About a 20-minute drive southwest of Sapporo Station lies Asahiyama Memorial Park. From its observation deck, standing at 137.5 meters above sea level, visitors can take in a sweeping view of downtown Sapporo all the way to Ishikari Bay — on a clear day, the vast Ishikari Plain stretches out before you, making this one of the city’s finest viewpoints.

Built into the natural slope of the hillside, the park’s tiered stone terraces resemble an open-air amphitheater. At the bottom of the terraces is a fountain plaza, where families often stop to let children splash and play in the summer.

Within the forest that blankets much of the park, there are areas planted to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Sapporo’s sister-city partnerships with Portland, USA, and Munich, Germany — named the “Portland Forest” and the “Munich Forest,” respectively. Over the years, these trees have grown tall and full.

The forest trails were designed at eye level for easy birdwatching, making the park a great spot for bird enthusiasts as well.

Near the observation deck, a rest house serves light snacks and soft-serve ice cream — a welcome break partway through your walk.

Near the park’s entrance, you’ll also find the remains of the old Sapporo Pottery Kiln (Sapporo-yaki Kamaato). During the Taisho era (1912–1926), a climbing kiln here produced everyday items such as sake bottles and hot water bottles.

The site has a rich history — from pastureland and a popular hot spring resort in the early 1900s, to a beloved ski area by the mid-20th century. In 1970, as part of Sapporo’s 100th anniversary celebrations, it was transformed into what is now Asahiyama Memorial Park, with a full renewal completed in 2009.
One of the park’s distinctive features is the active involvement of local citizen groups, who regularly organize nature observation activities and other community events here.
 
Hiroko M