Sapporo’s Pioneering Spirit Trail

Sapporo is a unique city that underwent dramatic transformation in a short period. While it is now a bustling metropolis of 2 million people, just 150 years ago it was untouched primeval forest. This rapid growth was driven by the "frontier spirit" of early pioneers. Join us on a walking tour to uncover this story by tracing the "Polaris"—the five-pointed star symbol placed upon key historical sites across the city. We will visit landmarks like the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building and the Clock Tower to see the Polaris symbol firsthand, while searching for traces of history hidden within the modern landscape. Along the way, we will stop for prayer at Hokkaido Jingu Tongu and a break with Japanese tea. The trail concludes at the site of Japan's first beer brewery, where pioneers' dreams were once bottled. After the tour ends, we invite you to relax and enjoy a beer to toast Sapporo's remarkable 150-year journey. (Food and drinks after the tour are at your own expense.)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Pass by

   Meet your guide at JR Sapporo Station, the modern gateway to the city, to begin your journey through 150 years of pioneering history.

2. 2

   Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

   45 min

   Explore iconic landmarks such as the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building and the Clock Tower. Along the way, we will search for the "Polaris" symbols that mark the city's heritage. (Exterior viewing only)

3. 3

   Clock Tower (Tokei-dai)

   45 min

   Explore iconic landmarks such as the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building and the Clock Tower. Along the way, we will search for the "Polaris" symbols that mark the city's heritage. (Exterior viewing only)

4. 4

   Stop 4

   15 min

   Take a short, relaxing break with Japanese tea to refresh your spirit before continuing our walk through the city’s storied streets.

5. 5

   Hokkaido Shrine Ton-gu

   45 min

   Visit Hokkaido Jingu Tongu, a sacred shrine that has watched over Sapporo’s growth, and experience a moment of traditional prayer and tranquility.

6. 6

   Sapporo Kaitakushi Beer Brewery

   Pass by

   The tour concludes in front of the Sapporo Kaitakushi Beer Brewery. We leave you at this historic site, where you are free to enjoy the surroundings or a drink at your own leisure.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.