Places to visit
Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and as such offers a number of attractions.
SAPPORO MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Sapporo Sight-Seeing
- Kotan Hachiman Shrine was founded in 1856 and was officially named a township shrine in 1875. It was listed as a local shrine on the 28th of April 1911. The purpose of the shrine is to follow the great principles of the deity, Hondawake no Mikoto. Hondawake no Mikoto is also more commonly known as the Emporer Ōjin.
- You can't get much fresher seafood then at a seafood market! Ta Ke E Sushi is located in Sapporo and is in the Nijo Market. The market is in central Sapporo across from the Tanuki Koji Shopping arcade. There are a few very small restaurants here where sightseers and locals alike can go shopping for seafood and sample some fresh produce.
- On the Tokai Sapporo School campus the grounds really comes alive with lavender. It is said that the south district of Sapporo, where the campus is located, is known as the birthplace of lavender cultivation in Japan.
- Mt Teine is a very popular mountain on the western outskirts of the city of Sapporo. The mountain has an elevation of 1,023 meters, or 3,356 feet. This mountain is busy during summer as well as winter. During the winter months Mt Teine serves as a ski resort which sees thousands of locals and visitors enjoying the ski slopes whether it be skiing, or snowboarding.
- Maeda Forest Park began construction in 1982 and was finally completed ten years later. This park has beautiful landscaping and paths to access, plus half the park is made of forest area. The main feature of the park is the long shallow canal that runs in line with a view of Mt. Teine on the horizon.
- Odori Park is the most famous park in Sapporo, if not Hokkaido. It runs through the heart of Sapporo and is home to the some of the biggest festivals throughout the year. The park runs for twelve blocks and separates the city into north and south. At the eastern most end you can find the iconic TV Tower which has great views overlooking the park.
- For those who like zoos, there are two main zoos in Hokkaido. One being in Asahikawa, the other being in Maruyama Park in Sapporo. Maruyama Zoo opened its doors to the nation in 1951 on May 5th for children's day. It is the home to 177 varieties of mammals, birds and reptiles and is currently raising and exhibiting 991 types of living creatures.
- Hokkaido Shrine was constructed in 1871 to hold the deities, Ōkunitama, Okuninushi, and Sukunahikona, and also the soul of the Meiji Emporer. It is the main Shrine of Hokkaido and a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is located in Maruyama Park (Maruyama Koen) on the West side of Sapporo.
- Hokkaido Shrine Tongu was built in 1891. It is not to be confused with Hokkaido Shrine, which can be found Maruyama Park, though the two are related. Hokkaido Shrine (also known as Sapporo Shrine) was built in Maruyama Park, but during the winter this proved to be difficult to access up in the hills.
- If you are looking for a nice scenic drive, Lake Sapporo is only an hour away from the central Sapporo. The lake is actually an artificial lake that was formed with the construction of Jozankei Dam in 1989. The drive up crosses over the dam and the winding road has beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Apia is an underground shopping arcade area with more than 115 stores of differing varieties. The area is divided into “streets” each with a different name to help you with your directions. There is Joyful Walk, Fashion Walk and Harvest Avenue. Stores range from fashion boutiques, accessory shops, souvenir shops to restaurants and cafes. There is also a supermarket and on top of Apia is BIC Camera and Electronics Store. There are also some free seating areas for you to take a break. Top
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Opening Hours | Shops : 10 am to 9 pm Restaurants : 11 am to 9:30 pm |
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Contact | Ph: 011-241-2817 |
Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0806 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Kita-ku, 北6条西2丁目 North-East Section of Sapporo Station Underground. |
Ario Shopping Mall
The three story Ario Shopping Center,Built in the grounds of the Sapporo Beer Garden and opened in November 2005, the center houses 113 specialty shops, the Itoyokado Department Store and a public spa and leisure center. Restaurants range from fast food to Japanese style sushi and noodles. There are plenty shops for all the family and also a good import shop which stocks various foreign products from around the globe. Top
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Opening Hours | Shops : 9 am to 9 pm Restaurants : 11 am to 10 pm |
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Location / Getting There | 9 Chome-2-20 Kita 7 Jōhigashi, Higashi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 065-8518, Japan. Catch a bus from number four station near the north exit of Sapporo Station, or any Sapporo Beer Factory bus. * From No.4 bus station, take bus No.26 and get off at ‘the entrance of ’Sapporo Beer Factory (Sapporo Bi-ru en Iriguchi)’ or ‘Ario Sapporo’. * From No.2 bus station, take bus No.63 and get off at ‘the entrance of Sapporo Beer Factory’ or at 'Ario Sapporo’. * From No.2 bus station, take bus No.188 and get off at ‘Sapporo Beer Factory’. |
Asahiyama Park
Constructed as part of the Sapporo centennial projects, this park is located on the top of Asahiyama hill. The park has a good view of Sapporo, Ishikari Plain and the Sea of Japan on good days. The park has some nice open spaces for picnics with family and friends. There are also a few small hiking trails around the park offering a pleasant walk for the more physically active. Top
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Location / Getting There | 4 Chome-1-3 Sakaigawa, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 064-0943, Japan |
Aurora Town (Shopping Arcade)
Aurora Town is an underground shopping mall stretching from the Sapporo TV Tower at the eastern end to Oodori subway station at the western end. Various specialty shops, drug stores, shoe stores, bag stores, restaurants and cafes can be found here. Top
