Last March, we embarked on an incredible journey to Japan, a country that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.
Our adventure began on March 4th, when we arrived at Nagoya Chubu International Airport, our point of entry into this fascinating land. In this article, we’ll take you through the highlights of our trip, showcasing the beauty, culture, and delicious food that Japan has to offer.
Sapporo Adventure Begins
On March 5th, we took a flight to Sapporo via Peach Aviation, eager to explore the charm of this northern island. After checking in at the cozy Koko Hotel in Sapporo, we strolled through Tanukikoji, a popular shopping street lined with unique boutiques and eateries. The crisp air and snow-covered landscapes set the tone for an unforgettable experience.
The next day, March 6th, we took a bus to Otaru, a picturesque town famous for its canal and historic architecture.
We enjoyed a romantic boat ride along the Otaru Canal, taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-covered warehouses and bridges. A visit to the Otaru Beer Museum was a highlight, where we sampled local brews and learned about the brewing process. Before heading home, we also picked up two beautiful music boxes as souvenirs, its melodic tune of Sailormoon theme song still echoing in our minds.
Exploring Sapporo’s Delights
On March 7th, we took a train to Nakajima and spent the afternoon exploring Nakajima Park, which was beautifully blanketed in snow.
Unfortunately, the famous Moiwa Ropeway was closed due to severe snow weather, but we didn’t let that dampen our spirits. In the late afternoon, we visited Sapporo’s Fushimi Inari shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain.
The following day, March 8th, was packed with excitement. We started the day at Nijo Market, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies.
A visit to the Sapporo TV tower offered panoramic views of the city, while Shiroi Koibito Park was a sweet treat, with its beautiful gardens and delicious cookies.
We also stopped by the Sapporo Beer Museum (not to be confused with the one in Otaru!) and enjoyed a tour and tasting.
As the day drew to a close, we admired the historic Sapporo Clock Tower and indulged in a sushi feast at Ajiko Sushi Conveyor Belt.
March 9th was a day dedicated to food, shopping, and entertainment. We slurped steaming hot ramen at Ramen Alley, explored the vibrant Cocono Susukino district, and relaxed at Moyuc Sapporo. A quick dinner at Yoshinoya satisfied our hunger, and we ended the evening with some retail therapy at ABC Mart and Don Quijote, scoring some great deals on souvenirs.
Exploring Museums at New Chitose International Airports before leaving Sapporo
On March 10th, we visited Royce Chocolate World, where we indulged in rich, creamy chocolates and learned about the chocolate-making process.
From the snow-covered landscapes of Sapporo to the vibrant streets of Asakusa, our trip was an unforgettable adventure that left us with lifelong memories.
Hello Kitty and Doraemon fans will love the Hello Kitty Happy and Doraemon shops, where we picked up some adorable merchandise. As our time in Sapporo came to an end, we boarded a flight to Narita, reflecting on the incredible experiences we’d had in this beautiful city.
Hello again, Tokyo!
Before departing Japan, we squeezed in a side trip to Asakusa on March 11th. This historic district is famous for its ancient Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, and traditional Japanese culture. We explored the bustling streets, sampled local snacks, and soaked up the atmosphere, creating lasting memories of our time in Japan.
As we departed Japan, we felt grateful once again for the opportunity to experience the country’s unique blend of tradition, culture, and modernity.