Sapporo
Overview
Sapporo (札幌市, Sapporo-shi) is the fifth-largest city in Japan by population, and the largest city on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido. It is the capital city of Hokkaido Prefecture and is an ordinance-designated city. Sapporo is known for its beautiful landscapes, hot springs, ski resorts, and the famous Sapporo Beer.
History
The history of Sapporo dates back to the early Meiji period. The city was chosen as the administrative center of Hokkaido in 1868, which marked the beginning of its development. The city was officially incorporated in 1871. The early development of Sapporo was closely tied to the Hokkaido Colonization Office and the development of Hokkaido University.
Geography
Sapporo is located in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, within the Ishikari Subprefecture. The city is situated in a basin between the Toyohira River and the Ishikari River, surrounded by mountains. The city's total area is 1,121.26 square kilometers.
Climate
Sapporo has a humid continental climate, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city is known for its heavy snowfall, with an average of 5.96 meters per year. The snowfall is due to the Siberian High system and the Aleutian Low system.
Economy
The economy of Sapporo is diverse, with a focus on the service sector. The city is a major center for business, tourism, and education in Hokkaido. Major industries include information technology, retail, and food and beverage. The city is also home to several major companies, including Sapporo Breweries, the maker of Sapporo Beer.
Culture
Sapporo is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters. The city is also famous for its food, including Sapporo ramen, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts millions of tourists from around the world.
Education
Sapporo is a major center for education in Hokkaido. The city is home to several universities, including Hokkaido University, one of the top universities in Japan. The city also has a number of public and private high schools.
Transportation
Sapporo has a well-developed transportation network, including the Sapporo Subway, JR Hokkaido lines, and several bus lines. The city is also served by the New Chitose Airport, the largest airport in Hokkaido.