24 must-see sightseeing spots in Sapporo with stunning views: Beauty that will leave you speechless

When you think of stunning scenic spots in Sapporo, what kind of views come to mind? Sapporo is a city where urban life and nature coexist harmoniously. It’s filled with beautiful and enchanting sights, including mountains, rivers, parks, and plazas. This city boasts numerous breathtaking locations: from lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and autumn leaves to snow-covered landscapes, as well as art installations and magnificent night views. Here, we'll introduce some of Sapporo's most captivating spots that charm visitors, all accessible by subway, bus, or rental car.

1. Mt. Moiwa Observatory

When it comes to Sapporo’s night views, the view from Mount Moiwa (Moiwayama) is particularly famous. Located conveniently near the city center, Mount Moiwa stands at about 530 meters and is a beloved scenic spot for both tourists and locals. The night view from Mount Moiwa is one of the Three Major Night Views of Hokkaido, alongside views from Mount Tengu in Otaru and Mount Hakodate in Hakodate.

Mount Moiwa is also popular as a date spot. At the summit observation deck, you’ll find the Bell of Happiness, surrounded by railings adorned with countless love locks. According to legend, couples who attach a lock together will stay together forever, which adds to the charm of this spot. Accessing Mount Moiwa is straightforward: you can take the city tram to Ropeway Iriguchi station, and from Minami 19 Nishi 15, there’s a free shuttle bus to Moiwa Sanroku Station, which takes about 5 minutes.

2. Odori Park

Stretching straight east to west from Sapporo TV Tower is Odori Park, which spans approximately 1.3 km. Surrounding Odori Park are trees unique to Hokkaido, such as Japanese elm, lilac, false acacia, and Japanese yew, which bloom beautifully with the changing seasons. The park serves as a beloved gathering place for Sapporo residents and is a must-visit tourist spot.

Around blocks 8 to 9, you'll find a sculpture called the Black Slide Mantra. This impressive piece was created by the famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi and is noted for its beautiful form. The sculpture doubles as a slide, making it a favorite for families with children. While you're there, be sure to see the statue of Kiyotaka Kuroda, a hero from the pioneer era, located at block 10.

3. Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park

Takino Suzuran Hillside National Government Park is a vast national park located in Sapporo’s Minami Ward. It is well-known for Ashiribetsu Falls, which has been selected as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls. This impressive and dynamic waterfall is truly a stunning sight representing the natural beauty of Sapporo. Within the park, visitors can enjoy activities such as cycling and mini-golf, and during winter, skiing is also available.

The park preserves its natural environment, showcasing seasonal flowers, wildlife, birds, insects, and fish, creating beautiful scenery no matter where you look. With plenty of facilities where children can play, it’s a great spot for families to visit and enjoy together.

4. Horomitoge Lavender Garden

Horomitoge is a mountain pass offering a panoramic view of Sapporo. At this location, the Horomitoge Lavender Garden boasts around 5,000 lavender plants, creating a stunning landscape. From July to August, when the lavender blooms, the area is transformed into a sea of beautiful purple, offering an impressive, scenic view.

The parking lot at Horomitoge Lavender Garden also serves as a night-view spot. Though open only from April to November, it allows visitors to enjoy the night scenery from the comfort of their cars. This spot is particularly recommended for couples on a drive-date, offering two scenic experiences in one visit.

5. Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium served as the ski jump venue for the Sapporo Winter Olympics. From the observation deck at the top, you can enjoy a sweeping view of Sapporo City, including famous sites like Odori Park, Hokkaido University, and even the Sapporo Dome in the distance.

The Winter Sports Museum adjacent to the observation deck offers exhibits on the history of the Olympics and Paralympics, making it a great educational stop. There’s also an interactive area where visitors can experience winter sports, providing a fun opportunity to try ski jump simulations and other activities.

6. Hokkaido Shrine

Hokkaido Shrine, known as the Guardian Deity of Hokkaido, is a revered shrine in the region. Within its grounds is the Kaitaku Shrine, which honors 37 figures, including Kiyotaka Kuroda, who played pivotal roles in supporting Hokkaido’s pioneering era. The shrine grounds transform beautifully with the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, lush green trees in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and a blanket of white snow in winter—creating breathtaking views that harmonize nature and spirituality.

Hokkaido Shrine is also famous as a powerful spiritual site, considered one of the most potent in the region. The most spiritually significant spot is the Kaitaku Shrine itself. With some of Sapporo’s most stunning views and the promise of spiritual renewal, it’s an unmissable destination.

7. JR Tower Observation Deck T38

The JR Tower Observation Deck offers a breathtaking panoramic view from about 160 meters above ground. From here, you can overlook the city of Sapporo and see as far as Ishikari Bay, the Sapporo Dome, and Mount Teine. On clear days, the view extends even farther to include Mount Yubari and Ashibetsu, making it a stunning vantage point. At night, the observation deck becomes a popular spot for couples who come to enjoy the beautiful nightscape and spend a relaxing evening together.

