Guida
The Hokkaido University Botanical Garden is an academic institution located in central Sapporo that offers a deep dive into the nature and history of Hokkaido. Established in 1886 during the era of the Sapporo Agricultural College, it was created for the purpose of botanical education and research. The garden features diverse environments, including areas that recreate Hokkaido's primeval forests, a museum dedicated to Northern ethnic cultures, and a main museum building designated as an Important Cultural Property. It serves a vital role not just as a green space, but in the conservation of endangered plants and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage.
The history of this garden dates back to the proposal of W.S. Clark, the first vice-principal of the Sapporo Agricultural College. It was opened in 1886 to facilitate education in botany and horticulture. Later, it was planned by the botanist Kingo Miyabe, becoming one of the oldest modern botanical gardens in Japan. The garden preserves many exhibits and materials regarding the development of Hokkaido and the cultures of Northern peoples, such as the Ainu, W нихta, and Nivkh. The museum building itself carries the history of the former Sapporo Museum's collections.
The garden is divided into the 'Botanical Garden Section' for plant displays and the 'Museum Section' for natural history and culture. In the botanical section, you can see Hokkaido-specific plants like Aleutian mountain ash and Ezo Yama Sakura, as well as a Canadian Rock Garden and a rose garden. The museum section houses the Main Museum Building (an Important Cultural Property), featuring specimens of Hokkaido's wildlife and pottery from the Jomon to the Saporu periods. You can also see the specimen of Taro, the famous sled dog, providing a multi-faceted look at Hokkaido's history.
The garden offers different botanical beauty throughout the seasons. In spring, you can enjoy Lilacs and, around late May, plants like the Rebun Atsumorisou. From summer to autumn, visitors typically enjoy strolling through the vast lawns and the primeval forest areas. The garden is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Visiting during daylight hours allows you to fully appreciate the intricate details of the plants and museum exhibits.
Visitors can observe various plants and learn about their uses in the lives of Northern ethnic groups. The 'Northern Ethnic Materials Museum' offers insights into Ainu culture and the work of Dr. John Batchelor. This provides an academic experience beyond simple nature observation, connecting the land of Hokkaido with the people who lived there. Please note that access to the glass greenhouse is currently suspended due to aging, though the greenhouse hall's rest area remains available.
Located within the Hokkaido University campus, the garden is very close to central Sapporo. It is within walking distance from major transport hubs like Sapporo Station, Odori Subway Station, Nishi-11-chome Station, and Nishi-8-chome Station (Streetcar), making it an easy stop during a Sapporo sightseeing tour.
As the garden covers a large area, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please prepare clothing suitable for seasonal temperature changes. Payment for admission requires cash. Groups must contact the facility by phone at least two weeks in advance. As an academic institution, visitors are asked to respect the environment and exhibits. Some English guidance and information are available.