New Opening: InterContinental Sapporo on Hokkaido, Japan
by Briana Bonfiglio
InterContinental Sapporo. Photo: IHG
IHG Hotels & Resorts debuted InterContinental Sapporo earlier this month, marking the first international luxury hotel in Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island.
As Hokkaido grows as a major ski and culinary destination, InterContinental Sapporo now offers 149 guestrooms, including 13 suites, for guests visiting this UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts. The newly built hotel occupies the ninth to 14th floors of the Lilac Square complex.
“InterContinental has been connecting guests to the culture and beauty of the world’s most inspiring destinations for almost 80 years,” said Ben Leitgeb, InterContinental Sapporo’s general manager. “We are honored to extend that legacy for guests today, offering a meaningful and memorable experience, unlocking the very heart of Sapporo for both locals and international travelers alike.”
InterContinental Sapporo features an indoor heated pool with city skyline views, a 24-hour fitness center, and a Club InterContinental lounge. Guest rooms have a range of city, park, and river views, as the property overlooks the Toyohira River.
Dining options include Sawaka, an omakase-style specialty restaurant; AuBlanc, an all-day bistronomy-style restaurant; and Norva Lounge & Bar, a space that includes a fire lounge and forest lounge offering afternoon tea by day and cocktails by night.
The new hotel is the 10th InterContinental in Japan. The brand has more than 230 hotels worldwide. For clients with tighter budgets, IHG has also just opened a Holiday Inn & Suites in Sapporo, as well.