An additional unique feature is the observation restroom. Although only available in the men’s restroom on the northeast side, it provides an expansive view of Sapporo, offering a surprisingly scenic experience. Gentlemen can look forward to enjoying this unique outlook in a one-of-a-kind setting.

8. Hitsujigaoka Observatory

The Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is known for the statue of Dr. William S. Clark. It features a vast, picturesque pasture that appears suddenly within the city of Sapporo, providing a breathtaking view that’s worth experiencing at least once. Watching the sheep grazing peacefully on this expansive land is sure to warm your heart and bring a smile to your face. Beyond the sheep, you’ll see the unique roof of Sapporo Dome against the backdrop of the city skyline. The blend of nature and urban landscape here is simply captivating.

9. Jozankei

The Jozankei Gorge and the Toyohira River, which include the Futami Suspension Bridge, are iconic scenic spots in Sapporo. In summer, the mountains are lush green, while autumn brings vibrant red and yellow leaves, and winter covers the landscape in a silvery blanket of snow. Spanning this seasonal beauty, the bright red Futami Suspension Bridge creates a breathtaking view that is praised as indescribably beautiful. The bridge is especially popular during the autumn foliage season, when the unforgettable scenery captivates every visitor.

10. Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo

The Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo is an annual event held from late November to Christmas in December at Odori Park in Sapporo. The park lights up, creating a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a German Christmas market. Visitors can enjoy hot wine as they explore the charming stalls offering various goods.

Odori Park is filled with Christmas ornaments and decorations, making it a seasonal scenic spot that rivals those in Germany. When snowflakes gently fall, the romantic ambiance becomes even more magical. Since it’s only open until Christmas, it’s a must-visit for those looking to experience the special holiday spirit.

11. Asahiyama Memorial Park

Asahiyama Memorial Park is located between Mount Moiwa and Maruyama, approximately in the middle of these two landmarks. The observation deck at Asahiyama Memorial Park sits at an elevation of around 138 meters, offering a view that makes it feel as though Sapporo's cityscape is right within reach. In spring, visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms in harmony with the city view, while in summer, the fountain adds a lovely touch to the scenery with Sapporo's skyline in the background. The park is filled with natural beauty.

There’s also a playground area for children, making it a great spot for picnics and strolls. At night, the fountain is illuminated, transforming the area into a romantic date spot that attracts couples. Both the daytime and nighttime views are equally captivating and hard to choose between.

12. Sapporo Snow Festival

When it comes to Sapporo, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a must-see event. Known internationally, it attracts over two million visitors from Japan and abroad each year. The event takes place over just 1.5 kilometers from blocks 1 to 12 of Odori Park, where numerous snow sculptures are displayed.

These snow sculptures are crafted with incredible attention to detail, making it almost hard to believe they are made of snow—they are truly breathtaking sights. Visitors can marvel at these masterpieces created with great skill and dedication. In block 11 of Odori Park, the International Snow Sculpture Contest is held, bringing in many participants from overseas, adding a global touch to the festival.

13. Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is an art-like park that integrates with the surrounding Moere Marsh. Designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi, its main monument is the glass pyramid HIDAMARI, a fascinating structure that appears in different shapes depending on the angle. It’s a park where visitors can enjoy both nature and art.

From the summit of Mount Moere, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Sapporo. Other unique attractions include the Sea Fountain, Play Mountain, Music Shell, and Moere Beach, each adding to the surreal, artistic atmosphere throughout the park. Moerenuma Park seamlessly combines art and nature, creating a breathtaking experience, so it’s well worth a visit.

14. Ishiyama Green Space

Ishiyama Green Space was originally a quarry site. This area was transformed into a park by CINQ, a group of five sculptors: Asuka Kunimatsu, Koichi Nagano, Takashi Maruyama, Yasuo Matsukuma, and Keiji Yamatani. The sculptures, utilizing the remnants of the quarry, create a surreal art space within nature, resulting in breathtaking scenery.

The views here are truly one-of-a-kind, offering an experience that can’t be found elsewhere. Children can also enjoy exploring the unique sculptures, making it a recommended spot for families visiting with young ones.

15. Yurigahara Park

Yurigahara Park features around 6,400 types of flowers and trees. The blooming flowers, which reach their peak in different seasons, offer a beautiful display that enriches the hearts of all visitors. By riding the Lily Train, a sightseeing train that circles the park, you can enjoy lilies, rapeseed blossoms, lavender, and many other flowers all in one go.

In autumn, the ground is dotted with chestnut burs, adding another charming aspect to the park’s scenery. From the Silo Observation Tower in the center of the park, you can get a panoramic view of Yurigahara Park’s expansive grounds, a scenic spot in Sapporo that soothes the soul with its flowers in full bloom.

16. Sapporo Art Park

Sapporo Art Park is a scenic spot where visitors can explore outdoor stages, workshops, and an open-air art museum that harmonizes with the natural surroundings, showcasing different seasonal landscapes. One of the most memorable pieces here is Let’s Rest in a Chair by graphic designer Shigeo Fukuda, a popular attraction for both children and adults.

