Escaping to North of Japan to see autumn foliage

Hokkaido is mostly famous for the winter season for snow activities such as skiing. I decide to explore the area during the autumn season. I planned to explore Sapporo, Asahikawa, Biei and Jozankei cities within 4 days of my stay in Hokkaido. This post I will share my itinerary of solo traveling in Sapporo city within 2 days of my stay. Sapporo has so much to offer specially with delicious food and beautiful sites.

How I went to Hokkaido

I bought a return air ticket from Peach airlines which cost around 12000yen. It was 1 hour and 45mints journey to Sapporo city. The flights to Chitose airport and from the airport need to take a bus or train to the Sapporo main station cost around less than 1100yen. From Airport to the train station takes about one hour depending on traffic.

Where did I stay?

I stayed 2 days at Nagomi Sapporo hostel which is closer to the city and has many attractions such as Odori park, Sapporo clock tower etc. Thanks to the GO TO travel campaign I was able to find affordable accommodation places which have to pay half price per night stay. I recommend any solo traveler to stay here because its location and friendly staff are always willing to help you with directions and recommendations on local food and places to go.

Day 1

I decided to start my day by exploring the Hill of Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo. I took a subway train from Susukino station to Makomanai station and then hopped on a bus that goes directly to the cemetery. The total journey takes about 50 minutes and it costs 670yen one way. Only a few buses run to this place as it's off season so I carefully plan my return to Sapporo station. Check the official website for bus timetables and other details.

This beautiful contemplative space is designed by one of the most famous Japanese Architect Tadao Ando. The Architect has covered the 13.5m tall Buddha statue with lavender hills and only the upper head is visible far from the site where it is called ''Atame Daibutsu''. To enter the site there is no entrance fee however it is preferred to donate 300 yen for lavender garden maintenance.

Next I head back to Sapporo city searching for autumn viewing spots. I went to the University of Hokkaido Ginko tree lane hoping to see autumn foliage. It was 10 minutes walking distance from Sapporo station. One of the beautiful scenic spots to see autumn in Sapporo.

Later I walked towards the Odori Park hoping to see more autumn scenic spots. To me Odori Park is more suitable for relaxing after a long walk. There were not many things to do but to take a good photo of the clock tower.

Day 2

I start day two exploring Mount Moiwa summit. I took a tram from Odori Park to

Ropeway Iriguchi station which cost 200yen. From there you have to walk 5 minutes to Moiwa ropeway free shuttle bus stop that takes you to the ropeway station. To go to the top of the summit you have to pay 1800yen which include ropeway ride and cable car ride. As its autumn season the mountains are covered with red yellow leaves. Highly recommend anyone to visit here to catch the sunrise of sunset. There are few restaurants and cafes available at the observation area.

There are so many places to explore in Sapporo but I chose a few locations that interest me. Walking around the city reminds me of Nottingham city where I was studying for my postgrad. One thing I noticed about the Sapporo city community and majority of them are elderly retired communities. When getting into small trams realize how small the community lives in Sapporo when compared to Tokyo. Also food in Sapporo is so delicious and so cheap compared to Tokyo. So many varieties and flavors in food. Overall Sapporo is another must destination that you need to include in your itinerary.