The best time to visit Sapporo, in Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, greatly depends on the type of experience you are looking for. If you are interested in winter sports, snow festivals, and witnessing snow-covered landscapes, the ideal months are from late January to early February. During this period, the city hosts the world-renowned Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts millions of tourists with its massive ice and snow sculptures. Additionally, the snow conditions are perfect for skiing and snowboarding, with many resorts in the region, such as the Niseko and Rusutsu, offering excellent ski slopes and winter activities.
On the other hand, summer provides a starkly different but equally delightful experience. The period from June to August boasts mild temperatures, averaging around 20-22°C (68-72°F), ideal for hiking, exploring parks, and attending outdoor events. July in particular hosts the Sapporo Beer Festival in Odori Park, which is a prominent attraction for beer enthusiasts. Furthermore, the lavender fields of Furano, a short trip from Sapporo, are in full bloom in July, offering breathtakingly picturesque views. However, those who prefer less crowded times and pleasant weather might find the shoulder seasons of spring (May) and autumn (September to October) more appealing, when the city is filled with cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn colors respectively.
| Month | Min Temp | Max Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | -7.0 °c | -0.6 °c |
| February | -6.6 °c | 0.1 °c |
| March | -2.8 °c | 4.0 °c |
| April | 3.1 °c | 11.9 °c |
| May | 8.8 °c | 17.7 °c |
| June | 13.5 °c | 22.3 °c |
| July | 17.5 °c | 25.4 °c |
| August | 18.4 °c | 26.4 °c |
| September | 14.3 °c | 22.5 °c |
| October | 7.9 °c | 16.5 °c |
| November | 1.1 °c | 8.6 °c |
| December | -4.2 °c | 1.5 °c |
