About Maruyama Park Sapporro

Maruyama Park is a public park located in Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan. Here’s some information about Maruyama Park:

  • History: Maruyama Park was established in 1874 as a natural reserve area covering an area of 84 hectares. It was officially opened to the public as a recreational space in 1886, featuring walking paths, picnic areas, and a small pond. The Hokkaido Shrine was built in the park in 1908, and the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo was established in 1951. A chairlift was built in 1972, and the park underwent a major renovation in 2019.
  • Location: Maruyama Park is located at the foot of Mt. Maruyama, a small mountain in central Sapporo. The park is easily accessible by public transportation, including bus and subway.
  • Features: Maruyama Park features a variety of natural and cultural attractions. In addition to the Hokkaido Shrine and the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, the park also has a large playground, a small botanical garden, and several walking paths that provide scenic views of the surrounding area. The chairlift takes visitors to the top of Mt. Maruyama, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo.
  • Events: Maruyama Park is the site of several annual events, including the Maruyama Summer Festival (also known as the Hokkaido Shrine Festival) in June, which features traditional Shinto music and dance performances. The park is also a popular destination for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring, when the park’s 1,700 cherry trees bloom.
  • Activities: Visitors to Maruyama Park can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as picnicking, hiking, and bird watching. The playground is a popular spot for families with young children, while the chairlift provides a unique perspective on the city of Sapporo.

History timeline of Maruyama Park

  • 1874: Maruyama Park is established in Sapporo as a natural reserve area. The park covers an area of 84 hectares and is located at the foot of Mt. Maruyama.
  • 1886: The park is officially opened to the public as a recreational space, featuring walking paths, picnic areas, and a small pond.
  • 1908: The Hokkaido Shrine is built in the park, dedicated to the deities of Hokkaido. The shrine is an important cultural and religious site in Sapporo and attracts many visitors each year.
  • 1951: The Sapporo Maruyama Zoo is established in the park, showcasing a variety of animals, including brown bears, polar bears, and Hokkaido red foxes.
  • 1972: A chairlift is built in the park, allowing visitors to ride up to the top of Mt. Maruyama and enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo.
  • 1994: The Hokkaido Shrine Festival, also known as the Maruyama Summer Festival, is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the Japanese government. The festival takes place each June and features traditional Shinto music and dance performances.
  • 2019: The park undergoes a major renovation, with the addition of new walking paths, a playground, and a large observation deck at the top of Mt. Maruyama.

Today, Maruyama Park in Sapporo is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational activities.

How to reach Maruyama Park Sapporo

Maruyama Park is located in central Sapporo, and it is easily accessible by public transportation. Here are some ways to reach Maruyama Park:

  • Maruyama Park by Subway: Take the Tozai Line on the Sapporo Subway and get off at Maruyama Koen Station. The park is a short walk from the station.
  • Maruyama Park by Bus: Take the bus from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal or Odori Station Bus Terminal to Maruyama Koen Bus Stop. The park is a short walk from the bus stop.
  • Maruyama Park by Taxi: You can also take a taxi to Maruyama Park from Sapporo Station or other locations in the city.
  • Maruyama Park by Bicycle: Bicycles are available for rent in Sapporo, and you can bike to Maruyama Park from various locations in the city. There are bicycle parking spots available in the park.
  • Maruyama Park by Car: There is a parking lot available near the park entrance, but it can get busy during peak season. It is also worth noting that driving in Sapporo can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow roads.

Regardless of the transportation mode you choose, it’s important to plan your visit in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Do's and Dont's at Maruyama Park Sapporo

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for visitors to Maruyama Park in Sapporo:

Do’s:

  • Do take your time to explore the park and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural attractions it has to offer.
  • Do be respectful of the park’s rules and regulations, including any signs or guidelines posted.
  • Do take your trash with you when you leave, and dispose of it properly in designated waste bins or recycling containers.
  • Do take care when walking on the park’s walking paths, especially if they are wet or slippery.
  • Do follow the park’s guidelines when visiting the Hokkaido Shrine, such as bowing respectfully before entering, and refraining from taking photographs of the inner shrine.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t litter or leave your trash behind in the park.
  • Don’t damage or disturb the park’s flora and fauna.
  • Don’t pick flowers or plants in the park, as this is prohibited.
  • Don’t climb on or touch the structures and buildings in the park, especially those that are historical or cultural sites.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife in the park, such as feeding the animals or making loud noises that could frighten them.

