Guide
Yurigaoka Park is a comprehensive park covering 25.4 hectares in Kita Ward, Sapporo. Since its opening in 1983, it has been beloved as one of Sapporo's representative flower parks. The park's symbol is the 'World Lily Plaza,' where approximately 100 varieties of lilies are planted. Through its meticulously maintained facilities and seasonal plant displays, the park offers a way to experience the beauty of flora up close.
The park has a significant history, originally established as part of a project to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Showa's reign. In 1986, it served as the venue for the '86 Sapporo Flower and Greenery Expo, which led to the development of its current facilities, including the greenhouses, international gardens, and the Lily Train. Today, it serves as a vital botanical garden for urban greening, providing a space where both local residents and tourists can connect with nature.
The park is divided into several themed areas. The central 'World Lily Plaza' showcases a magnificent variety of lilies depending on the season. Other notable features include the 'Rock Garden,' which displays alpine plants that are difficult to cultivate in mainland Japan, a greenhouse for seasonal botanical specimens, and the Lily Train that loops through the grounds. These facilities provide a rare opportunity to observe the ecology and diverse forms of various plant species.
The primary flora of the park changes with the seasons. The peak season begins in mid-June when white lilies start to bloom, leading into a spectacular display in mid-July when approximately 15,000 lily bulbs are in bloom. From May to November, you can enjoy the vibrant colors of mountain grasses and alpine plants in the Rock Garden. Please note that most facilities, such as the greenhouse and Lily Train, begin their seasonal operations around late April; it is highly recommended to check the operational status before your visit.
Beyond simple strolls, the park offers ways to deepen your botanical knowledge. Activities such as volunteer-led walking tours (held every Saturday) and various plant exhibitions or workshops are occasionally hosted. The park also serves as a recreational hub, featuring playground areas, lawn spaces, and facilities for park golf and gateball, allowing visitors to enjoy active leisure amidst nature.
The area surrounding the park consists of residential and commercial districts in Sapporo's Kita Ward. Access by car is convenient via the nearby National Route 231 (Ishikari Highway). For those using public transportation, the park is accessible via local bus services. The surrounding road network provides easy connections to central Sapporo.
As the park covers a vast area and temperatures can fluctuate significantly depending on the season, please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. While parking lots (P1, P2, and P3) are free, their availability varies; P1, P2, and P3 are specifically open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer season (April 29 to October 31). On weekends and holidays, parking can become crowded, so please consider using temporary parking areas if available. Additionally, please note that the greenhouse and garden shop are typically closed on Mondays.