Nakajima Park

Like Hokkaido itself, Nakajima Park changes with the seasons but is lovely year round. This 52-acre (21-hectare) urban oasis gathers a charming collection of natural features and cultural institutions in a picturesque setting beneath Mount Moiwa. Come see why the city park, created on the site of an abandoned lumberyard, has become a favorite for locals and visitors.

Walk along the park’s many beautiful paths, pausing for a picnic among the greenery. Try to recognize local plants including Japanese red spruce, gingko and iris. Enjoy the sociable atmosphere as Sapporo residents come to jog, play with pets or just relax. Nakajima Park also has tennis courts, exercise facilities and a children’s play area.

Look for the various outdoor artwork dotted throughout the park, including Takeo Yamauchi’s sculpture of children playing instruments and a statue of American composer Leonard Bernstein.

The heart of Nakajima Park is tranquil Shobu Pond. Walk along its scenic shores, when they are white with winter snow or lit up in the colors of spring and fall. Try boating in the summer. Roam the traditional Japanese Garden, seeking out its stone garden and hidden small waterfall.

Admire the Hasso-an, an elegant teahouse said to have been designed by the tea master Kobori Enshu long ago and relocated to Sapporo in 1919. Another of Nakajima Park’s significant buildings is the Hoheikan. Originally built in 1880 as a Western-style hotel, the Hoheikan is now a nationally recognized heritage property often used to host weddings.

Head to Kitara, Hokkaido’s first dedicated concert hall, which hosts the Sapporo Symphony Orchestra. Attend a performance to enjoy excellent music with some of the world’s best acoustics. Elsewhere in the park, visit the compact Sapporo City Observatory or the Hokkaido Museum of Literature.

Many seasonal events take place at Nakajima Park throughout the year. Visit in late April to see cherry blossoms or in June to experience the bustling three-day city festival. Cross-country skiing is free during the winter.

Nakajima Park is located south of central Sapporo. Take the 10-minute subway ride from Sapporo Station to Nakajima-koen Station, or travel by streetcar or bus.