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Opening Hours | Most shops 10am to 8pm |
Closed | Various public holidays and maintenance days. |
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Location / Getting There | Odori, 2 Chome Ōdōrinishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0042, Japan |
Botanical Gardens (Hokkaido Shokubutsuen)
Run by the Hokkaido University, covering approximately 15 hectares and housing over 5000 varieties of plants, this is a great venue for nature lovers and those wishing to pass some time in a pleasant atmosphere. There is also a greenhouse which can be entered but for an additional fee of 110 yen. The Fauna museum in the garden is Japans oldest and was built in 1882. It houses a large number of stuffed animals that can be found in the Hokkaido region. There is also a small Ainu Museum located near the main gate housing tools, household utensils, ceremonial objects and clothing. Top
Admission | Adults ¥400 Greenhouse ¥110 |
Opening Hours | 9 am to 4 pm Tuesday to Sunday : late April to late September. 9 am to 3 pm Tuesday to Sunday : October to early November. * From early November to April only the greenhouse is open to the Public. |
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Location / Getting There | 10 Chome-2 Kita 2 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0002, Japan |
----------------------------- Chizaki Rose Garden
The rose garden boasts more than 200 varieties of roses and is immaculately kept and maintained. The best viewing season for the roses is June to August. There is also a commanding view of Sapporo from the top and the aptly names “Café Rose” serves relatively cheap food and also the house special - rose ice cream. Said to be made from the roses in the garden itself this ice cream is quite unique and delicious. Unfortunately if you come by bus to the hill the bus stop is located at the bottom of the hill. The walk up is quite steep and not for the physically challenged. Fortunately there are usually taxis available to take you up the rest of the way. Top
Admission | Adults ¥500 Children ¥300 |
Opening Hours | 9 am to 5 pm daily : May 1st to October 15th |
Closed | October 16th to April 30th |
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Clock Tower (Tokedai)
Built in 1878 as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College, it is a two story American style wooden structure housing a clock. Although now dwarfed by the surrounding buildings it is never the less constantly surrounded by Japanese and other tourists all year round and is the symbol of Sapporo. Renovated in 1998 to house a small museum of local history, it is reported that the Boston made 19th century clock has been so well maintained that it has not only never needed restoration work but also that the clock has never been late in tolling the hour. Top
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Admission | Adults ¥200 |
Opening Hours | 9:00 to 17:00 Daily |
Closed | January 1st to January 3rd |
Contact | 011-231-0838 |
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Location / Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0001 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Kita 1 Jōnishi, 2 Chome 札幌市時計台 |
Daimaru Department Store
Conjointly developed along with Stella Place, Daimaru is built squarely on top of Sapporo Station. It is a huge department store housing specialty shops and the Daimaru shopping center on 6 levels. It also contains many great restaurants and a huge book store. Shops range from make-up and beauty counters, high end brand name stores (Gucci, Hermes, Tiffany & Co. etc.) to shoe stores and casual wear. Top
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Opening Hours | Shops : 10 am to 9 pm Restaurants : 11 am to 11 pm |
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Location / Getting There | 4 Chome-7 Kita 5 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0005, Japan West Section of Sapporo Station. |
Hassoan (Japanese Tea House)
Named a National Cultural Asset, this building was built during the early days of the Edo Period by the famous Enshu Kobori, an artist and grand master of gardening. This building is housed in a walled Japanese garden close to the north end of the park and is only observable from the outside. Top
Admission | Free |
Opening Hours | 9 am to 4 pm late April to early November. |
Closed | All Winter |
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Location / Getting There | Japan, 〒064-0931 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Nakajimakōen, 1 八窓庵 Take the Nanbokusen subway (Green line) to Nakajima Park Station. The tea house is in the walled garden on the north-east of the park. |
Hoeikan
Built in 1880 it was originally a western style hotel under
the direct control of the “Kaitakushi” or the Colonial Development Office. This building was moved to Nakajima Park in 1958 and named as a National Cultural Asset.Top
Admission | Free |
Opening Hours | 9 am to 5 pm daily |
Closed | December 29th to January 3rd |
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Location / Getting There | Hōheikan, 1-20 Nakajimakōen, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 064-0931, Japan Take the Naboku subway (Green line) to Nakajima Park station. It is about a 5 min walk on the east side. |
Hokkaido Museum of Literature
Located about halfway along the park near the eastern entrance, this museum introduces Hokkaido’s literary history and some of the more famous writers that have come from this region. There are various historical materials to be viewed. Top
Admission | Adults ¥500 High School and University Students ¥250 Elementary and Junior High School Students Free. |
Opening Hours | 9:30 am to 5 pm daily |
Closed | Mondays, December 27th to January 4th and occasional irregular closure |
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Location / Getting There | Japan, 〒064-0931 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Nakajimakōen, 1−4 北海道立文学館 Take the Nanboku subway (Green line) to the Nakajima Park station. The museum is in the middle of the park, on the west side. |
Historical Village of Hokkaido
Centennial Memorial Tower
These three attractions offer a great insight into past eras of Hokkaido and are a highly recommended part of your tour.
