Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Sapporo Factory is a commercial complex created by redeveloping the former Sapporo Beer brewery site. Its distinctive landscape, a blend of historic red brick architecture and a modern glass atrium, makes it one of Sapporo's most popular tourist spots, combining shopping, dining, and event spaces. While the historic brick building retains its original appearance, the building is lined with a variety of stores, including fashion, general merchandise, interior design, a supermarket, restaurants, and cafes, and the seasonal decorations and events (Christmas trees, flea markets, live music, etc.) are also appealing. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy beer and gourmet food made with Hokkaido ingredients, allowing you to experience both sightseeing and local food culture at the same time.
Highlights
- Red brick "Brick Hall": This area allows you to see historical architecture up close. It is a popular photo spot.
- Glass-roofed Atrium: A central plaza with an open feel. A large Christmas tree and seasonal decorations are set up.
- Shopping: A wide range of shops including fashion, miscellaneous goods, interior goods, and accessories.
- Food: Restaurants and cafes that use ingredients from Hokkaido, and beer halls where you can enjoy Sapporo beer (offerings vary by store).
- Events & Workshops: Markets, live music, and children's events are often held on weekends and seasonally.
- As it is indoors, you can enjoy it regardless of the weather, making it ideal for winter sightseeing.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Within walking distance of JR Sapporo Station (approximately a 7-15 minute walk from the station). Also accessible on foot from the subway station (Odori area).
- Bus: You can access the venue by taking a local bus that runs through the city center. Just select "Sapporo Factory" or "Sapporo Beer Museum" in the destination box.
- By car: Parking is available on-site (the number of spaces and fees vary depending on the time of day and day of the week, so please check the official information in advance). It may be crowded on weekends and during events.
- Taxi: From Sapporo Station or the Odori area, it takes about a few minutes to 10 minutes by taxi.
- Bicycle/walking: It is close to the city center, so it is convenient to combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area by walking or cycling.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Shopping center: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Dining + Shopping: 2-3 hours
- If you include leisurely events, exhibitions, and beer hall use: 3 hours or more
- Short visit (observation/photography): 30 minutes to 1 hour
Nearby spots
- Odori Park and Sapporo TV Tower: Within walking distance, you can enjoy seasonal events (Snow Festival, Flower Festival, etc.).
- Around Sapporo Station (commercial facilities and department stores): Convenient as a hub for shopping and transportation.
- Susukino: Nightlife and entertainment area (accessible by foot or subway).
- Former Hokkaido Government Red Brick Building: A historic building and a great photo spot.
- Sapporo Beer Museum (walk or bus depending on area): Learn about the history of beer and sample beer.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Restaurants tend to be extremely crowded on weekends, public holidays, during sales, Christmas, and other major events. You may have to wait at restaurants, so please allow plenty of time to visit or consider making a reservation in advance (if possible).
- Business hours: Business hours vary by store. Restaurants and event venues in particular may close earlier or later, so please check the official website or the information for each store.
- Photography etiquette: While photography is permitted in many areas within the museum, please be considerate and respectful of other visitors. As this is a commercial facility, prior permission may be required for commercial photography or the use of large equipment.
- Pets and strollers: Whether or not pets and strollers are allowed varies by store. Please follow the rules of the building and the information provided by each store. Many facilities are barrier-free and have nursing rooms and baby rooms, but we recommend checking in advance what facilities you will need.
- Weather/season: As it is an indoor facility, it is comfortable even in winter, but when going outside, be sure to take measures to protect yourself from the cold (such as shoes suitable for snowy roads). Spring and autumn are tourist seasons, so it tends to be crowded.
- Parking: Parking may be full during peak hours. Please consider using public transportation.
We recommend checking the official website or social media before visiting for the latest opening hours, event information, access details, and on-site services (parking fees, location of nursing rooms, etc.).
