About Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a large public park located in Sapporo, Japan. It covers an area of approximately 189 hectares and was designed by the renowned Japanese-American sculptor and landscape architect Isamu Noguchi.

The park was originally a waste treatment plant, but it was transformed into a public park for the 1972 Winter Olympics held in Sapporo. Isamu Noguchi was commissioned to design the park in the 1980s, and it took him over a decade to complete the design. The park was finally opened to the public in 2005.

Moerenuma Park features a number of unique and interesting features, including a large glass pyramid that serves as the park’s main entrance, a man-made mountain called Mount Moere, a large fountain, and a playground designed to resemble a spaceship. The park also includes a number of open fields, ponds, and walking trails.

One of the most impressive features of the park is its symmetrical design, with a central axis that runs through the park and connects many of its main features. The park is also known for its use of natural and man-made materials, including large boulders and steel sculptures.

Overall, Moerenuma Park is a beautiful and unique public space that combines art, design, and nature. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike and has won numerous awards for its design and architecture.

History timeline of Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a large public park located in Sapporo, Japan. The park was designed by the famous Japanese sculptor Isamu Noguchi and was opened to the public in 2005. Here is a brief history timeline of Moerenuma Park:

  • 1978: The Hokkaido government initiated a project to create a new landfill site in the city of Sapporo, with the intention of transforming the area into a large public park.
  • 1982: The renowned Japanese-American artist and landscape architect, Isamu Noguchi, was commissioned to design the park.
  • 1988: Isamu Noguchi completed the design of the park, which he named “Moerenuma Park.” The name “Moerenuma” comes from the Ainu language, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and means “a slowly flowing and winding river.”
  • 1991: Construction of the park began, with the first phase consisting of basic infrastructure, such as roads and water supply systems.
  • 1994: Construction of the park’s main facilities began, including the glass pyramid, the amphitheater, and the playgrounds.
  • 1999: The park’s construction was completed, and it was handed over to the City of Sapporo for maintenance and management.
  • 2002: The park was opened for preview to the public during the 2002 World Cup, which was co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.
  • 2005: The park was officially opened to the public on April 1, 2005.

Since its opening, Moerenuma Park has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The park’s unique design and art installations have won numerous awards, including the 2008 Good Design Award and the 2009 Green Flag Award.

How to reach Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is located in Sapporo, Japan, and there are several ways to reach the park depending on where you are coming from:

  1. Moerenuma Park By Subway: Take the Toho Line to Kanjo Dori Higashi Station, then transfer to the Nanboku Line and take it to the final stop, Makomanai Station. From there, you can take a bus to the park.
  2. Moerenuma Park By Bus: There are several bus routes that connect the park to different parts of Sapporo. You can take a bus from Sapporo Station or Odori Station, among other locations. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
  3. Moerenuma Park By Car: If you have a rental car or are driving your own car, you can take the Sapporo Expressway and exit at the Makomanai Interchange. From there, the park is about a 10-minute drive away.
  4. Moerenuma Park By Taxi: You can also take a taxi from anywhere in Sapporo to Moerenuma Park. However, this can be a more expensive option than taking public transportation.

Once you arrive at the park, there is a large parking lot available for those who have driven, and you can also rent bicycles to explore the park if you prefer.

Location of Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is located in the city of Sapporo, which is the capital city of Hokkaido Prefecture in Japan. The park is situated in the eastern part of the city, about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Sapporo Station, the main railway station in the city.