The Historical Museum of Hokkaido has seven permanent exhibits which are based around differing themes. The museum has a lot of signage in English and it is also possible to get a guided tour in English (You may have to call and book ahead). There are also special exhibitions held a few times a year at irregular schedules. Call the museum directly for further details. Please note that the entry fees for special exhibitions may differ from the usual admission fees. Top
The Historical Village of Hokkaido is a great way to see some of the older style Meji and Taisho era buildings. They have all been restored and moved to this current, permanent location. There are more than 20 buildings of different kinds which give you a good perspective of the old Japanese life. There are various special events throughout the year and also craft demonstrations on occasion to be enjoyed. There is also an English pamphlet available. Top
The Centennial Memorial Tower and the surrounding 20 square kilometer Forest Park were created to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of Hokkaido. There is an observation deck at the top of the tower which gives a commanding view of the surrounding area and Ishikari Plain. Top
Admission | Historical Museum of Hokkaido : Permanent Exhibition Adults ¥450 High School and University Students ¥150 Historical Village of Hokkaido : Adults ¥830 (¥680 December to March) High School and University Students ¥610 (¥550 December to March) |
Opening Hours | Historical Museum of Hokkaido : 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily Historical Village of Hokkaido : 9:30 am to 4:30 pm : October to May 9 am to 5 pm : June to September |
Closed | Historical Museum of Hokkaido : Mondays, National Holidays and New Year Holidays |
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Location / Getting There | Japan, 〒004-0006 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Atsubetsu-ku, Atsubetsuchō Konopporo, 50−1 北海道開拓の村 |
Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
Included in many tourist bus trips this observation area is not the greatest highlight of Sapporo but does offer a nice general view to the city. There is a famous statue of Dr William S. Clark the founder of Hokkaido University and opened in January 2001the Sapporo Snow Festival Information Hall. For those who are thinking of getting married there is also a chapel which is situated in a nice setting near the fields of sheep. Top
Admission | High School and above ¥500 Junior High and under ¥300 |
Opening Hours | October to May : 9 am to 5 pm daily. June to September : 9 am to 9 pm daily. |
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Location / Getting There | 10 Chome-11-8 Fukuzumi 3 Jō, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 062-0043, Japan |
Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art
This facility has permanent famous works of modern art with a focus on paintings and sculptures produced by artists in Hokkaido. There are also a large number of special exhibitions from Japanese and foreign artists held here. Top
Admission | Adults ¥510 High School and University Students ¥250 |
Opening Hours | 9:30 - 17:00 daily |
Closed | Mondays, Exhibit changing days and New Year Holidays |
Contact | 011-644-6882 |
Notes | Wheelchair access No parking |
Location / Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0001 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Kita 1 Jōnishi, 17 Chome−2−1 北海道立近代美術館 5-minute walk from Nishi Juhatchome Station on the Subway Tozai Line |
Hokkaido University
Hokkaido University was inaugurated in 1876 and was originally called Sapporo Agricultural College. The university is famous among Japanese as being the first Agricultural College and has one of the largest campuses in Japan. Current enrollment numbers at the university have almost reached 20,000. The University is perhaps most beautiful in the summer and autumn months. The summer is a pleasant time to wander around the university and view some of the older buildings and also the all important bust of Dr William Clark, the first chancellor of the university. During the autumn the many poplar trees, showing beautiful autumn colors, are a favorite amongst amateur photographers. Top
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Opening Hours | Best times to visit are during the daylight hours in summer and autumn. *(It is however possible to visit the university at any time, but there is very little lighting, so some areas can be almost pitch black during the evening.) |
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Location / Getting There | 5 Chome-3-10 Kita 16 Jōnishi, Kita-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 001-0016, Japan |
Jozankei Hot Spring Baths
Jozankei is one of the most famous hot-spring bath areas in Hokkaido. There are many hotels catering to all types of budgets. There is also a free "Ashi-yu" or "feet-hot-spring" bath toward the east end of the town. (Make sure to wash your feet at the tap provided before putting your toes in the water! Also use caution as the water can be quite hot.) Top
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Location / Getting There | Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō, Japan |
Jugoshima Park
no information Top
