Published on Jan, 2024
We couldn't have gotten a better Sapporo guide,
and trip designer - Ms. Chieko!!!
Our family immediately felt comfortable upon meeting Chieko, as if she was a long-time Sapporo family friend giving us her city's winter tour. She has a good command of the English language to conduct the tour with all her local and historical knowledge of Sapporo and Hokkaido, but still has the Japanese accent when she talks so that makes it all the more authentic.
From our hotel, we went on a walking tour to see Former Hokkaido Government Office (it's remodeling), the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park. From there, we took the subway and bus, and went to Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium used during the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics. After all that snow we were ready for something hot for our tummies, so Chieko took us to Ganso Ramen alley in Susukino, where we had sumptuous bowls at a place visited by Anthony Bourdain.
Warm and refreshed, we walked along the TanukiKoji Shopping Street and oogled fresh seafood at Nijo Fish Market. Finally, we ended the day at Shiroi Koibito Park or Chocolate Factory.
We're a well-travelled family and have taken tours in many parts of the world, and can say the Chieko is one of the best. She knows Sapporo like the back of her hand to give you local feel and vibe while doing the walking and commuting by bus and subway.
We highly recommend this tour and Chieko!