Explore the Okurayama Observatory in Sapporo｜Breathtaking Views from the Famous Ski Jump Platform!

Located in Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, the Okurayama Observatory is part of the iconic Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium. In 1972, it served as the venue for the ski jumping events during the Sapporo Winter Olympics. Here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Sapporo city. In addition to the observatory and lift, attractions include the Sapporo Olympic Museum and Crystal House! In this guide, we’ll introduce travel information and access tips for visiting the Okurayama Observatory in Sapporo.

1. Sapporo Olympic Museum

The Sapporo Olympic Museum is located within the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium. Here, visitors can explore detailed information about the Winter Olympics, including its history and how it came to be hosted in Sapporo. Authentic equipment used by athletes during actual competitions is also on display.

One highlight is the Panorama Theater, featuring a large circular screen that wraps around the room, where visitors can watch footage from past Olympic Games. The Sapporo Olympic Legacy section introduces how and when the Sapporo Olympics were held. Meanwhile, the Paralympic World corner shares the story of how the Paralympics began.

There are also interactive areas where you can experience various winter sports. Try the feeling of taking off from a large hill in ski jumping, test your timing in the takeoff, or experience cross-country skiing and bobsleigh. More than just viewing exhibits and videos, you can get hands-on with Olympic sports—definitely a must-try when you visit!

2. Okurayama Observatory & Lift

The highlight of the Okurayama Observatory, located at the top of the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, is the breathtaking panoramic view from a height of 133.6 meters. From here, you can overlook Sapporo City, the Ishikari Plain, and the Ishikari Bay. You’ll also spot the Miyanomori Ski Jump (Normal Hill, K-point 90m), giving you a glimpse into what ski jump athletes see before they take off. It’s quite a thrilling sight in person!

The summit is accessible via a two-person chairlift that takes about 5 minutes. As you ascend, you might find yourself imagining the emotions of professional jumpers preparing for their descent.

3. Museum Shop

At the Museum Shop, you can purchase Okurayama original goods, popular Hokkaido sweets, towels, T-shirts, and cheering items used during ski jumping tournaments. From here, you can also look up at the iconic Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium. A particularly popular treat is "Jaga Pokkuru," a snack made from premium Hokkaido potatoes.

Recommended items include sweets exclusive to Okurayama! You’ll find Okurayama Goma Dare Mochi (sesame sauce mochi), Okurayama Black Sesame Daifuku, Okurayama Baked Donuts, and Okurayama Castella Manju. The Okurayama Original T-shirts are also popular, featuring powerful Japanese kanji like flight, soar, and birdman—symbolizing athletes soaring off the jump platform.

4. Nouvelle Pousse Ōkurayama

Nouvelle Pousse Ōkurayama is a French restaurant located on the 2nd floor of the Sapporo Olympic Museum Annex. Set in an open and stylish space, the restaurant offers a scenic view of the iconic ski jump and romantic city lights at night. You can enjoy exquisite dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, making it a perfect spot not only for a memorable dining experience but also for romantic dates.

5. How to Access the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

Here’s how to get to the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, a popular observation point in Sapporo.

◆ By Public Transportation:

From Sapporo Station, take the Subway Namboku Line to Odori Station, then transfer to the Subway Tozai Line. Get off at Maruyama Koen Station and exit through Exit 2 to reach the Maruyama Bus Terminal. From there, take the JR Hokkaido Bus “Maru 14” Arai-yama Line and get off at the “Okurayama Kyogijo Iriguchi” bus stop. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop to the venue.

◆ By Car or Rental Car:

It takes approximately 30 minutes from Sapporo Station or 10 minutes from Maruyama Koen Station. Free parking is available for 113 standard vehicles and 15 large vehicles.

◎ Lastly: Tourist Attractions Around the Okurayama Observatory

One of the popular tourist attractions near the Okurayama Observatory is the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo. It’s a lively destination visited by many, known for its charming animal exhibits. On March 12, 2019, a brand-new elephant house opened, now home to four Asian elephants. After enjoying the breathtaking view from the Okurayama Observatory, why not bring your kids to explore this exciting zoo? The area around the observatory is full of highlights and family-friendly spots. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, be sure to include a visit to the Okurayama Observatory and nearby attractions in your itinerary.

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