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Opening Hours | Open 24 hours 7:00 - 21:00 parking |
Contact | 011-581-3811 |
Notes | Walking paths, restrooms, free parking, picnic spot, fishing spot, playground, stage for events, popular in summer |
Location / Getting There | 35 minute drive south from Sapporo. Located along Toyohira River. Take Ishiyama Dori, route 230 and turn right at the Co-op supermarket. 5 Chome-13 Fujino 1 Jo, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2281 |
Makomanai Park
A popular place for Sapporo residence during the summer, it also houses an ice skating rink that was used for the 1972 Olympics and a Salmon Museum. The salmon museum shows various stages of development for the fish and has some nice examples of larger fish and also an English guide pamphlet. Top
Admission | Salmon Museum : Free |
Opening Hours | 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily |
Closed | National holidays and New Year Holidays |
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Location / Getting There | 1-2 Makomanaikōen, Minami-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 005-0017, Japan |
Maruyama Koen (Maruyama Park)
A particular favorite among residents of Sapporo, this beautifully laid out park has within its bounds the Huge Hokkaido Shrine, a Zoo and a High school Baseball Stadium. The park is well known for its large numbers of cherry trees which in Hokkaido usually blossom for about a week during May. In this season huge numbers of Japanese will gather for “Hanami” or cherry blossom parties. The parties consist of large groups of people, BBQ's and a lot of beer. The cherry blossom season is a celebration of the end of the long winter and the coming of summer. Maruyama Park also offers a forested area and many great walking trails for joggers and those wishing a little fresh air. Piano concerts are sometimes held in the open during the summer. Top
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Location / Getting There | 3-1 Miyagaoka, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 064-0959, Japan |
Moerenuma Park
Moerenuma Park was designed by world renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi. This enormous park covers some 170 ha. and combines natural settings and outdoor sculptures into a relaxing park environment. There are many different areas of play parks for the kids and open areas for picnics. There is a forest area to explore and many fountains. There are more than 5000 cherry trees in the park which makes it an excellent location for cherry bloom viewing in the spring. The area also houses soccer, baseball and athletics fields. A roller skating rink and tennis courts for the sports minded.Top
Admission | Free admission |
Opening Hours | 7:00 - 22:00 |
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Contact | 011-790-1231 |
Notes | Parking available, Bicycles for hire, French restaurant in pyramid, Art gallery, Photography spot, Kids play area, Picnic spot, Water park, Wheelchair access |
Location / Getting There | Take bus from Sapporo. Details see below. 1 Moerenumakōen, Higashi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 007-0011, Japan |
Mt Moiwa
There is an exceptional view of Sapporo and surrounds to be had from the top of Mt Moiwa during the day or night. During the day, weather permitting, it is possible to see as far as Ishikari Bay and also across to Jonzenkai Spa Area. The view of Sapporo lights at night is also quite spectacular. There is also a restaurant and souvenir shop at the summit. To reach the Summit you have the choice of taking a five minute gondola ride which connects to a three minute chairlift ride or you may drive up in the summer season. There is some free parking available near the gondola station entrance. Admission to the gondola closes about one hour before full closing time. Although the road is open in November you may need snow tires or chains during this month. Top
Admission | Ropeway + Morris Car (Round trip): Adults ¥1,700 Children ¥850 Road : Car ¥660 Motorbike ¥320 Mini Bus ¥1340 |
Opening Hours | Summer: 10:30 – 22:00 (last departure 21:30) Winter: 11:00 – 22:00 (last departure 21:30) Sightseeing road: Summer Season 10:30 – 22:00 (last admission 21:30) |
Closed | Sightseeing road: Closed Winter |
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Location / Getting There | 1 Moiwayama, Minami-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 005-0041, Japan |
Nakajima Park (Nakajima Koen)
Nakajima park is huge park south of the Susukino area and is the oldest park in Hokkaido. The park is a wonderful place to rest in the summer and is beautiful in the autumn with the changing colors of the trees. The park has a large pond in the middle where row boats can be rented. The weekends usually see the park full with families enjoying the summer and also there are often flea markets on Sundays (Note: the Japanese say ‘Free Market’ but this is just a mistake with pronunciation and the markets are not free.) There are several buildings of interest inside the park and two buildings are designated National Cultural Assets. Top
Within Nakajima Park some other attractions include : Sapporo Concert Hall (Kitara), Hoeikan, Hassoan (Japanese Tea House), Hokkaido Museum of Literature.
