Ishikari Area: Self-Guided Tours in the Sapporo Suburbs - Sapporo, Chitose, Eniwa, and Kitahiroshima

Sapporo Suburbs Day Trip Introduction:

 

Have you been to Hokkaido, Japan? First-time travelers to Hokkaido often start with popular attractions in Sapporo and Otaru. However, there are actually many more attractions near Sapporo. The Ishikari region primarily comprises Sapporo City, Chitose City, Eniwa City, and Kitahiroshima City. In addition to the popular attractions, Ishikari also offers many unique experiences, making it a great place to visit after your flight or before departing from the airport. Below, we'll introduce Sapporo City, Chitose City, Eniwa City, and Kitahiroshima City, and recommend a day trip itinerary for your trip to the Sapporo suburbs.

 

Sapporo Suburbs Free Day Tour Map:

 

 

Sapporo Suburbs Free Day Tour Itinerary:

 

 

Sapporo City, a major city in central Hokkaido, boasts a population of over 1.9 million, making it Japan's fifth-largest city. With a comprehensive array of commercial and entertainment facilities, natural attractions, and accommodations, it's a must-see for any Hokkaido traveler. Beyond the popular city center, Sapporo's suburban attractions, such as Jozankei and Maruyama Park, await exploration. Of course, Sapporo is also home to a wealth of Hokkaido cuisine, so don't forget to sample it while enjoying the city.

 

Recommended Sapporo Suburban Day Trip: Sapporo Suburban Jozankei Exquisite Tour, Jozankei Hot Springs Day Trip

 

▲Sapporo Suburban "Eniwa City" Self-Guided Tour:

 

Located between New Chitose Airport and Sapporo, Eniwa, known as the City of Flowers, takes its name from Mount Eniwa, a mountain peak surrounding Lake Shikotsu. A suburb of Sapporo, Eniwa has been actively developing its tourism scene in recent years, acclaimed for its rich natural resources and offerings such as agricultural experiences, forest exploration, and winter snow sports. It has become a popular weekend getaway for Hokkaido residents.

 

Recommended day trip itinerary near Sapporo: Eniwa. Kitahiroshima Day Trip

 

▲Self-guided Tour of Kitahiroshima City, a Suburb of Sapporo:

 

Kitahiroshima City is located southeast of Sapporo. As its name suggests, it was named after the influx of Hiroshima residents from southern Japan. In 2018, the Hokkaido-Ham Nippon Professional Baseball team built a new stadium here, attracting many fans to watch games. The old Shimamatsu Post Station is the only remaining ancient post station in the prefecture, and is worth a visit.

 

Recommended one-day itinerary for a self-guided tour of the Sapporo suburbs: Eniwa. Kitahiroshima Day Trip

 

▲ Chitose City, a Suburb of Sapporo: Self-Guided Tour:

 

Chitose is considered one of Hokkaido's important gateways. New Chitose Airport, located in Chitose City, is the largest airport in Hokkaido, offering numerous international and domestic flights. Plus, it's only about a 40-minute drive from Sapporo, making it very convenient for both driving and connecting to the JR line. However, aside from Lake Shikotsu, Chitose isn't often visited for long. However, there are many other well-known attractions beyond Lake Shikotsu. Chitose City also boasts a rich history of buried culture and the Chitose Ainu culture, making it a must-see for those interested in history and culture.

 

Recommended one-day itinerary near Sapporo: In-depth tour of Chitose City, near Hokkaido