The InterContinental Sapporo: An Architectural Gem Inspired by Hokkaido

Between River and Park: The Serene Escape of Sapporo

Opened in October 2025, the InterContinental Sapporo boasts a prime location in the Nakajima Park district of Sapporo. Nestled between the tranquil Toyohira River and Nakajima Park, this hotel occupies the 9th to 14th floors of the imposing Lilac Square complex, and is just one metro stop from the vibrant Susukino district. Guests can easily access the hotel from Nakajima-Koen Station on the Namboku metro line, which is only a few minutes' walk away. Furthermore, it is well connected to New Chitose Airport, reachable in about an hour by train and metro, or fifty minutes by taxi. This ideal location allows visitors to enjoy the urban energy while being surrounded by cultural sites and enchanting natural landscapes, offering a perfect balance between cultural exploration and peaceful relaxation.

A Luxury Sanctuary Inspired by Hokkaido

The InterContinental Sapporo cultivates contemporary residential elegance, at the crossroads of Japanese and Western influences. Designed by the Nikken Sekkei firm, the interiors highlight noble materials, warm woodwork, mineral textures, and furniture with organic lines. The lobby, located on the 9th floor, perfectly illustrates this philosophy with a particularly meticulous staging, where dark stone, reflective plays, water elements, and vegetation create an almost contemplative atmosphere. Greatly inspired by the nature of Hokkaido, the decor unfolds a succession of ambiances centered on water, fire, and the forest, notably through the various reception areas and lounges. The play of light, contemporary artworks, and discreet references to local culture enrich this ensemble, creating an atmosphere that is both sophisticated, cozy, and warm, more evocative of a sumptuous private residence than a traditional grand hotel.

149 Havens of Peace with a View

The InterContinental Sapporo houses 149 rooms and suites, including 13 suites. Starting at 42 m², they extend the contemporary elegance of the common areas into a more intimate and residential spirit, evoking a refined apartment rather than a traditional hotel room. The decor plays on a palette of natural and soothing tones, combining light woodwork, shades of beige and gray, punctuated by touches of olive green, purple, and burgundy. The sleek-lined furniture, leather-clad headboards, stone tables, and enveloping armchairs compose a sophisticated and warm ensemble. Special attention has been paid to textures, notably through rugs with organic patterns reminiscent of Hokkaido's vegetation and landscapes. Large bay windows, offering superb perspectives of the city, Nakajima Park, and the surrounding mountains depending on the room's orientation, reinforce this connection with nature.

During our stay, we had the pleasure of discovering the King Classic High Floor room, located on the upper floors and offering a surface area of 42 m². This spacious room features a comfortable king-size bed and a design that combines functionality with refined elegance. The bathroom, with its warm gray marble and Byredo Bal D’Afrique body products, provides a true haven of peace. With soundproof windows, a flat-screen TV, and a well-stocked minibar, every detail has been thought out to make our stay as comfortable as possible.

The Art of Personalized Service at the Club InterContinental

During our stay, we had the privilege of accessing the prestigious Club InterContinental, nestled at the top of the hotel. This true haven of peace, reserved for Premium Room and Suite guests, enveloped us in personalized service of exceptional quality, transforming our experience into an unforgettable memory. This exclusive lounge truly deserves its place on the podium of the best hotel lounges we have had the pleasure of discovering. Throughout the day, we savored an exquisite selection of dishes and drinks, from delicious breakfasts to sophisticated evening cocktails, not forgetting the delicate afternoon tea. Additionally, the lounge offers the convenience of private check-in and check-out, as well as access to a meeting room, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience from start to finish of our stay.

In the afternoon, we enjoyed a gourmet break with an Afternoon Tea featuring tea accompanied by seasonal delicacies, all in a peaceful and refined setting. In the evening, we admired the sparkling view of Sapporo while savoring a refined selection of wines, cocktails, and champagnes. In addition to light bites, the lounge also offers substantial dishes for those seeking a more filling meal, highlighting the seasonal ingredients of Hokkaido. To end the day beautifully, a perfectly crafted nightcap, whether a smooth whisky, a delicate liqueur, or a bespoke cocktail, provided a refined calm interlude, conducive to relaxation before a restful night's sleep.

Hokkaido's Gourmet Dawn

Breakfast is an essential experience at Chez Aublanc, where guests are invited to explore a sumptuous buffet celebrating seasonal Hokkaido ingredients, accompanied by a rich à la carte menu of savory choices. However, for those with the privilege of accessing the lounge, an even more refined experience awaits. In this exclusive space, breakfast is enjoyed in a more intimate manner. Here, you can savor original Eggs Benedict, whether with salmon and salmon roe or bacon and truffle, each bite promising an explosion of flavors. Sweet tooths will succumb to the French toast, enhanced by a red fruit coulis and accompanied by fresh fruits.

Palette of Flavors: A Culinary World to Discover

At the InterContinental Sapporo, gastronomy takes on a new dimension, where each meal becomes an unforgettable sensory experience. Within the Sawaka restaurant, guests are invited on a culinary journey where Japanese aesthetics harmonize with avant-garde culinary techniques. Talented chefs transform local Hokkaido ingredients into true masterpieces, using methods such as charcoal and low-temperature cooking. What truly distinguishes the experience is the direct interaction with chefs at the counter, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the culinary art live and fully appreciate the aromas and flavors that unfold before their eyes.

