InterContinental, the world’s first and largest international luxury hotel brand, continues its legacy of pioneering new destinations with the opening of InterContinental Sapporo, offering guests culturally rich discoveries in one of Japan’s most captivating destinations, according to a press release.
Sapporo, located in Hokkaido—Japan’s northernmost island—is renowned as a world-class winter resort destination with scenic ski slopes, a distinct culinary scene and its status as a UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts. InterContinental Sapporo serves as an ideal gateway for guests to connect to the cultural heartbeat of the city. The hotel is set within the Nakajima Park area and moments from the vibrant Susukino entertainment district. The guest journey has been designed around the brand’s vision of facilitating cultural discovery, leaning on unrivalled concierge knowledge to deliver rich experiences for modern day travellers.
Occupying the 9th to 14th floors of the striking Lilac Square complex, the new-build hotel features 149 guestrooms and includes 13 suites with city, park and river views from upper floors along the Toyohira River. The interior design fuses residential luxury with the natural beauty of Sapporo. It draws on the colors and textures of Hokkaido’s landscapes, beginning with its greenery-filled lobby lounge, fireplace and ninth floor outdoor terrace which is abundant in plants. Additionally, their alfresco lounge areas overlook the park.
Gastronomy Inspired by Hokkaido’s Bounty
InterContinental Sapporo continues its philosophy of harmonious nature and design, with three distinctive dining destinations each inspired by its surroundings. Sawaka, an omakase-style specialty restaurant, fuses Japanese aesthetics with global culinary technique in a Chef’s Choice course menu.
Techniques such as charcoal grilling and low-temperature cooking bring out the best of the ingredients from local Hokkaido and around the world, with a focus on igniting all five senses. Guests can also choose to dine at the countertop, offering a lively atmosphere with the sounds and aromas of the kitchen. AuBlanc, an all-day bistronomy-style restaurant, combines the friendliness of a local bistro with the delicacy of gastronomy, offering everything from a vibrant breakfast buffet to refined evening dining, and even a bakery. Norva Lounge & Bar, an artfully designed retreat with a fire lounge and forest lounge, offers guests traditional afternoon teas by day and inventive cocktails by night.
Guest amenities
Visitors are encouraged to check out the ninth level 20-meter indoor heated pool that has views of the city as well as a 24-hour fitness centre. Elevating the experience is the Club InterContinental lounge located on the top floor of the hotel, offering a serene space for breakfast, evening drinks and Club InterContinental’s signature perks from private check-in to twilight refreshments.
Global Portfolio
InterContinental Sapporo joins a global portfolio of more than 231 InterContinental hotels—including 10 in Japan—and a growing collection of stay experiences across IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio. This includes Six Senses, Kimpton, Vignette and Hotel Indigo—with the Regent brand to debut in Japan in 2028.
