Sapporo

The fifth-largest city in Japan, Sapporo has just about everything you would want in a big city: shopping, delicious food, and bustling nightlife, among many others. And though many are in Sapporo for only a day or two as they make their way to Hokkaido, we recommend staying a bit longer for the local experiences if you can spare the time! Some must-visit attractions in the city include the Sapporo TV Tower, the Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, and Susukino for those wanting to experience the local nightlife scene. Sapporo is typically at its busiest during February when visitors flock to the city to partake in the Snow Festival and in the summertime to feast on beer and delicious eats at the food festivals.