Makomanai Park | Sapporo

Makomanai Park (真駒内公園, Makomanai Kōen) is a large and scenic park located in the southern part of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, recreational facilities, and seasonal attractions, the park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, especially those seeking outdoor activities and relaxation.

1. Overview of Makomanai Park

• Location: Makomanai Park is located in the Makomanai area, which is in the southern part of Sapporo. It's about a 30-minute drive or a 20-minute subway ride from Sapporo Station.
• Size: The park spans an area of approximately 70 hectares (about 173 acres), making it one of the largest parks in Sapporo.
• Opened: Originally opened in 1967, Makomanai Park has since been developed into a popular space for a wide range of activities, from sports to nature walks.

2. Key Features of Makomanai Park

1. Sapporo Dome

• One of the most famous features of Makomanai Park is the Sapporo Dome (札幌ドーム), an iconic sports stadium that hosts a variety of events.
  • Baseball: The Dome is home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, a professional baseball team. It hosts regular baseball games during the season.
  • Soccer: It also serves as the home stadium for the Consadole Sapporo, the city’s professional soccer team.
  • Concerts and Events: In addition to sports, the Sapporo Dome is used for large-scale concerts, exhibitions, and other events.
  • The Dome is famous for its unique retractable roof and innovative design. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in Sapporo.

2. Sports Facilities

• Makomanai Park is well-equipped with sports facilities for visitors interested in outdoor activities:
  • Track and Field: The park has a large athletics track, with facilities for running, walking, and other field sports.
  • Tennis Courts: There are tennis courts available for public use, making it a great spot for both recreational and competitive tennis players.
  • Baseball Fields: In addition to the Sapporo Dome, the park has baseball fields for local teams and groups.
  • Skating Rink: During the winter months, part of the park is turned into an ice skating rink, where locals and visitors can enjoy skating in a beautiful natural setting.

3. Beautiful Green Spaces and Gardens

• Makomanai Park features a variety of green spaces, ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature. The park has wide open fields where visitors can lay out a blanket or enjoy some outdoor games.
  • Rose Garden: A lovely rose garden is located within the park, with vibrant displays of roses blooming in the summer months, making it a popular spot for photography and leisurely strolls.
  • Cherry Blossom Viewing: In spring, the park becomes a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). The cherry trees in the park bloom in late April to early May, attracting visitors for picnics under the blossoms.

4. Makomanai Ice Arena

• Makomanai Ice Arena (真駒内アイスアリーナ) is located within the park and is a dedicated ice rink used for ice hockey and figure skating events. It's also the site of training sessions for various ice sports and can be used by the public during certain hours.
• The Ice Arena has hosted international events and is an excellent place for skating enthusiasts to practice or watch competitions.

5. Seasonal Activities

• Winter: During the winter months, Makomanai Park transforms into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy activities like sledding, ice skating, and cross-country skiing in the park. The park’s wide open spaces also make it a great place for building snowmen and engaging in other winter activities.
• Spring/Summer: In the warmer months, the park is perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing in nature. The large fields and peaceful atmosphere make it a great escape from the bustling city center.

6. The Park's Natural Beauty

• Makomanai Park is known for its lush greenery and beautiful landscape. The park is home to numerous trees, plants, and flowers, making it a pleasant place to visit year-round. The park is especially scenic in autumn, with colorful fall foliage providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities.

3. How to Get to Makomanai Park

• By Subway: The most convenient way to reach Makomanai Park from Sapporo Station is by taking the Tozai Line on the Sapporo Subway. Get off at Makomanai Station (真駒内駅), which is located near the park entrance. The park is about a 5-minute walk from the station.
• By Bus: Several buses from Sapporo Station also go to the Makomanai area, with stops near the park. Check the local bus routes for convenience.
• By Car: If you're driving, the park is about a 30-minute drive from Sapporo Station. There is ample parking near the Sapporo Dome and other facilities within the park.

4. Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a popular time to visit for cherry blossom viewing. The park’s cherry trees bloom in early May, attracting large crowds of visitors for hanami picnics.
• Summer (June to August): Summer offers a great opportunity for outdoor sports, picnics, and enjoying the beautiful gardens in full bloom.
• Fall (September to November): Autumn is another fantastic season to visit, as the park is known for its beautiful fall colors, especially in October when the leaves change colors.
• Winter (December to February): Winter transforms the park into a winter sports haven, with activities like ice skating and cross-country skiing available for winter sports enthusiasts.

5. Conclusion

Makomanai Park offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Whether you're looking to watch a baseball or soccer game at the Sapporo Dome, enjoy the outdoors in beautiful green spaces, participate in winter sports, or explore the rose garden and cherry blossoms, this large park is a great destination for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and families alike. With its tranquil environment and diverse facilities, Makomanai Park is a wonderful escape in Sapporo that combines both recreation and relaxation.