The hype
Travelers obsess over the location and the 'secret' back entrance into the arcade.
Richmond Hotel Sapporo Odori
$100-180/ night
Book this if You want to sleep inside the shopping arcade and eat your way through Sapporo without ever putting on a coat.
Why People Love It
- Direct backdoor access to Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade (Block 4)
- Renovated in late 2024 with fresh, modern interiors
- Exceptional breakfast buffet featuring all-you-can-eat scallop and salmon roe
Quick Take: A polished, high-efficiency basecamp that trades room square footage for unbeatable location.
Reviewed by @yisin0903: I spent a few days here during my Hokkaido winter trip. It’s not a luxury resort, but coming back to this warm, clean room after freezing on the train was heaven. Perfect practical base for exploring the city.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The bathroom step-up is high and the units in standard rooms feel a bit plastic and small.
- You are in Sapporo for the Snow Festival (Odori Park is 3 mins away)
- You prioritize being able to drop off shopping bags mid-day
- You love Japanese business hotel efficiency but want a slightly more upscale feel
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.9
- Housekeeping: Daily cleaning is thorough; eco-cleaning option available for points.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless grout and mirrors, though the unit baths are older style.
- Maintenance: Renovated rooms feel brand new; older rooms show minor scuffs.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and replaced daily without issue.
- Odors & scents: Neutral scent; no lingering smoke smells in non-smoking rooms.
Sleepability™
7.8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street noise from Tanukikoji arcade
- Hallway sounds due to heavy foot traffic
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel entrance is technically on the street parallel to the arcade, but the back door is the real MVP.
- Join the Richmond Club (free) for 12pm late check-out privileges.
- There is a coin laundry on the 6th and 10th floors—check status on your TV.
What to pack
- Slip-on shoes for constant shoeless/slipper transitions
- A power strip if you have many devices (outlets can be oddly placed)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premier Corner Twin (spacious, better layout)
- Precious Twin (includes massage chair and facial steamer)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Double if you have more than one carry-on bag
- Rooms near the elevator on lower floors (noise risk)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a higher floor facing away from the arcade entrance for a quieter stay. If available, a corner unit would be wonderful.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a gym?
No, there is no fitness center on-site. Runners head to Odori Park nearby.
How much is breakfast?
¥2,800 for adults, ¥1,400 for elementary students, free for preschoolers.
Does the hotel have an onsen?
No public bath or onsen here. Rooms have standard unit baths.
Is it good for the Snow Festival?
Yes, it's one of the best locations—Odori Park is literally a 3-minute walk.
Can I store luggage before check-in?
Yes, the front desk will hold bags securely for free.
Is there an airport shuttle?
No, but the airport bus stops nearby at the Sunroute New Sapporo hotel stop.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the 'Modish' restaurant entrance to cut directly into the Tanukikoji arcade without going outside.
- ✨
The amenities bar at the front desk has high-quality bath salts and face masks—grab them daily.
- ✨
If the breakfast line is huge (common at 8am), ask the front desk for a wait time estimate before going down.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard Double' bed is often pushed against a wall, making it awkward for couples.
💡The elevators can be painfully slow during the morning rush (8-9:30 AM).
💡You can hear the 'don-don-don, Don Quijote' theme song from the street if you open your window.
💡The in-room pajamas are actually comfortable separates, not the dreaded one-piece robe.
💡There is a microwave on the 8th floor, perfect for heating up 7-Eleven bentos.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Richmond Hotel Sapporo Odori is located and what's nearby.