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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hokkaido University Botanical Garden (located in Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido) is an urban botanical garden that preserves and exhibits Hokkaido's nature and plants, and is a popular place for education, research, and public relaxation. Established for academic purposes during the Meiji period, the garden offers a wide variety of plantings, including seasonal flowers and trees, greenhouse displays, and a focus on Hokkaido's native and northern plants. Despite being located in the city, the garden offers relaxing walking routes, allowing visitors to experience the changing scenery of the seasons, which is a major attraction.
Highlights
- Native plant exhibit: You can observe a variety of Hokkaido endemic and northern plants together and learn about the local flora.
- Greenhouse (Greenhouse Exhibits): There is a greenhouse where you can observe tropical and subtropical plants and rare species, so you can enjoy them regardless of the season.
- Flowers and trees of the four seasons: A sense of the seasons, such as spring cherry blossoms and Ezo mountain cherry blossoms, summer flowers, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery.
- Historical buildings and cultural exhibits: Many of the parks preserve and exhibit historical buildings and local materials (such as materials related to the Ainu people), allowing you to learn about both nature and culture at the same time.
- Bird and insect observation: Although it is in an urban area, it is also known as a spot for observing migratory birds, small birds, and insects.
- Academic materials and specimen exhibits: Specimens and explanations based on university education and research will satisfy your intellectual curiosity.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Location: Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido (around the Hokkaido University campus)
- Public transportation: Accessible by bus or subway from various locations within Sapporo. The nearest station, bus stop, and travel time will vary depending on your departure point, so we recommend checking the current route and timetable on the official website or a map app before visiting.
- Walking and cycling: The park is within walking distance from central Sapporo. There may be bicycle parking spaces within the park, but please be careful when it is crowded.
- By car: Parking is often limited around the park, so it is convenient to use public transportation. If you are coming by car, please check in advance for information on nearby paid parking lots.
- Admission: In most cases, there is a fee (student and group discounts available). Opening hours and closing days change depending on the season, so we recommend checking in advance.
*Please check the official website or map app for the latest information on the nearest station name, bus route, fares, opening hours, etc.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- A quick tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (to see the main sights in a short time)
- Leisurely viewing and photography: 1.5 to 2 hours (if you take your time to look around the greenhouses and exhibits)
- Learning and observation-focused: 2 hours or more (observing birds and plants with binoculars while reading specimens and exhibit explanations)
Nearby spots
- Hokkaido University Campus: Visitors can explore the walking paths and historical buildings within the vast campus (the on-campus museum and campus scenery are also attractive).
- Odori Park, Clock Tower, and around Sapporo Station: Major spots that are easily accessible on foot or by public transportation and are great bases for sightseeing.
- Museums and art galleries: Museums and art galleries in Sapporo (according to the exhibition at the time of your visit)
- Cafes and Restaurants: There are many cafes and restaurants around Chuo Ward, making it convenient for taking a break after a stroll.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It tends to get crowded during cherry blossom season, autumn foliage season, and long weekends, so if you want to take your time looking around, consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning.
- Manners: Picking plants within the park is prohibited. Please observe general park etiquette, such as staying on the sidewalks, not climbing trees, and not making loud noises.
- Pets: Please follow the rules of the garden regarding whether pets are allowed in and how they should be kept on leashes. Many botanical gardens have restrictions on pets.
- Seasonal precautions: In winter, snow accumulates and roads freeze. We recommend taking measures to protect yourself from the cold and wearing non-slip shoes. In summer, it is a good idea to bring some insect protection (sunscreen and insect repellent).
- Exhibit changes and closing days: The greenhouse and special exhibits may be closed for inspection or maintenance. Please check the official website in advance for closing days and event information.
- Photography: Generally, photography is permitted, but the use of tripods and commercial use may be restricted. Please follow the photography rules for the exhibits.
If necessary, we will research the latest information on opening hours, admission fees, the exact nearest station, and access methods (specific public transportation routes and travel times) and create a format that adds these to the relevant sections of the text.
