Sapporo: Mt. Maruyama Hike & Okurayama Ski Jump

Exploring Sapporo’s Natural and Olympic Heritage: Mt. Maruyama Hike & Okurayama Ski Jump

If you’re visiting Sapporo and want a well-balanced taste of natural beauty combined with a dash of Olympic history, this tour offers just that. For $160 per person, you get to enjoy a 2.5 km hike up Mt. Maruyama, with sweeping views over the city, plus a visit to the iconic Okurayama Ski Jump Facility and the Sapporo Olympic Museum. Led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide, this tour is designed to give you a taste of local scenery, outdoor activity, and winter sports history—all in one day.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it seamlessly combines nature and history. The hike on Mt. Maruyama isn’t overly strenuous, making it accessible for most, yet it offers rewarding views and a peaceful forest setting. We also appreciate the chance to ride the chairlift to the observation deck, which provides panoramic vistas of Sapporo. The visit to the Olympic Museum enhances the day with engaging exhibits on the 1972 Winter Olympics—the first held in Asia, making it a highlight for sports fans.

A minor consideration? The tour requires good weather—cloudy or rainy days might detract from the views—so it’s worth planning around the forecast. Also, the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, given the hike and outdoor terrain.

This tour suits outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and families who want an active yet informative experience outside Sapporo’s city center. It offers a thoughtful combination of scenery and stories, making it a rewarding day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines a scenic mountain hike with a visit to an Olympic sports venue.
• Expert Guides: Led by English-speaking guides who keep the experience engaging and informative.
• Seasonal Versatility: Hikes are suitable year-round, with each season offering unique scenery.
• Panoramic Views: Both Mt. Maruyama and Okurayama provide stunning overlooks of Sapporo and beyond.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, though not wheelchair accessible or for those with mobility issues.
• All-Inclusive: Price covers transportation, museum entry, and chairlift tickets—no hidden costs.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. in front of Myomu (The Circular White Stone Structure) just outside Sapporo Station. Our guide, who introduced himself as Yuki, greeted us with a warm smile and clear instructions, setting a friendly tone for the day. Meeting here allows easy access and ensures everyone is ready to go on time, which is crucial given the tight schedule.

The Mt. Maruyama Hike

Our ascent up Mt. Maruyama, standing at just 225 meters (738 feet), is surprisingly rewarding. The trail, about 2.5 km long, begins at a spot marked by 88 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy—a visual reminder of the area’s spiritual significance. The path took us through lush, old-growth forest, with sturdy, well-maintained footing—ideal for a relaxed morning walk.

What makes this hike appealing? For one, the diverse flora and fauna—squirrels, small deer, and woodpeckers—add life to the trek. The trees create a canopy that filters the sunlight, making for a comfortable walk, especially mid-morning when the air is crisp.

Yuki pointed out that the best time for photos is early morning, when fewer crowds and softer light make Sapporo’s skyline pop through the trees. We loved the way the trail offered glimpses of Sapporo city, especially in early spring or late autumn when the foliage is less dense.

Along the way, we noticed that the trail can be more challenging in winter, especially if snow and ice are present, necessitating crampons or spikes. So, winter hikers should come prepared. For most other seasons, light hiking shoes suffice, and the walk is manageable for most ages.

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Panoramic Views from Mt. Maruyama

Reaching the summit, we were rewarded with sweeping views of downtown Sapporo, Ishikari Bay, and the distant mountains. While the summit is surrounded by trees, the vistas through the gaps offer a great chance for photos and a moment to simply breathe in the fresh mountain air. We appreciated that we had enough time here to enjoy the scenery and take a few snaps before heading back down.

Lunch and Rest

After the hike, it’s time for a well-earned break. The guide suggests bringing a light snack and bottled water—a good idea since this keeps you energized for the rest of the day. We found that most tour groups prefer to stop for lunch in a nearby café or pack a picnic, which adds flexibility.

Okurayama Ski Jump & Olympic Museum

Post-lunch, the tour moves towards Mount Okura for the highlight of the afternoon: the Okurayama Ski Jump. Built for the 1972 Winter Olympics, this towering hill (hill size of 137 meters and a k-point of 123 meters) is still active today.

The Sapporo Olympic Museum nearby provides interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and a simulated ski jump that the kids and adults found fascinating. Several reviews noted that the museum’s displays made the Olympics’ history tangible and engaging, especially with the interactive elements.

Next, we took a chairlift ride to the observation deck, which took about 5-7 minutes. The ascent offers panoramic views of Sapporo, with a perspective that makes you feel like a ski jumper. From here, you see the entire city spread out beneath you—an impressive sight on a clear day. The deck includes a café, perfect for a quick refreshment while soaking in the scenery.

The Return and End of Tour

Descending via the chairlift, we returned to the bus and headed back to Sapporo Station. The entire visit to Okurayama, including museum time and the mountain ride, takes roughly an hour, fitting well into a morning and early afternoon schedule.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who make a significant difference. One said, “Yuki made the hike enjoyable with his insights into the local flora and history.” Others appreciated the flexibility of the tour, noting it’s suitable for families and those wanting a full but manageable day outside the city.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $160, the tour covers all transport, museum admissions, and chairlift tickets. That means no hidden costs once you’re underway. For travelers seeking a combination of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and a bit of adventure, it’s a well-priced option.

The inclusion of local guides adds depth and context to each stop, enriching your understanding of Sapporo’s landscape and Olympic legacy. The outdoor component, especially the hike, offers a refreshing break from urban sightseeing, making it especially appealing for those who want an active day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers who want a manageable hike with rewarding views. It also suits sports fans and history buffs interested in the 1972 Winter Olympics. Since the tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels—excluding those with mobility issues—it’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore beyond the city.

If you’re visiting during favorable weather and enjoy a mix of nature and culture, this tour offers a balanced and memorable slice of Sapporo life.

FAQs

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, most children can enjoy the hike and museum visit, though adult supervision is recommended for the outdoor parts.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable hiking shoes are a must. Dress appropriately for the season, and bring layers if needed. In winter, crampons or spikes might be necessary.

• Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
  No, it isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the hike and outdoor terrain.

• Will I need to bring my own snacks?
  Yes, bringing a light snack and bottled water is advised to stay energized during the hike.

• What’s included in the price?
  Transportation, museum entrance fees, and chairlift tickets are covered. Food, extra drinks, and personal gear are not.

• How long does the entire tour last?
  It starts at 8:00 a.m. and generally wraps up by early afternoon, including travel and activities.

• Can the tour run in winter?
  Yes, the hike is available all season, but winter hikes require extra gear, and weather conditions could affect visibility.

• How crowded is the tour?
  Early starts help avoid crowds, especially on the Mt. Maruyama trail. The group size is kept manageable for a more intimate experience.

• What is the main highlight?
  Many travelers cite the stunning panoramic views from the ski jump observation deck and the scenic forest walk on Mt. Maruyama.

• Is there free time?
  Most of the schedule is structured, but you’ll have time to enjoy the views and take photos at each stop.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic blend of nature, history, and active fun, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a broader experience of Sapporo beyond its urban charm. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, scenic hikes, and Olympic history. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary turn this into a smooth, enriching day out.

While weather can influence the experience, particularly the views, most travelers find the effort well worth it. It’s a great way to get outdoors, learn something new, and see a different side of Sapporo—whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about Japan’s winter sports heritage.

In sum, if you’re looking to combine active exploration with cultural insight and stunning vistas, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: