The largest Japanese city north of Tokyo, Sapporo is located on the country’s northernmost main island, Hokkaido. Often considered the most beautiful city in Japan, Sapporo has hosted the Winter Olympics and is known internationally for its beer production and winter festivals and celebrations.
Sapporo is the ideal Japanese destination for travelers in search of something different. All you need to do is shop for the right travel medical insurance and you can explore everything there is to see in Sapporo with confidence.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Sapporo – FAQs
Traveling abroad is exciting, but it can quickly become stressful if you get hurt or become ill outside of your home country. It can be tough to know where to go for treatment, and how to pay for it. Travel medical insurance can help.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Sapporo?
It isn’t a legal requirement, but you really are taking a risk going without it. You’ll find first-class hospitals and doctors in Sapporo, but private healthcare will not be cheap, and the health insurance from your home country is unlikely to be accepted. It’s better to be prepared with travel medical insurance that’s specifically designed for when you travel.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Sapporo?
It’s impossible to predict getting hurt or sick. A serious health condition could require emergency medical evacuation, which can cost an extremely large amount of money. Travel medical insurance can cover any eligible new medical condition on your trip that occurs after the effective date of the policy. This way you won’t have to worry should you have a health scare.
Sapporo’s Most Popular Activities
Head to Odori Park
Odori Park is a large park in the center of Sapporo, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The park is home to a variety of attractions including gardens, fountains, sculptures, and a concert hall. In the winter, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures and snowmen lining the walking paths.
Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum
Sapporo is known for its beer, and the Sapporo Beer Museum is a great place to learn about the history of brewing in the city. The museum offers tours of the brewery, tastings, and a beer garden. Just be sure not to drive if you decide to indulge in a tasting. Japan has very strict drunk driving laws.
Take in the View From JR Tower Observation Deck
The JR Tower Observation Deck offers stunning views of Sapporo and the surrounding mountains. The deck is located on the 38th floor of the JR Tower, and it is the highest observation deck in Hokkaido.
Get Outdoors on Mount Moiwa
Mount Moiwa is a mountain located just outside of Sapporo. It is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The mountain also has an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city.
Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade is a covered shopping arcade that is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. The arcade is a great place to find souvenirs, try local food, and experience Japanese culture.
Key Guidelines for Visitors to Sapporo
Dress Warmly
Sapporo has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. Even in the summer, it can be chilly in the evenings, so it's important to pack warm clothes, especially if you're visiting during the winter months.
Try the Local Food
Sapporo is known for its delicious food, including ramen, beer, and seafood. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as miso ramen, Genghis Khan lamb barbecue, and uni (sea urchin).
Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the largest and most famous snow festivals in the world. It is held every year in February and features massive snow sculptures, ice slides, and other winter activities.
Before You Visit Sapporo – Do This
- Pack winter clothes for visits during every season except for summer.
- Make sure your insurance covers the activities you plan to take part in. If not, get hazardous sports travel insurance.
- Shop for travel medical insurance and purchase the plan that fits your needs the best.