A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shanghai vs. Sapporo for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Shanghai or Sapporo?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Shanghai and Sapporo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a modern, cosmopolitan, and professional port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a park-filled, snowy, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Sapporo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Sapporo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Shanghai is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sapporo is known for its skiing and nightlife. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Sapporo is popular for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival.

How is Shanghai different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Shanghai or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Sapporo is notable for snow skiing. However, Shanghai is not a skiing destination.

People head to Sapporo specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. 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.

Shanghai is not a skiing destination.

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

Shanghai 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, Shanghai has many famous sights for visitors. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

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 Shanghai or Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Shanghai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sapporo makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Shanghai or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Sapporo is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Sapporo has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Shanghai. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Sapporo?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Shanghai specifically to go shopping. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Shanghai or Sapporo Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Sapporo are very good family-friendly destinations.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sapporo. 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 Shanghai or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Shanghai is a great port city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city getaway.

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 Shanghai or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Sapporo are very good destinations for backpackers.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit for backpackers. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Shanghai or Sapporo Better for Students?

Shanghai and Sapporo are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Many students visit Shanghai. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

Sapporo is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

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

Both Shanghai and Sapporo offer very good public transit options.

Shanghai has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

The public transit in Sapporo can get you to most places 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 Shanghai or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Sapporo both are very good when exploring on foot.

Shanghai is a very walkable port city. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

Sapporo is a very walkable destination. 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 Shanghai Worth Visiting? and Is Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shanghai and Sapporo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than in Sapporo. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sapporo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shanghai than Sapporo 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 Shanghai.

One day in Shanghai or Sapporo?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Sapporo offers museums and skiing. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Sapporo?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Sapporo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sapporo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Sapporo?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Sapporo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Sapporo?

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

Sapporo is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Sapporo, we can see that Shanghai 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 Shanghai Expensive? and Is Sapporo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Sapporo?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Sapporo. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai 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 Shanghai or Sapporo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shanghai or Sapporo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Sapporo. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sapporo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Shanghai is a little warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Sapporo averages at about 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Sapporo. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Sapporo. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

In October, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sapporo. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Sapporo in the Winter?

Both Sapporo and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sapporo for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Sapporo. It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. Shanghai is much warmer than Sapporo in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Sapporo. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun.

Sapporo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Sapporo. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Sapporo. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sapporo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Shanghai is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Sapporo averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Sapporo during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Shanghai