![Recommended for a drive or date! 15 Night Scenic Spots in Hokkaido, from classic to hidden gems|Domingo](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F425294b9cf2f50b49e99b7828eb4c895.jpg)
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Recommended for a drive or date! 15 Night Scenic Spots in Hokkaido, from classic to hidden gems
After enjoying the local cuisine, visiting night view spots is a standard route on a trip in Hokkaido! In this issue, we will introduce 15 of Hokkaido's night view spots that are perfect for driving, dating, and sightseeing, focusing on the "three major night views of Hokkaido" of Sapporo, Hakodate, and Otaru.
1. the million-dollar night view of Mount Hakodate (Hakodate City)
Goryokaku Tower (Hakodate City), a star-shaped view of the earth
3. the " back night view" of Hakodate "Jotai Pasture" (Nanae Town), known only to those in the know
Sapporo TV Tower, a landmark loved by citizens (Sapporo City )
5 . the JR Tower Observation Deck T38 (Sapporo), where you can enjoy the lights of the city all to yourself
6 . nORIA, a rooftop Ferris wheel with a spectacular view (Sapporo )
Asahiyama Kinen Park (Sapporo), a popular place for couples
Moiwa (Mt. Moiwa), a sacred place for lovers (Sapporo )
Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium (Sapporo )
10. special seat to enjoy the night view "Horomitoge Observation Parking Lot" (Sapporo )
Shiomi Park Observatory (Muroran City) 11 . a panoramic view of the factory nightscape
12 . illuminated radio tower at the top of the mountain "Survey Mountain Observatory " (Muroran City)
Shiratori Ohashi Observatory overlooking the largest suspension bridge in eastern Japan (Muroran City)
Tenguyama Observatory, one of the three best night views in Hokkaido (Otaru City)
Wakkanai Park, the northernmost night view spot in Japan (Wakkanai City )
1. " Mount Hakodate," a million-dollar nightscape (Hakodate City )
![函館山](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2Fdd0b406e2fb55102baf62ede520d4536.jpg)
Mount Hakodate is the first nightscape in Hokkaido that comes to mind. Hakodate is one of the three most beautiful nightscapes in Japan and is called the "Million Dollar Nightscape" for its beauty. From summer to autumn, the lights of the Hakodate nightscape can be seen in concert with the lights of squid fishing boats. In winter, visitors can enjoy the luxurious "Hakodate Winter Fireworks" that are shot off in the bay area, along with the night view.
Location: Mount Hakodate, Hakodate City
Ropeway Hours (from April 20, 2023)
April 20 (Thu.) - September 30 (Sat.): First and last departures 10:00 - 22:00
October 1 (Sun.) - April 19 (Fri.), 2024: first and last train departures 10:00 - 21:00
Click here for details and a map of the Mount Hakodate Observation Deck
2 Goryokaku Tower, a star-shaped view of the earth (Hakodate )
![五稜郭](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F7719024a55c1da6d4b09035a29bcac7b.jpg)
From the observation deck of the 107-meter tower towering over Hakodate City, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree night view of the city of Hakodate as well as the entire Goryokaku fortress, designated as a special national historic site. In winter, the moat of Goryokaku is illuminated, and the fantastic sight of the fortress floating in the nightscape is well worth seeing.
Location: 43-9 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
Hours: 9:00-18:00
For details and map information of Goryokaku Tower, click here.
3 Hakodate's "back night view" known to those in the know "Jotai Pasture" (Nanae Town)
![城岱牧場](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2Fdea45a4d40f78d3e6554f31106b120ee.jpg)
If the night view from Mt. Hakodate is called the "front night view," the night view from the opposite side of the mountain is called the "back night view. Even during the daytime, visitors can enjoy the wonderful natural scenery, and the "Jotai Skyline," a winding road that passes through the ranch, is also famous for its autumn foliage.
Location: 564 Kamifujyo, Nanae-cho
Business hours: Indoor viewing space, mid-May to mid-October, 10:00-16:00
Click here for details and map information of "Shirotai Pasture
4 Sapporo TV Tower, a landmark loved by citizens (Sapporo )
![さっぽろテレビ塔](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2Fc3f205f7fa8b491c89aaf8425f80df91.jpg)
Located in Odori Park in the center of Sapporo, this landmark is always crowded with tourists. From the observation floor, you can look down on Odori Park and see as far as the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium in the distance. It is registered as a Japan Nightscape Heritage Site and is a representative night view spot of Sapporo City.
