Shopping in Sapporo combines colorful markets, cultural experiences, and hands-on learning. The best tours pack multiple experiences into a single outing. I especially love the Nijo Market tour with its sushi-making class – it’s practical, fun, and you’ll learn skills to take home. Another standout is the private market tour with cooking class and lunch, where a local host shares authentic cooking techniques and market insights. Taking a day trip to combine shopping with Asahiyama Zoo and farm visits provides excellent value. For sake enthusiasts, private tours of local shops and izakayas offer an intimate look at Japan’s beloved rice wine culture. Let’s explore the top shopping tours that make Sapporo special.
Good To Know
- The Hokkaido Ballpark and Outlet Shopping Tour offers a full-day experience with sledding, snow play, and ski lessons, as well as bus transportation and experience fees.
- The Hand-Rolled Sushi Experience Tour provides a personalized sushi-making class at the Sapporo Nijo Market, including lunch and pickup service.
- The Private Market Tour, Cooking Class, and Lunch offers an immersive culinary experience with a private market visit, hands-on cooking class, and authentic Japanese lunch.
- The Asahiyama Zoo and Cultural Attractions Tour is a private full-day excursion that includes several attractions with accessibility features.
- The Sake Lovers Private Tour is a comprehensive exploration of Sapporo’s sake culture, including a liquor store visit, izakaya experience, and sake tasting.
Play With Snow at Hokkaido Ballpark and Outlet Shopping Tour
This one-day tour allows travelers to experience the snowy wonders of Sapporo at the Hokkaido Ballpark and indulge in some outlet shopping.
For just $31.91, you can enjoy sledding, snow play, and even beginner ski lessons. The tour includes bus transportation and experience fees, though lunch is an additional cost.
With a maximum capacity of 44 travelers, you’ll have plenty of space to explore the outlets after your snow activities.
Recent reviews praise the tour guide’s helpfulness and the overall enjoyable experience.
Just remember to bring appropriate winter gear and be ready on time, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.
Read our full review: Play With Snow at Hokkaido Ballpark and Outlet Shopping Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hand-Rolled Sushi Experience Tour at Sapporo Nijo Market
Travelers can enjoy the art of hand-rolled sushi at the vibrant Sapporo Nijo Market on this intimate culinary experience.
The tour is limited to just 5 participants, providing personalized attention. While the starting point can be challenging to locate, locals may be able to provide assistance.
Reviewers have noted difficulties in finding the meeting spot, leading to potential tour cancellations.
The tour includes a provided lunch and pickup service, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Despite only one review, which was negative, the overall experience may still appeal to adventurous sushi enthusiasts looking to learn from experts in a small-group setting.
Read our full review: Hand-Rolled Sushi Experience Tour at Sapporo Nijo Market Review
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Private Market Tour, Cooking Class and Lunch With a Local in Sapporo
For travelers seeking a more immersive culinary experience in Sapporo, the Private Market Tour, Cooking Class and Lunch With a Local provides an engaging opportunity to connect with a local guide and explore the city’s vibrant food culture.
Priced from $82 per person, the highly-rated 5-star tour includes a private market visit, hands-on cooking class, and a delicious lunch featuring authentic Japanese dishes like teriyaki chicken, soup curry, and rice-stuffed squid.
With vegetarian and vegan options available, the experience also includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Participants rave about the personalized interaction with Kanae, the local host, and the chance to learn about Japanese cuisine and culture firsthand.
Read our full review: Private Market Tour, Cooking Class and Lunch With a Local in Sapporo Review
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Asahiyama Zoo, Aoiike, Farm Tomita, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo)
Although located a bit further from central Sapporo, this private full-day tour takes visitors to some of the Hokkaido region’s most captivating natural and cultural attractions.
For $427.58 per group (up to 3), this 11-hour excursion includes stops at the renowned Asahiyama Zoo, the stunning Aoiike (“Blue Pond”), the vibrant Farm Tomita, and the charming Ningle Terrace.
The tour provides accessibility features like wheelchair access and infant seats, and includes transportation, admission fees, and meals.
With high ratings for its excellent itinerary and professional guides, this tour is a great way to experience the best of Sapporo’s surroundings, though some travelers note language barriers with non-English speaking guides.
Read our full review: Asahiyama Zoo, Aoiike, Farm Tomita, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo) Review
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Sake Lovers Private Tour Visit Liquor Store and Izakaya
This private Sake Lovers tour in Sapporo lets visitors enjoy the city’s vibrant sake culture. Operated by Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel the tour includes a visit to a liquor store and an izakaya, along with a sake tasting experience.
Pickup is available from central Sapporo or the North Exit of Sapporo Station. The tour is priced at SEK 3,172.41 per person and can be canceled or rescheduled free of charge up to 24 hours before the start.
With an English interpreter, private taxi, and food and beverage expenses included, this tour offers a comprehensive and budget-friendly way to explore Sapporo’s sake scene.
Read our full review: Sake Lovers Private Tour Visit Liquor Store and Izakaya Review
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Private Farm to Table Tailored BBQ Experience in Sapporo
Stepping away from the sake scene, visitors can now indulge in an immersive farm-to-table BBQ experience in Sapporo.
Operated by Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel this private tailored event starts at $577.95 per person.
Feast on canapés with Hokkaido cheese, grilled seasonal veggies, wood-plank seafood, and roasted beef from the local university’s cattle.
Savor s’mores-style dessert while enjoying complimentary juice and wine available for purchase.
The experience includes private transfers, a harvest tour, and taxes.
Pickup is available, and confirmation comes within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with a lowest price guarantee for this private activity.
Read our full review: Private Farm to Table Tailored BBQ Experience in Sapporo Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?
Many tour operators offer discounts for group bookings. Prices can be reduced by 10-20% for groups of 4 or more. This can make the tours more affordable, especially for budget-conscious travelers. It’s always worth inquiring about group rates when booking.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated on Food Tours?
Yes, most food tours can accommodate dietary restrictions. Many operators offer flexible options to ensure all guests can enjoy the culinary experience, whether they’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary needs.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Tours?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but most allow free cancellations up to 24-48 hours before the tour. Some may charge a fee for last-minute cancellations. It’s best to check the policy when booking a tour.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Venues?
Most tours include roundtrip transportation to the shopping venues, making it easy and convenient for guests. Some may charge extra for this service, so it’s best to check the details when booking to ensure it fits your budget.
Are the Tours Conducted in Multiple Languages?
Many shopping tours offer multilingual guides, allowing travelers from various backgrounds to fully enjoy the experience. Depending on the tour, transportation may or may not be included, so it’s important to check the details in advance.
The Sum Up
Sapporo offers a variety of shopping tours to suit different interests and budgets. From the snow-themed Hokkaido Ballpark to the local Nijo Market, there’s something for all. For a more immersive experience, the private market tour, cooking class, and farm-to-table BBQ are great options. And for sake enthusiasts, the private liquor store and izakaya tour is a must. Sapporo’s shopping tours provide a unique and memorable way to explore the city.