Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy an intimate hand-in-hand walk, evening light-up during the Golden Leaf Festival, and nearby café treats, creating a naturally romantic yet inexpensive setting for quality time together.
Positives:
- Free Access: No entry fees for the avenue or museum makes it easy to combine activities without extra cost.
- Compact Layout: The main attractions lie within 500 m of each other, so minimal walking between spots.
Challenges:
- Festival Crowds: Evening light-up weekends can get busy; expect lines for photos under the trees.
- Limited Seating: Benches along the avenue are few—bring a small mat if you want to sit together.
What is Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue?
- A 380-meter-long campus avenue that features mature ginkgo biloba trees on both sides
- Designed in the early 20th century as part of Hokkaido University’s Sapporo campus landscape, it comprises symmetrical double rows of ginkgo specimens
- A botanical thoroughfare that annually transforms into a glowing canopy of golden-yellow foliage each autumn
What is so special about Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue for couple trip?
- Hand-in-hand stroll under a 380 m ginkgo tunnel
- Evening illumination transforms trees into a golden light show
- Seasonal café drinks add a cozy tasting experience
- Free museum next door offers hidden exhibits on Hokkaido
- Ono Pond provides a peaceful spot to relax together
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This gives time to stroll the avenue, visit the museum, enjoy a café treat, and relax by the pond.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
Romantic Stroll on Ginkgo Avenue:
Walk the 380 m tree-lined path hand-in-hand under green leaves in summer or golden foliage in autumn.
Tip: Start at the north gate and pause mid-way for photos in the leaf tunnel.
Evening Illumination at Golden Leaf Festival:
Watch the ginkgo trees glow under lights during the first weekend of November from 18:00–21:00.
Tip: Arrive by 17:30 to find a quiet spot before dusk and avoid the heaviest crowds.
Shared Seasonal Drink at Museum Café Plus:
Try roasted sweet potato lattes and other festival–themed drinks.
Tip: Order two smaller drinks around ¥400 each to taste multiple flavors without sharing one cup.
Explore Hokkaido University Museum:
Browse free exhibits on Hokkaido’s nature and history in a quiet indoor setting.
Tip: Visit after your walk to warm up and use the museum restrooms if needed.
Ono Pond Relaxation:
Sit by the pond, feed ducks, or enjoy campus views on a grassy bank.
Tip: Bring a light snack or drink to enjoy on the grass as you watch the ducks.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
- Use the Subway: Take the Toho Line to Kita-Jūhachi-Jō Station and exit the north gate for the shortest walk.
- Time It Right: Visit weekday mornings or weekday evenings to avoid weekend crowds during peak foliage.
Reviews of Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
W Yong
8 nov 2025 Since snow is coming early this year, Snow covering around in autumn while color changing to yellow is so so so beautiful. We walked around university. There're yelllow, red and white are all around and colorful.
JP Travels
Visited in mid-November and unfortunately early winter has started so no more autumn foliage. However, during my last visit in 2022, the Gingko Avenue autumn foliage is one of the best in Japan. Hoping to visit next year to witness the autumn foliage.
S Lee
Photo taken on 29/10/2025 I visited on a chilly day, cloudy sometimes. The ginkgo leaves avenue is so beautiful.
Jess Liaw
Such a beautiful place for pictures! We went end of October, which I think might be peak period to see the autumn leaves 🍁
chan wan ki isabel
Ample parking next to gingko avenue, with grace period so it seems to be free parking if you don’t stay for more than 30mins. It’s a nice short stroll - was there on 24 Oct and the trees were turning bright yellow!
When is the best time to visit Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue (Sapporo, Japan)?
Late October to early November offers peak golden foliage. The first weekend of November features evening light-ups—plan around that schedule.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Seasonal drinks at Museum Café Plus (2) | JPY 1,200 |
| Subway fare per person (one-way) | JPY 270 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,740 |
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 Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
Address: Japan, 〒060-0812 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Kita Ward, Kita 13 Jōnishi, 5～7丁目 構内 北海道大学
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue (Sapporo)?
About Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
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
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 11-706-468010 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities