Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hitsujigaoka Observatory is a sightseeing spot on a small hill in Toyohira Ward, Sapporo, offering a panoramic view of the city and the Ishikari Plain. Its symbols are the scenery of sheep grazing in green pastures and the bronze statue of American teacher Dr. William S. Clark with the words "Boys, be ambitious." Its spacious landscape and open feeling are typical of Hokkaido, and visitors can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons, with the idyllic scenery from spring to autumn and the contrast of the snowy landscape with Sapporo's cityscape and night view in winter attracting many visitors. It has been developed as a tourist destination, and in addition to the observation deck, it is equipped with shops, restaurants, and photo spots.
Highlights
- Statue of Dr. Clark ("Young people, be ambitious"): The symbol of Hitsujigaoka. It is a popular spot for taking commemorative photos, and many people take photos here regardless of the season or time of day.
- Pastures and sheep grazing: You can see the sheep up close (and sometimes even touch them), making this a popular spot for families with children and photography enthusiasts.
- View from the observation deck: It offers a panoramic view of Sapporo city, Mt. Moiwa, and the Ishikari Plain. The daytime and evening views on clear days are beautiful.
- Four Seasons Scenery: You can enjoy the contrast of greenery and flowers from spring to autumn, colorful scenery in autumn, and the snow-covered landscape and Sapporo's city lights in winter.
- Shops, restaurants and souvenirs: There is a shop selling Hokkaido-style foods, sweets, and original goods, as well as a restaurant with a menu using local ingredients.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Subway + Bus/Taxi: The most common way to get there is by bus or taxi from Fukuzumi Station on the Toho Subway Line. The number of buses varies depending on the season and day of the week, so please check the timetable in advance. By taxi, it takes about 10 to 20 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
- car: It's about a 15-30 minute drive from central Sapporo (depending on the departure point and time of day). There is a parking lot at the observation deck. In winter, the roads can be icy and snowy, so be careful with your tires and driving.
- Tourist bus: It is often included in tours, and using a sightseeing bus is convenient if you are visiting the area in combination with major tourist spots in Sapporo city.
- others: Bus routes may operate differently during the winter, so please check the latest operating conditions on official websites or with information from the transportation company.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Basic sightseeing including sightseeing, photography, and shop use: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- If you want to enjoy a leisurely meal and interact with the sheep: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- If you are aiming to take seasonal photos (evening or night views): Please plan your visit with plenty of time as the duration of your stay may vary (including travel time to and from the site, it may take half a day).
Nearby spots
- Sapporo Dome: It's about a 10-20 minute drive away, and many people visit the area to watch sports or participate in events.
- Makomanai Park/Makomanai Sekisui Heim Ice Arena: It is a popular spot for winter sports and strolling in the park nearby.
- Moerenuma Park: It features artistic landscaping and a vast area, and is easily accessible by car.
- Odori/Susukino (city center): It can be visited as a day trip from tourist bases.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: It tends to get crowded during Golden Week, the summer tourist season, the autumn foliage season, public holidays, and weekends, and there may be long lines at the parking lot, observation deck, and photo spots. However, you may be able to enjoy a more relaxed experience if you visit early in the morning or later in the evening.
- How to interact with animals: Sheep are animals. Please do not touch or feed them without permission. Follow the instructions of staff and signs, and do not enter fenced or restricted areas.
- Clothes/cold protection: Sapporo is windy and the temperature can drop easily. It can be particularly cold in the mornings and evenings of spring and autumn, and in winter, so be sure to bring warm clothing and non-slip shoes.
- Check access in advance: The number of buses and routes may change depending on the season and day of the week. Please check the latest information on the official website or transportation company before setting off.
- Photography etiquette: When taking photos at popular spots, please be considerate to others and not disturb them (for example, by not occupying a tripod for an extended period of time or appearing in other people's photos).
- Garbage and Nature Conservation: Please be sure to take your trash home or dispose of it in the designated area. Please respect the natural environment and facilities.
Note: Please check the official website or Sapporo City's tourist guide for the latest information on opening hours, event information, admission fees, etc. The scenery and experiences you can see will vary greatly depending on the weather and season, so we recommend making preparations based on the time of your visit.
