Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan, undergoes a remarkable transformation in the autumn months. As the lush greens of summer give way to a mesmerizing palette of warm reds, oranges, and gold, the city becomes a photographer’s dream. Sapporo’s fall wonderland is a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty in Sapporo. It creates a captivating canvas for anyone passionate about photography.
Do you know there is place in Hokkaido where you enjoy power snow in autumn fall season, yes include Asahidake to visit Daisetsuzan National Park also in your Hokkaido Autumn itinerary.
In this guide, I’ll share the top five places in Sapporo where you can capture the essence of autumn through your lens. We’ll explore each location’s unique offerings, from Nakajima Park to Hokkaido University, Jozankei Onsen, Mount Moiwa, Maruyama Park, and Makomanai Park. So, grab your camera, and let’s start on a journey through Sapporo’s Fall Wonderland or Autumn in Sapporo. You can also check Yamagata, it’s also one the my favourite in all four seasons.
List of 6 places to see Autumn in Sapporo’s Fall Wonderland
- Nakajima Park: A Colorful Oasis
- Hokkaido University: An Academic Wonderland
- Jozankei Onsen: Soak in Autumn Splendour
- Mount Moiwa: Panoramic Views of Autumn
- Maruyama Park: A Cultural Autumn Haven
- Makomanai Park: A Hidden Gem of Autumn
Nakajima Park: A Colorful Oasis
Nakajima Park, situated in the heart of Sapporo, is our first stop in this photographic adventure. During the autumn season, this urban park undergoes a stunning transformation, revealing a captivating blend of vibrant colors and serene landscapes.
As you enter Nakajima Park, you’ll be greeted by a delightful array of warm reds, oranges, and yellows. The park boasts an impressive collection of trees, each contributing its unique shade to the autumn spectacle. You’ll find maple trees, ginkgo trees, and cherry blossoms, each painting the park with their distinctive hues.
For photographers, Nakajima Park is a paradise waiting to be explored. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the soft, flattering light perfect for capturing the vibrant leaves against the backdrop of the park’s serene waters. Take the chance to take close-up shots of individual leaves, showcasing their intricate details and textures.
Getting to Nakajima Park is a breeze, with the nearby Nakajima Koen Station (map) on the Namboku Line providing convenient access. My own experiences within Nakajima Park during autumn have been nothing short of gorgeous, from the rustling leaves underfoot to the crisp, cool air that invites you to immerse yourself in the season’s beauty. Wooden bridges and reflective ponds offer picture-perfect opportunities to capture the essence of autumn in Sapporo. It can also be covered in your Japan rail pass, JR Pass or JR Hokkaido rail pass.
Hokkaido University: An Academic Wonderland
Our next stop is Hokkaido University. It may be known for its academic excellence, but during the fall season, it transforms into a dreamy wonderland that’s a must-visit for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The Golden Gateway: Gingko Avenue
At the heart of Hokkaido University lies the mesmerising Gingko Avenue, a tree-lined pathway that comes alive with brilliant shades of gold and yellow during the autumn months. This iconic spot is a photographer’s dream, where nature’s beauty meets academic excellence.
To capture the golden wonder of Gingko Avenue, Visit during the peak of autumn when the leaves are at their brightest. Try to use a wide-angle lens to encompass the full grandeur of the avenue. Experiment with different perspectives, like shooting upwards through the canopy of leaves.
Getting There
Hokkaido University is easily accessible from various parts of Sapporo. You can take a subway to Kita 12-jo Station, which is just a short walk from the campus. Check Gingo Avenue GPS coordinate/google map here.
Walking beneath the vibrant canopy of Gingko Avenue is an experience like no other. The leaves create a magical tunnel, and as the sunlight filters through, it bathes everything in a warm, golden glow. It’s a place where you can’t help but feel inspired by the beauty of nature and the human quest for knowledge.
Jozankei Onsen: Soak in Autumn Splendor
Jozankei Onsen is a tranquil haven where natural beauty and relaxation converge harmoniously. Nestled among the hills, this serene retreat provides an idyllic backdrop for your autumn photography adventures.
The charm of Jozankei Onsen lies in the soothing hot springs, surrounded by a tapestry of colorful autumn leaves. For photographers, it’s a place where reflections of the vibrant foliage dance on the surface of the onsen waters. The soft, warm lighting during early mornings and late evenings creates the perfect ambiance for capturing stunning shots. Be sure to experiment with different angles to showcase the seamless blend of the onsen with its natural surroundings.
