Hotels in Sapporo,Japan

Less than 150 years old, Sapporo is one of Japan's newest cities. It was developed by the Japanese under the advisement of dozens of foreign experts, and as a result, Sapporo has a distinct Western atmosphere. With its parks, museums and annual festivals, Sapporo is a high priority for tourists in the northernmost island of Hokkaido.Early every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a particularly busy time in the city. It began in the 1950s when a few ice sculptures were placed in Odori Park. In many ways, the Snow Festival has grown into Sapporo's defining event, with sculptors and spectators pouring in from around the world. Beautiful, glittering ice sculptures and more than 10,000 snowmen fill parks and front local businesses. Hotels in Sapporo city center are especially busy in this season, so it's important to book early.At other times during the winter Sapporo is popular with skiers, as world-class facilities have existed here since the city hosted the Winter Olympics in 1972. This aside, tourism is still greatest in the summer months, when visitors can enjoy the city's botanical gardens and forest parks. Museums in Sapporo are another major attraction, especially the Historical Village of Hokkaido, the Museum of Modern Art and the joint botanical gardens and museum operated by Hokkaido University. The major commercial district is south of Sapporo Station. The dining scene includes a range of delicious seafood restaurants and simple noodle shops. The larger hotels near Sapporo boast their own set of international restaurants as well. Those who don't arrive via train at Sapporo Station will enter the region through Sapporo - Chitose Airport. Hotels near the airport are convenient for late arrivals, while the Skybus shuttle and a commuter train transfer passengers to the city center during regular hours.