Sapporo and Otaru are both located in western Hokkaido, Japan's northern most prefecture. Sapporo is the capital and the air gateway of Hokkaido. Walk along the beautiful centerpiece of Sapporo, the Odori Avenue Park, stretching from east to west of the city, with its fountains and array of plants and flowers. Jozankei Valley situated in the southwest of the city, is known for its' famous hot springs: a place of natural beauty and relaxation. Otaru, facing Ishikari Bay, has served as "the sea entrance to Hokkaido" for more than 100 years. Along its canal, old stone and brick-built warehouses built way back in Otaru's heyday have been renovated and now house glassworks shops, restaurants, and shopping malls. The town gently evokes a nostalgic mood, which can be enjoyed particularly at night when the oil lamps on the cobbled streets are lit. Sapporo City Website Otaru City Website Surrounded by the sea, Hokkaido is famous for its' seafood such as crab, scallop, and salmon. Hokkaido Specialties that Go Well with Sake : ･ Sushi (a small piece of raw seafood placed on a ball of vinegared rice) ･ Sashimi (sliced raw fish eaten with soy sauce) ･ Ramen (noodles in miso, soy, or salt flavored soup) ･ Kaninabe (stewed crab and vegetables) ･ Tokyo Haneda Airport (JAL flight 90min) - Sapporo Shin Chitose Airport (JR train 35min) - Sapporo ･ Visit brewers Chitose Zuru (Subway 15 min from Sapporo) ･ Sightseeing of Sapporo City Stay : [ JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo ] Sightseeing spots : ･ Odori Park Avenue: The 1,400 meters long avenue is a symbol of Sapporo. In winter Sapporo Snow Festival is held here. ･ Sapporo City Clock: 10 mins walk from JR Sapporo station. The clock has been keeping time for over a century. ･ Sapporo (JR train 35min) - Otaru ･ Sightseeing of Otaru Sightseeing spots : ･ Otaru Canal: 10 mins walk from JR Otaru station. The 1,140 meters long canal preserves the nostalgic atmosphere of old Otaru. ･ Wall Street: 10 min walk from the Canal. Many historic western-style stone buildings can be viewed in this area. Go Skyward Sake Series (SAPPORO Vol.1) Go Skyward Sake Series (SAPPORO Vol.2) Sashimi Kaninabe Sapporo City-clock Sapporo Odori-park Otaru-Canal