Sapporo Autumn Foliage 2025: Top Viewing Spots, Peak Dates & Seasonal Events Guide
Located in the heart of Hokkaido, Sapporo is renowned as one of Japan's premier culinary destinations and enjoys top-tier popularity among tourists. This city, where the vast northern wilderness and rich natural beauty of Hokkaido blend seamlessly with urban sophistication, will remain in your memory as an unforgettable Japanese landscape.
Speaking of autumn traditions in Japan, the beautiful autumn foliage scenery can only be seen for a brief period each year.
Therefore, this time we'll introduce carefully selected recommended autumn foliage spots that you should visit when traveling to Sapporo in fall. From contrasts with historical buildings to vast natural panoramas and charming Japanese gardens, autumn leaves show various expressions depending on the setting, so please find your favorite scenery.
2025 Autumn Foliage Start Predictions and Peak Viewing Times
The autumn foliage that announces the arrival of fall in Japan begins in Hokkaido, the northern land. Particularly in Sapporo, the beautiful autumn foliage front gradually descends from mountainous areas to urban districts, creating a colorful transformation.
The predicted autumn foliage timing for Sapporo and its surrounding areas in 2025 is as follows:
| City | Color change begins (forecast) | Peak viewing (forecast) |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo city center | Early October | Mid to late October |
| Jozankei Hot Springs area | Late September | Early to mid-October |
| Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort area (alpine region) | Mid-September | Late September to early October |
While the timing may vary slightly depending on the year's temperature and weather conditions, in my experience, if you visit Sapporo around October, you're sure to encounter peak autumn foliage at some spot.
Easily Accessible Classic Autumn Foliage Spots Around Sapporo Station
During Sapporo's autumn season, you can enjoy breathtakingly beautiful foliage even in the city center. Particularly for foreign tourists, autumn foliage spots around the easily accessible Sapporo Station area are recommended.
Please stop by during your sightseeing to experience the contrast between urban landscapes and autumn foliage scenery.
Nakajima Park
Nakajima Park, spreading through central Sapporo city, is a recommended spot for those wanting to spend relaxing time while viewing autumn foliage scenery.
Nakajima Park is located about 5 minutes by train from Sapporo Station on the Municipal Namboku Line, offering a peaceful respite. The spacious park grounds feature approximately 5,000 planted trees, and in autumn, ginkgo and katsura trees are dyed brilliant golden colors.
Additionally, you can experience traditional Japanese culture at Nakajima Park's "Hoheikan" and "Hasso-an."
Among these, I particularly recommend autumn foliage viewing from boats. Beautiful colored trees stand around Iris Pond, so you can leisurely enjoy the scenery from the water, photograph the foliage reflected on the water surface, and fully savor autumn.
- Peak foliage season: Late October to early November (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 1 Nakajima Park, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Operating hours: -
- Closed: -
- Phone number: 011-511-3924
- Official website: https://www.sapporo-park.or.jp/nakajima/?page_id=64
Odori Park
A spot where you can enjoy autumn foliage while strolling through Sapporo city is Odori Park. Odori Park is a park extending approximately 1.5km east-west through central Sapporo city, within walking distance from Sapporo Station.
In autumn, the trees turn colorful, allowing you to appreciate beautiful autumn foliage while in the heart of the city.
Among Odori Park's attractions, I particularly like the ginkgo tree-lined streets. The sight of ginkgo trees illuminated by sunlight, shining golden, is a must-see.
The park has many benches, and you'll notice people reading or relaxing with coffee in hand during autumn's comfortable climate.
Additionally, since Odori Park serves as a venue for various events, visiting during scheduled events will allow you to experience even more authentic Japanese autumn atmosphere.
- Peak foliage season: Late October (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 1-12 Chome Odori Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Operating hours: -
- Closed: -
- Phone number: 011-251-0438
- Official website: https://odori-park.jp/
Sapporo Clock Tower
When visiting Odori Park in autumn, please also stop by the nearby "Sapporo Clock Tower."
The Sapporo Clock Tower is a historic building constructed in American style and serves as a symbolic presence of Sapporo. Its toy-like retro charm adds unique depth to the surrounding autumn foliage scenery.
Please capture a wonderful photograph that's quintessentially autumn in Sapporo as a travel memory.
Incidentally, the interior of Sapporo Clock Tower houses a museum, and visiting allows you to learn deeply about the clock tower's history spanning over 130 years and Sapporo city's development.
