Mount Moiwa | Sapporo

Mount Moiwa (藻岩山, Moiwa-san) is a beautiful mountain located in the southern part of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Standing at 531 meters (1,744 feet), it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its stunning panoramic views of Sapporo City, Otaru Bay, and the surrounding mountains, particularly during the day and at night. It's a fantastic spot for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who want to experience the beauty of Hokkaido's landscape.

1. Overview of Mount Moiwa

• Height: 531 meters (1,744 feet)
• Location: Southern part of Sapporo, in the Moiwa Mountain area
• Best Known For: Panoramic views of Sapporo City, the Ishikari Plain, and the Otaru Bay. It's especially famous for night views, making it one of Sapporo's top scenic spots.

2. Activities and Attractions on Mount Moiwa

1. Scenic Views

Daytime Views: From the summit, visitors can enjoy expansive views of Sapporo, with the city’s skyscrapers and mountain ranges visible in the distance. On a clear day, you can also see the Ishikari Plain and Otaru Bay, offering a fantastic visual contrast between urban and natural landscapes.

Night Views: Mount Moiwa is particularly famous for its night views, offering a "million-dollar view" of the city. The lights of Sapporo sparkle below, creating a mesmerizing cityscape. The night view is considered one of the best in Japan and is a must-see for visitors to the area.

2. Mount Moiwa Ropeway and Funicular

Ropeway Ride: One of the easiest and most popular ways to reach the summit of Mount Moiwa is by taking the Moiwa Ropeway. The cable car ride offers spectacular views of the surrounding forests and landscapes as you ascend the mountain.

Funicular Railway: At the middle station, you can switch to the Moiwa Funicular (a short, steep incline railway) to reach the top. The combined ropeway and funicular system is efficient and allows visitors of all ages to easily access the summit.

Scenic Trails: For those who prefer hiking, there are well-maintained trails that lead to the summit. The hiking trails allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the mountain up close. Depending on the trail, the hike can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

3. Observation Decks

Summit Observation Deck: At the top, there is a large observation deck that offers an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding area, including Sapporo, the Ishikari Plain, and the mountain ranges. The observation deck is equipped with telescopes to help you zoom in on specific landmarks and attractions in the area.

Winter Views: During the winter months, the views from Mount Moiwa become even more magical, with the snow-covered mountains and Sapporo’s winter lights adding a unique charm to the landscape. The mountain is also popular for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby ski resorts during the winter season.

4. Moiwa Shrine

• Located near the base of the mountain is the Moiwa Shrine (藻岩神社, Moiwa Jinja). This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the deity Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, the god of health and healing. It is a peaceful spot surrounded by nature, offering visitors a chance to explore the cultural aspects of the area while enjoying the natural beauty.

5. Outdoor Activities

Hiking: There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels leading up to the summit of Mount Moiwa. The Moiwa Trail is the most popular for hikers, offering an enjoyable nature walk with beautiful flora and fauna along the way.

Winter Sports: During winter, the area around Mount Moiwa becomes a hub for snow sports, including skiing and snowboarding at nearby ski resorts. The area is known for its dry, powdery snow, making it a favorite spot for winter sports enthusiasts.

3. Access to Mount Moiwa

• By Public Transport:
  • Ropeway Station: The Moiwa Ropeway station is accessible from Hiragishi Station (approximately 10 minutes by bus or taxi). From here, visitors can take the ropeway up to the middle station and then transfer to the funicular for the final ascent.
• By Car: You can also drive to the base of the mountain. Parking is available near the ropeway station.

4. Hours and Admission

Ropeway Operating Hours: The Moiwa Ropeway generally operates from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with different hours during the off-season. The operating hours may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check the official website for the most accurate schedule.

Admission Fees:

• Ropeway: The fee for the ropeway is usually around ¥1,800 (round trip) for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
• Funicular: The cost for the funicular ride is around ¥500 each way.

5. Best Time to Visit Mount Moiwa

Winter (December to February): For winter sports enthusiasts, Mount Moiwa becomes an exciting destination in the colder months. The snow-covered views, ski resorts, and winter festivals make it a top winter spot. The night views of the snowy city are also spectacular.

Spring and Summer (March to August): Spring and summer are ideal times to visit for hiking and sightseeing. The clear skies and green landscapes offer perfect conditions for enjoying the natural beauty of Mount Moiwa.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a particularly scenic time to visit as the fall foliage around the mountain peaks, creating a beautiful array of red, orange, and yellow leaves. The weather is mild, making it a great time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

6. Conclusion

Mount Moiwa is a gem in Sapporo, offering a fantastic combination of natural beauty, scenic views, and outdoor activities. Whether you're interested in enjoying panoramic cityscapes, exploring nature, or participating in winter sports, Mount Moiwa offers something for everyone. With easy access via the ropeway and funicular, it’s a perfect spot to escape into nature and enjoy some of the best views that Sapporo has to offer.