Moerenuma Park: A Sculptural Oasis

Moerenuma Park, located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is a testament to the transformative power of art and environmental renewal. Designed by the renowned Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, the park is conceived as a single, large-scale sculpture, blending geometric forms with the natural landscape. Noguchi's vision was to create a space where visitors could engage with art and nature in a holistic and immersive way. The park's history is as compelling as its design. Before becoming a park, the area was a waste disposal site. In 1982, construction began under the Sapporo Circular Greenbelt Concept, aiming to integrate green spaces within the city. Noguchi was commissioned to design the park in 1988, envisioning the entire space as a unified sculpture. Construction continued after Noguchi's death in 1988, and the park finally opened to the public in 2005. Key features of Moerenuma Park include the Glass Pyramid, named 'Hidamari,' which serves as a central hub with a gallery showcasing Noguchi's work, a restaurant, and shops. Mount Moere, a 62-meter-high artificial mountain, offers panoramic views of the park and surrounding Sapporo. The Sea Fountain is a dynamic water sculpture with shows throughout the day. Play Mountain is a smaller, sloped hill with a granite staircase. Moere Beach is a shallow pond designed to resemble a seashore, offering a refreshing escape in the summer. Throughout the year, Moerenuma Park offers diverse experiences. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, while summer brings the opening of Moere Beach and Sea Fountain performances. Autumn transforms the park with vibrant foliage, and winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing and sledding. The park also utilizes eco-friendly systems, such as using stored snow to cool the Glass Pyramid.