When I visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, I also look forward to hearing the elegant bell sounds. The bell rings every hour on the hour, so try timing your visit accordingly.
- Peak foliage season: Late October to early November (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 2 Chome Kita 1-jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: 8:45~17:10
- Closed: January 1-3
- Phone number: 011-231-0838
- Official website: https://sapporoshi-tokeidai.jp/
Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building (former main building)
Speaking of quintessentially Sapporo scenery, the Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building (former main building) cannot be missed.
The Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building, affectionately known as the "Red Brick Office," is located about a 10-minute walk from Sapporo Station, making it an easily accessible tourist spot for foreign visitors.
In autumn, trees such as katsura and ginkgo planted in the vast garden in front of the building turn brilliant colors. I love the garden's melancholic atmosphere during this season, and when I visit, I become so absorbed in photography that I lose track of time.
The building's renovation work is scheduled to complete on July 25, 2025, so when you visit this autumn, please experience not only the garden's beautiful scenery but also Hokkaido's culture and history inside the building.
- Peak foliage season: Late October to early November (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 1 Kita 3-jo Nishi 6-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: 8:45~21:00
- Closed: December 29-January 3, November 16
- Phone number: 011-206-8390
- Official website: https://www.hokkaido-redbrick.jp/
Mt. Moiwa
During Sapporo's autumn season, Mt. Moiwa also becomes a notable autumn foliage spot. Mt. Moiwa is popular year-round as a night view spot, but particularly in autumn, you can also enjoy vast landscapes with autumn foliage spreading across the area.
From the observation deck at the 531-meter summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the contrast between autumn nature spreading at the mountain's base and the urban landscape dotted with high-rise buildings.
Sapporo's pleasant autumn climate is also perfect for enjoying mountain climbing. It's an excellent opportunity to see colorful trees up close.
Additionally, Mt. Moiwa has a ropeway and mini cable car, so you can easily access the summit without climbing.
Please create a plan that suits your preferences and schedule.
- Peak foliage season: Late October (color change begins: mid-October)
- Address: 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: April-November 10:30~22:00 (last ascent 21:30), December– March 11:00~22:00 (last ascent 21:30)
- Closed: 12/31, 1/1
- Phone number: 011-561-8177
- Official website: https://mt-moiwa.jp/
Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park, where you can experience a sense of harmony with nature, is an attractive spot for those who love plants and trees. When I access Maruyama Park from central Sapporo, I use the train. Access by bus is also convenient.
Within the park, various types of trees such as Katsura and Ginkgo stand, and the gradation scenery of red, yellow, and orange colors visible during autumn is absolutely spectacular. Additionally, since Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Zoo are adjacent to Maruyama Park, families and couples can enjoy a full day when visiting.
The autumn foliage scenery that can only be seen during this season should be thoroughly enjoyed in Hokkaido's abundant nature.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Mid-October to late October (coloring begins: early October)
- Address: 3 Miyagaoka, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: -
- Closed days: -
- Phone number: 011-621-0453
- Official website: https://maruyamapark.jp/
When Visiting Sapporo in Autumn, Enjoy Exquisite Food with Local Guidance
In Sapporo, a city of fine cuisine, you cannot miss not only the beautiful autumn foliage but also delicious gourmet food. As a way to fully enjoy Sapporo's nightlife, I recommend the "Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour" to foreign tourists.
On this tour, guides who know the local area inside and out will guide you to hidden famous restaurants that tourists cannot find on their own, and introduce you to exquisite Hokkaido gourmet food known only to those in the know. In small and homey izakayas and bars, you can thoroughly enjoy fresh seafood in season, local dishes beloved by locals, and Hokkaido's pride - local sake.
Since you don't need to worry about language and manner differences that become a source of concern during overseas travel, those who want to enjoy Sapporo's nightlife without reservation should definitely use the private tour.
- Meeting point: Under the giant NIKKA sign outside Susukino Station
- Tour area: Susukino
- Start time: 18:00
Guaranteed to Move You! Overwhelming Large-Scale Autumn Foliage Spots Near Sapporo
Since you've come to Hokkaido, the northern land, I also recommend experiencing magnificent scale autumn foliage that spreads across your entire field of vision. In locations a short distance from Sapporo, powerful autumn spectacular views await.
Jozankei Onsen Area
Among all of Hokkaido, I most recommend the autumn foliage around Jozankei Onsen to foreign tourists. The scenery along the valley that turns red and yellow in autumn is a picturesque spectacular view.