Another artwork with a memorable name is Masakazu Horiuchi's sculpture, Throat and Nostril. This name alone sparks interest, especially among children. What might you see if you peek through the nostrils of this sculpture? Head over to this unique outdoor museum to discover the hidden view through these small openings.

17. Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is a scenic area adjacent to Hokkaido Shrine, Maruyama Zoo, Maruyama Sports Complex, and Sapporo’s Maruyama Stadium. The park is especially famous for its cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors from across Japan each May. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the fall foliage while collecting pine cones and acorns.

The Maruyama Primeval Forest within the park serves as a popular hiking and jogging spot for Sapporo locals, providing an urban oasis. From the small peak, which stands at around 200 meters, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo City. The primeval forest’s grandeur combined with the summit views make it one of Sapporo’s most satisfying scenic spots.

18. Nakajima Park

Nakajima Park is a vast park located near downtown Sapporo. Within its grounds, you’ll find the Hokkaido Concert Hall Kitara, the Hokkaido Literature Museum, and the Sapporo Astronomical Observatory. Two historic buildings, the Hoheikan and Hassou-an, are also located here, both designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. These buildings, set amidst the park’s natural beauty, make Nakajima Park a stunning scenic spot in Sapporo.

The park also features a Japanese garden, where cherry blossoms reach their peak in May, drawing many visitors. The weeping cherry trees, in particular, create a breathtaking view. At Shobu Pond, visitors can rent boats and enjoy a beautiful blend of nature and historic architecture from the water, adding to the park’s charm.

19. Ginkgo Tree Line at Hokkaido University

The Ginkgo Avenue at Hokkaido University is a famous sightseeing spot that attracts visitors year-round. Stretching approximately 380 meters, it is lined with over 70 ginkgo trees on both sides of the road. During the fall, the trees turn a brilliant yellow, and as the leaves gently fall, the avenue transforms into a breathtaking scene.

The official website provides daily updates on the autumn foliage, with photos showcasing the current conditions, making it easier for visitors coming from afar to plan their trips. The illuminated trees at night are especially popular among couples, making this romantic spot in the heart of Sapporo a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a scenic view within the city.

20. Sapporo White Illumination

The White Illumination event takes place at Odori Park around the same time as the Munich Christmas Market. After enjoying the Christmas Market, visitors can marvel at the sparkling illuminations that transform the park. The light displays, combined with the snow-covered landscape, create a magical and dynamic scene that captivates all who visit.

During the Christmas season, the lights stay on longer, adding to the romantic ambiance for couples. This seasonal event, unique to Sapporo’s snowy landscape, offers a joyful and enchanting way to celebrate Christmas.

21. Shiroi Koibito Park

When it comes to Shiroi Koibito, it’s one of Hokkaido’s most famous sweets, known internationally. Soccer fans might also recognize it as the brand sponsor of Consadole Sapporo’s uniforms. This beloved treat is produced by Ishiya Confectionery in Sapporo, and its factory has become a popular theme park destination.
Inside the park, you’ll find a whimsical atmosphere with features like the Sapporo Karakuri Clock Tower, an English-style rose garden, a treehouse, and a fairy-tale-like area that feels as if you’ve stepped into a land of sweets. It’s a fantastic spot where both children and adults can feel like kids again. The park’s nighttime illuminations are also a big attraction, adding to the magical experience.

22. Maeda Forest Park

Maeda Forest Park in Sapporo’s Teine area is unique in Hokkaido, as it wasn’t created from existing forested land but rather developed through the "Greenbelt of Dreams" concept to introduce a forest where there previously was none.
The canal leading straight toward Mount Teine stretches about 600 meters and is lined on both sides with rows of poplar trees, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a European palace. The breathtaking view of Mount Teine, the canal, and the 240 poplar trees is a hallmark of Maeda Forest Park. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a scenic walk while immersing yourself in a forested landscape.

23. Sapporo International Ski Resort

Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is, as the name suggests, a breathtaking spot where visitors can enjoy a vast winter landscape. The snowy mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a beautiful silver world unique to Sapporo. Located in Jozankei, Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is also a renowned spot for autumn foliage. By taking the gondola to the summit, visitors can experience a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan paired with the vibrant colors of fall foliage, creating a stunning scene.

24. Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza "Akapura"

The new landmark of Sapporo, Akarenga Plaza. This area, commonly known as "Akapura," was redeveloped into a pedestrian-only space extending from the main gate of the Hokkaido Government Office's red brick building along Kita 3-jo. It is lively with the oldest ginkgo tree-lined street in Hokkaido and seasonal events.
Akapura is also popular among tourists. Don’t you think it’s a luxurious moment to relax at an open cafe while gazing at the red brick building and the ginkgo trees? Every June, the "Sapporo Flower Carpet" is held, creating a breathtaking view with a flower carpet made of petals.

Summary

When thinking of Sapporo’s stunning sights, the natural landscapes and night views often come to mind first. But surprisingly, Sapporo also offers many scenic spots where art and nature collaborate beautifully. It’s truly a city full of charm, even from an artist’s perspective. Be sure to visit Sapporo and find your own favorite view.