If visiting in the winter, you’re probably keen to hit the slopes. Whether you’re a skier or snowboarder, the capital of Japan’s northernmost province is one of the best places to zip across fresh powdery snowbanks. You can also try snowshoeing, sledding, tubing or simply enjoy the après ski atmosphere in the cosy lodge with a glass of winter cocktail or local whisky in hand.

Taking a dip in a therapeutic Japanese onsen has long been one of the top things to do in Sapporo. From traditional indoor spas to natural outdoor baths surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, you will find an array of hot spring experiences in the city and the countryside beyond. After speeding down the mountains, soaking in a steamy onsen bath can work wonders on your tired muscles, while the serene surroundings help to clear the mind.

Thanks to the abundance of high-quality seafood, vegetables, dairy and more, the city has a vibrant food scene that will delight your taste buds. As you explore charming local restaurants, don’t miss local specialities like soup curry (made from a thin base, tender chicken and aromatic veggies); jingisukan, a grilled lamb dish named after Genghis Khan (supposedly because the grill resembles a Mongolian helmet); miso ramen, kaisendon (sushi rice) and, of course, ice cream made with fresh Hokkaido milk.

In Hokkaido, the abundant annual snowfall always warrants a grand celebration. During the Snow Festival – a not-to-miss Sapporo attraction taking place every February – the city transforms into a winter wonderland. Landmarks like Odori Park and Tsudome (the Sapporo Community Dome) fill up with illuminated snow and ice sculptures, while family-friendly activities, ranging from ice-sledding to snow mazes to live music, make it a magical experience for visitors of all ages.

Summer in Sapporo has become synonymous with kaleidoscopic scenery. In mid-July, the city’s many parks, gardens and fields around the city explode with irises, lavender, roses, poppies, sunflowers and lilies. Many travellers also love to explore Farm Tomita near Furano, about two hours east by car. In this picturesque rural setting, admire brilliant lavender fields and sample local treats like sweet melon, lavender ice cream and lavender cream puffs.

Known for its crisp malts and lightly hoppy flavour, Sapporo Beer has been brewed in its namesake city since 1877. At the brand’s dedicated museum, you can explore the iconic brand’s history, learn more about the beer-making process and enjoy a beer tasting for a small fee. Keep the energy going at one of the nearby beer halls, where you’ll find all-you-can-eat jingisukan (barbecued lamb) and chilled draughts.

For those wondering when to go to Sapporo, anytime is a good time. Winter provides ethereal snowscapes, while spring and summer promise hiking, cycling and lush green scenery. Come October, you’ll be in autumnal heaven as the trees burst with radiant shades of orange, yellow and red. Go foliage-peeping downtown at leafy Odori Park or Hokkaido University’s campus or head outside of the city to nearby Mount Moiwa, which has an observation deck at its summit.

While exploring the city, be sure to savour the incredible local seafood at the Curb Market – a massive complex of restaurants and shops selling fresh Hokkaido crab, sea urchin, salmon roe, squid, scallops and more. To sample the bounty, visit one of the restaurants for kaisendon (a bowl of rice topped with sashimi). Closer to downtown, you can also visit the Nijo Market for the same great seafood on a smaller scale.

For a change of pace, embark on a day trip to quaint Otaru, just 30 minutes by train from Sapporo. The scenic port town charms visitors with its beautifully preserved canal and “herring mansions” (massive wooden homes built by fishermen in the 1800s), not to mention little cafés, galleries and shops occupying former warehouses. While you’re there, snap up local arts and crafts, especially the world-class glassware.

In 1934, Taketsuru Masataka, the so-called “Father of Japanese Whisky”, opened Nikka Whisky Distillery in the small town of Yoichi, about a half-hour west of Sapporo along the coastline. You can still visit the original stone-walled facility, which was Hokkaido’s first distillery, to see where Nikka Whisky is carefully made in bulbous copper stills. After a self-guided tour, sample the distillery’s single-malt whiskies, which are known for their mellow peaty notes, brininess and excellent quality.