Sapporo is one of Japan's most liveable cities – spacious, grid-planned, and blessed with excellent food, craft beer, and easy access to both ski slopes and seafood markets. Opened in December 2025, the hotel sits just a four-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, with direct access to the underground walkway that keeps you sheltered from winter's bite. The design threads Hokkaido's earthy tones throughout, and facilities punch above typical city-hotel weight: a grill restaurant showcasing local produce, a guest-only public bath, and a Premium Lounge with terrace views for those in higher-tier rooms. It's a polished base for exploring the city's ramen alleys, craft breweries, and – come February – the famous Snow Festival.
Eight room categories span solo business travellers to couples after a little more space. At the top, 'The Gate' suite stretches to 64 square metres with twin beds and terrace access, while the Luxe and Classy tiers offer a comfortable middle ground with lounge privileges. Design is understated and modern: earthy hues, quality Slumberland mattresses, Hansgrohe rain showers, and Nespresso machines as standard. GemiD amenities – Japan's first all-natural cosmetics brand – are a thoughtful touch throughout.
The connection to Sapporo's underground walkway is genuinely brilliant – you can reach the station, shopping arcades, and Odori Park without stepping outside, which in Hokkaido's snowy winters is no small thing.
Book breakfast and try the Oboro Kombu and Salmon Flakes Rice Set – it's exclusive to this hotel and a proper taste of Hokkaido to start the day.
The hotel is geared more toward design-conscious couples and solo travellers than families with young children.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
The Gate Hotel by Hulic can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Japan trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Japan trips featuring The Gate Hotel by Hulic or get advice and suggestions from one of our Japan specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at The Gate Hotel by Hulic start from around $110, or US$110, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A unique northern city at its most beautiful and enchanting under a blanket of snow.
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