Funamizaka (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Funamizaka?
What makes it 62% Kids-Friendly: Kids who can walk 15 minutes enjoy watching trains below and snowy roofs above, but no railings, toilets, or snack stalls make safety supervision and breaks tough, so visits should be short.
Positives:
- Free & Always Open: No entry fee and accessible 24/7—visit early or late to avoid crowds.
- Cinematic Backdrop: Kids enjoy recreating the mailman’s uphill ride from “Love Letter.”
Challenges:
- No Facilities: No restrooms, benches, or change tables—plan ahead and bring water and snacks.
- Slippery in Winter: Ice can form on the slope—carry crampons and supervise children closely.
What is Funamizaka?
- A stone-paved slope in Otaru City that ascends through a quiet residential district to a hilltop enclave
- A film location immortalized by the motorcycle-delivery scene in Shunji Iwai’s 1995 movie "Love Letter"
- A vantage point framing Ishikari Bay, the Hakodate Main Line tracks and Otaru’s historic tile-roofed houses
What is so special about Funamizaka for with kids?
- Free entry with easy walk for all ages
- Interactive train-spotting under the footbridge
- Iconic photo spot from the movie “Love Letter”
- Seasonal charm: snow scenes, summer breeze, autumn leaves
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a gentle slope walk, photo stops, and a short rest without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Funamizaka
Slope Hike & Train Spotting:
Walk up the gentle 15% incline while watching Hakodate Main Line trains pass under the footbridge.
Tip: Hold hands on steeper sections and stay on the paved path for safety.
Movie Scene Photo:
Stand at the exact spot from the film “Love Letter” and frame the sea and red‐brick roofs behind you.
Tip: Bring a small step stool so kids can pose at the right height.
Snow Roof Views:
On sunny winter days, photograph snow-topped wooden houses and the sea in the distance.
Tip: Wear crampons on icy slopes and bundle children in waterproof gloves.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Funamizaka
- Visit Off-Peak: Go before 10am or after 3pm to avoid tour groups from Otaru Station.
- Pack Light: Use a single backpack for snacks, water, and warm layers to keep hands free.
Reviews of Funamizaka
Jo Z
Walked here to take a “love letter” photo. In summer, it’s a different kinda feeling. Nice view !
yaqi liao
Super crowded OMG! Many tourists taking photos on the center
Kokthye Lim
An elevated street to sea line , ships and land in one sight. Too bad, when I came , the visibility was not so good.
徐玉龙
very good and romantic view of the sea，but be careful of not disturbing traffic.
Benton
We saw a few bulldozers cleaning up snow. Many corners with thick snow were just like a grassland in a far away unmanned mountain. As we climbed the slope, it's getting clean more and more. We turned our heads back to the sea direction every few steps. We walked beyond the JR station and climbed on. We finally had a terrific scene. Clouds stayed back, and the blue sea was smiling, although only sh...
When is the best time to visit Funamizaka (Sapporo, Japan)?
Winter offers a magical snow-blanket view—check for icy patches. In summer, the breeze and green hillside make for a cool walk. Autumn brings orange leaves on the rooftops.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | JPY 0 |
| Round-trip train tickets (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 3,840 |
| Snacks near the slope | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 4,840 |
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 Funamizaka
Address: 2 Chome-12 Tomioka, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0033, Japan
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About Funamizaka
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+81 134-32-411110 BEST nearby Activities
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