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Getting There | 1-15 Nakajimakōen, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 064-0931, Japan. Catch the "Nanboku-sen" (Green line) subway to Nakajima-koen station or Horohirabashi Station. |
Ask any Japanese person about Hokkaido and one of the first things they will mention is the food and especially the seafood. Crowded into small alleyways and located near the end of Tanukikoji is the seafood basket of Sapporo. This area offers a vivid and amazingly colorful look at the various kinds of fish and seafood consumed in Japan. There is everything from salmon roe to king crab. The atmosphere is permeated with the fish sellers voices advertising their stock. There are beer bars and a few small restaurants which offer a great chance to try some of the freshest and most well known seafood in Japan at quite reasonable prices. The scallops and the salmon roe are particularly highly thought of in Japan. Top
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Opening Hours | 10 am to 6 pm daily. Bars and restaurants open till late. |
Closed | Sundays and Public Holidays. |
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Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0053 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Minami 3 Jōhigashi, 1 Chome 第一海鮮丸 |
Odori Park
Originally constructed approximately 110 years ago as a fire barrier between the northern and southern ends of Sapporo city when all buildings were made of wood. It is about 100 meters wide, 13 blocks long and marks the center of the city. Odori is the host area of many of Sapporo's events and festivals including the Yuki Matsuri, the Yasokoi Dance Festival and the Sapporo Beer Festival. (Event Calendar) In the summer months the parks is a mecca for tired office workers and the general public wanting to relax and soak up some sun during Hokkaido's beautiful summer months. The park is changed seasonally and will be adorned in flowers and shrubs during the summer months and covered with lights during the winter months. Use Odori Subway Station exits numbers 3 and 4 to put yourself in the middle of the park. Top
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Opening Hours | Various events are held throughout the year. |
Closed | Parts of the park can be closed during construction phases of events. |
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Getting There | Odori, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0042, Japan Catch the subway to Oodori station. The park runs from the Sapporo TV Tower west for 13 blocks. |
Okurayama Ski Jump and Sapporo Winter Sports Museum
This 90 meter ski jump was constructed in 1972 when Japan hosted the Winter Olympic Games. Ski jumping events can be held here all year round during the day and night. A small chair lift lift will take you to the top where there is an observation deck and small cafe lounge with an incredible view of the city and it’s surroundings.
Located in the same area at the bottom of the ski jump is the Sapporo Winter Sports Museum. This museum exhibits materials from the Japanese Winter Olympics and other historical winter sports materials. There is a restaurant and souvenir shop. Located in the museum is also a very popular ski jump simulator which gives you some idea of what the jumpers do. Top
Admission | Ski Jump : Junior High and Older ¥500 Elementary School Students¥300 Museum : High School and Older ¥600 Junior High School and Younger Free. Over 65 ¥450 (I. D. required) |
Opening Hours | Ski Jump : 8:30 am to 6 pm daily : Aril 15th to October 31st 9 am to 5 pm daily : November 1st to March 31st Museum : 9 am to 6 pm daily : May to October 9:30 am to 5 pm daily : November to April |
Closed | Ski Jump : April 1st to 15th Museum : Last Tuesday of every month and December 29th to January 3rd |
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Getting There | Japan, 〒064-0958 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Miyanomori 大倉山ジャンプ競技場 |
Hokkaido Old Government Building and the Hokkaido Archives
This red brick neo-baroque western style building was the headquarters of the“Kaitakushi” or the Colonial Development Office. This department was responsible for the development and expansion of the Hokkaido region during the Meji era. Inside the building visitors are allowed to wander freely through almost all parts of the building. In several of the second floor rooms the Hokkaido Archives are housed. This archive consists of various fossils found in the Hokkaido region, tools and artifacts from the native Ainu tribes and various paintings, photographs and historical documents on the development of Hokkaido. Unfortunately there are very few explanations and signs for the exhibits in English. The building is also surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is almost always occupied by various artists. ---> READ MORE. Top
Admission | Free |
Opening Hours | 9 am to 5 pm daily |
Closed | 29th December to 3rd January |
Contact | 011-204-5019 |
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Getting There | 6 Chome-1 Kita 2 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0002, Japan |