Location: Odori Nishi 1-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Opening hours: 9:00-22:00 *Last admission at 21:50
For details and map information of the Sapporo TV Tower, click here.
5 "JR Tower Observation Deck T38" (Sapporo), with the city lights all to yourself
![JRタワー展望室 T38](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2Fe7451ffb4e16579a76a79bced07b1ff9.jpg)
The observation deck is located on the top floor of JR Tower, a complex directly connected to Sapporo Station. The view from 160 meters above the ground offers a panoramic view from the center of Sapporo to the suburbs. In addition to stores, there is a café space where visitors can relax and enjoy the view of the city as it gradually changes to a nightscape in the evening.
Location: Kita 5-jo Nishi 2-5, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Business hours: 10:00-22:00 (last admission 21:30)
Click here for details and map information of JR Tower Observation Deck T38.
6 "nORIA" (Sapporo), a spectacular view from the rooftop Ferris wheel
![nORIA(ノリア)](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2Fe9653d94638d076b9bceecee789b4928.jpg)
The eye-catching Ferris wheel "nORIA" is located on the rooftop of Norbesa, a commercial complex in the center of Sapporo. The Ferris wheel, with a diameter of 45.5 meters, takes about 10 minutes to complete a full revolution, reaching a height of 78 meters above the ground. The 32 gondolas, each with a capacity of 4 people, are equipped with heated seats, making them comfortable even in winter. The Ferris wheel is a popular spot for tourists who come to catch a glimpse of the night view of Sapporo below.
Location: 1-1, Minami 3-jo Nishi 5-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
■Opening hours:
Sunday - Thursday and holidays 11:00 - 23:00
Friday, Saturday, and the day before national holidays: 11:00 - 1:00
Click here for details and map information of Norbesa.
7 "Asahiyama Kinen Park" (Sapporo), immensely popular among couples
![旭山記念公園](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F5dd29e61e8954740dc83bf75fa0d1970.jpg)
The daytime view from the 137.5-meter-high observatory is worth seeing. At night, the fountain is illuminated, and the night view over the romantic atmosphere is a popular spot for couples.
Location: 4 Kaigawa, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Parking: Open 6:00-22:00; Parking Lot 2 is closed in winter
Click here for details and map information of Asahiyama Memorial Park.
8 "Mt. Moiwa," a sacred place for lovers (Sapporo )
![藻岩山](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F425294b9cf2f50b49e99b7828eb4c895.jpg)
Moiwa, which has been selected as one of the three most beautiful nightscapes in Japan. Moiwa is a popular sightseeing spot, with a ropeway in operation and restaurants and souvenir stores at the top of the mountain. The observatory also has items to enliven lovers such as the "Bell of Happiness" and the "Padlock of Love," making it a popular spot as a "sacred place for lovers.
Location: 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Opening hours: Mt. Moiwa ropeway (from the station at the foot of the mountain to the station in the middle of the mountain)
Summer (April-November) 10:30-22:00
Winter (December - March): 11:00 - 22:00
Click here for details and map information of the Sapporo Moiwa Ropeway.
9 A great view "Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium" (Sapporo )
![大倉山ジャンプ競技場](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F7b19bee3eac3dea6e3b172dcfa0c4c40.jpg)
Okurayama, known as a jump stadium, is also a popular night view spot. During the summer when the lifts are open at night, visitors can enjoy a powerful night view from the start of the jump platform. There are also cafes, restaurants, and the Sapporo Olympic Museum at the foot of the ski jump, making it a great sightseeing spot in addition to the night view.
Location: 1274 Miyanomori, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
■Opening hours:
Summer hours (April 29-October 31) 8:30-18:00
Extended night hours (July 1-September 30) 18:00-21:00
Winter hours (November 1 - April 28) 9:00 - 17:00
For more information about the Okurayama Observation Deck and map information, click here.
10 "Horomitoge Observation Parking Lot" where you can enjoy the night view from a special seat (Sapporo )
![幌見峠](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F88505d38eb44c38a04d02952d74c12ff.jpg)
Horomitoge is famous for its lavender blossoms, and there is a paid parking lot where you can enjoy the night view of Sapporo City below from inside your car. It is recommended as a stopover spot for a night drive, as you can relax and enjoy the night view from the comfort of your car. During the lavender season, you can enjoy both the night view and the luxury of the night view.