The Norva Lounge, on the other hand, offers an elegant and sophisticated retreat in the heart of Sapporo. During the day, the outdoor terrace invites relaxation with breathtaking views of the surrounding urban and natural landscape, perfect for enjoying an Afternoon Tea accompanied by sweet and savory bites. At nightfall, the lounge transforms into a chic bar where cocktails and mocktails, crafted with seasonal ingredients, take center stage. Whether you want to start the weekend with music from DJ performances or get swept away by the refined ambiance, every moment spent here is a celebration of the senses, enriched by the hospitality and culinary art of the InterContinental Sapporo.

AuBlanc: French Flavors, Treasures of Hokkaido

AuBlanc offers an all-day dining experience that marries casual French cuisine with the excellence of Hokkaido's seasonal ingredients. Inspired by the natural beauty of this Japanese region, this bistro-style restaurant charms with its relaxed atmosphere and refined dishes, from breakfast to dinner. Guests can enjoy a generous buffet or an à la carte menu, each dish accompanied by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread on-site. To complete this experience, AuBlanc Boutique offers an exquisite selection of breads, pastries, and sweets to enjoy or take away, all created with exceptional craftsmanship and the finest local products.

Our dinner began with the amuse-bouche of the day. This creation is inspired by arancini, enriched with country ham delicately placed on top, adding a salty and refined touch. Next to it, an edamame bite rests on a creamy base. The harmonious combination of these flavors and textures is accompanied by a flute of champagne, offering a sophisticated and memorable culinary experience.

The tuna confit, accompanied by myoga ginger pickled in sweet vinegar, forms a refined starter that combines delicacy and subtle flavors. The tender and savory tuna pieces are elegantly arranged on the plate, beautifully contrasting with the pink-tinted Myoga ginger. This pickled ginger adds a sweet and fragrant spicy touch, enhancing the richness of the tuna. Fresh herbs and edible flowers complete the ensemble, bringing a note of color and freshness.

This refined dinner continues with a hot starter where sautéed foie gras is beautifully arranged on a bed of creamy pumpkin purée. The sweetness of the pumpkin harmonizes perfectly with the richness of the foie gras, creating a perfect balance of autumn flavors. The dish is enhanced by a mix of autumn nuts, adding a crunchy texture that delicately contrasts with the melt-in-your-mouth other ingredients. Microgreens adorn the top, bringing a touch of freshness and color to this gastronomic composition.

Next, the cumin and carrot soup is a delicious broth that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the subtle warmth of cumin. Presented in an elegant plate, the soup boasts a vibrant orange hue, sprinkled with fresh herbs and a few slivered almonds that add a crunchy touch. The velvety texture of the soup contrasts wonderfully with the crispness of the garnishes, offering a balanced and refined tasting experience.

The following dish showcases a monkfish fillet delicately placed on a creamy fennel sauce that evokes anise and fresh aromas. The monkfish is enhanced by a lemon confit, bringing a tangy and sweet touch that wonderfully contrasts with the creaminess of the sauce. A garnish of fresh greenery adds a vivid color note and an extra aromatic dimension, completing an elegant and appetizing presentation.

The culinary experience continues with a dish of elegantly prepared meat, accompanied by Tokachi herb-grilled beets that add a touch of freshness and vibrant color to the plate. The beef is beautifully cooked, imbued with umami flavors thanks to the kombu butter, creating a perfect harmony between tenderness and rich taste. Alongside, a smooth and savory sauce subtly coats the meat, while a delicate purée completes the ensemble, offering a refined and well-balanced culinary experience.

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, the deconstructed tarte tatin and salted caramel ice cream is a modern and elegant interpretation of a classic French pastry. On a refined plate, a quenelle of salted caramel ice cream sits at the center, offering a creamy indulgence. Surrounding it, delicate touches of apple purée and cream recall the traditional taste of tarte Tatin, while a crescent-shaped crunch adds a crispy texture. This dessert is a perfect balance between sweet and salty, offering a refined and visually captivating culinary experience.

The Aquatic Symphony of the 9th Floor

A sanctuary of relaxation and vitality awaits guests in this space where elegance meets wellness. The 20-meter heated indoor pool, located on the 9th floor, offers breathtaking views of Nakajima Park and the majestic mountains that surround it. This space, surrounded by comfortable loungers, is ideal for a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation at any time of the day. To maintain a fitness routine, the state-of-the-art gym, open 24 hours a day, offers a wide range of modern equipment.

My Opinion

The InterContinental Sapporo stands out with its harmonious blend of modern luxury and local inspiration, offering an unparalleled experience in the heart of Hokkaido. Every aspect of the hotel, from the elegant rooms to the refined dining spaces, is meticulously designed to immerse visitors in an environment of serenity and sophistication. The personalized service and top-notch facilities, such as the Club InterContinental, add an extra dimension of comfort and exclusivity, making each stay a memorable moment. Whether seeking relaxation by the pool with mountain views or unforgettable culinary adventures, the InterContinental Sapporo invites you to discover the best of Japanese hospitality in a sumptuous setting.

I loved:

• An exceptional lounge with an elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and remarkable gastronomic offerings, from breakfast to afternoon tea and evening services.
• A particularly luxurious and comfortable room, with a superb open view of the greenery, quite rare for a hotel in the city center.
• The AuBlanc restaurant, which offers a high-level gastronomic experience, with authentic French cuisine enhanced by the use of local products.

I regretted:

• Despite having a beautiful indoor pool, the hotel does not have a true spa with treatment rooms, an amenity that would have perfectly complemented its wellness offerings.

Practical Information

• King Classic High Floor room priced at €600 in September 2026, without lounge access.