Nakajima Park Sapporo
A serene urban oasis in Sapporo, Nakajima Park offers lush gardens, cultural sites, and seasonal beauty year-round.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning autumn foliage
Nakajima Park Sapporo
Best Time
Stunning autumn foliage

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban oasis in Sapporo, Nakajima Park offers lush gardens, cultural sites, and seasonal beauty year-round.
"A delightful oasis in the heart of Sapporo, Nakajima Park is a lush haven of greenery and serenity."
Free Winter Ski Gear! ⛷️
Borrow skis, boots, and poles for free at the Sapporo City Nakajima Athletic Center until early March. :athletic_shoe:
Budget-Friendly Strolls 🚶♀️
Enjoy scenic walks and beautiful views without spending a yen. Perfect for budget travelers! :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shobu Pond
Central pond
Rent a boat and glide across the serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery or vibrant autumn leaves.

Hokkaido Museum of Literature
Within the park
Explore the rich literary heritage of Hokkaido, from indigenous Ainu stories to modern fiction.

Sapporo Concert Hall 'Kitara'
Within the park
Experience world-class acoustics at this renowned venue, hosting diverse musical performances.

Miniature Japanese Garden
Within the park
A tranquil escape with meticulously crafted landscapes, offering a peaceful moment of reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Seasons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Winter Ski Gear! ⛷️
Borrow skis, boots, and poles for free at the Sapporo City Nakajima Athletic Center until early March. :athletic_shoe:
Budget-Friendly Strolls 🚶♀️
Enjoy scenic walks and beautiful views without spending a yen. Perfect for budget travelers! :moneywithwings:
Seasonal Beauty Galore 🌸🍁
Catch cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn leaves. Each season offers a unique visual treat. :camerawithflash:
Convenient Location 📍
Easily accessible from Sapporo Station, Susukino, and Odori. Great for a quick escape. :subway:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Winter Ski Gear! ⛷️
Borrow skis, boots, and poles for free at the Sapporo City Nakajima Athletic Center until early March. :athletic_shoe:
Budget-Friendly Strolls 🚶♀️
Enjoy scenic walks and beautiful views without spending a yen. Perfect for budget travelers! :moneywithwings:
Seasonal Beauty Galore 🌸🍁
Catch cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn leaves. Each season offers a unique visual treat. :camerawithflash:
Convenient Location 📍
Easily accessible from Sapporo Station, Susukino, and Odori. Great for a quick escape. :subway:
Winter Sledding Fun 🛷
Buy a cheap sled from Don Quijote and enjoy the small hills in winter. Great for kids! :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nakajima Park is widely praised as a serene urban oasis, offering a beautiful blend of nature and culture. Visitors highlight its seasonal transformations, from spring cherry blossoms to autumn foliage and winter snow activities. The park's accessibility and free entry make it a beloved spot for relaxation and recreation.
"A delightful oasis in the heart of Sapporo, Nakajima Park in June is a lush haven of greenery and serenity. The trees are in full bloom, offering a cooling canopy for leisurely strolls. Families, couples and children enjoy its expansive lawns and charming walking trails. The pond is particularly picturesque, with rowboats gliding across the calm waters and ducklings trailing their mother along the banks. Despite the overcast skies during our visit, the park buzzed with a festive atmosphere thanks to the vibrant rows of food stalls selling everything from grilled meats to traditional sweets. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and community spirit — a must-visit if you’re in Sapporo during early summer."
Isaac Sam
"We absolutely loved this peaceful and vast park, especially the miniature Japanese garden within. There’s a large pond at the centre, many trees (labelled), beautiful flowers, sculptures, shrines, an observatory, a teahouse, a concert hall, a museum and more. This is a must-visit place when in Sapporo."
Sandra Chan
"Nakajima Park offers a serene escape into nature, especially during sakura (cherry blossom) season.
The park feels worlds away from the busy sights and sounds of the city, with quiet paths winding beneath the cherry blossoms.
Locals leisurely stroll the paths and gather for peaceful picnics under the sakura trees- creating a gentle, unhurried atmosphere.
The lake mirrors the blossoms beautifully, adding to the sense of calm and connection to nature.
Nakajima Park is the perfect place to slow down and savor the fleeting beauty of spring."
Melinda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nakajima Park is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Namboku Subway Line to Nakajima-Kōen Station or Horohira-Bashi Station. The Sapporo Streetcar also stops at Nakajima-Kōen-Dōri Station. It's conveniently located near the Susukino entertainment district.
Yes, Nakajima Park is a short subway ride from Sapporo Station. You can take the Namboku Line directly to Nakajima-Kōen Station, making it a very convenient destination.
Absolutely! Nakajima Park is within walking distance from the Susukino area, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll before or after exploring the city's nightlife.
The Namboku Subway Line is your best bet. Alight at Nakajima-Kōen Station or Horohira-Bashi Station for direct access to the park.
While specific parking details can vary, the park is primarily designed for pedestrian access and public transport. It's recommended to use the nearby subway or streetcar for the most convenient arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nakajima Park itself is free to enter and explore. You can wander through its beautiful grounds and enjoy the natural scenery without any admission cost.
Yes, while the park grounds are free, you will need tickets for specific attractions like the Sapporo Concert Hall 'Kitara', the Hokkaido Museum of Literature, and the Sapporo Astronomical Observatory.
