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Japan/Things to Do in Sapporo, couple trip

Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Former Hokkaido Government Office Building?

80%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Seasonal flower beds, soft night illumination, dome views, and an on-site bistro offer romantic moments, yet the attraction is small, so couples wanting a long outing may need extra plans nearby.

Google
Reviews4.2/ 5
(from 1,544 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free outdoor areas: Entrance to the front gardens and plaza is free, so you can time your visit without pressure.
  • No extra fee for evening lights: Illumination runs daily after dusk at no additional cost, ideal for a romantic evening.

Challenges:

  • Narrow stairs in the tower: The climb to the dome uses steep, narrow steps. Wear comfortable shoes.
  • Limited English signage: Some exhibit labels are only in Japanese. Ask staff for an English leaflet.
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🏖️ Explore Former Hokkaido Government Office Building with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Former Hokkaido Government Office Building. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Former Hokkaido Government Office Building?

  • A Neo-Baroque red-brick government office building completed in 1888 as Hokkaido’s administrative headquarters during the Meiji era
  • An Important Cultural Property notable for its octagonal dome, stone trim and symmetrical façade showcasing Western architectural influences
  • A symbol of Hokkaido’s modernization that embodies the region’s 19th-century pioneering spirit

What is so special about Former Hokkaido Government Office Building for couple trip?

  1. Stroll seasonal flower gardens and koi pond walks
  2. Climb the octagonal dome for panoramic city views
  3. Learn local history on a guided tour
  4. Share sweets at the Shiroi Koibito Sweets Labo
  5. Capture romantic evening illumination photos

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for gardens, dome tour and a sweet break.

(View Former Hokkaido Government Office Building on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

Garden stroll:

Walk hand-in-hand among seasonal flower beds and pause by the koi pond.

Tip: Visit in late spring for azalea blooms or early autumn for maple leaves.

Octagonal Dome Tour:

Climb the red-brick tower for panoramic views of Sapporo.

Tip: Reserve your slot online up to 30 days ahead to secure your time.

Premium Guided Tour:

Join an English-speaking guide to learn Meiji-era stories.

Tip: Tours start every hour. Arrive 10 minutes early to check in.

Sweets Labo visit:

Share a hot waffle or signature cookie at the Shiroi Koibito sweets shop.

Tip: Try the seasonal flavors and order one dessert to share at the counter seating.

Evening illumination:

Enjoy the softly lit façade after dusk for romantic photos.

Tip: Stay past sunset; lights come on around 5 PM in winter and 7 PM in summer.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

  1. Book the dome early: Reserve your tower tour online up to 30 days in advance to avoid sold-out slots.
  2. Start before lunch: Arrive by 10 AM to explore exhibits, stroll gardens, and avoid midday crowds.
🏖️ Tour Former Hokkaido Government Office Building like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Former Hokkaido Government Office Building. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

Powered by Google
Damien Smith

Damien Smith

Jan 2026

What an amazing piece of architecture and beautiful photos to be taken in the winter. For a small fee approximately 300¥ you are in the front door. Some very informative displays, a little shop, restaurant and historical building.

Judy Huang

Judy Huang

Dec 2025

Cozy place to check out. The admission fee is 300 yen per adult. Most of the exhibitions are written in Japanese, so it felt less immersive for me. I mainly explored the building a bit and enjoyed warming up on a cold winter day.

Felix Duguay

Felix Duguay

Oct 2025

What is the most impressive is to see the building itself and the interior, as this brick-style house is not found that often in japan. As for the exhibition...well for the price you can't complain too much I suppose but it was really more of a bunch of different panel not translated scattered in different room that seldom had any relation to each other. I wouldn't say it's worth a detour but give...

ky yong

ky yong

Aug 2025

Ticket costs 300 yen. A few rooms were redecorated for exhibitions. There were also some paintings on the wall that explained on the past and formation of Hokkaido. Overall, not very tourist friendly. They did try to make some virtual guide by tapping your phone on the board / cue -> but the elaboration was too little and it was abit less user friendly having to tap and scan every single one. Wo...

Jeff McD

Jeff McD

Aug 2025

The museum was undergoing rehab work when we went but the grounds were still open. The surrounding park and ponds are well finished and a delight to stroll around. You'll probably only need 30 mins here if the museum is closed.

When is the best time to visit Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Sapporo, Japan)?

Spring brings tulips in full bloom; summer shows lush greenery; autumn paints the garden in red and gold; winter lights up the building with festive illumination.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Sapporo on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Octagonal Dome Tour (2 adults)JPY 2,400
Premium Guided Tour (2 adults)JPY 1,000
Desserts at Sweets Labo (2)JPY 1,000
Meal at HOUSE.H (2)JPY 4,000
Total EstimatedJPY 8,400

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

Address: Japan, 〒001-0907 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Kita 3 Jōnishi, 6-chōme 1番地

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About Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

Opening Hours

Monday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday:8:45 AM – 9:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 11-206-8390

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