Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Children can collect yellow leaves, try festival craft booths, and roam adjoining lawns; wide sidewalks shield them from cars, but there is no playground or weatherproof indoor area for long stays.
Positives:
- Free access: No entry fee makes it easy to drop in for a quick visit or a full morning outdoors.
- Safe walking paths: Wide, car-free pavements let kids explore leaves and piano stops without traffic worries.
- Subway access: Kita-Nijūyo-Jō Station is a 5-minute walk from the north end, ideal for families.
Challenges:
- Crowds at peak: First weekend of November draws large groups; plan early arrival or weekdays.
- Limited shade: Few covered areas along the avenue; bring hats and water on sunny days.
- Evening chill: Temperatures drop quickly after sunset; pack warm layers if staying for illumination.
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 with kids?
- Walk under a 380 m golden ginkgo canopy.
- Let kids hunt leaves and play the street piano.
- Join free crafts at the Golden Leaf Festival.
- Picnic on open lawns with space to run.
- Treat the family to soft-serve ice cream and roasted snacks.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to stroll the avenue, join a craft activity, picnic and enjoy snacks without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
Ginkgo Leaf Hunt and Stroll:
Walk the 380 m tree-lined road and let kids collect fallen golden leaves.
Tip: Use the wide paved path to keep children safe and let them compare leaf shapes.
Children’s Festival & Craft Workshops:
Join free badge-making, balloon art and simple science booths during the Golden Leaf Festival.
Tip: Head to the kids’ zone early to grab craft materials before they run out.
Street Piano Playtime:
Play or listen to the open-air piano under the ginkgo trees between 12:00–16:00 and 17:00–20:00.
Tip: Bring simple sheet music or let kids improvise tunes on the shared keyboard.
Picnic on the Lawn:
Spread a mat on the grass north of the avenue and let kids run or toss a ball.
Tip: Pick a spot near the elm benches for quick shade breaks.
Soft-Serve Ice Cream & Roasted Snacks:
Grab milk-rich ice cream (¥250–¥450) or festival roasted sweet potatoes (¥300–¥600) to fill small tummies.
Tip: Buy one snack at a time to let kids taste both without waste.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue
- Start north to south: Enter at the north gate after subway arrival for a gentle downhill stroll.
- Pack compact picnic: Bring light finger foods to avoid long café lines and give kids time to play.
- Combine restroom breaks: Use the nearby University Museum or Elm no Mori center for clean facilities and changing tables.
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)?
Visit in late October–early November when ginkgo leaves turn bright yellow. Golden Leaf Festival crafts and illumination run the first weekend of November. Weekdays bring fewer crowds.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Soft-serve ice cream and roasted sweet potatoes for 4 | JPY 2,400 |
| Picnic bento and snacks | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 4,400 |
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 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
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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
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