The park grounds are generally open from early morning until late evening. However, individual facilities like museums and the concert hall have their own specific operating hours, which you should check in advance.
Yes! In winter, you can enjoy free cross-country ski gear rentals. Strolling through the park, enjoying the seasonal scenery, and visiting the miniature Japanese garden are also free activities.
During the warmer months, you can rent boats on Shobu Pond. This is a popular recreational activity for visitors looking to enjoy the park's central water feature.
📸 📸 Photography
Nakajima Park offers numerous picturesque spots. The Shobu Pond with its boats, the Japanese garden, and the park's pathways lined with seasonal flowers (cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn) are particularly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check local regulations or signage within the park before attempting to fly a drone.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a 35mm prime, is great for capturing landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for sweeping park vistas. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing skies and water. :iphone:
Yes, you can generally take exterior photos of the Sapporo Concert Hall 'Kitara'. Photography inside the venue during performances may be restricted, so check their specific policies.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can stroll through gardens, rent boats on Shobu Pond, visit the Hokkaido Museum of Literature, enjoy performances at Sapporo Concert Hall 'Kitara', or simply relax amidst nature. In winter, enjoy free cross-country skiing.
Yes, Nakajima Park is very family-friendly. There's a children's playground, open lawns for running around, and in winter, small hills perfect for sledding with a cheap sled.
Spring brings cherry blossoms and wisteria, summer offers lush greenery and yellow irises, autumn displays vibrant foliage, and winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland with opportunities for skiing.
While there aren't extensive dining facilities within the park itself, you might find food stalls during special events or festivals. The nearby Susukino area offers a vast array of dining options.
The park houses the Sapporo Concert Hall 'Kitara', the Hokkaido Museum of Literature, and the historic Hōheikan building. The Sapporo Astronomical Observatory is also located within the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During warmer months, renting a boat on Shobu Pond offers a delightful family activity. The park's natural beauty, combined with these recreational options, makes it an engaging and enjoyable outing for visitors of all ages. The accessibility and free entry to the park grounds further enhance its appeal for family trips.
💰 Budget Travelers
Furthermore, during winter, the park offers free cross-country ski gear rentals, providing an incredible opportunity for a unique winter activity at no cost. Even if you're not skiing, simply enjoying a picnic or a leisurely stroll amidst nature is a perfect way to experience Sapporo on a tight budget.
couples
Consider renting a boat on Shobu Pond for a peaceful afternoon together, or find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. The park's tranquil ambiance provides the perfect setting for quality time and shared moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Transformations of Nakajima Park
Autumn paints Nakajima Park in a breathtaking palette of reds, golds, and oranges as the foliage turns. This season is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers seeking stunning scenic views. The park's tranquil paths winding through the colorful leaves offer a serene experience. Come winter, the park is transformed into a snowy wonderland. It becomes a popular spot for winter activities, most notably offering free cross-country ski gear rentals from the Sapporo City Nakajima Athletic Center, allowing visitors to explore the snow-covered landscape.
This constant evolution makes Nakajima Park a destination worth revisiting throughout the year, with each visit offering a fresh perspective and new opportunities for enjoyment. Whether you're seeking the vibrant blooms of spring, the serene greenery of summer, the fiery colors of autumn, or the snowy charm of winter, Nakajima Park delivers a memorable experience.
Cultural Gems Within the Greenery
For literary enthusiasts, the Hokkaido Museum of Literature offers a deep dive into the region's rich literary heritage. It showcases the works of prominent authors from Hokkaido, including indigenous Ainu literature, poetry, and fiction, providing valuable insights into the cultural landscape of the area. Another historical gem is Hōheikan, a beautifully preserved building dating back to 1880, which originally served as a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries, offering a glimpse into Sapporo's past.
Additionally, the Sapporo Astronomical Observatory is located within the park, providing opportunities for solar observations during the day and occasional stargazing events. These cultural attractions, nestled amidst the park's natural splendor, enrich the visitor experience and offer a well-rounded exploration of Sapporo's heritage and arts scene.
Winter Wonderland: Free Skiing and Sledding
For families with younger children, the park's gentle slopes are perfect for sledding. A tip from travelers suggests purchasing an inexpensive sled from a local store like Don Quijote and heading to the small hills within the park for hours of fun. This makes Nakajima Park an excellent destination for budget-conscious families looking for winter entertainment.
These winter offerings highlight Nakajima Park's commitment to providing year-round enjoyment for all visitors, making it a versatile and cherished urban oasis in Sapporo. The opportunity for free winter sports is a significant draw, especially for those seeking authentic local experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit