Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium | Sapporo

The Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium (大倉山ジャンプ競技場, Okurayama Janpu Kyōgijō) is a famous ski jumping venue located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. The stadium is best known for its large ski jump hill, which has been a central site for international ski jumping competitions and is also a popular tourist attraction.

1. Overview of Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

• Location: Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium is situated on Okurayama Hill, in the Maruyama area of Sapporo, about a 10-minute drive from Sapporo Station.
• History: The stadium was originally built in 1931, and it has since become one of Japan's premier ski jumping venues. The facility was extensively renovated in the 1970s and 1980s to meet international standards for competitions.
• Notable Events: The stadium is known for hosting ski jumping events during the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, where it was the site of the ski jumping and Nordic combined events. It also regularly hosts World Cup competitions and other international ski jumping tournaments.

2. Key Features of Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

1. Ski Jump Hill

• The ski jump hill at Okurayama is one of the main attractions at the stadium. The hill has a K-point (the point where the jumper is expected to land) of 120 meters, which is typical for World Cup events.
• The hill is an impressive structure with a steep incline and an overall length of approximately 130 meters. The ski jump provides a spectacular view, and visitors can often see the skiers launching into the air with breathtaking precision.
• The venue is used for ski jumping competitions and training for athletes from all over the world. It’s a significant venue in the sport of ski jumping.

2. The Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium Observation Deck

• One of the highlights for visitors is the observation deck, which allows you to see the ski jump from an elevated vantage point. From this deck, you can enjoy a unique view of the entire hill, the surrounding Maruyama Forest, and even Sapporo city.
• The observation deck is particularly popular in the winter months when the stadium is covered in snow, giving a picturesque winter scene. The view from the deck provides a sense of the challenge and the excitement that athletes experience during a jump.
• The deck is also a great spot to watch training or competitions if they are taking place during your visit.

3. Ski Jump Simulator

• For those who are not familiar with ski jumping or simply want to experience the thrill of jumping without leaving the ground, the ski jump simulator is a fun attraction at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium.
• The simulator mimics the sensation of ski jumping, allowing visitors to feel the rush of the wind and the thrill of soaring through the air, making it an interactive experience.

4. Museum of Ski Jumping

• The Ski Jumping Museum located at the stadium is dedicated to the history of ski jumping in Japan and features exhibits on the sport’s evolution, its most famous athletes, and the history of the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium itself.
• The museum contains memorabilia from the 1972 Winter Olympics, as well as displays that explain the physics and techniques of ski jumping. It’s an educational and fascinating experience for visitors interested in the sport or Olympic history.

5. Year-Round Attraction

• Although Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium is primarily associated with winter sports, the stadium remains open and accessible to tourists throughout the year. In the summer and spring months, visitors can enjoy the scenery around the hill, learn about the history of the venue, and participate in various attractions, including walking trails that lead through the Maruyama Park area.

6. Ski Jump Competitions

• During the winter, Okurayama hosts international ski jumping events, such as the World Cup and Japanese National Championships. These competitions draw crowds from around the world, eager to watch top athletes perform high-flying jumps.
• The excitement of the live event combined with the stunning backdrop of snow-covered mountains makes for a truly memorable experience.

3. How to Get to Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

• By Subway: You can take the Sapporo Subway Tozai Line and get off at Maruyama Koen Station. The stadium is about a 10-minute walk from the station.
• By Bus: From Sapporo Station, take a city bus bound for the Okurayama Ski Jump or Maruyama Koen. Buses run regularly, especially during winter.
• By Car: If driving, the stadium is about a 10-minute drive from Sapporo Station. Parking is available at the stadium.

4. Best Time to Visit

• Winter (December to February): Winter is the best time to visit if you're interested in ski jumping events, as it’s the season when World Cup competitions and other skiing events are held. The snow-covered landscape and the active ski jump events make this a thrilling time to visit.
• Spring (March to May): Spring offers milder weather, and while there are no competitions, it’s a good time to visit the observation deck and enjoy the views without the crowds.
• Summer (June to August): Summer allows for a more relaxed experience, where you can enjoy the surrounding park and the museum without the winter chill. The ski jump hill is still a remarkable sight, and the greenery surrounding the stadium adds to its charm.
• Fall (September to November): Fall is an excellent time for visiting as you can enjoy the cooler weather and witness the beautiful autumn colors in the surrounding Maruyama Park.

5. Conclusion

The Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium in Sapporo is a must-visit destination for fans of winter sports, history enthusiasts, and those who simply want to enjoy spectacular views of the city and the surrounding nature. Whether you visit for the ski jumping events, to explore the museum, or simply to take in the scenery from the observation deck, the stadium offers a unique experience that highlights the excitement and skill of the sport. With its history tied to the 1972 Winter Olympics and its ongoing use for world-class competitions, Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium is one of the iconic spots in Sapporo.