What's New in Hokkaido, Autumn 2026
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SAPPORO, Japan - Washingtoner -- Hokkaido is one of Japan's most sought-after travel destinations, and getting there is becoming easier than ever with the launch of new nonstop flights from North America. In October, visitors can experience one of the island's most spectacular seasonal displays at Uni Garden near Sapporo, where thousands of kochia shrubs transform into a brilliant crimson landscape. For a convenient stay, the Fairfield by Marriott Sapporo offers an ideal location just steps from Susukino, one of Japan's three premier entertainment districts.

Located at Japan's northernmost tip, Hokkaido accounts for more than 20 percent of the country's total land area. Renowned for its expansive natural scenery, exceptional cuisine, soothing hot springs, and world-famous powder snow, the island offers unforgettable experiences in every season. This winter, travel from North America will become even more convenient with United Airlines launching nonstop service from San Francisco to Sapporo and Air Canada introducing direct flights from Vancouver to Sapporo.

Hokkaido's vast landscapes reveal a different character with each season and in every region. From summer through autumn, the island's cool, comfortable climate provides ideal conditions for vibrant flower displays, attracting travelers in search of breathtaking scenery and memorable photographs. One of the region's highlights is Yuni Garden, located approximately 50 minutes from downtown Sapporo and just 35 minutes from New Chitose Airport. The garden showcases beautiful seasonal blooms throughout spring, summer, and fall, but its most celebrated attraction arrives in October, when approximately 32,000 kochia plants reach their peak. As the shrubs turn a vivid crimson, they create a dramatic sea of red stretching across the landscape—a truly unforgettable sight. The Kochia Festival will be held from October 1 to November 3, 2026.

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When visiting Sapporo, the Fairfield by Marriott Sapporo is an excellent choice for both comfort and convenience. Operated by the Tobu Hotel Group, the hotel is located in the heart of the city, just a one-minute walk from both Susukino and Nijo Fish Market.

Susukino is recognized as one of Japan's Three Great Entertainment Districts, alongside Kabukicho in Tokyo and Nakasu in Fukuoka. Its lively streets are filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife, making it easy to discover local flavors and vibrant evening entertainment. Nearby, Nijo Market offers a quintessential Sapporo experience, where visitors can browse an impressive selection of freshly caught seafood each morning.

Designed around the concept of "The Beauty of Simplicity," the hotel's guestrooms combine understated elegance with modern comforts. Restaurant LUONTO, overlooking the tranquil courtyard, serves a breakfast featuring an abundance of fresh, locally sourced Hokkaido ingredients. Guests can also relax at FIKA CAFÉ Lagom, inspired by the Swedish tradition of fika—a moment to slow down and enjoy coffee, conversation, and freshly baked bread in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

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Fairfield by Marriott Sapporo Rooms & Rates

9 Stories (guest rooms on floors 2–9)

254 rooms total

Rates: From 20,000 Yen to 30,000 Yen (per person/per night including breakfast. Excludes consumption tax and accommodation tax. Rates vary depending on the accommodation plan and the time of year.)

Fairfield by Marriott Sapporo Contact
Minami 4 Higashi 1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0054, Japan
Tel: +81 11-242-0111