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

Should you visit Tokyo or Sapporo?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Sapporo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a eclectic, cutting edge, and high tech city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food. See Tokyo travel costs.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a laid-back, park-filled, and snowy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Sapporo travel costs.

Tokyo and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Sapporo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo than Sapporo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tokyo is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sapporo attracts visitors for its skiing. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Sapporo is famous for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival.

How is Tokyo different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Sapporo is great for skiing. However, Tokyo is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Tokyo is not a skiing destination.

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

Tokyo 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, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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 Tokyo or Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

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 Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

People head to Tokyo just to party. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Sapporo offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Music?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Sapporo is not a live music destination.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Sapporo is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Sapporo?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo specifically to go shopping. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

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 Tokyo or Sapporo More Beautiful?

Tokyo is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Families?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Sapporo is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Sapporo make for a excellent place to visit.

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

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 Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sapporo is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Sapporo Better for Students?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Many students visit Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sapporo. 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 Tokyo or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Tokyo is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Sapporo is very walkable. 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 Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Sapporo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Sapporo. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sapporo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Sapporo?

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

In Sapporo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this laid-back big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tokyo or Sapporo?

Because Tokyo 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sapporo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tokyo or Sapporo?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Sapporo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Sapporo. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find museums and skiing around the laid-back big city of Sapporo. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Sapporo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Sapporo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sapporo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sapporo 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Sapporo.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Sapporo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sapporo. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Sapporo in the Summer?

Both Sapporo and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sapporo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Sapporo in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Sapporo during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Sapporo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Tokyo is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Sapporo averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Sapporo. Tokyo gets 129 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 Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Sapporo. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Sapporo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Sapporo. The winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

It's quite cold in Sapporo in the winter. In January, Tokyo is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during winter. Tokyo gets 175 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, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Sapporo. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sapporo for the activities around the city.

Tokyo is much warmer than Sapporo in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Sapporo. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Tokyo