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Japan's newest major city, Sapporo is the capital of and major gateway to the majestic island of Hokkaido. Yes, Sapporo tourists are just a short ride from some of Japan's most beautiful winter wonderlands and spectacular summer scenery. However, the dynamic urban design of this city, along with its wonderful culinary delights, exciting festivals and energetic nightlife add a whole other dimension to its world-class appeal.

What Sapporo lacks in historical Japanese heritage, it certainly makes up for in modern splendours. Tourists shouldn’t rush a holiday in the Hokkaido capital.

Sapporo's parks are renowned throughout Japan. During the warmer months, they provide the perfect escape for picnics and afternoon walks. Odori Park splits downtown Sapporo and can’t be missed. Memorial Park offers a great viewpoint of the city, and the blossoming flowers of Asahiyama Park are simply breath-taking.

Cultural highlights are also on display throughout the city. The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art and Sapporo Art Park are ideal attractions for contemporary art lovers. Tourists should also not miss the eye-opening Historical Village of Hokkaido, which takes visitors to the pre-21st century era.

Even though summer brings beautiful weather, Sapporo's winter is spectacular. The city is a gateway to some of the most renowned ski resorts in the country, including places like Mt Teine and the powder slopes of Niseko.

Sapporo has an interesting nightlife, with the local brew, Sapporo Beer, dominating the pale ales. One of the best places to enjoy a few cold beers is at the Beer Museum. However, the best after-hours district in the city is Susukino, which is home to most of Sapporo's night clubs, bars and adult establishments. Like the rest of Hokkaido, the prefectural capital is famous for its cuisine. The seafood delicacy hairy crab can be found in most seafood restaurants. On a cold winter's day, nothing is more satisfying than a bowl of Sapporo's original miso ramen. Head to the Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho alley in Susukino, where Japan's best ramen restaurants await.

The Nijo Market is one of Japan's most famous fish markets, and is certainly a sight worth visiting while in Sapporo. This hectic, fast-paced seafood spot is a great place for sightseeing, shopping and dining. Like other Japanese cities, Sapporo boasts a large number of underground shopping arcades, department stores and galleries. Tanuki Koji is perhaps the city's premier site for those who love shopping.