Unveiling 15 Clandestine Gems of Scenic Wonders in Sapporo

December 24, 2023 / Travel, Hokkaido

Sapporo, as the nucleus of Hokkaido, harbors numerous treasures in its tourist attractions. Only those well-versed are privy to the likes of Ishiyama Green Space (an artistic enclave crafted from the ruins of a quarry), Sapporo Racecourse (more than a mere equestrian spectacle), and the enchanting Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine (an immaculately arranged Shinto sanctuary). Today, Japan RAR unveils some of Sapporo's concealed gems in tourist destinations.

Table of Contents show

1. Sapporo City Museum（札幌市資料館）

1703382918 3252525en

Established in 1926 within the former Sapporo Appeals Court (now the High Court), the Sapporo City Museum opened its doors in 1973 after the court's relocation. The edifice, constructed with Sapporo soft stone, holds historical value and was designated as a tangible cultural asset of Sapporo in 2018.

Inside the museum, the ambiance of Taisho modernism is palpable through spiral staircases and stained glass windows. Visitors can freely explore historical records of Sapporo and a courtroom exhibition room restored from the era of the Appeals Court.

  • Sapporo City Museum（札幌市資料館）
  • Address: 13 West Odori, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
  • Website: https://www.s-shiryokan.jp/


2. Hokkaido Museum（北海道博物館）

1703383091 10255628 l

This comprehensive museum showcases research materials on the natural environment of Hokkaido, the relationship between humans and nature, Ainu culture, and the lives of Honshu immigrants.

The thematic exhibitions, conceptualized around "Hokkaido in Northeast Asia" and "The Relationship between Nature and Humans," span a total area of 3000 square meters on the first and second floors. The museum highlights Hokkaido's nature, history, and culture, featuring intriguing exhibits such as authentic mammoth fossils, three-dimensional models, and video installations.

3. Makomanai Takino Cemetery（真駒内滝野霊園）

1703383228 2020115355572

Though a graveyard, this has become a popular destination in Sapporo, especially since 2016 when Tadao Ando's designed colossal Buddha statue was unveiled to the public, further elevating its prominence.

Beyond the Buddha statue, this is a uniquely lesser-known place where one can discover world-renowned sculptures like Moai, a Stonehenge-like arrangement, a winged lion statue, and grave creatures.

  • Makomanai Takino Cemetery（真駒内滝野霊園）
  • Address: Shikano Taki-no Reien, 2 Taki-no, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
  • Website: https://www.takinoreien.com/

4. Ishiyama Green Space（石山緑地）

1703383465 20190932525230

Ishiyama Green Space accessible free of charg and it is established upon the remnants of a quarry where soft stone was once extracted for construction purposes. It is divided into two sections: the "North Zone" features an observation deck and tennis courts, while the "South Zone" showcases a distinctive landscape with exposed rock surfaces.

In the South Zone, an array of artworks crafted by Hokkaido sculptors seamlessly integrates with nature, creating a highly artistic space utilized for various events. During autumn, as surrounding trees change colors, you can appreciate the juxtaposition of inorganic stone formations against the backdrop of nature.

  • Ishiyama Green Space（石山緑地）
  • Address: 78-24 Ishiyama, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
  • Website: https://www.mit-ueki.com/

5. Sapporo Racecourse（札幌競馬場）

1703383647 4636b411d7a6e05

Situated in the Central district, the Sapporo Racecourse boasts the "Mo-iwa Terrace" offering a view of Moiwa-yama, the "Meadow Garden" where interaction with ponies is possible, and the "Grass-side Seats" providing a hands-on experience of the racecourse's energy.

Sapporo Racecourse allows you to closely encounter purebred horses, savor Sapporo's distinctive cuisine, making it a lesser-known gem. Beyond horse racing, it offers an enjoyable setting for dates or family outings.

6. Hakkogakuen Hanashobupark（八紘学園花菖蒲園）

1703383877 o0856396702090

北海道农业专门学校——八紘（はっこう）学園的学生每年都会精心培育花菖蒲园，作为农活的一部分。在观赏旺季期间向公众开放，游客可以欣赏2公顷花菖蒲盛开、郁郁葱葱的田园风光。

Every year students of Hokkaido Agricultural School, Hakkou Gakuen, meticulously cultivate an iris garden as part of their agricultural activities. Open to the public during the peak season, visitors can admire two hectares of blooming irises and lush pastoral scenery.

Moreover, when 70,000 iris flowers are in full bloom, the lavender also reaches its peak. Few are aware of the lavender cultivation here, making it a delightful surprise for those unfamiliar with the fact.

7. Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine（札幌伏見稲荷神社）

1703384009 2022352662i 06

Established in 1884 (Meiji 17), this shrine is a branch of the Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, renowned for its thousand torii gates. The spectacle of 27 torii gates aligned in a straight line is truly magnificent, especially when the white snow contrasts with the vermilion gates during winter, creating a breathtaking scene.

Another highlight of the area is the "Wishing Stone." Legend has it that by cutting off something dear to you, your wishes can be granted. This location is also part of the Dragon Vein Path and is known as a prominent energy point, believed to bring good fortune in work, flourishing business, and increased financial luck.

  • Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine（札幌伏見稲荷神社）
  • Address: 2-2-17 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
  • Website: https://fushimiinari.or.jp/

8. Shin Sapporo Sunpiazza Aquarium（新札幌 サンピアザ水族館）

1703384300 20221204053352355

Adjacent to Shin Sapporo Station, the Shin Sapporo Sunpiazza Aquarium is a compact space filled with aquarium idols such as clownfish, penguins, and spotted seals.

There is also a touch pool with starfish and snails, as well as a doctor fish tank. Feeding small salmon purchased from the shop adds an enjoyable interactive element.

  • Shin Sapporo Sunpiazza Aquarium（新札幌 サンピアザ水族館）
  • Address: 2-5-7-5 Atsubetsu Central, Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
  • Website: https://www.sunpiazza-aquarium.com/

9. Hōheikyō Dam（豊平峡ダム）

1703384472 26523636347 l

The Hōheikyō Dam is Sapporo's water reservoir, celebrated as a scenic area offering views of the four seasons. It has been recognized as one of Japan's "Top 100 Watershed Forests" and "Top 100 Dam Lakes." The contrast between autumn foliage and the layered rocks is particularly stunning.

1703384485 hohe34636373a

From June to the end of October, water releases occur daily, so it is recommended to plan your visit during these times to witness the massive waves released from the top of the dam and enjoy the magnificent views of the entire dam lake from three observation decks.

10. Hoheikan（豊平館）

1703384877 346347313158

Constructed in 1880 (Meiji 13), "Hoheikan" is a hotel directly operated by the Hokkaido Development Commission. Adorned in a beautiful shade of cobalt blue, it features a prominent semicircular balcony at the front.

The first guest to stay was Emperor Meiji, and subsequent generations of the imperial family visited during the Taisho and Showa eras. Initially located where the current Sapporo Citizen's Hall stands, it was relocated to the present site in Nakajima Park in 1958 (Showa 33). In 1964, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Currently open to the public, the venue also houses the "Harunire Cafe."

11. Hokkaido University Museum（北海道大学総合博物館）

1703385035 236526236u127

Situated within the Hokkaido University campus, this museum is housed in a modern Gothic-style building adorned with scratched tiles and red earth coating. Erected in 1929 as the main building for the Faculty of Science, it currently serves as the Hokkaido University Museum.

1703385045 23562636346l

The museum preserves approximately 4 million valuable academic specimens and materials collected since the establishment of Sapporo Agricultural School, some of which are accessible to the public free of charge. Each floor, from the 1st to the 3rd, is filled with exhibits and research boards, some of which are interactive for touching and admiration.

12. Nopporo Forest Park（道立自然公園野幌森林公園）

1703385215 c03352551

Spanning across the hills of Nopporo in Sapporo, Ebetsu City, and Kitahiroshima City, this park covers an area of 2,053 hectares (equivalent to 439 Tokyo Domes), with approximately 80% of the park being national forest. Each of the five entrances features walkways, allowing for delightful strolls in nature.

The park's landmark is the Hokkaido Centennial Memorial Tower, constructed in 1970 as part of the Hokkaido Centennial Project. Standing at 100 meters tall, with an observatory on the 8th floor (23.5 meters high), it offers panoramic views.

13. Asahi Beer Hokkaido Brewery（アサヒビール北海道工場）

1703385726

The sole facility in Sapporo where you can tour a beer brewery. Visitors can witness the production process, including brewing tanks, filtration rooms, and bottling. There's even an opportunity for hands-on experience with beer ingredients like hops, making it a lesser-known destination enjoyable even for non-drinkers.

Following the factory tour, beer enthusiasts can indulge in the pleasure of tasting various brews. In addition to alcoholic beverages, soft drinks like juices and desserts are also available. Seasonal trips combined with children's activities are organized, ensuring families traveling with kids can have an even more enjoyable experience.

14. Jozankei Dam（定山渓ダム）

1703385956 12352236am

Constructed as Sapporo's second reservoir after the aforementioned Toyohira Gorge Dam, the Jozankei Dam was completed in 1989. Below the dam lies a park known as Downstream Park. From here, you can not only admire the impressive dam but also relax alongside the dam lake—Lake Sapporo. It's a great spot for a picnic, especially during lunchtime.

In autumn, this place is a lesser-known destination for fall foliage, with the best viewing period typically from mid to late October. The park also features the Jozankei Dam Museum, offering informative exhibits about the dam.

15. Chitosetsuru Sake Museum（千歳鶴酒ミュージアム）

1703386108 3526236341

The Chitosetsuru Sake Museum is centered around the locally popular sake Chitosetsuru, created in Sapporo. By showcasing actual wooden brewing barrels and materials like brewing logs, along with videos detailing the sake-making process, visitors gain insight into Chitosetsuru's commitment to sake brewing.

Additionally, at the onsite store, there is a wide variety of sake, including limited-edition and seasonal brews, as well as well-known brands. A tasting corner is also available, allowing visitors to sample many of the featured products.

Sharing is caring:

Related Articles

Scroll to Top