Background

Hokkaido University Botanic Garden: An Urban Oasis

Discover Hokkaido's natural and cultural heritage in Sapporo's historic urban oasis, a blend of primeval forest, diverse gardens, and fascinating museums.

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Established in 1886, the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden in Sapporo is a 13-hectare urban oasis blending scientific research, education, and recreation. It preserves a fragment of the Ishikari Plain's primeval forest and features alpine gardens, a greenhouse, and the Ainu Museum.

A brief summary to Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University

  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or autumn for the best seasonal displays of flowers or foliage.
  • Check the opening hours, as they vary depending on the season. Note that only the greenhouse is open during winter.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the gardens and museums.
  • The garden is a short walk from Sapporo Station and other public transport, making it easily accessible.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Sapporo Station, walk southwest for about 10 minutes. Head south from the station, then turn west onto Kita 3 Jo street. The garden entrance will be on your left. From Nishi-Juitchome Station on the Tozai Subway Line, walk north for about 5 minutes. The garden will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Tozai Subway Line to Nishi-Juitchome Station, then walk north for 5 minutes. Alternatively, take a bus from Sapporo Station to Kita 5 Jo Nishi 10 Chome, a short walk from the garden. Subway fare is around ¥200-¥370.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Sapporo Station to the Botanic Garden takes only a few minutes. Expect to pay around ¥1100-¥1300.

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Discover more about Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University

The Hokkaido University Botanic Garden, a verdant escape in the heart of Sapporo, has been a fixture since 1886. As the second-oldest botanical garden in Japan, it started as part of the Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University). Today, it serves as a living museum, research center, and tranquil retreat for locals and tourists alike. The garden's 13 hectares encompass a diverse range of environments. The Primeval Forest Zone protects a piece of the original Ishikari Plain forest, showcasing trees like elm, birch, and maple. Wander through well-maintained trails to experience the serenity of Hokkaido's natural heritage. The Alpine Garden displays over 200 alpine species native to Hokkaido's mountains. Other highlights include a greenhouse with tropical and subtropical plants, a rose garden, and the Northern Peoples Ethnobotanical Garden, which features plants used by the Ainu and other indigenous groups. The Natural History Museum, built in 1884, is Hokkaido's oldest museum and houses Ainu artifacts and biological specimens. Don't miss the stuffed body of 'Taro,' a sled dog from Japan's 1958 Antarctica mission. The Miyabe Kingo Memorial Building displays items belonging to the garden's first director.

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