Hokkaido Shrine & Otaru Highlights Day Tour from Sapporo

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Hill of The Buddha

   [Admission is not included] The Hill of the Buddha is an awe-inspiring architectural marvel designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. The journey to the statue is a profound experience: after passing through a serene water garden and walking down a dimly lit, curved concrete tunnel, you emerge into a striking circular open-air space where the 13.5-meter-tall Buddha sits, bathed in natural sunlight. Surrounded by vibrant purple lavender in summer or pristine white snow in winter, it is a deeply moving and photogenic destination.

   30 minutes here · Admission not included

2. Located at the entrance of the Makomanai Takino Cemetery—the same grounds housing the Hill of the Buddha—is an unexpected and visually striking sight: an imposing lineup of 33 giant Moai statues. They offer a completely different vibe depending on the season, standing boldly against bright green grass in the summer, and charmingly wearing "hats" of thick, pure white snow during the winter months.

   30 minutes here

3. Hokkaido Jingu

   Nestled within a vast, serene forest of ancient cedar and elm trees in Maruyama Park, the shrine offers a profound sense of peace and a striking contrast to the bustling city of Sapporo just outside its gates. Offering a deep dive into authentic Japanese culture and history, Hokkaido Shrine is the undeniable crown jewel and the most elegant highlight of this tour.

   30 minutes here

4. Maruyama Park

   It is Sapporo's most beloved spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, boasting over 1,500 cherry and plum trees. The park transforms beautifully throughout the year, offering vibrant autumn foliage and a serene, snow-covered wonderland in the winter.

   30 minutes here

5. Shiroi Koibito Park

   A fairytale-like theme park dedicated to Hokkaido's famous white chocolate cookies. It is the perfect place to capture sweet memories and photos.

   30 minutes here

6. [Optional] A vintage, abandoned railway line perfect for photography. You can opt to join your guide here right as free time begins for a dedicated photo session.

   10 minutes here

7. Otaru Sakaimachi Street

   [Optional] Once the bustling center of Hokkaido's trade in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sakaimachi Street has been beautifully preserved and transformed into Otaru’s most romantic walking path. It is also a true paradise for dessert lovers, home to the flagship stores of Hokkaido's top confectionery brands like LeTAO, Kitakaro, and Rokkatei. Enjoying world-class sweets while browsing unique souvenirs makes this historic street the absolute highlight of any Otaru visit.

   90 minutes here

8. Otaru Canal

   [Optional] A picturesque and iconic canal offering scenic views of historic stone warehouses that look beautiful during the day or illuminated at dusk.

   30 minutes here

9. [Optional] As a historic port city, Otaru is nationally renowned for having some of the freshest and most delicious sushi in Japan, famously inspiring the popular manga Shota no Sushi

   60 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Depart from Odori Station

  Pick-Up Point: Odori Station Exit 31 (near by Kanamoto hall). Please check your booking voucher for pickup point details. Starting point: Ōdōri Station, Japan, 060-0042 北海道札幌市Chuo Ward, Ōdōrinishi, ２−２

• Depart from Sapporo Station

  Pick-Up Point: Sapporo Station North Exit Public Toilet. Please check your booking voucher for pickup point details. Starting point: Public Toilet (Sapporo station North Exit), 3-chōme-12-2 Kita 7 Jōnishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0807, Japan

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

ko, en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Mon, Wed, Fri

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

TOURSTORY

Know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• In compliance with Japanese law, vehicles cannot operate for more than 10 hours. The tour guide may adjust the itinerary based on real-time conditions.
• The duration of stay and the order of visits at each spot may change flexibly depending on the season and local conditions (weather, traffic) on the day of the tour.
• As this is a group tour, the bus will depart on time without waiting for latecomers to respect the schedule of other guests. Please be punctual, as no refunds will be given for missed departures.
• Please note: As this is a group tour, there may be guests who speak other languages traveling with you. We appreciate your understanding.
• Many places in Japan still accept cash only, so please make sure to carry enough cash with you.
• In case of sudden road closures during the tour, alternative routes may be used, which could result in delays or skipping some sightseeing spots.
• Please note that partial admission fees apply to specific areas within Shiroi Koibito Park.

Photos