The night view of Sapporo from Mt. Moiwa was ranked among Japan’s top three night views in 2015. While Hakodate boasts a globally renowned night view, Sapporo’s night scene has been gaining popularity among both locals and visitors.
Hakodate’s appeal lies in its picturesque silhouette, making it undeniably breathtaking. On the other hand, Sapporo’s night view stands out with its vibrant illumination, emanating from cars, buildings, and homes across the cityscape. For this reason, visiting Mt. Moiwa is highly recommended when in Sapporo—it promises a memorable experience.
Weekdays are often preferred over weekends or holidays for viewing, as office buildings contribute more lights to the panorama. Arriving before sunset enhances the experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Sapporo’s night view. Enjoy your time taking in the splendor from Mt. Moiwa!
Mt. Moiwa is situated in the southwest area of Sapporo. Standing at 531 meters tall, it offers a splendid view of downtown Sapporo, the Ishikari Plain, and even the distant Sea of Japan.
Access to the summit is facilitated by a ropeway, providing a convenient way to reach the top and enjoy the panoramic vistas. Additionally, for those inclined towards hiking, there are designated courses available for exploration and adventure.
Mt. Moiwa, formerly known as ‘Inkarushipe’ in Ainu, translates to a place for watching over. This mountain holds significant cultural and spiritual value for the Ainu people, who considered it a holy ground. Legend has it that they witnessed ‘kamui shune,’ or God’s lightning, in the midst of the mountain.
During the Meiji era, when settlers from Honshu, particularly those associated with the Meiji Government, arrived, there was a misunderstanding regarding the name ‘Moiwa.’ In Ainu language, ‘Moiwa’ simply referred to a small mountain. However, the newcomers misinterpreted ‘Inkarushipe’ as ‘Moiwa.’ Eventually, the mountain came to be known as Mt. Moiwa, although it was previously called Mt. Maruyama by the Ainu.
Access to Mt.Moiwa
Streetcar
- You take a streetcar at West 4 chome near Odori, right front of 4 Chome Plaza or Susukino.
- Take a streetcar to Ropeway Iriguchi(ロプウェイ入口) and transfer a free shuttle bus for Moiwa Ropeway station.
- Free shuttle buses are available every 15 minutes.
Subway + Bus
- Take a Tozai line to Maruyama Koen(円山公園)
- Transfer a JR Bus(循環円10 or 11) to Ropeway Iriguchi(ロプウェイ入口)
- Walk 5 min to Moiwa Ropeway station
Car
parking available
Mount by car
check google map below
Ropeway Open Hours
- Apr,1 to Nov,20: 10:30 – 22:00
- Dec,1 to Mar,30: 11:00 – 22:00
- Dec,31: 11:00 – 17:00
- Jan,1 New Year Special for sunrise: 5:00 – 17:00
