If you live in Sapporo and feel like you haven't been getting enough exercise lately, or you feel like getting in touch with nature, then I highly recommend climbing Mt. Maruyama. When you hear the word mountain climbing, you might imagine it's tough, but if it's not the snowy season, you can easily climb it in sneakers. Of course, it's also recommended for people who don't live in Sapporo. Instead of wasting your day off lazing around, why not work up a good sweat and refresh yourself! Maruyama has an elevation of 225.4m. There are two routes to climb, the "88 Temples Course" and the "Zoo Course", and although it depends on the individual, both can be climbed in about 30 to 40 minutes. First, head towards Maruyama Zoo from Maruyama Koen Station on the Tozai Subway Line. There, you will see the following sign near the entrance to Maruyama Primeval Forest. As the sign says "Nature Trails Around Sapporo," climbing Mt. Maruyama is not particularly difficult, so it is considered a "nature trail" rather than a "mountain trail." The "88 Temples Course" (about 1km) starts to the left from Daishido Hall, located just behind this sign, and the "Dobutsuen Course" (about 0.7km) starts to the right, with its entrance about 1km further away. It's an easy climb with no steep inclines, and some locals climb it almost every day. However, it is still important not to let your guard down. Make sure to stay hydrated and take into consideration your own physical condition before proceeding. Also, in winter, we recommend wearing sturdy snowshoes. If you do so, you will surely be able to enjoy the beauty and abundance of nature that is unique to that season. You might even come across cute little animals such as Hokkaido squirrels and chipmunks, or wild birds with their unique cries. Once you've had your fill of forest bathing and started to sweat, the summit will finally come into view. The exhilarating feeling of looking down on downtown Sapporo is a privilege that only those who make it to the top can experience. Enjoy it to your heart's content and blow away the fatigue and stress of everyday life!