Location: 471-110 Bankei, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Hours of operation: April 1-November 30
Lunch time: 3:00 - 17:00 (500 yen)
Night time: 17:00 - 3:00 (800 yen)
Click here for more information about "Horomi Toge" and map information.
10 Shiomi Park Observatory (Muroran City) for a panoramic night view of factories
![潮見公園](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F89ad5976e80e903b1f54b7758ce08407.jpg)
Muroran City is one of the leading industrial cities in Hokkaido, known as the "City of Iron" and the "City of Manufacturing," but it is also nationally famous as a spot for night views of factories. The Shiomi Park Observatory offers a panoramic night view of the city's factories. Muroran City has many viewpoints for night views of factories, and the more you stroll around the city, the more you will be able to enjoy a rich variety of factory night views.
Location: 5-2 Higashimachi, Muroran City
Hours: 24 hours, free parking available
Click here for details and map information of Shiomi Park Observatory
10 The radio tower at the top of the mountain lights up "Survey Mountain Observatory" (Muroran City )
![測量山](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2Facc07efab7861e8dee786f2ef53d16ed.jpg)
From the Surveying Mountain Observatory, visitors can enjoy a panoramic night view of Muroran Port, the Shirotori Bridge, and factories. Also, a radio tower stands at the top of Mt. Surveying, and the tower itself is illuminated by donations from citizens and companies. Although Surveying Mountain is part of the city's nightscape, it may be fun to look for it from another vantage point.
Location: 1 Shimizu-cho, Muroran City
Hours: 24 hours, free parking available
Click here for details and map information on the Surveying Mountain Observation Deck.
10 "Shiratori Ohashi Observatory" overlooking the largest suspension bridge in East Japan (Muroran City)
![白鳥大橋](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F04ce63f48ca7ee75d67e69bf8f4a4409.jpg)
This is a spot where you can see Muroran City's landmark "Shiratori Ohashi Bridge," the largest suspension bridge in eastern Japan with a total length of 1,380 meters, at great length. The beautiful illumination and dynamic appearance seen up close is registered as a Japan Night View Heritage Site. It is recommended to join a night cruise tour to experience the power from various angles from the sea.
Location: 3 Shukutsu-cho, Muroran City
Hours of operation: 24 hours Free parking available
For details and map information on the Shiratori Bridge, click here.
10 "Tenguyama Observatory" (Otaru City), one of the three best night views in Hokkaido
![天狗山](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F6f54dc8a4ae05e415eb32f2a5897aaf0.jpg)
The night view from Mt. Tengu overlooking Otaru City is one of the three most famous night views in Hokkaido, along with Hakodate and Sapporo. A ropeway operates to the observatory, but you can also drive to the top of the mountain. There are four observation platforms from which you can view the entire Otaru area, as well as Otaru Port, Ishikari Bay, and other night views unique to Otaru, which is surrounded by mountains and the sea. Also in the same Otaru area, "Kenashi-Toge" is another popular night view spot.
Location: 2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru City
Operating hours: Ropeway operation period: April 15 (Sat) - November 5 (Sun), 2023
9:00 - 21:00 *Last service to the top of the mountain is at 20:48
Click here for details and map information of the Otaru Tengu Ropeway.
10 Japan's northernmost night view spot "Wakkanai Park" (Wakkanai City)
![稚内公園](https://p1-634a4370.imageflux.jp/w=768,f=webp:auto,q=78/https%3A%2F%2Fdomingo.ne.jp%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F11%2F99774eb93c2f3f52de19829d6709c8e8.jpg)
Wakkanai Park is located on a hill overlooking Wakkanai City and is registered as "Japan Nightscape Heritage" as the northernmost nightscape spot in Japan. There is an observation tower "Kaikai Centennial Memorial Tower" in the park, which offers a panoramic view from an even higher elevation. The lights of the ships coming in and out of Wakkanai Port can be seen as well as the lights of the city, providing an emotional and tasteful night view.
Location: 1-chome, Chuo, Wakkanai City
Hours of operation: 24 hours, free parking available
Click here for details and map information of Wakkanai Park.
All information is subject to change. Please check the official website for details.