Hokkaido’s New Crown Jewel: Hanami at InterContinental Sapporo

My home for the stay was the Corner Junior Suite, a masterclass in spacious, contemporary design. Spanning 72 sqm, the suite felt like a private residence, balancing a serene atmosphere with modern amenities. The corner location provided a staggering dual perspective: on one side, the lush, blossoming canopies of Nakajima Park, and on the other, the sparkling city skyline punctuated by the dramatic silhouette of the mountain alps.

The room featured a dedicated vanity desk—a thoughtful touch for the modern traveller—and a beautifully curated minibar tucked into a bespoke cabinet. However, the true “piece de resistance” was the bathroom. Clad in elegant stone, it featured a deep Japanese-style soaking tub and dual vanity units. The hotel provides specific morning and evening bath salts, allowing for a ritualistic soak that prepares you for the day or lulls you into a restful sleep. Naturally, having exclusive Club InterContinental Lounge access throughout the stay added that final, indispensable layer of luxury to the entire experience.

As dusk fell over Sapporo, the 14th-floor Club InterContinental Lounge transformed into a sophisticated retreat. The panoramic views of the city lights began to twinkle, providing a mesmerising backdrop for the evening cocktail hour. The service here is exceptionally personalised; the staff seem to anticipate your needs before you even voice them.

I sampled two of their signature creations. The Lavender Field—a nod to Hokkaido’s famous blooms—was a refreshing blend of red wine, lemonade, and lavender syrup, topped with a “mona jewel.” It was floral yet crisp. Following this was the Grassland, a bold mixture of Hokkaido Gin, Ribbon Citron, and Matcha. Paired with delicate light bites featuring seasonal Hokkaido ingredients like local cheeses and seafood, it was the quintessential way to transition into a refined evening of relaxation.

Dinner was an extraordinary affair at SAWAKA on the 9th floor. This is “Contemporary Kappo” at its finest, where traditional Japanese techniques are reimagined through a modern lens. Sitting at the live chef’s counter, I watched as Chef Fernando meticulously prepared the MIYABI menu, his movements as precise as a calligrapher’s.

The journey began with delicate Cabbage and Crab, followed by the tender earthiness of Abalone with Yacon Root. The Kombu-Cured Scallop was a triumph of texture, brightened by radish and fresh herbs. One of the most creative dishes was the Conger Eel paired with Matcha, Sudachi citrus, and a hint of sake lees salt—a complex, smoky, and citrusy delight.

As the menu progressed to the Maitake Tofu and a succulent Duck with Yuzu Bigarade Sauce, it became clear that SAWAKA is a celebration of Hokkaido’s terroir. The final savoury course—Pork served with a grilled rice ball and Tama Miso—was soul-warming. We concluded with exquisite Petit Fours, each a miniature work of art. The expertly crafted drink pairings throughout the meal elevated every ingredient to perfection.

Breakfast at Au Blanc offers a more expansive, indulgent start to the day. The restaurant specialises in casual French cuisine infused with Hokkaido’s seasonal bounty. The moment you step inside, you are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread from their on-site bakery—a scent that defines the “refined all-day dining” experience.

While the buffet and à la carte options are vast, the standout for me was the Hokkaido Miso Ramen. It was rich, authentic, and incredibly comforting—a must-try when in the region. I also enjoyed the White Egg Benedict, which was decadently topped with truffle ham. To finish, I sipped on the hotel’s original tea, a fragrant blend with delicate flower bud notes that perfectly complemented the buttery pastries from the bakery.

Afternoon tea in the Club Lounge is a tranquil, quintessentially British affair with a Japanese twist. The setting is peaceful, away from the bustle of the city, making it an ideal spot to recharge.

The highlight was undoubtedly the scone, served with proper homemade clotted cream and a vibrant blueberry confiture. The sweet selection was equally impressive: a delicate vanilla macaron, traditional Warabi mochi, a light strawberry rare cheesecake, and a rich bonbon chocolat amer. I paired these treats with the Ronnefeldt Tea selection, finding the Earl Grey and the floral Morgentau to be the perfect companions for an afternoon of quiet indulgence.

One of the most blissful moments of my stay was spent at the indoor heated pool. Surrounded by plush loungers and featuring a spectacular glass ceiling window, the space feels like a high-altitude oasis. I timed my visit for the sunset hour, watching the sky shift from pale blue to fiery orange as I floated in the warm water. It is a stylish haven that successfully bridges the gap between modern luxury and the quiet, rejuvenating spirit of a wellness sanctuary.

For a more private and serene morning, I returned to the Club Lounge for breakfast. Unlike the bustle of the main restaurant, this experience is calm and highly attentive.

I opted for the Japanese Breakfast Set, which was presented with stunning precision. It included steamed rice, a comforting miso soup, a perfectly folded Japanese omelet, and the grilled fish of the day. Accompanied by cod roe, pickles, and crisp nori, it provided a balanced and authentic start to the day. Starting the morning in such a refined setting, with a view of the waking city, felt like a true privilege.

To end the day, I visited the bar for a final nightcap. There is something profoundly peaceful about looking out over the darkened city of Sapporo with a perfectly crafted cocktail in hand.

I tried the Okhotsk Blue, a striking drink featuring Hokkaido White Wine, Blue Curacao, and a smoky hint of Laphroaig 10-year-old—it was as cool and mysterious as the northern sea itself. My companion enjoyed the Dress-up Punch, a clever mix of Tantakatan (shiso shochu), Mancino Rosso Vermouth, and Calpis. It was the perfect way to unwind and ease into a restful slumber, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

My stay at InterContinental Sapporo was nothing short of spectacular. As the city’s first international luxury hotel, it has set an incredibly high bar for hospitality in Hokkaido. During the Hanami season, the hotel acts as a sophisticated lens through which to view the beauty of Northern Japan, blending the brand’s storied elegance with the unique flavours and traditions of the region.

From the culinary artistry at SAWAKA to the “oasis-like” qualities of the Club Lounge and pool, every moment felt curated and special. If you are looking for an inspiring, premium base to explore the wilds and the wonders of Sapporo, this is undoubtedly the city’s new crown jewel.