For those looking to enjoy nature right in Sapporo, why not find some peace at a special place, the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden? The location is incredibly convenient, just a 10-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, as well as the Sapporo and Odori subway stations. It's located right next to the Hokkaido Government Office.

Within its 13.3-hectare grounds, about 4,000 species of plants, mainly native to Hokkaido, are cultivated. It's a bit surreal to find such a lush, quiet place in the middle of a city lined with buildings, isn't it?

After entering through the main gate, be sure to pick up a leaflet. Let's take a stroll through the spacious garden while looking at the flower calendar and map. By the way, at the time of our visit (May 26, 2022), the lilac avenue was just about to reach its peak bloom.

The dove tree, named for its two bracts that look like white handkerchiefs, was also in full bloom. You can also see azaleas in various places, such as the alpine plant garden, blooming vibrantly in many different colors.

Seeing wisteria and azaleas at the same time might be a rare sight. You can capture a lovely shot of them together.

Various buildings are scattered throughout the garden. One of them is the Miyabe Kingo Memorial Building, which displays the belongings of Dr. Kingo Miyabe, the founder and first director of the botanic garden. In front of the building, you'll also find Sapporo's oldest lilac tree.

In the central part of the garden, there are several historic buildings. Among them, the one to check out is Hokkaido's oldest museum, identifiable by its green, triangular roof.

Inside the museum, you can see the world's only taxidermy specimen of the Ezo wolf and Taro, the Sakhalin Husky from the Antarctic expedition. As you view these exhibits and the many surrounding important cultural properties, you'll begin to realize that the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden is no ordinary place.

This botanic garden opened in 1886 (Meiji 19). It was planned and designed by Dr. Kingo Miyabe after the renowned Dr. Clark advised that a botanic garden was necessary for botanical education. It is said to be the second oldest botanical garden in Japan.

After learning about its history, why not relax and enjoy the various wild birds and cute Ezo squirrels you can meet in the garden? The Hokkaido University Botanic Garden is full of highlights, and you're sure to find your favorite flowers and a cozy spot to relax.

Location: Kita 3-jo Nishi 8-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Contact: 011-221-0066
Official Website: https://www.hokudai.ac.jp/fsc/bg/