The Sosei River flows north to south through the center of Sapporo. Soseigawa Park was created along this river. This beautifully maintained park is actually a hidden gem perfect for a leisurely stroll. Right now, the lilacs and lilies of the valley are in full bloom!

Soseigawa Park was established on both banks of the Sosei River, stretching from Kita 1-jo near the TV Tower to Minami 4-jo. The park extends for about 820 meters from north to south. Although it's right next to a busy road, when you walk through Soseigawa Park, you'll strangely forget that you're in the heart of the city.

The well-maintained paths make it a perfect course for a walk, and perhaps the reason you forget the city's hustle and bustle is that the flowers and plants cultivated there soothe and delight those who walk by.

In particular, there are 200 lilac trees of 32 different varieties planted here. With everything from early to late-blooming types, you can enjoy the colorful lilacs and their unique fragrance over a long period. There are also 130 Japanese tree lilacs, known as Hashidoi, which are best viewed in late June.

Soseigawa Park also has flowerbeds where various plants are grown, but the most prominent are the lilies of the valley, which can be found in as many as 35 flowerbeds.

The variety is the German lily of the valley, and the sight of its small, white, bell-shaped flowers clustered together, swaying in the wind, is incredibly lovely. The best time to see the lilies of the valley is in June, so it's great that you can enjoy them along with the lilacs.

By the way, did you know that the lilac is Sapporo's official tree and the lily of the valley is its official flower? They were chosen by a vote of Sapporo citizens in 1960.

It's amazing to realize that you can see two of Sapporo's representative plants at once right in the city center, which makes you appreciate the charm of Soseigawa Park all over again.

We've also put together a video showing a walk through Soseigawa Park while viewing the lilacs and lilies of the valley. If you're interested, please take a look!



If you stop by during a shopping trip, you might find yourself having an unexpectedly wonderful time.