Sapporo Dome (Toyohira Ward, Sapporo City, Hokkaido)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Sapporo Dome is a multi-purpose dome-shaped stadium completed in 2001 and located in Toyohira Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido. It became known both domestically and internationally as one of the venues for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, and is now established as the home stadium of the J.League's Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo. It was also formerly used as the home ground for a professional baseball team, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (who later moved to a new stadium).

Its greatest feature is its "movable pitch (sliding natural turf)," which allows the natural turf to be brought outside for soccer matches and exposed to sunlight, while artificial turf and a stage can be installed indoors for baseball games and concerts. Concerts and various other events are frequently held here, and the fact that it can be enjoyed in all weather conditions is another appealing feature.

Highlights

• How the retractable pitch works: The stadium's unique "grass insertion and removal" system is sometimes explained on tours and is an interesting technical feature.
• Watching a match: Experience the excitement of watching a soccer match from the seats and the supporter's seats. Home matches are especially exciting.
• Concerts and Events: A variety of events are held here, including live performances by domestic and international artists and exhibitions (they are large and well worth seeing).
• Stadium tours: Tours are sometimes held that allow you to see the backstage, the area around the pitch, the seating arrangements, and other areas that are not normally open to the public (please check and make a reservation in advance).
• Merchandise and Food: On match days, the club merchandise shops and food courts are bustling with activity, offering local cuisine and stadium delicacies.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest subway station: Fukuzumi Station on the Toho Subway Line. It is about a 10-15 minute walk from the station (it may take a little longer during events due to congestion).
• Shuttle bus: When large-scale events or matches are held, special shuttle buses may operate from major locations such as Sapporo Station. Please check official information.
• Car/Parking: Approximately 20-30 minutes by car from central Sapporo (depending on traffic conditions). Parking is limited and often fills up during events, so we recommend using public transportation.
• From the airport: From New Chitose Airport, it takes about 37 minutes to Sapporo Station by JR rapid train, then about 15 minutes to Fukuzumi Station by subway. The estimated travel time from the airport, including transfers, is approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
• Taxis and bicycles: Taxis are convenient, but be aware of traffic jams and crowds on the way back. If the weather is good, you can also access the area by bicycle, but be sure to check in advance whether there is a bicycle parking space.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Watching a soccer or baseball game: Approximately 3 to 5 hours including travel time (the game itself takes about 2 to 3 hours, including time to enter and exit the stadium and travel time).
• Concerts and events: Approximately 3 to 5 hours depending on start and end times (please allow extra time as there may be crowds before and after).
• Stadium tour: Generally lasts approximately 40-90 minutes (varies depending on tour content).
• If you are combining your visit with sightseeing in the surrounding area: A half-day to full-day course is recommended.

Nearby spots

• Moerenuma Park (approximately 20-30 minutes by car): A popular spot where you can enjoy sculptures and nature in a vast park.
• Hitsujigaoka Observatory (approximately 20-30 minutes by car): Famous for the "Clark Statue," this observation deck offers a panoramic view of Sapporo city.
• Sapporo Art Park (approximately 20-30 minutes by car): A relaxing cultural facility with an art museum and outdoor sculptures.
• Commercial facilities in the Tsukisamu area: Shopping and dining options are scattered around the area (convenient for eating before and after events).
• Central Sapporo (Odori Park and Susukino): Easily accessible by subway, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Countermeasures against crowds: On game and concert days, queues for admission and around stations will be extremely crowded. Please arrive early and plan your route home.
• Tickets and Admission: Please purchase tickets through official sales channels. Re-entry restrictions and restrictions on what can be brought into the venue vary depending on the event, so be sure to check the official information beforehand.
• Baggage inspections and prohibited items: Depending on the event, baggage inspections and prohibited items may be conducted (dangerous items around seats, items prohibited by law).
• Smoking and drinking: Smoking is permitted only in designated areas. Please observe proper manners within the stadium (separating trash and being considerate of other spectators).
• Seasonal notes: Even though it is an indoor stadium, it can get very cold waiting outside in winter, so dress warmly. In summer, it can get hot waiting in line, so be sure to stay hydrated. Rain and strong winds may affect admission and surrounding traffic.
• Accessible: There are facilities such as wheelchair seats, dedicated toilets, and elevators, but there may be restrictions on the number of people allowed or advance notice required, so it is best to check before using.
• Check the latest information: The date and time of the event, access methods, and whether or not tours are available may change, so be sure to check the Sapporo Dome official website and organizer information in advance.

Official website (latest information, tickets, tour information, etc.): https://www.sapporo-dome.co.jp/

The above is a basic guide. Please check the schedule for each event date and transportation information before visiting.