By following these Do’s and Don’ts, visitors can help preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Maruyama Park for future generations to enjoy.

Highlights of Maruyama Park Sapporo

Maruyama Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists in Sapporo. Here are some of the highlights of the park:

  1. Hokkaido Shrine: The Hokkaido Shrine is one of the main attractions in the park. The shrine was built in 1869 to commemorate the foundation of Hokkaido as a prefecture, and it has a unique and distinct architectural style.
  2. Cherry Blossom: In the spring, the park is transformed into a sea of pink and white as the cherry blossoms bloom. Maruyama Park has more than 1,700 cherry trees, making it one of the best places in Sapporo to enjoy cherry blossom viewing.
  3. Sapporo Maruyama Zoo: The zoo is located within the park and features a wide variety of animals from around the world, including polar bears, monkeys, and giraffes. The zoo also offers a unique and interactive experience where visitors can feed and interact with animals.
  4. Walking Trails: The park has several walking trails that provide scenic views of the surrounding area, including the park’s pond, cherry blossom groves, and Mt. Maruyama.
  5. Chairlift: The chairlift takes visitors to the top of Mt. Maruyama, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city of Sapporo. The ride on the chairlift is a popular and unique experience for visitors to the park.
  6. Playground: The park has a large playground that is popular with families with young children. The playground features a variety of equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures.
  7. Events: Maruyama Park hosts several events throughout the year, including the Maruyama Summer Festival (also known as the Hokkaido Shrine Festival) in June, which features traditional Shinto music and dance performances. The park is also a popular destination for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring.

Reviews of Maruyama Park Sapporo

Maruyama Park is a popular destination for visitors to Sapporo, Japan. Here are some reviews of Maruyama Park in Sapporo:

  1. “Maruyama Park is a great place to visit in any season. The park is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color. There are many walking trails, a zoo, and a ropeway that takes you to the top of Mount Maruyama for a great view of the city. The Hokkaido Shrine is also located within the park and is definitely worth a visit.”
  2. “Maruyama Park is a peaceful and quiet oasis in the middle of the city. The park is home to many different species of trees, plants, and animals. The walking trails are well-maintained and the park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.”
  3. “Maruyama Park is a great spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring. The park can get crowded, but the atmosphere is festive and there are many food stalls selling local snacks and drinks. The park is also home to a beer garden in the summer, which is a fun place to enjoy a cold drink and some good food.”

Overall, Maruyama Park in Sapporo is a beautiful and peaceful destination for visitors to the city. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to relax or an outdoor adventure, Maruyama Park has something for everyone.

Location of Maruyama Park Sapporo

Maruyama Park is located in Sapporo, Japan. The park is situated in the Maruyama district, which is about 4 kilometers from the city center. Here is the address of Maruyama Park in Sapporo:

Maruyama Park 3 Chome-1-1 Miyanomori Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0959 Japan.

Frequently asked question about Maruyama Park Sapporo ?

What are the park hours?
Maruyama Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, some facilities within the park, such as the zoo and the chairlift, have specific operating hours.
Is there an entrance fee to Maruyama Park?
No, there is no entrance fee to enter Maruyama Park.
When is the best time to visit Maruyama Park?
The best time to visit Maruyama Park depends on what you want to see and do. The park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season in the spring (usually late April to early May), but it can be crowded at this time.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, the park is generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some of the walking trails can be steep or have uneven surfaces, so it is recommended to check the park map or ask park staff for recommendations on accessible routes.
Can I bring my dog to Maruyama Park?
Yes, dogs are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
Are there food and drink options available in the park?
Yes, there are several food and drink options available within the park, including vending machines, food stalls, and restaurants. However, it is also permitted to bring your own food and have a picnic in the park.