1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake
Sapporo, Japan

1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake

Outty Ranking 71 4.9 · 10 traveler reviews8.5 hoursFrom $172
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Outty Ranking

71/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 10 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake worth booking?

1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake is a 8.5-hour experience in Sapporo, Japan, from $172 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 10 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
71 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (10)
Duration
8.5 hours
From
$172 per person

On this fun 1-day tour, you will enjoy the new religious heritage of Sapporo, along with stunning views of its downtown and large central park, with sake tasting to top it off at the end of the day! Visiting the gigantic golden sleeping Buddha at the Butsuganji Temple as well as the Hill of the Buddha, a fusion of modern art and ancient religion, you will see how the people of Sapporo express their spirituality and creativity together. After lunch, a visit to downtown Sapporo, a ride up its iconic TV Tower, and Sake tasting in a small local bar will introduce you to the secular side of this Northern Japanese city.

What you get

    About this experience

    On this fun 1-day tour, you will enjoy the new religious heritage of Sapporo, along with stunning views of its downtown and large central park, with sake tasting to top it off at the end of the day! Visiting the gigantic golden sleeping Buddha at the Butsuganji Temple as well as the Hill of the Buddha, a fusion of modern art and ancient religion, you will see how the people of Sapporo express their spirituality and creativity together. After lunch, a visit to downtown Sapporo, a ride up its iconic TV Tower, and Sake tasting in a small local bar will introduce you to the secular side of this Northern Japanese city.

    What's included

    Included

    • English Speaking Guide
    • Entry fees at all tour locations
    • Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities
    • Sake Tasting

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Accommodation
    • Transport to meet-up point

    What you'll see and do

    1. Upon arrival at The Butsugan-ji(Sleeping/Lying Buddha) you will be visually struck by the 45 meter long Buddha Nirvana statue resting/lying down horizontally in peace, on the roof of the Great Nirvana Temple Hall. This amazing place is now considered to be one of the strongest most spiritually power spots in all of Japan. Many visitors flock here from all over Japan and throughout the world. In addition to the Buddha, visitors can see the beautiful Jodo Pure Land Garden with a very authentic Japanese design. Nearby, there is a pond and a waterfall with pure clean water. There are ancient purely clean garden rocks scattered about the garden. People come to this temple not only for its beautiful ambience but also for its powerful spiritual area.

      120 minutes here

    2. Hill of The Buddha

      This sculpted stone Buddha statue is encircled by a rotunda situated on a gently sloping artificial hill within the land belonging to a cemetery. It is 13.5-metre tall and weighs 1500 tonnes. When approaching it from afar, the lone head of the Buddha peeking from within the rotunda conveys a solemn, serene impression of the Buddha. The entrance to the Buddha has a water garden that visitors normally walk around. After this, you walk through an arched concrete tunnel at the end of which sits the Buddha statue, at the center of an open rotunda allowing sunlight to come in. The circular opening of the rotunda with light streaming in almost gives a “halo” like feel to the Buddha statue. Definitely a magnificent site to behold! A “must visit” anytime throughout the year.

      140 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Sapporo TV Tower

      Next, we will return to central Sapporo and visit The Sapporo T.V. Tower. Built in 1957, it stands 147.2 metres tall. This tower was designed and built by Tachu Naito, a Japanese architect who is also famous for planning the Tokyo Tower. We will head up to the top observation deck where you will enjoy spectacular 360 degree daytime views of the entire city of Sapporo. Your guide will be able to point to various aerial directions from the observation deck and inform the guests as to what specific location that is.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Susukino

      Our tour ends at The Yata Sake Stand Bar. This is a cozy and quaint stand bar. This bar is visited often by both locals and visitors. It is easy to know why. The staff are very friendly and really “know their stuff” when it comes to sake. This is a “must” visit for all those who enjoy sake and want to know more detailed information of the various types of sake.

      130 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Sapporo

    After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exit of Sapporo Station. After a very short walk you will notice the circular white stone art piece. Your guide will be standing in front of this stone structure wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exit of Sapporo Station. After a very short walk you will notice the circular white stone art piece. Your guide will be standing in front of this stone structure wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.)

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake, photo 21 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake, photo 31 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake, photo 41 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake, photo 51 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake, photo 61 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Small groups

    2 mentions

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    10 verified traveler reviews for 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    9
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    servicei · September 2026

    Buddha on the hill with our furry friends in the grounds

    Scott was very close pleasant and provide clear information and help to make our day a special one. We would recommend the tour and Scott’s guidance .

    via Tripadvisor

    V1945ADrachelf · August 2026

    Convenient, educational and enjoyable experience

    Scott was a great guide. Very knowledgeable, friendly, efficient and great company. The Hill of the Buddha was beautiful and the lunch, JR Tower and sake tasting were very enjoyable. Learned a lot and would recommend this tour with Scott.

    via Tripadvisor

    Karoundtheglobe101 · July 2026

    Scott's knowledge really made the tour!

    What a great tour with Scott! He is a wonderfully friendly, knowledgeable guide who took us to various sites including the Hill of the Buddha, a majestic site that you don't want to miss. It was great to hear in detail about its history and design elements, but also generally his insights from his 35 years living in Japan after moving from the US. Would highly recommend to anyone!

    via Tripadvisor

    Jon_N · June 2026

    Private ahowing

    Talk to your guide..! Japan is more then sightseeing and food .. it’s the people that will make your visit wonderful

    via Viator

    539denmarkm · February 2026

    Worth the Booking!

    Scott was awesome and was very knowledgeable about the area. If you ask, he will make the Itinerary extra fun too! Easily got to and from the Statue and into Sapporo proper!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Price range
    $172 to $26,400
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    4
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.), who run 124 experiences we rank across 9 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.8 and 2 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.) runs

    Why this scores 71

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)83
    Review evidence (18% weight)45
    Booking momentum (14% weight)38
    Value for money (12% weight)99
    Listing quality (10% weight)83
    Local standing (8% weight)59
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sapporo.

    How much does 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake cost?

    +

    Prices start at $172 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sapporo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake take?

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    Plan for about 8.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sapporo is not rushed.

    Is 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 10 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Sapporo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake?

    +

    Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sapporo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sapporo and add a light layer if any part of the 8.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sapporo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Sapporo?

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    On Outty we rank every Sapporo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour, Wagashi traditional japanese sweets class, Mondo's most popular No.1!Private experienceThe king of buckwheat noodles making and Japanese food in Sapporo!A plan to enjoy tempura!. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Sapporo?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Sapporo?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake?

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    Included: English Speaking Guide; Entry fees at all tour locations; Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities; and Sake Tasting. Not included: Lunch; Accommodation; and Transport to meet-up point. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake?

    +

    After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exit of Sapporo Station. After a very short walk you will notice the circular white stone art piece. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Sapporo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about 1 Day Tour to Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo and Sake?

    +

    Across 10 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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