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Feel Like You've Time-Traveled to the Meiji Era! How to Enjoy Hoheikan, the Western-Style Mansion in Nakajima Park
Nakajima Park is just a short walk from Susukino. In one corner of the park stands the "Hoheikan." Hoheikan is Japan's only remaining wooden Western-style hotel. Let us introduce you to the many facets of Hoheikan that even many Sapporo locals might not know about.
Those unfamiliar with it might be surprised to suddenly encounter such a magnificent Western-style mansion while strolling through the park. It is a symmetrical, two-story wooden building with a basement, designed in an American architectural style. The roof features eight chimneys, and the gable is adorned with a five-pointed star.
The brilliant white exterior walls are accented with an ultramarine blue trim. While the sophisticated atmosphere of the building itself is awe-inspiring, anyone can actually tour the interior. Pay the admission fee and step inside, and you'll find a world that feels like a trip back in time.
It's a wonderful space with a blend of Japanese and Western styles, looking as if it came straight out of a painting of the modern Meiji and Taisho eras. Furthermore, beauty resides in the details. For example, while you're captivated by the gorgeous chandeliers, be sure to look up at the ceiling medallions from which they hang.
This is a traditional technique called "kote-e," where plaster is applied to create a three-dimensional relief. Each room has a different design. For instance, the one in the next photo features a phoenix motif. The more you look, the more you'll sigh in admiration at its intricate craftsmanship.
By now, you're probably wondering, "When and for what purpose was such a luxurious building as Hoheikan built?" Hoheikan was constructed in the 13th year of the Meiji era (1880).
It was built as a Western-style hotel directly managed by the Hokkaido Development Commission and is a prestigious building visited by the Imperial Family over three eras: Meiji, Taisho, and Showa. The next photo shows a recreation of the room where Emperor Meiji stayed.
Hoheikan was originally built near the current TV Tower but was relocated to its present location in Nakajima Park in 1958. Over time, its purpose has changed in various ways; it has been used as a community center, lodging for the occupation forces, and a wedding venue. In 1964, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
You can learn more about the history of Hoheikan through projectors and exhibits inside the building. Hoheikan also offers rooms for rent.
If you're planning an event like a wedding ceremony, lecture, or concert, why not consider it as an option? It seems some people also use it for more casual gatherings like meetings or tea parties.
In any case, we highly recommend stepping inside at least once. Just being in this classical, extraordinary space is sure to become a special and memorable experience.
This is a must-visit for tourists in Sapporo, as well as for those who live in the city!
※If you'd like to get a better feel for Hoheikan's atmosphere, please watch this video!
＜Hoheikan＞
Address: Nakajima Park 1-20, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Phone: 011-211-1951
Official Website: https://www.s-hoheikan.jp
Those unfamiliar with it might be surprised to suddenly encounter such a magnificent Western-style mansion while strolling through the park. It is a symmetrical, two-story wooden building with a basement, designed in an American architectural style. The roof features eight chimneys, and the gable is adorned with a five-pointed star.
The brilliant white exterior walls are accented with an ultramarine blue trim. While the sophisticated atmosphere of the building itself is awe-inspiring, anyone can actually tour the interior. Pay the admission fee and step inside, and you'll find a world that feels like a trip back in time.
It's a wonderful space with a blend of Japanese and Western styles, looking as if it came straight out of a painting of the modern Meiji and Taisho eras. Furthermore, beauty resides in the details. For example, while you're captivated by the gorgeous chandeliers, be sure to look up at the ceiling medallions from which they hang.
This is a traditional technique called "kote-e," where plaster is applied to create a three-dimensional relief. Each room has a different design. For instance, the one in the next photo features a phoenix motif. The more you look, the more you'll sigh in admiration at its intricate craftsmanship.
By now, you're probably wondering, "When and for what purpose was such a luxurious building as Hoheikan built?" Hoheikan was constructed in the 13th year of the Meiji era (1880).
It was built as a Western-style hotel directly managed by the Hokkaido Development Commission and is a prestigious building visited by the Imperial Family over three eras: Meiji, Taisho, and Showa. The next photo shows a recreation of the room where Emperor Meiji stayed.
Hoheikan was originally built near the current TV Tower but was relocated to its present location in Nakajima Park in 1958. Over time, its purpose has changed in various ways; it has been used as a community center, lodging for the occupation forces, and a wedding venue. In 1964, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
You can learn more about the history of Hoheikan through projectors and exhibits inside the building. Hoheikan also offers rooms for rent.
If you're planning an event like a wedding ceremony, lecture, or concert, why not consider it as an option? It seems some people also use it for more casual gatherings like meetings or tea parties.
In any case, we highly recommend stepping inside at least once. Just being in this classical, extraordinary space is sure to become a special and memorable experience.
This is a must-visit for tourists in Sapporo, as well as for those who live in the city!
※If you'd like to get a better feel for Hoheikan's atmosphere, please watch this video!
＜Hoheikan＞
Address: Nakajima Park 1-20, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Phone: 011-211-1951
Official Website: https://www.s-hoheikan.jp
Writer Profile
Hokkaido Tourism Camera Writer
Team Buchineko
We are 'Team Buchineko,' with many connections to tourist spots and facilities in Hokkaido. Even things that seem ordinary to us living in Hokkaido are wonderful resources. We aim to share the charm of this amazing prefecture.
