Sapporo TV Tower | Sapporo

The Sapporo TV Tower (さっぽろテレビ塔, Sapporo Terebi-tō) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Standing at 147.2 meters (483 feet) tall, the tower offers visitors some of the best panoramic views of Sapporo city, Odori Park, and even distant mountain ranges, such as Mount Yotei, often called the "Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido." It is a must-visit destination for tourists, especially those wanting to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and beyond.

1. History and Background

Construction: The Sapporo TV Tower was completed in 1957, making it one of the oldest broadcasting towers in Japan. The tower was originally built as a television and radio transmission tower, allowing Sapporo to broadcast television signals to the city and surrounding areas.

Design: The tower's design is influenced by the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, but it's notably smaller and made of steel, giving it a more modern and industrial look. Its striking red and white colors have made it one of the most recognizable structures in the city.

2. Tower Features

Observation Decks

• The observation deck is located at a height of 90.38 meters (297 feet) and provides a fantastic 360-degree view of Sapporo and the surrounding areas.
  • From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy an unobstructed view of Odori Park directly below, Susukino to the south, the Sapporo Dome, and even Mount Moiwa to the west. On clear days, you can also see Mount Yotei, which looks similar to Mount Fuji and is a prominent feature of the Hokkaido landscape.
• At night, the view is equally spectacular, as the lights of Sapporo's cityscape come alive. The illuminated tower adds a beautiful element to the evening scene.

The Glass-Floored Observation Deck

• One of the unique features of the Sapporo TV Tower is its glass-floored observation deck, which gives visitors the sensation of looking down directly at the park below. This thrilling experience is popular among those looking for a more adventurous way to take in the view.

Panoramic View

• Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the city, especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, when the nearby Odori Park is filled with massive snow and ice sculptures. It is also a great spot to watch the changing seasons in Sapporo, from the cherry blossoms of spring to the colorful autumn leaves.

3. Attractions Inside the Tower

In addition to the observation decks, the Sapporo TV Tower offers various attractions inside and around the tower:

Gift Shop: There’s a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase Sapporo-themed gifts, such as Hokkaido milk-based products, traditional crafts, and local snacks.

Restaurants and Cafés: The tower features a restaurant with a dining area that allows visitors to enjoy food while taking in the views of the city. The café offers snacks, drinks, and light meals with a beautiful view.

Special Events: The Sapporo TV Tower often hosts special events, such as seasonal illuminations, festivals, and performances. During the Sapporo Snow Festival, the tower is beautifully illuminated, adding to the festive atmosphere of the city.

4. Location and Access

Address: 1-1 Odori Nishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

Getting There: The Sapporo TV Tower is centrally located in Odori Park, making it easily accessible from Odori Station on the Sapporo Subway. The tower is a 5-minute walk from the station, making it a convenient stop for tourists.

• By Subway: From Odori Station (on the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, or Tohoku Line), take a short walk to the tower.
• By Bus: Several city buses stop at Odori Park, and the tower is within walking distance from those bus stops.
• By Foot: The tower is located in the heart of Sapporo’s entertainment district, making it easy to combine with visits to nearby attractions like Sapporo Clock Tower and Susukino.

5. Ticket Information

• Entry Fee:
  • Adults (16 and older): Around 720 yen for entry to the observation deck.
  • Children (7–15 years old): Around 500 yen.
  • Children under 7 years old: Free entry.
• Opening Hours:
  • The tower is typically open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with the last entry at 9:30 PM. However, hours may vary based on the season or special events, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website before your visit.

6. Best Time to Visit

• Daytime: During the day, the views from the observation deck are clear, and you can get an excellent sense of the city layout, the surrounding mountains, and the overall landscape.
• Nighttime: The night view is equally stunning, with the lights of the city offering a different perspective of Sapporo. The illuminated Sapporo TV Tower itself also becomes a beautiful sight against the night sky.
• Seasonal Events: The Sapporo Snow Festival in February and the summer festivals are excellent times to visit, as you can see the tower lit up and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

7. Nearby Attractions

• Odori Park: The Sapporo TV Tower is located at the eastern end of Odori Park, a large park that hosts various seasonal events, festivals, and provides a beautiful space for outdoor activities.
• Sapporo Clock Tower: Located just a few blocks west, the Sapporo Clock Tower is another historical landmark in the city, dating back to 1878.
• Susukino: A short walk to the south, Susukino is Sapporo’s entertainment district, full of restaurants, bars, and shops.
• Sapporo Factory: Located nearby, this shopping and entertainment complex is housed in a former brewery, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment in a unique setting.

8. Conclusion

The Sapporo TV Tower is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sapporo. It offers a spectacular view of the city and beyond, making it an excellent spot for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the urban landscape. Whether you're visiting during the day to see the expansive city or at night to enjoy the illuminated view, the Sapporo TV Tower provides a stunning experience and is one of the top attractions in the city.