Pole Town
Pole Town is an underground shopping mall stretching from Oodori subway station at the northern end to Susukino subway station at the southern end. Various specialty shops, drug stores, shoe stores, bag stores, restaurants and cafes can be found here. Pole town also connects to the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade and various other shopping malls along the way. Top
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Opening Hours | 10am to 8pm. |
Closed | Various public holidays and maintenance days. |
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Getting There | Sapporo-Ekimae Dori, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō, Japan Starts at Oodori subway station and ends at Susukino subway station. |
Ramen Yokocho (Ramen Alley - Susukino)
Ramen are Chinese noodles adapted to Japan. Hokkaido is thought of by the Japanese as being the best area in the country for Ramen. The local specialty is “Miso Ramen”. This narrow alley is wall to wall ramen shops and a great place to try this delicious food. Remember to slurp your noodles as this is considered a compliment to the chef in Japan. Top
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Lafiler Department Store
Specialty shops, grocery store, eateries, Starbucks. Connected to Susukino subway station. Top
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Opening Hours | Shops: 10 am to 8pm Restaurants : 11am to 11pm |
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Getting There | Japan, 〒064-0804 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, 南4条西4丁目1番地 Connect to Susukino subway station and the Pole Town shopping mall. |
Sapporo Art Park
Approximately 30 minutes drive from the center of Sapporo, the Art Park contains an outdoor sculpture garden, the Museum of Contemporary Art, a craft hall and craft studios. This complex is surrounded by a natural woodland offering a peaceful stroll around the various art works. Top
Admission | Adults ¥600 Junior High school and under Free |
Opening Hours | 9:45 am to 5 pm daily |
Closed | Mondays from November 4th to April 28th (Following day if Monday is a National Holiday), New Years Holidays |
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Sapporo Beer En (Sapporo Beer Garden)
Sapporo Beer Brewery was established in 1876 and is the oldest brewing company in Japan. There are guided tours of the brewery daily. The tours take about 40 minutes and include free drinks for 20 minutes at the end of the tour. Tours are all conducted in Japanese, although it is possible to get a (Japanese)-English language audiotape as you enter. All bookings for the tours are accepted at the front desk. There are also English pamphlets available at the front desk. Other buildings of the factory have been converted into the “Biergarten” which is a huge all you can eat and drink “Jingisukan ( Genghis Khan)” or Japanese Mongolian BBQ, consisting of huge plates of lamb slices and vegetables, cooked on a hat shaped metal BBQ plate. The atmosphere is usually quite lively at night. Be sure to wear the paper bib provided to protect your clothing from oil splashes and place your bags in the plastic liners also provided. Be aware that your clothing will most likely have a very strong smell after being at any Genghis Kahn restaurant. Top
Admission | Brewery Museum and Tour : Free Biergarten : Cost is usually between ¥2500 to ¥3500, depending on course chosen. |
Opening Hours | 8:40 am to 4:40 pm : June to August. 9 am to 3:40 pm September to May. |
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Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0907 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Higashi-ku, Kita 7 Jōhigashi, 9 Chome−2 サッポロビール博物館 Catch a bus from number four station near the north exit of Sapporo Station, or any Sapporo Beer Factory bus. |
Sapporo Chuo Library
The Sapporo Chuo Library has a fantastic collection of all kinds of books and a very extensive foreign section. There are books on various subjects, novels, video tapes, cds and newspapers. The books, cds and videos are lent on a weekly basis or can be used in the machines at the library. It is free to join the library if you live in Sapporo. You must bring some I. D. showing you are a Sapporo resident. (Usually your alien registration card) There are also some English speaking staff that will be happy to assist you. There is a nice garden area surrounding the library and a cafe on the basement floor. Various small exhibitions are shown on the first floor. Top
Admission | - |
Opening Hours | 12 pm to 7 pm : Tuesdays, 9:15 am to 7 pm : Wednesday to Friday, 9:15 am to 5:15 pm : Saturday and Sunday |
Closed | Mondays, National Holidays and last day of the month, New Year Holidays |
Contact | - |
Getting There | 13 Chome-1-1 Minami 22 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 064-0922, Japan |
Sapporo City Hall
Sapporo City Hall is a 19 story structure located near the center of Sapporo. At the top of the city hall is an observation deck that can be visited free of charge. There is also a restaurant. Top
Admission | Free |
Opening Hours | - |
Closed | - |
