Maruyama Park (Sapporo) (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Maruyama Park (Sapporo)?
Cherry-blossom picnics, autumn foliage walks, quiet shrine paths, and hill viewpoints create romantic settings, and benches and restrooms make a relaxed half-day date easy to plan.
![Sapporo Maruyama Park Walking Tour - Hokkaido Japan [4K/HDR/Binaural]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/5zzAgaQqey0/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Free main park access: Maruyama Park and shrine grounds have no entry fee.
- Accessible paths: Paved walkways and stone approaches suit all fitness levels.
- Multiple picnic spots: Pondside tables and forest clearings offer private picnic areas.
Challenges:
- Limited food stalls: Few vendors inside; pack your own snacks or a light lunch.
- Seasonal crowds: Hanami and autumn peak attract many visitors; aim for weekdays or early hours.
- Shrine incline: The stone path to Hokkaido Shrine has a steady uphill; wear supportive shoes.
What is so special about Maruyama Park (Sapporo) for couple trip?
- Picnic beneath 120 Ezo cherry trees
- Hike a gentle forest trail with city views
- Experience Shinto rituals at Hokkaido Shrine
- Walk through vibrant autumn foliage
- See snow-roaming zoo animals in winter
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can picnic under cherry blossoms, hike scenic trails, and visit the shrine in a single outing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Maruyama Park (Sapporo)
Cherry Blossom Picnic:
Spread a blanket under about 120 Ezo cherry trees along the path to Hokkaido Shrine.
Tip: Bring a waterproof mat and snacks for hanami from late April to early May.
Forest Trail Hike:
Follow the Maruyama-Hachijuhakkasho Trail uphill for a quiet viewpoint.
Tip: Start at the park entrance and pack water; the round trip takes about one hour at a gentle pace.
Hokkaido Shrine Visit:
Walk the broad stone approach to admire 100-year-old elms and cypresses.
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and spot black woodpeckers in the shrine grove.
Autumn Leaves Walk:
Stroll hand-in-hand through vivid red and gold maple and elm trees.
Tip: Plan your visit in mid-October and bring a pocket guide to identify leaf colors.
Maruyama Zoo Exploration:
Watch giraffes and lions roam a snowy landscape or see tropical birds in the warmer months.
Tip: Buy zoo tickets online in advance to skip the line; adult admission is ¥800 each.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zoo admission for 2 adults | JPY 1,600 |
| Picnic snacks and drinks | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,600 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Maruyama Park (Sapporo)?
Late April–early May offers peak cherry blossoms. In early June attend the Hokkaido Shrine Festival for processions. Mid-October delivers stunning autumn foliage. Winter turns zoo enclosures into a unique snowy scene.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Maruyama Park (Sapporo)
- Use public transport: Take the Tozai subway to Maruyama Koen Station to avoid parking hassles.
- Route planning: Begin at Park Center, proceed to the shrine, hike the trail, then picnic by the pond.
- Check festival dates: Confirm the Hokkaido Shrine Festival schedule online to catch cultural events.
Map of Maruyama Park (Sapporo)
Address: Japan, 〒064-0959 北海道札幌市中央区宮ケ丘３
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Reviews of Maruyama Park (Sapporo)
Ariel Cabrera Foix
We visited in November, planning to do some birdwatching and see if we can find squirrels. The park was perfectly described with the word 'koyo', as the autumn foliage was outstanding! In the pond we found a group of Mandaring Ducks, Mallards and other songbirds. We also found squirrels! Some people offered nuts and acorns. Don't feed the crows! If you visit this park, I'd recommend to also see t...
Ken Ip
Visited May 14, 2025. A very walk-friendly park. Still could catch the last glimsp of the cherry blossom. Thereès a shrine, souvenir shop (with local sweets/cakes). Public toilets are free and very clean.
Oil Chou
A bit walk from station and the park is very beautiful with flowers from sakura and plum trees. We went there on weekday. Not so crowded. Great place to sit down and absorb the beauty of nature. Further inside, there are popular sweet shop, the shrines and the zoo. Just follow the signs and you will not get lost.
Melinda
Large beautiful walking park, great for viewing sakura (cherry blossoms) and Ume (plum blossoms) if you’re visiting in late April, early May! The park offers an abundance of different kinds of blossoms to enjoy. We arrived at the beginning of the season and were able to enjoy various stages of the blooms, from buds to full blossoms. Vendors line the walkways selling various food and drink items....
Joeyy Weeii
Visited Maruyama Park in early spring while there was still snow on the ground, and it was absolutely magical. The park was peaceful and quiet, with snow-covered trees and paths that made it feel like a winter wonderland. It’s a great spot for a calm walk and taking in the beauty of nature even in the colder months. The nearby Hokkaido Shrine surrounded by snow was especially beautiful. Definitely...
About Maruyama Park (Sapporo)
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 11-621-0453See available options
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