Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University?
What makes it 82% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can run on flat lawns, hunt for plant clues, and see stuffed bears and sled dog Taro in the museum; cheap child ticket, toilets, and wide paths make a fun, low-stress outing.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids under 16: Children under 16 enter at no charge, so families save on admission.
- Stroller and wheelchair rental: Free rentals at reception make moving around with little ones easy.
Challenges:
- Limited baby facilities: No nursing room or diaper station; bring a foldable mat and cover.
- No on-site café: Plan to bring snacks or buy from nearby shops before arrival.
What is Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University?
- A 19th-century university botanical garden managed by Hokkaidō University
- A living collection of over 4,000 plant species arranged into Alpine, Northern Ethnic Herbarium and tropical greenhouse zones
- A research and conservation facility featuring an herbarium, multiple greenhouses and a historic natural history museum
What is so special about Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University for with kids?
- Indoor greenhouse lets kids explore tropical plants in any weather
- Interactive plant hunt and scavenger lists engage children 3–12
- Picnic-friendly lawns offer safe space for free play
- Museum exhibits introduce Ainu culture and regional wildlife
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to visit the greenhouse, museum, alpine garden and enjoy a picnic without rushing younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University
Tropical Greenhouse:
See succulents and tropical plants under cover.
Tip: Visit first in winter or rainy weather; benches inside let kids rest.
Nature Treasure Hunt:
Find items like lilac blooms, pink alpine flowers and maple leaves.
Tip: Print a simple checklist for each child to make it a game.
Northern Ethnic Museum:
View Ainu artifacts, stuffed sled dog “Taro” and regional specimens.
Tip: Use the scavenger list to spot the wolf, bear and sled dog displays.
Picnic on the Lawns:
Relax and let kids run on flat grass near the main gate.
Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks from a nearby convenience store.
Alpine Botanical Zone:
Explore high-altitude and northern plants on paved paths.
Tip: Stroller-friendly paths loop here; stop at benches to point out plant signs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University
- Arrive early: Get there at opening to enjoy quieter paths and more seating.
- Download a plant checklist: Use a self-made or online list to keep kids engaged on the walk.
Reviews of Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University
Bianca S
A beautiful and interesting garden. Was there when the roses where in bloom. Don't miss the two museum's on site. Learning about the Ainu people was incredible.
The Country Collectors
Beautiful park. Very relaxing only cost 420 yen and they interesting museums and great walking trails.
Haraheri Taro
You can see many plants that were used in the lives of the indigenous people. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, come here to relax. It is a very nice and quiet place.👍
Anna
It’s a very calm and quiet place to visit as a break from the city noise. At the entrance you can see the information on what plants are currently blooming, so you don’t waste your time roaming around the whole garden. Especially considering the fact that many explanations about the sections of the garden or plants in them are only in Japanese, so the visit takes longer if you want to understand w...
Wes Lum
We visited when only the greenhouse was open -- the place is small. Two greenhouses. But, the area outside looks like it would be beautiful during spring/summer/fall! I wish we could see it then (why I'm giving it 4 stars). The greenhouse itself is a little underwhelming, but for 120Y per person, I'm not one to complain. Just want to set the expectations properly for the winter season. Entrance is...
When is the best time to visit Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University (Sapporo, Japan)?
Spring brings cherry blossoms along Lilac Avenue. Summer opens the rose beds. Autumn shows colorful foliage. In winter only the greenhouse is open—plan ahead.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2×420¥) | JPY 840 |
| Snacks and picnic supplies | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,840 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University
Address: Japan, 〒060-0003 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Kita 3 Jōnishi, 9-chōme, 北３条西８丁目
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About Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
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+81 11-221-006610 BEST nearby Activities
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