Hokkaido University Botanic Garden

Dating back to 1886, the Botanic Garden of Hokkaidō University is a historic and prominent park in the center of Sapporo. It is one of the leafy treasures of Hokkaidō Island, stretching across about 33 acres (13 hectares) of scenic terrain that paints the city center green. Meander between the Japanese elms of the forest as you forget the city around you.

While you wander in the woodland, get a sense of how the city may have looked before its urban development. Study the thousands of alpine and cool-temperate plants from the region. The garden has a wide array of floral treasures on display year-round, with the spring ephemeral wildflowers and the Japanese cherry blossoms among the most brilliant highlights.

Come in autumn to watch the leaves change color and fall to the ground. Stroll with your partner through the rose garden, set up a picnic on the North Lawn and browse the Shrub Garden. As part of Hokkaidō University, the park is used for research and study purposes.

Visit the park’s museum for its displays about natural history and the island’s colonization. The Northern Peoples Museum looks into the rich history of cultures indigenous to the island.

The garden opens Tuesday through Sunday from morning until late afternoon in summer. It is closed on Sundays in winter. There is a fee to enter, with a discount for youths under 15. Very young kids have free admission.

The Botanic Garden of Hokkaidō University is a large square in the center of Sapporo. From the Sapporo Clock Tower that marks the city center, walk west for about 10 minutes to reach the park entrance. It is also near the metro stop of Nishi Hatchome Station and Sapporo Station.

Explore the surrounding area for some of the city’s top attractions, including the Bust of Dr. William S. Clark, the Tanukikoji Shopping Street and Sapporo Odori Park.