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A family trip can be a wonderful way to encourage bonding and help members become closer to one another. However, it comes with its own set of challenges: it’s not always possible for an entire family to enjoy certain activities. Thankfully, the diverse city of Sapporo has plenty to offer for the young and old alike. Below are a few tips on where to go and what to do as a family in Sapporo:
- Book at a Kid-Friendly Ski Resort
A family friendly resort such as Kiroro offers activities that both parents and kids can enjoy, from beginner skiing, snowboarding, snow-shoeing, and other winter sports. Kiroro also offers hot spring facilities for those who have had enough of the powder outside and just want to spend some time in a relaxing onsen, as well as various indoor activities geared towards children such as musical shows, workshops and lessons.
- Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival
Held every year for a week in February, when the snowfall is heaviest, the Sapporo Snow Festival turns the famous Odori Park into a winter fantasy wonderland. Here, you’ll find the International Snow Sculpture Contest, which has been held on-site since 1974. You’ll also be able to find hundreds of snow statues and ice sculptures in the nearby Susukino area. They are lit beautifully at night, which makes them great for family photos. There is also a wide variety of winter activities available, including sledding and snow tubing, as well as musical performances.
- Visit The Zoo
A visit to the zoo can be both great fun and educational for children. Maruyama Zoo is a popular destination in Sapporo for families. Here, the aim is to recreate the animals’ natural habitat so visitors are able to view them in their most natural state, safely. The Kid’s Zoo section is sure to delight young children – they’ll be able to feed and pet small animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits. There is also a large playground on-site for children who are just overflowing with energy. The Maruyama Zoo is open all year and anyone below the age of 16 gets in for free, while adults are required to pay a small fee.
- Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Just a short ride from Sapporo by train is Shiroi Koibito Park: a toy museum, candy store and chocolate factory all in one. Entrance to the main park is free of charge, and a mini steam train ride is available to board for a small fee. The main draw here is the Shiroi Koibito chocolate cookie: a butter cookie with a white chocolate filling. For a small fee, families can visit the factory where these cookies are made and be treated to a presentation of the history of the confection. On the second floor of the Shiroi Koibito shop is a museum that houses an impressive collection of toys – and what kid wouldn’t be interested in that?
- See a Puppet Show
At the Kogumaza Sapporo Children’s Puppet Theatre in Nakajima Park, a puppet show is held every weekend and every day during the long school holidays. It’s a great place to take young children to experience art and culture. The best part is the place is friendly even to parents with infants or children who can be a little restless and loud.
Going on a family trip to Sapporo can be an exciting experience. By following these tips and including these locations in your itinerary, you’re ensuring that even the youngest members of your family will have a lot of fun creating happy memories.
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