Jozankei Onsen is located about an hour by car from central Sapporo and is a hot spring town where the entire area is surrounded by deep mountains. Walking paths are maintained in the hot spring town, and the experience of walking through colorful nature while listening to the murmuring of the river will undoubtedly become an unforgettable memory.
Take this opportunity to try the hot springs as well and refresh your mind and body.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Early October to mid-October (coloring begins: late September)
- Address: Jozankei Onsen Higashi, Minami-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: Varies by facility
- Closed days: Varies by facility
- Phone number: 011-598-2012
- Official website: https://jozankei.jp/
Futami Suspension Bridge is Particularly Famous for Autumn Foliage
Within Jozankei Onsen, I particularly focus on the scenery of Futami suspension bridge. The vermillion Futami suspension bridge floating against the vivid background filled with red and yellow trees creates a uniquely Japanese atmosphere that will surely captivate foreign tourists.
Moreover, when the powerful waterfall flowing down from high places is added, it becomes an even more mystical landscape. Aim for photo opportunities and capture Instagram-worthy shots.
Furthermore, canoeing down the valley is also popular at Jozankei Onsen. Since there are few chances to see Hokkaido's magnificent nature up close, those with time should definitely try this experience. You'll encounter new emotions that couldn't be understood from a distance.
Lake Sapporo
When I visit Sapporo in autumn, I also value taking time to refresh away from the city's noise. "Lake Sapporo," created by Jozankei Dam, is notable for its calm lake appearance that soothes the heart and the magnificent scale mountains surrounding it.
In autumn, the mountains surrounding the lake turn into autumn colors, creating an even more flavorful scene. The colorful autumn foliage reflected on the calm lake surface is also fantastical.
I recommend viewing Lake Sapporo's autumn foliage scenery from the observation deck at the dam site. There are no obstructions around, and you can enjoy the entire surrounding area as a panorama.
Also, from "Jozankei Dam Downstream Park" maintained directly below the dam, you can view the giant dam from directly below, so please be sure to stop by.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Early October (coloring begins: late September)
- Address: Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: -
- Closed days: -
- Phone number: 011-583-8110
- Official website: https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/spot/detail_11184.html
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
When speaking of large-scale autumn foliage scenery in Sapporo, Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort cannot be missed either. While Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort bustles with skiers in winter, it actually also serves as a famous autumn foliage spot.
The reason I recommend Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is that the landscape viewed from the gondola is uniquely dynamic. The colorful autumn foliage scenery that stands out on the open land characteristic of ski resorts is so captivating that you cannot take your eyes off it for even a moment.
Also, since Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is at high elevation, autumn foliage begins earlier than in the city center. Even when autumn foliage cannot yet be seen in central Sapporo, you might be able to appreciate beautiful scenery at Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Early October (coloring begins: late September)
- Address: 937 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: 9:30-15:30 (Last upward ride: 15:00)
- Closed days: Autumn foliage gondola operation period is October 1-19, 2025
- Phone number: 011-598-4511
- Official website: https://www.sapporo-kokusai.jp/autumn/
Hokkaido Centenary Memorial Tower
Among the representative autumn foliage scenery of Sapporo, the Hokkaido Centenary Memorial Tower is also worth mentioning.
The Hokkaido Centenary Memorial Tower was once a landmark in Atsubetsu ward, Sapporo city, but due to deterioration, it was demolished in 2023.
Currently, although the tower itself no longer exists, you can still enjoy beautiful autumn foliage at the vast grounds where the Historical Village of Hokkaido and Hokkaido Museum are located, as well as in the surrounding Nopporo Forest Park where the tower once stood.
In particular, the autumn foliage at Nopporo Forest Park consists of pristine forests that stretch expansively. Pay attention to the ruggedness of the branches and trunks as well.
Also, be sure to experience the natural fragrances and air temperature on-site that cannot be conveyed through guidebooks or social media.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Mid-October to late October (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 53-2 Onopporo, Atsubetsu-cho, Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: -
- Closed days: -
- Phone number: 011-898-0456
- Official website: https://www.sapporo.travel/spot/facility/nopporo_forest_park/
Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots Where You Can Enjoy the Fusion of Fall Colors and Surrounding Nature
Sapporo has special spots where you can enjoy extraordinary scenery that combines autumn foliage with unique landscapes characteristic of each location.
Experience the atmosphere of Japanese gardens, discover harmony with various plants, and savor the rich autumn colors full of character as part of your Sapporo Autumn Foliage 2025 experience.
Hiraoka Arboriculture Center
For autumn in Sapporo, the Hiraoka Arboriculture Center, where you can see various aspects of autumn foliage, is highly recommended.
Located in Kiyota ward, Sapporo city, the Hiraoka Arboriculture Center is a facility characterized by diverse trees and beautiful landscaping. The grounds feature both Japanese garden areas and Western-style garden areas, where you can enjoy different atmospheric autumn foliage scenery in each section.
Among the autumn attractions at Hiraoka Arboriculture Center, I particularly love the approximately 100-meter-long maple tree-lined path. During peak season, the maples turn brilliant red, creating a breathtaking tunnel of autumn foliage.
For those who want to quietly and thoroughly experience Japanese sentiment in a peaceful location, please be sure to stop by Hiraoka Arboriculture Center during your Sapporo Autumn Foliage 2025 journey.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Mid-October to late October (color change begins: early October)
- Address: Hiraoka 4-jo 3-chome, Kiyota-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: 8:45-17:15
- Closed days: Mondays
- Phone number: 011-883-2891
- Official website: https://www.sapporo-park.or.jp/jyugei/
Takino Suzuran Hillside Park
Since you've come to Hokkaido, the northern land, please also pay attention to the vast autumn scenery.
Located in Minami ward, Sapporo city, Takino Suzuran Hillside Park is Hokkaido's only national park. The extensive grounds feature areas where seasonal flowers bloom throughout the year and facilities where children can play, making it full of attractions.
In autumn, trees such as maples, oaks, and mountain ash throughout the park all change color at once, becoming dyed in vivid hues. Such large-scale autumn foliage is rarely seen in other regions and can be said to be a special autumn landscape unique to Sapporo and an essential part of any Sapporo Autumn Foliage 2025 experience.
Among these, the collaboration of waterfalls and autumn foliage in the valley zone within the park is spectacular.
Since you can enjoy yourself all day with picnicking and walking, if you want to fully enjoy autumn nature in a spacious environment, please be sure to include Takino Suzuran Hillside Park in your schedule.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Mid-October to late October (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 247 Takino, Minami-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: April 20-May 31: 9:00-17:00
June 1-August 31: 9:00-18:00
September 1-November 10: 9:00-17:00
December 23-March 31: 9:00-16:00
- Closed days: -
- Phone number: 011-592-3333
- Official website: https://www.takinopark.com/
Benizakura Park
For those who want to see quintessentially Japanese autumn scenery, Benizakura Park is recommended.
Quietly nestled in Minami ward, Sapporo city, Benizakura Park is an elegant Japanese garden utilizing the site of a former private residence. The grounds feature ponds, streams, tea houses, and other elements, allowing you to experience traditional Japanese aesthetic sensibilities up close.
Especially in autumn, the maple and other deciduous trees display their fall colors, adding vibrancy to the usually serene garden. The highlight is the autumn foliage scenery reflected in the pond, which offers a different flavor from directly viewing the foliage—one that lets you feel a sense of refined elegance.
While appreciating the autumn scenery that Japanese people have long cherished, finding differences from your own country's landscapes is also one way to enjoy your Sapporo Autumn Foliage 2025 adventure.
- Best viewing period for autumn foliage: Mid-October to late October (color change begins: early October)
- Address: 389-6 Sumikawa, Minami-ku, Sapporo
- Operating hours: 10:00-17:00
- Closed days: Mondays (the following day if it's a holiday)
- Phone number: 011-581-4858
- Official website: https://www.benizakura.jp/
To Fully Enjoy Japanese Autumn, It's Best to Be Guided by Locals Who Know Each Area Inside and Out!
I often use private tours to maximize my enjoyment of overseas travel. By having guides show me spots that only locals know, I can have special experiences not found in guidebooks.
Additionally, being able to tour efficiently without worrying about language, local manners, transportation methods, etc., is another benefit of private tours.
If you're planning to visit Sapporo in autumn, I recommend the private tours by "Magical Trip." Guides well-versed in the local area accompany you and introduce hidden autumn foliage spots and seasonal gourmet foods that can only be enjoyed during this time of year.
Make effective use of your limited time and enjoy your own special Sapporo Autumn Foliage 2025 experience to the fullest.
