Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens | Sapporo

The Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens (北海道大学植物園, Hokkaidō Daigaku Shokubutsuen) is a beautiful and historically significant botanical garden located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. The gardens are part of Hokkaido University and are open to the public, offering visitors the chance to explore a wide variety of plants, trees, and natural landscapes in an urban setting. They are one of the best spots in Sapporo for nature lovers, horticulturists, and anyone interested in enjoying a peaceful environment.

1. Overview of Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens

• Location: The garden is situated in the heart of Sapporo, near the Sapporo Station area, making it easily accessible for visitors. The entrance is located near the Sapporo Clock Tower.
• Size: The botanical gardens span approximately 14 hectares (around 35 acres) of land, offering plenty of space to explore.
• History: The botanical gardens were established in 1886 by Hokkaido University as part of the university's Agricultural Department. They have since become a valuable resource for scientific research and education, as well as a public space for visitors to enjoy nature.

2. Key Features of the Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens

1. Diverse Plant Collections

• The Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens are known for their diverse collection of plants, particularly those native to Hokkaido and northern Japan. The gardens feature a mix of local flora, as well as exotic plants from around the world.
  • Native Plants: A significant portion of the garden focuses on plants that are native to Hokkaido and cold climates. Visitors can see a wide variety of wildflowers, trees, and shrubs that thrive in the Hokkaido region.
  • Alpine Plants: The gardens have a special section dedicated to alpine plants, showcasing species that grow in high-altitude environments.
  • Exotic Plants: While the emphasis is on local flora, there are also collections of exotic plants from different parts of the world, particularly those that can survive in cooler climates.

2. Seasonal Beauty

• The gardens are known for their seasonal beauty, with different plants and flowers blooming at various times of the year.
  • Spring (April to May): Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the garden comes alive with cherry blossoms, lilacs, and various spring flowers. The garden’s collection of wildflowers and spring bulbs is on full display.
  • Summer (June to August): In the summer months, visitors can enjoy the lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and shady spots perfect for relaxation. The herb garden and the Japanese-style garden are particularly popular during this time.
  • Fall (September to November): The autumn season offers stunning fall foliage, as many of the trees and shrubs turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
  • Winter (December to February): During winter, the garden takes on a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Although the plants may be dormant, visitors can enjoy the snow-covered landscapes and the quiet beauty of the gardens in winter.

3. The Historic Greenhouse

• One of the standout features of the botanical gardens is the historic greenhouse (温室, onsitsu), which houses a range of tropical and subtropical plants. This greenhouse is a valuable space where visitors can experience a variety of plant species that would not typically survive in Hokkaido’s colder climate.
  • The greenhouse is home to tropical flowers, cacti, and other exotic plants, offering a warm and lush environment to explore even in the winter months.

4. Japanese-style Garden

• The botanical garden also has a Japanese-style garden, which features traditional Japanese landscaping techniques such as rock gardens, ponds, and bridges. The design of the garden reflects the principles of wabi-sabi (finding beauty in imperfection and transience) and shakkei (the use of borrowed landscape). It's a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing area that allows visitors to experience a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.

5. Research and Educational Opportunities

• The Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens are not just for leisure—they also play a role in scientific research and education. The gardens are used by the university’s Faculty of Agriculture for botanical studies and research on plant diversity, ecology, and conservation.
  • Visitors can learn about plant conservation, ecological research, and sustainable horticulture through various displays and interpretive signs throughout the gardens.

6. Walking Paths and Relaxation Spots

• The gardens have well-maintained walking paths that allow visitors to explore different sections of the park, making it easy to navigate the various plant collections.
  • There are also benches and resting spots scattered throughout the park, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
  • The peaceful and quiet environment makes it a popular spot for picnics, reading, or simply unwinding in nature.

7. Visitor Center and Shop

• The visitor center at the Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens offers educational resources, including brochures, books, and detailed plant information. It’s a great place to learn more about the garden’s history, plant species, and seasonal events.
  • The center also has a small shop where visitors can purchase garden-related items, including plants, seeds, and souvenirs.

3. How to Get to Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens

• By Subway: From Sapporo Station, take the Namboku Line (green line) to Kita-Juhachi-Jo Station (北18条駅), which is about a 10-minute walk from the botanical gardens.
• By Bus: Several local buses run between Sapporo Station and the vicinity of the botanical gardens.
• By Car: The botanical gardens are about a 10-minute drive from Sapporo Station. There is parking available nearby, but it may be limited during busy times.

4. Best Time to Visit

• Spring: Spring (April to May) is the best time to visit for cherry blossoms and wildflowers.
• Summer: Summer (June to August) is great for lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and enjoying the gardens’ peaceful atmosphere.
• Autumn: Fall (September to November) offers stunning foliage, making it an excellent time for nature lovers and photographers.
• Winter: The winter months provide a quiet, snowy landscape, with the greenhouse being a popular spot to visit for warmth and tropical plant displays.

5. Admission Fees

• The entrance fee to the botanical gardens is typically affordable, with discounted rates for students and groups.
• Admission Fees: Generally, the fees are about 200 yen for adults, with discounts available for children and university students.

6. Conclusion

The Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, horticulturists, and anyone looking to escape the urban hustle and bustle in Sapporo. Whether you're visiting to enjoy the seasonal beauty, learn about plants, or relax in a beautiful setting, the gardens provide a serene and educational experience. Its rich history, variety of plant collections, and tranquil environment make it one of the top natural attractions in the city.