Reaching Jozankei Onsen is straightforward, as you can take a bus from Sapporo. It allows you to enjoy glimpses of Hokkaido’s fall beauty during your journey. During my own visits, the sight of the vibrant leaves contrasting with the tranquil hot springs has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. Jozankei Onsen invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while unwinding in the warm waters, all while capturing unforgettable moments with your camera.
Mount Moiwa: Panoramic Views of Autumn
Mount Moiwa, our next destination, promises a breathtaking perspective of Sapporo’s autumn landscapes. It’s the kind of place where you can capture the city’s skyline, merging gracefully with the vibrant fall foliage.
Upon ascending the mountain, you’ll gradually notice the transition from urban cityscapes to serene forests dressed in the warm hues of autumn. The funicular railway ride itself is a journey worth remembering, offering magnificent views along the way.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by sweeping panoramas of Sapporo, set against a backdrop of vibrant fall colors. It’s a moment when you can truly appreciate the enchantment of autumn in Hokkaido.
Photography atop Mount Moiwa is about capturing the striking contrast between the city’s sparkling lights and its natural beauty. It’s a moment to cherish and, of course, immortalized with your camera.
For the most striking shots, consider visiting during the late afternoon. This allows you to witness the city’s transformation as the sun gracefully dips below the horizon, casting its warm glow over the landscapes.
So, prepare your camera for a beautiful journey through Sapporo’s autumnal charm from the vantage point of Mount Moiwa.
Maruyama Park: A Cultural Autumn Haven
Maruyama Park, a place where tradition meets nature, is our next destination. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of autumn while experiencing a slice of Japanese culture.
Maruyama Park is particularly famous for the grand Maruyama Koen Shrine, which takes center stage during the autumn season. The shrine, with its majestic red gate and ancient trees, provides a stunning backdrop for your photographs.
The most iconic tree in the park is the gigantic weeping cherry tree. It transforms into a cascade of red and gold during autumn. This tree, often illuminated in the evenings, creates a magical ambiance.
For photographers, the interplay between the vibrant fall foliage and traditional Japanese architecture is captivating. Whether you’re shooting the shrine, the cherry tree, or the serene ponds, Maruyama Park offers a variety of settings for your autumn photography.
The park is easily accessible, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re strolling along its pathways or capturing its beauty through your camera lens, Maruyama Park invites you to explore the essence of autumn in Sapporo.
Makomanai Park: A Hidden Gem of Autumn
Nestled away from the bustling crowds, Makomanai Park is a well-kept secret in the heart of Sapporo. This hidden gem may not be on every tourist’s checklist. Still, it’s a paradise for photographers seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Makomanai Park offers a quiet retreat where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of autumn. The park’s diverse foliage, serene lakes, and winding paths create an atmosphere of pure serenity.
For photographers, this hidden treasure presents a range of possibilities. Capture the stillness of the lake with reflections of the vibrant leaves. Alternatively, you can frame the winding paths with a burst of autumn colors.
The lack of crowds means you can take your time to compose the perfect shot and savor the peaceful ambiance of the park. It’s a place to connect with nature, away from the usual tourist spots.
While it may take a little more effort to reach Makomanai Park, the reward is an authentic experience of Sapporo’s autumn beauty. If you’re looking for a place that’s off the beaten path and perfect for contemplative photography, this is the spot.
Conclusion: Capturing the Essence of Sapporo’s Autumn
Our journey through Sapporo’s autumn landscapes has taken us to some of the city’s most enchanting locations. From the colorful oasis of Nakajima Park to the academic wonderland of Hokkaido University, the serene retreat of Jozankei Onsen, the panoramic vistas from Mount Moiwa, the cultural haven of Maruyama Park, and the hidden gem of Makomanai Park, each spot has offered a unique photographic adventure.
As we wrap up our exploration of Sapporo’s Fall Wonderland, I hope you’ve been inspired to grab your camera and witness the magic of autumn in Hokkaido. This season’s vibrant foliage, cultural landmarks, and hidden treasures make Sapporo a photographer’s paradise.
Autumn’s magnificence is not only a visual treat but also a reminder of nature’s ability to paint the world with its own distinct colors. The blend of tradition, nature, and modernity in Sapporo creates a captivating canvas for your photography.
Remember to share your own autumn photography experiences with fellow travelers and photography enthusiasts. Your unique perspective adds to the collective beauty of Sapporo in the fall.
Whether you capture the golden leaves of Gingko Avenue or the tranquility of Makomanai Park, Sapporo’s autumn will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. So, pack your camera and embark on your own photographic journey through this autumn wonderland. Take advantage of the opportunity to embrace the beauty of Sapporo’s Fall Wonderland.
Until next time, happy shooting!
