Sapporo City Classic One Day Walking Course

This one day course, covered on foot and by subway, is perfect for first time visitors or anyone who wants to see the highlights efficiently. Historic buildings, a green park, a night view from a mountaintop, and great food are all packed in, capturing the charm of the gateway to Hokkaido. Allow about nine hours.

Course Route

9:00 Start at the Sapporo Clock Tower The day begins at the red roofed Clock Tower standing quietly in the middle of the office district. Built in the Meiji era as a drill hall for the former Sapporo Agricultural College, it houses exhibits on the history of the city.

9:45 Former Hokkaido Government Office (Red Brick Office) Just a short walk away stands this stately brick western style building. The pond and trees in the front garden change with the seasons and make a fine spot for photos.

10:45 Stroll through Odori Park Cross this long narrow park, which stretches about 1.5 kilometers from east to west, at a relaxed pace. Lined with flower beds and fountains, it is a favorite gathering place for the people of Sapporo.

12:00 Lunch near Odori Fill up on a taste of Hokkaido, choosing from Sapporo ramen, soup curry, or a seafood rice bowl. There are many restaurants around the park to suit any preference.

14:00 Ropeway up Mount Moiwa Take the streetcar and ropeway up to Mount Moiwa, which rises 531 meters. From the summit observatory the city and the Ishikari plain spread out in a refreshing daytime view.

18:00 Enjoy the Mount Moiwa night view Wait for dusk and take in the sparkling lights below. The glowing city spreads out like jewels in one of Sapporo most famous scenes.

19:30 Evening food in Susukino After coming down the mountain, head to Susukino, the largest entertainment district in northern Japan. Round off the day with grilled mutton or a late night bowl of ramen.

Highlights

- Historic Meiji era architecture at the Clock Tower and Red Brick Office - The open landscape of Odori Park stretching through the city - Contrasting day and night panoramas from the summit of Mount Moiwa - Distinctive Sapporo nightlife dining in Susukino

Access and Tips

- Sapporo Station, Odori, and Susukino are easily linked by subway or on foot - The streetcar and ropeway combination is convenient for reaching Mount Moiwa - A one day pass for the subway and streetcar is good value - Keep the afternoon relaxed so you arrive at the mountain in time for the night view

A Quick Tip

Go up Mount Moiwa around sunset to enjoy the colors of the sky shifting from dusk into a full night view. The summit is cooler than the city, so bring a light layer even in summer.