Contact | 011-211-2111 |
Getting There | North 1 West 2 From Oodori Subway Station take exit number 4 and head north. About 2 min. walk |
Completed in 1997 the Sapporo Concert Hall or Kitara as it is locally known is a beautiful structure which hosts many of the Sapporo Symphony concerts. The main hall can seat over 2000 people while the second hall can seat over 450. Kitara’s crowning glory is a gigantic 4,976 piece pipe organ made by Alfred Kern of France which took about two years to build. The ticket center is located on the first floor and there is a restaurant and a small shop inside that are open to all to visit. Top
Admission | Varies depending on event |
Opening Hours | Ticket center and shop : 10 am to 5:30 pm when no evening concert. 10 am to 7 pm when evening concert. Restaurant : 11:30 am to 9 pm when no evening concert. 11:30 am to 10 pm when evening concert. |
Closed | 1st and 3rd Monday and other occasional holidays |
Contact | - |
Getting There | Japan, 〒064-0931 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Nakajimakōen, 1−15 札幌コンサートホール・キタラ Take the Nanboku subway line to Nakajima Park station. The hall is located near the center of the park. 5 min walk |
Sapporo Dome
This huge structure was initially designed and constructed for the 2002 Japan-Korea Soccer World Cup. Construction was completed in 2001 and the dome has a regular seating capacity of over 42 000 people. After the end of the world cup the dome is now regularly used for baseball matches and is the home ground of the Nippon Ham Fighters Baseball Club. It also plays host to a variety of exhibitions, concerts and shows. The dome has the ability to transport its entire playing surface from inside to outside with the field hovering on an air cushion and pushed by electric wheels. This allows for for indoor and outdoor events and also the field area can then be used for shows and seating at large scale concerts. The dome contains several fast food restaurants and a fans cafe as well as a souvenir shop for event and sports goods. Most major or large scale events in Sapporo will be at the Sapporo Dome. Top
Admission | Varies depending on event. |
Opening Hours- | |
Closed | - |
Contact | 011-200-8066 |
Getting There | Sapporo Dome, 1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 062-0045, Japan Take the Toho Subway Line to Fukuzumi Station (Last Stop). It is about a 10 min walk north. (Follow the crowd!) |
Sapporo Factory
Also constructed in 1876 as part of the Sapporo Beer Breweries enterprise, these large red brick warehouses and factory areas were renovated in 1993 to form the massive shopping and entertainment complex known as Sapporo Factory. There are a large number of specialty stores and restaurants. This shopping complex also houses Japans largest indoor park in the massive atrium area of the shopping center. In this area small concerts and various exhibitions and shows are often held. There is also the Universal Cinema 11 movie theater complex which houses an Imax screen and the Nissan Motor Gallery, with some of the latest models of cars on display from the Nissan Motor Company. Top
Admission | - |
Opening Hours | Shops : 10 am to 8 pm Restaurants : 11 am to 10 pm (Times may change seasonally) |
Closed | - |
Contact | - |
Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0032 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, Kita 2 Jōhigashi, 4 Chome サッポロファクトリー |
Sapporo Science Center
The science center is based around involvement as well as observation. This means that children can have an especially fun time using and playing with some of the exhibits in a hands on fashion. There are English pamphlets available to help you with your tour. Top
Admission | Adults ¥700 |
Opening Hours | 9:30 am to 4 pm daily |
Closed | Mondays, public holidays, last Tuesday of every month and New Year holidays |
Contact | - |
Getting There | - |
Spica (STV Media Park)
Part of STV’ s televisions media facilities. The media park holds various events throughout the year which can be attended by the public. (Please check with the Spica staff for details) There is also a restaurant and a small shop for media and other event related souvenirs can be purchased. Top
Admission | - |
Opening Hours | 10 am to 7 pm Daily |
Closed | - |
Contact | 011-280-7812 |
Getting There | North 1 West 8 Chuoku Take the Tozai Subway Line to Nishi-Juichome Station. It is a 5 min. walk. |
Stella Place & JR Tower
Stella Place along with Dimaru Department Store was completed in 2003 and is one of the latest editions to the Sapporo shopping scene. The nine story shopping center consists of two main areas Stella Place Center and Stella Place East. Inside you will find 161 specialty stores and 22 restaurants of varying styles. There is also a cinema on the 7th and 8th floors comprising 12 screens for all the latest movie action. JR Tower is attached to Stella Place and is 38 stories high. Located inside there are varying offices, a medical center, hotel and even a hot spa resort. There is also a wonderful observation deck on the 38th floor which gives a spectacular view of Sapporo. On the observation deck there is a cafe, souvenir shop and a bathroom with a fantastic view. (Sorry boys only!) Top
