Sapporo Stroll
Discover Maruyama: Nature, and Charming Alleys
The Maruyama area is a charming district where rich nature blends seamlessly with a refined urban atmosphere. In addition to the classic walking route from Maruyama‑Koen Subway Station to Hokkaido Shrine, we recommend exploring the backstreets filled with Urasando cafés and hidden gems. It’s an area with a unique atmosphere — often described as “the favorite place in Sapporo.”
Maruyama Area
Maruyama Park, Hokkaido Shrine, Kaitaku Shrine, two Jingu Teahouses, Torii Gates No.1–5, Maruyama Zoo, Maruyama Nature Trail, Maruyama Primeval Forest, Mt. Maruyama Hiking (225m)
Events & Festivals
New Year’s Shrine Visit, Maruyama Park Cherry Blossoms, Hokkaido Shrine Festival, Shichi‑Go‑San, Autumn Foliage
Backstreet Walks
Urasando, Maruyama EF (Japanese tea & wagashi), Maruyama Class, MaxValu Maruyama
Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama
Hokkaido Shrine is the chief guardian shrine of all Hokkaido — much like Kanda Myojin served as the guardian of Edo.
It is a historically significant shrine that conveys the story of Hokkaido’s development during the Meiji era.
Surrounded by a rich forest, the shrine grounds are known as a mystical power spot where visitors can experience both traditional Japanese culture and the beauty of nature.
The enshrined deities are Ōkuninushi‑no‑kami, Ōnamuchi‑no‑kami, Sukunahikona‑no‑kami, and Emperor Meiji.
Blessings include good fortune, business prosperity, career success, matchmaking, and family safety.
- Plum and Cherry Blossoms Bloom Together : A rare sight even in Japan — about 1,400 cherry trees and several hundred plum trees in the park bloom almost simultaneously in April.
- Wildlife : Maruyama Park, adjacent to the sacred forest of Hokkaido Shrine, is home to Ezo squirrels, long‑tailed tits (shima‑enaga), and dozens of wild bird species.
- Worship : At the main hall, visitors follow the ritual of “two bows, two claps, one bow.” Fortune slips (omikuji) are available in foreign languages. You can also receive amulets and a goshuin (seal stamp) as a memorable proof of your visit.
- Other Highlights : First and Second Torii Gates with the main approach, Kaitaku Shrine, and “Hangan‑sama” (Jingu Chaya teahouse).
Japanese Tea Specialty Shop｜Japanese Tea & Wagashi “F” Maruyama Park
- Japanese Tea Brewing Classes Now Available
- We carefully brew premium tea leaves selected from all over Japan, offering the most delicious Japanese tea for each season.
- The delicate and beautifully crafted wagashi allow you to experience Japan’s four seasons through both sight and taste.
Access : 2–3 min walk (approx. 94 m) from Maruyama‑Koen Station, Tozai Subway Line
Spots in the Maruyama Area
Okurayama Observatory
The Okurayama Observatory offers a thrilling view from the same perspective as ski jump athletes, overlooking the city of Sapporo. It is a famous sightseeing spot where the dynamic scenery of a major city blends with the vast natural landscape. This was the venue for the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics, a turning point that greatly advanced the city’s development. Standing at the starting point of the Okurayama Ski Jump — still used for World Cup competitions — and looking down from the athlete’s viewpoint is an unforgettable experience unique to Sapporo.
The panoramic view of the city from this spot becomes one of the most memorable moments of any trip.
- Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium Lift : Enjoy an aerial ride on a two‑seater lift from the base to the observatory.
- Observatory Lounge : An observation facility located at the 307‑meter summit, positioned just above the athletes’ “starting point.”
- Japan’s New Top Three Night Views : A must‑see nightscape where the illuminated Odori Park stretches straight ahead like a runway of light.v
- Sapporo Olympic Museum : Located at the base area. Features valuable footage from the 1972 Sapporo Olympics and interactive attractions.
- Nouvelle Pousse Okurayama : A full‑scale French restaurant offering a panoramic view of Sapporo.
Spots in the Okurayama Area
Spots Accessible from Maruyama by Bus or Taxi
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