3

One day in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

In Hiroshima, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit Sapporo because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

In Hiroshima, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hiroshima has to offer.

People visit Sapporo because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. 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 food and shopping when visiting the park-filled city of Sapporo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Hiroshima or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hiroshima. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Sapporo is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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 Hiroshima?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hiroshima is $102, while the average daily cost in Sapporo is $107. 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 Hiroshima and Sapporo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hiroshima $65
    Sapporo $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hiroshima $130
    Sapporo $128
Compare Hotels in Hiroshima and Sapporo

Looking for a hotel in Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima


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: Hiroshima Hotel Prices and Sapporo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hiroshima $9.83
    Sapporo $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hiroshima

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

  • Hiroshima port Shore excursion Private transfer: $494
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $238
  • Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport: $225
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $225
  • Hiroshima Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $211
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Port to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): $60
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port: $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sapporo

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

  • SkyExpress Private Transfer: Sapporo to Otaru (8 Passengers): $297
  • Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport: $198
  • Private Transfer Sapporo to CTS Airport (1-9 passengers) Legal Driver Guaranteed: $180
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo hotels to Muroran Cruise Port: $160
  • Horseback-Riding in a Country Side in Sapporo - Private Transfer is Included: $158
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo City Hotels to Muroran Cruise Port: $144
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS): $140
  • [Airport Transfer] Smoothly move between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport with a private car! one way: $139
  • Airport transfer taxi plan New Chitose Airport → Sapporo City Hotel: $122
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo hotels to Otaru Cruise Port: $94
  • Shin Chitose Airport to/from Sapporo City: Shared Transfer: $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Hiroshima or Sapporo?

Prices for flights to both Sapporo and Hiroshima 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
    Hiroshima $30
    Sapporo $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hiroshima

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

  • Hiroshima No1 food!! 'Okonomiyaki'-cooking class: $42
  • Local Favorites Private Night Food Tour: $69
  • Bar Hopping Food Tour: $83
  • Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour: $84
  • Enjoy a Private Japanese Cooking Class with a Local Hiroshima Family: $90
  • Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima: $99
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $160
  • Hiroshima Food Tour with a Local Foodie, 100% Personalised & Private: $235

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sapporo

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

  • Private Market Tour, Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local in Sapporo: $82
  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour: $84
  • Japanese Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Local Professional in her Lovely Home: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hiroshima $5.46
    Sapporo $17

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

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

  • Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima: $68
  • 4 Hour Hiroshima Miyajima Private Tour: $84
  • An Amazing set of Cultural experience: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy: $101
  • Field Archery Experience in Hiroshima, Japan: $39
  • From Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour: $112
  • From Private Tour to Kure: $212
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Hiroshima and Miyajima: $115
  • Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima : $164
  • Guided Virtual Tour of Peace Park in Hiroshima/PEACE PARK TOUR VR: $34
  • Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Private Guided Tour: $162
  • Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide: $165
  • Hiroshima Best Spots 6h Private Tour with Licensed Guide: $110

Tours and Activities in Sapporo

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

  • "SHIME Parfait" Experience Sapporo's new culture: $22
  • 2 Day Tour to Icebreaker Mombetsu and Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido: $282
  • A Japanese food experience plan in Sapporo where you can enjoy tempura and 3 types of Hokkaido-only sake along with a soba making experience!: $84
  • Clearest Lake in Japan Driving tour of Shikotsu lake of Hokkaido: $142
  • English Guided Private Tour in Hokkaido : $3.38
  • Experience traditional Japanese cuisine, making soba noodles in Sapporo, in a fun and casual way.: $51
  • Exploring Hokkaido Nightlife Susukino Evening Walking Tour: $88
  • From 10-hour Customized Private Tour to Noboribetsu: $2,281
  • Full Day Private Skiing / Snowboarding Tour in Sapporo: $54
  • Half-day (4 hours) Sapporo city Tour: $189
  • Hand-rolled sushi experience tour at Sapporo Nijo Market: $45
  • Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo,Furano and Biei English/Chinese Bus Tour: $86

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hiroshima $12
    Sapporo $8.07


When comparing the travel costs between Hiroshima and Sapporo, we can see that Sapporo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Hiroshima or Sapporo?

Sapporo has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Hiroshima and Sapporo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima or Sapporo in the Summer?

Both Sapporo and Hiroshima are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of 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, Hiroshima is generally a little warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 26°C (79°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Hiroshima usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during summer. Hiroshima gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. In July, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Hiroshima gets 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F) 
    Sapporo 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo and Hiroshima during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sapporo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Hiroshima is much warmer than Sapporo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Hiroshima often gets more sunshine than Sapporo. Hiroshima gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun.

Sapporo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. Hiroshima usually gets less rain in October than Sapporo. Hiroshima gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F) 
    Sapporo 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Sapporo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hiroshima and Sapporo. Many travelers come to Hiroshima for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Hiroshima. In the winter, Hiroshima is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hiroshima in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Sapporo averages at about -5°C (24°F).

Hiroshima usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during winter. Hiroshima gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sapporo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hiroshima usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Hiroshima gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F) 
    Sapporo -5°C (24°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hiroshima as well as Sapporo. Also, most visitors come to Sapporo for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Hiroshima is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 14°C (56°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Hiroshima often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Hiroshima gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Hiroshima gets 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F) 
    Sapporo 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Hiroshima

Hiroshima Sapporo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) -4°C (24°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) -0°C (32°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (40°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) -1°C (30°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)