Admission | Tower Observatory : Adults ¥900 High school to 4 yo. ¥500 Under 4 yo. ¥300 |
Opening Hours | Shops : 10 am to 9 pm Restaurants : 11 am to 11pm Tower : 10 am to 11 pm |
Closed | - |
Contact | Stella Place : 011-209–5100 JR Tower : 011-209–5050 |
Getting There | Japan, 〒060-0806 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Kita-ku, Kita 6 Jōnishi, 2 Chome−2−1 Sapporo Station, Sapporo |
Susukino
Just south of of Tanukikoji and marked on the corner by the massive Nikka Whiskey sign is the Susukino entertainment district. This area stretches for about six blocks north to south and east to west. There are almost 5000 restaurants, bars, cafes, night clubs and hostess bars in this area. It is one of the most famous entertainment areas in Japan and the largest of its kind north of Tokyo. The bars and clubs can range from the cheap to the extremely expensive. This area is crowded most days until the morning hours but particularly so on Friday and Saturday nights. If you wish to find a restaurant on these days try to book ahead or be prepared to wait. If you’re out for a few drinks then consider using one of the “Nomihodai” or all you can drink plans. In Hokkaido these plans are offered at most restaurants and often bars too. For the price of two or three drinks you can consume all you like for a set period of time. Times are generally offered for 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes. Prices vary from about ¥1000 to ¥3500+ depending on the course chosen and the bar. Many bars and restaurants in this area will be open until very late in the morning or sometimes even 24 hours. Some restaurants may not open their doors until about midnight. Many establishments are closed on Sundays. Top
Admission | - |
Opening Hours | Most places open in the evening to late evening. |
Closed | Most places are closed Sundays and other various national holidays or event days. |
Contact | - |
Getting There | Japan, 〒064-0804 Hokkaidō, Sapporo-shi, Chūō-ku, 南4条西4丁目1番地 |
Takino Suzuran Hillside Park
The park has many activities including a fishing pond. The pond is very well stocked with fish and even the worst fisherman should be able to get a catch or two here. There are also bicycles for rent and walking treks. There is a small river and waterfalls located within the park to be enjoyed and a lovely restaurant in the park also. In the winter it is possible to rent skis for some cross country fun. This park can be quite crowded on weekends so if you looking for some quiet time then a week day visit is recommended. Top
Admission | Fishing Pond : Adults ¥2100 per hour Children ¥1800 per hour (both prices include equipment rental) Bicycles : Adults ¥250 Children ¥100 per two hours Skis : Adults ¥520 Children ¥310 |
Opening Hours | - |
Closed | - |
Contact | - |
Getting There | - |
Tanukikoji Shopping Mall
Tanukikoji shopping mall is a covered mall area in the center of Sapporo. Consisting of seven blocks. The first 6 blocks have various shops hotels, and dinning areas. The seventh block has a much older roof and consists mainly of restaurants. Tanukikoji shopping mall is also connected to the "Pole Town" underground shopping area by escalators and step at the 3rd and 4th blocks. Be sure to check out the small Tanuki Shrine half way along the mall. Top
Admission | - |
Opening Hours | 10 am to about 8pm Some shops and restaurants open later. |
Closed | Various public holidays and maintenance days. |
Contact | - |
Getting There | Sapporo-Ekimae Dori, 4 Chome Minami 3 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0063, Japan |
Tiera
Tiera is a community center located at Miyanozawa Subway Station. It gives people a chance to get involved in many different sorts of activities and types of study. The center contains a soundproof recording studio, theater studio, rooms ranging in size from 24 to 108 people seating and a computer room. Tiera Hall has a seating capacity of 436 people and can be used for plays, musicals and concerts. There is also Media Plaza about “learning”. Top
Admission | - |
Opening Hours | Community Center : 8:45 am to 10 pm Media Plaza : 9 am to 9 pm |
Closed | - |
Contact | 011-671-2200 |
Getting There | Miyanozawa Subway Station |
TV Tower
The Sapporo TV Tower is the tallest tower in northern Japan and stands 147.2 meters tall. The tower offers an observation deck at the top which can be accessed by elevators, and even by stairs in the summer months. The view from the top of the tower is an excellent way to get a general orientation of the city and its surrounding areas. Great views of the snow festival and lighting displays are also to been seen. Top
Admission | Elevator fees : Adults ¥700 High School Students ¥600 Junior High School Students ¥400 Elementary School Students ¥300 Children ¥100 |
Opening Hours | 9 am to 9 pm daily : late April to late October. 9 am to 10 pm daily : July to August. 9:30 pm to 9 pm daily : late October to late April. |
Closed | - |
Contact | - |
Notes | - |
Location / Getting There | Soseigawa Dori, 1 Chome Ōdōrinishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaidō 060-0042, Japan |