Hokkaido University Campus Sapporo
A vast, green oasis with historic buildings, offering stunning seasonal beauty and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden ginkgo leaves glow
Hokkaido University Campus Sapporo
Best Time
Golden ginkgo leaves glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, green oasis with historic buildings, offering stunning seasonal beauty and a peaceful escape.
"The beauty of the campus speaks for itself: cherry blossoms, plum trees, mandarin ducks, and serene ponds."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The campus is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many beautiful areas. :athletic_shoe:
🍂 Autumn Ginkgo Magic
Visit in autumn for the iconic Ginkgo Avenue. Be mindful of cars and parking restrictions for visitors. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ginkgo Avenue
Hokkaido University Campus
A breathtaking tree-lined path, especially stunning with golden leaves in autumn. A must-see for photographers.
University Farm
Hokkaido University Campus
Experience a slice of rural life within the city, with picturesque fields and a peaceful atmosphere.
Campus Ponds & Gardens
Hokkaido University Campus
Serene ponds with koi and blooming water lilies, reminiscent of Monet's paintings, offer tranquil moments.
Historic European-style Buildings
Hokkaido University Campus
Admire the charming, rustic architecture that adds a touch of old-world elegance to the campus.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Oasis
Seasonal Spectacles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The campus is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many beautiful areas. :athletic_shoe:
🍂 Autumn Ginkgo Magic
Visit in autumn for the iconic Ginkgo Avenue. Be mindful of cars and parking restrictions for visitors. :camerawithflash:
🌸 Spring Blossom Beauty
Experience the campus adorned with cherry blossoms in spring for a truly picturesque visit. :cherry_blossom:
🚲 Bike for Exploration
Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the expansive campus at your own pace. :bicycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The campus is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many beautiful areas. :athletic_shoe:
🍂 Autumn Ginkgo Magic
Visit in autumn for the iconic Ginkgo Avenue. Be mindful of cars and parking restrictions for visitors. :camerawithflash:
🌸 Spring Blossom Beauty
Experience the campus adorned with cherry blossoms in spring for a truly picturesque visit. :cherry_blossom:
🚲 Bike for Exploration
Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the expansive campus at your own pace. :bicycle:
🌳 Embrace the Greenery
The campus is a nature lover's paradise, feeling like a forest. Enjoy the ponds, gardens, and open spaces. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hokkaido University's campus for its stunning natural beauty, especially during autumn and spring. The blend of lush greenery, historic architecture, and serene ponds creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Many highlight the value of free access and the excellent, affordable food options available at the university canteens. The dedication of student volunteers also leaves a lasting positive impression.
"I could never have imagined that the exchange program at Hokkaido University would become the most unforgettable experience of my life.
The professors and program coordinators are true professionals, and the university itself meets the highest international standards of education.
The campus atmosphere is one of a kind – full of life, with the student festival standing out as a true highlight.
The beauty of the campus speaks for itself: cherry blossoms, plum trees, mandarin ducks, and serene ponds filled with koi. You’ll see it all with your own eyes.
I know I’ll come back one day – to share Seicomart ice cream with my favorite professors again."
Artem Kalinin
"Amazing Ginkgo tree road in autumn. You can walk in and take a pictures here but beware the car. Foreigners can’t park your car here."
Theera Suriyawongse
"A wonderful campus tour.
Salute to the Excellence of University Volunteers on their dedication and passion, creating an exceptional and unforgettable experience for us during the campus tour. They go above and beyond to showcase their campuses and leave a lasting impression on us.
A warm welcome and greet us with genuine smiles at the campus gate. University volunteers are the unsung heroes of the campus tour experience. Their dedication, expertise, and personal touch create an unforgettable and enlightening journey for us."
MIL
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The campus is easily accessible by public transport. From Sapporo Station, you can take a subway to Kita-18-jo Station on the Namboku Line, which is a short walk to the main gate. Buses also serve the area.
Yes, the campus is quite walkable and well-signposted. Many visitors recommend renting a bicycle to explore the vast grounds more efficiently.
While driving is possible, parking for visitors can be limited and may incur fees. It's often easier and more convenient to use public transportation or cycle. Foreigners cannot park their cars here.
For extensive exploration, consider renting a bicycle. Otherwise, comfortable walking shoes are essential as the campus is quite large and offers many scenic routes.