The address of Moerenuma Park is:

1-1 Moerenuma-koen, Higashi-ku, Sapporo 007-0011, Japan

Do's and Dont's at Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a beautiful public park in Sapporo, Japan, with many unique features and artworks designed by Isamu Noguchi. Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting the park:

Do’s:

  • Do take your time to explore and enjoy the park’s various features and artworks, including the Glass Pyramid, Mount Moere, and the various playgrounds and recreational areas.
  • Do bring a camera or smartphone to take photos and capture memories of your visit.
  • Do dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Do follow the park’s rules and regulations, such as not littering and not smoking in non-designated areas.
  • Do consider visiting the park during different seasons to experience the changing scenery and events.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t climb on or touch the artworks and sculptures, as they are fragile and may be damaged.
  • Don’t bring bicycles, rollerblades, or other vehicles into the park, as they are not allowed.
  • Don’t enter restricted areas, such as off-limits construction sites or fenced-off areas.
  • Don’t feed the wildlife or stray from designated trails, as this may disturb the park’s ecosystem.
  • Don’t leave trash or litter in the park, as this can harm the environment and detract from the park’s beauty.

By following these general do’s and don’ts, visitors can help preserve and enjoy the natural beauty and unique features of Moerenuma Park.

Highlights of Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a unique and beautiful public park in Sapporo, Japan, designed by Isamu Noguchi. Here are some of the highlights of the park:

  1. The Glass Pyramid: The park’s main entrance is a large glass pyramid that was inspired by the Louvre Pyramid in Paris. It houses an information center, a gift shop, and a small theater.
  2. Mount Moere: A 62-meter-tall man-made mountain that offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area. You can climb to the top of the mountain using a spiral ramp.
  3. Fountain Plaza: A large open area that features a water fountain that is synchronized with music and lights. The fountain is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and relax.
  4. Playground: The park’s playground is designed to resemble a spaceship and is a popular spot for children to play. It features a large slide, swings, and climbing structures.
  5. Cherry Blossom Avenue: A beautiful path lined with over 2,000 cherry trees that bloom in the spring. It is a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and photography.
  6. The Sea Fountain: A large fountain that shoots water up to 25 meters into the air, creating a dramatic water display.
  7. Sculptures and Artworks: The park features a number of sculptures and artworks by Isamu Noguchi and other artists, including the “Sky of Time” sculpture, which consists of a large steel arch that frames the sky.

These are just a few of the many highlights of Moerenuma Park. The park is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everyone, from natural landscapes to artistic and architectural features.

Reviews of Moerenuma Park by Tourist

Moerenuma Park is a popular tourist destination and public park in Sapporo, Japan, with many unique features and artworks designed by Isamu Noguchi. Here are some reviews of the park from visitors:

  • “This park is amazing! It’s a work of art in itself, with beautiful sculptures and architecture. There are plenty of walking paths and green spaces to explore. We visited during the winter and it was stunning with the snow and ice sculptures. A must-visit in Sapporo!” – Samantha, USA
  • “The Glass Pyramid is the centerpiece of the park and it’s simply breathtaking. The view from the observation deck is amazing, and it’s a great spot for photos. The park is very well-maintained and clean. Highly recommend visiting!” – Simon, Australia
  • “Moerenuma Park is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. There’s so much to see and do, including a man-made mountain, a lake, and many playgrounds for kids. It’s a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Definitely worth a visit!” – Mia, Singapore
  • “The park is so big that you can easily spend a whole day exploring. The sculptures and artworks are very interesting and unique. It’s a great place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Would highly recommend to anyone visiting Sapporo!” – John, Canada

Overall, Moerenuma Park has received many positive reviews from visitors who appreciate the park’s unique design, artworks, and natural beauty. It’s considered a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Sapporo.

Frequently asked questions about Moerenuma Park ?

What are the park's opening hours?
Moerenuma Park is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Is there an admission fee?
No, there is no admission fee to enter the park. However, some facilities within the park may have a separate fee, such as the planetarium.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, and there are paved paths throughout the park.
Can I bring food and drinks into the park?
Yes, you are allowed to bring food and drinks into the park. There are also several restaurants and cafes within the park where you can buy food and drinks.
Can I bring my pet to the park?
Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
When is the best time to visit the park?
The park is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see. The cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, and the park is especially beautiful during this time. The fall foliage is also a popular attraction. In the summer, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities and events.