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Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. The name of Hokkaido literally means “Northern Sea Circuit.” Hokkaido Province comprises approximately one-fifth of Japan’s total land area.
Sapporo, in the southwest on the Ishikari River, is the province’s industrial, commercial, and tourist center. Hokkaido University, founded in 1876, is located in Sapporo.
The city of Sapporo has maintained the youthful and open atmosphere of the 1972 Winter Olympic Games. It is best known for its beer and its world-famous ramen noodles. Sapporo Beer is the oldest beer brand in Japan. The brewery was founded in 1876 and is currently a top selling Asian beer in many countries. When I had a chance to enjoy a bottle of ice-cold Sapporo beer, I loved the crisp and refreshing taste. I also liked the aroma of sweetness that only came from rice beer.
I had the chance to explore some of the best of Sapporo and Mt. Usu on a walking tour with a small group of visitors led by our local tour guide. We started with Cape Earth, rising more than 100 meters above the Pacific Ocean. This cliff side location offers an unparalleled majestic view of the ocean from sunrise to sunset.
Next, we walked at Mt. Usu which erupted in March and April 2000, over 60 new craters opened up on the west side of the mountain. Today, the area can be viewed from several walking trails. My last destination is Michinoeki. It is a multi-purpose service area with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and an amusement area.
After a simple lunch, I got to stroll through the beautiful Odori Park. It was fun to browse through the underground shopping complex, lush gardens, and promenades, and enjoy vistas from the TV tower. The Odori Park is truly Sapporo’s central point that spans 13 blocks. I got to sightsee, shop, dine, and explore. Almost all shops only accept local currency for purchases.
On my tour to Jidaimura and Jigokudani, I discovered Japan’s Edo Period (1603 – 1867) when city life and merchants replaced warriors in Japan. I had a chance to observe traditional architecture and Ninja houses. It was amazing to see Ninjas and beautiful Oiran courtesans reciting poetry and demonstrating calligraphy. Then we headed for Jigokudani. I liked a guided walk to the 1,476-feet crater and mineral springs. The walking tour was fun but the stair climbing was tiring.
From my vantage point, I saw an active volcano surrounded by crystalline lakes, bubbling hot springs, and towering vistas. I was stunned by the natural beauty of Lake Toya. Mt. Usu is the site of one of Japan’s most active volcanoes standing at 2,404 feet above sea level.
Stepping into the very best of Sapporo in Japan was a remarkable experience. I was grateful to have had a chance to create my own journey of adventures in this lovely city.
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