japan travel itinerary Moerenuma Park cover

Moerenuma Park: Hokkaido’s Hidden GEM for Every Season- 2024

Moerenuma Park in Hokkaido is one of the most underrated attractions that many foreign visitors overlook. Whether you visit in winter or any other season, this park offers an array of experiences that will leave you with no regrets—and the best part? It’s completely free.

inside moerenuma park in hokkaido
Walking around Moerenuma park

We initially planned to spend just a couple of hours here, as it’s only a short distance from our accommodation, before heading to Tsudome, the third venue of Hokkaido’s famous Snow Festival. However, upon arrival, we were blown away by the sheer beauty and scale of the park. Despite reading positive reviews online, nothing could have prepared us for the breathtaking experience of seeing Moerenuma Park in person.

 

 

Moere Numa Park in Sapporo is a comprehensive park designed by world-renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi as part of the “Circular Green Belt Concept,” which aims to surround the city with parks and green spaces. 

Moerenuma park snow play area
Moerenuma park snow play area

Opened in 2005, the park features geometrically shaped mountains, fountains, and playgrounds, blending nature with art across its vast grounds. Visitors can enjoy seasonal attractions such as cherry blossoms in spring, water play in summer, autumn foliage, and winter activities like cross-country skiing. 

 

 

Notably, the park incorporates environmental conservation efforts, including repurposing a former waste disposal site and utilizing snow-based air conditioning in its indoor glass pyramid.

Entrance fee and Parking Fee

– Free

Opening Hours

-West and South Gate: 7:00 AM- 7:00 PM

-East Gate: 7:00 AM- 10:00 PM

 

For updates about the parks operation hours visit their official website.

Things you can do inside the park

Explore Hidamari - The Glass Pyramid

The Glass Pyramid is the cultural heart of Moerenuma Park. Inside, you’ll find art exhibitions, sports equipment, a cozy restaurant, and Instagram-worthy architecture.

 

Feeling the chill outside, we decided to warm up inside, where we were captivated by the design both inside and out. Inside, you can also learn about the park’s history and its incredible transformation from a former landfill into the beautiful space it is today.

 

hidamari glass pyramid
Hidamari- the glass pyramid

Witness beautiful Moerenuma Park's open air art museum

Art lovers will relish the outdoor installations scattered throughout the park. Think of it as a free, open-air version of the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

moerenuma park tetra mound
moerenuma park tetra mound
moerenuma park music shell
moerenuma park music shell

Play around the Park

The park is packed with playground equipment, from swings and jungle gyms to slide mountains. You can also rent a bike to explore the grounds. In winter, don’t miss out on skiing, sledding at Mt. Moere, or simply playing in the snow.

playing sled at mt moere
Playing sled at Mt Moere

We rented a sled for 300 yen and snow boots for 500 yen, planning to play in the snow at the Tsudome Site, another venue for the Snow Festival. But when we saw Mt. Moere completely uncrowded, we decided to skip Tsudome and stay here instead. It felt like we had the entire park to ourselves!

making a snowman at moere
Making a snowman at Mt Moere

Hanami or Cherry Blossom Viewing

With thousands of cherry trees, Moerenuma Park is a sakura season paradise. It’s the perfect spot for a tranquil Hanami experience.

moerenuma park cherry blossom forest
Moerenuma park cherry blossom forest

How to get to Moerenuma Park?

 

Location: 1-1 Moerenuma Park, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 007-0011

 

From Sapporo Station

1. From Saporo Station, Ride Toho line ( platform 2 ), Local train heading to Sakaemachi 

2. Stop at Kanjo dori Higashi Station

3. Ride a bus going to Moerenuma Koen

Summary

playing sled at moerenuma park
Playing sled at Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a must-visit destination in Hokkaido, offering a blend of art, nature, and seasonal activities that make it enjoyable year-round. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem on your next trip!

 

Don’t Have Hokkaido Itinerary yet? Copy my Itinerary for free. 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top
Travel Journal