Kita-18-jo Station on the Namboku Line is the closest subway station to the main campus area, providing convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Hokkaido University campus is generally free and open to the public. You can wander through the grounds and enjoy the scenery without purchasing a ticket.
The campus grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific building access may vary, but the outdoor areas are open for exploration throughout the day.
While the main campus is free, the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden may have a separate admission fee. It's best to check their official website for current pricing and hours.
Access to specific university buildings might be restricted to students and staff. However, many buildings have impressive exteriors worth admiring from the outside.
Yes, university volunteers often offer campus tours, providing insights into the history and highlights of the university. These tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ginkgo Avenue in autumn is iconic. Also, the historic European-style buildings, the serene campus ponds with water lilies, and the university farm offer beautiful photographic opportunities. 
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the campus's natural beauty. Golden hour during autumn for the Ginkgo Avenue is particularly magical.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, be respectful of students and staff, and avoid intrusive photography, especially inside buildings.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both landscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive campus views.
Drone usage is likely restricted on university campuses due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to check the university's official policy before attempting to fly a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the university has canteens that offer affordable and tasty meals, a great option for budget travelers. There are also cafes and eateries within or near the campus.
The university canteen is very cheap and offers good meals. Additionally, areas from Kita 12 Jo to Kita 24 Jo have many good value restaurants with lunch specials around 600 yen.
While not directly on campus, Nijo Market in Sapporo is a famous seafood market where you can enjoy fresh catches. It's a short trip from the university.
Yes, you can find convenience stores like Seicomart on or near the campus, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, or a quick breakfast.
You'll find a variety of Japanese cuisine, including ramen, seafood, and local Sapporo specialties. Some restaurants offer Mongolian/Chinese fusion as well.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The University Farm can be particularly interesting for kids, offering a glimpse of rural life. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sheer space and natural elements like trees and ponds provide plenty of opportunities for imaginative play. Consider visiting during milder seasons like spring or autumn to make the most of outdoor exploration. The Botanic Garden (if accessible and open) can also be a hit with younger visitors. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there will be plenty of walking.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
For meals, the university canteens are a major highlight, offering very affordable and satisfying food options, often costing around 600 yen for lunch specials. Utilizing public transport like subways and buses is also cost-effective for reaching the campus. Consider packing snacks from convenience stores like Seicomart to save on smaller purchases.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The historic European-style buildings provide a classic architectural backdrop, while the campus ponds with their water lilies offer serene, almost painterly scenes. +1Aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Weekday mornings are ideal for capturing shots without the distraction of crowds.
A versatile lens setup will allow you to capture both the grand landscapes and the intricate details of the campus. Remember to be respectful of the academic environment while you shoot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Campus: A Nature Lover's Paradise
+1Seasonal changes dramatically enhance the campus's beauty. In spring, the cherry blossoms and plum trees create a picturesque scene. Summer brings vibrant greenery, while autumn transforms the Ginkgo Avenue into a breathtaking spectacle of golden hues. Even in winter, the snow-covered landscape offers a unique charm.
+1 The campus is designed to be explored, encouraging visitors to take their time and appreciate the natural surroundings. For those looking to cover more ground, renting a bicycle is highly recommended. It allows you to easily navigate the vast campus and discover hidden gems at your own pace. The combination of natural beauty and well-maintained grounds makes Hokkaido University a delightful destination for a leisurely stroll or an active exploration.
Architectural Charm and Historical Significance
The campus tour, often led by dedicated university volunteers, highlights the significance of these buildings and their role in the university's history. These tours provide valuable insights into the institution's development and its contribution to education and research. The volunteers' passion and knowledge make the experience particularly engaging and memorable for visitors.
While the academic standing of the university is high, the visual appeal of its architecture, combined with the surrounding greenery, creates an atmosphere that is both scholarly and aesthetically pleasing. It's a place where history, nature, and education converge, offering a rich experience for any visitor.
Seasonal Highlights and Photography Opportunities
In spring, the campus bursts into life with cherry blossoms and plum trees, creating a soft and romantic atmosphere. The ponds, often filled with blooming water lilies, offer serene and picturesque scenes, reminiscent of Impressionist paintings.
These natural spectacles provide ample opportunities for capturing beautiful, memorable photographs. For the best photographic results, visiting during the golden hour – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – can enhance the natural light and colors. Early weekday mornings are also ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying a more peaceful experience for photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit