Visit Sapporo’s Scenic spots: Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill and Hill of the Buddha

• Enjoy a private tour with an English-speaking guide.


• Visit the Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, a must-see spot, and the Hill of the Buddha, a new landmark.


• Take impressive photos of the statue of Dr. Clarke , the giant Reclining Buddha, and more from your Hokkaido trip!


• Calm your mind by experiencing Shakyo (Buddhist sutra copying).

　This tour takes you to some of the most scenic and cultural spots in Sapporo, Hokkaido. You will travel by private taxi with an English-speaking guide who will share the history and culture of the area. The first stop is Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Hill Observatory, where you can admire a panoramic view of Sapporo city and the Ishikari Plain. The observatory was originally a sheep farm and still retains its rural charm with green fields dotted with white sheep, creating a contrast with the cityscape of Sapporo in the background. It’s one of the most famous photo spots in Sapporo because of the statue of Dr. Clark, as a famous educator who contributed to the development of Hokkaido.

　Next, you will head to Hill of the Buddha, a large Buddha hall built on the outskirts of Sapporo. Hill of the Buddha is a new attraction in Sapporo with artistic appeal. From the outside, only the head of the statue of the Buddha peeks out from the artificial hill, hence it is also called “Large Buddha’s Head”. The hill is a space for worship, and on your way to Hill of the Buddha, your imagination is piqued by what you cannot see, such as a water garden and a tunnel that amplifies the sound of your footsteps. Finally, you reach a roofless hall where the Buddha looms over you with a glimpse of sky above. This ethereal sight is one you’ll remember forever.

　The hills surrounding the Hill of the Buddha turn purple with lavender, and they bloom from mid to late July. The magnificent landscape features not only the Hill of the Buddha. You can also see 33 Moai statues and a replica of Stonehenge, the World Heritage Site in England.

　After enjoying the tranquility of Buddha Hill, you have a chance to experience the austere side of Buddhism by copying sutras. Shakyo, or tracing Buddhist scriptures, is a practice that is said to calm the mind and bring blessings. Anyone can do it easily by following the faint outlines of the pre-written texts. Why not give it a try and feel the peace that comes from it?