Top Tips for Exploring Moerenuma Park in Sapporo during winter

Sapporo transforms into a snowy wonderland every year. One of its hidden gems is Moerenuma Park. This park is a massive piece of art you can walk through. It offers a unique visual experience in the colder months.

Exploring Moerenuma Park in Sapporo during winter is a peaceful escape. The landscape becomes a vast, white canvas of snow. Modern sculptures stand out against the frozen horizon. It feels like stepping into a futuristic world.

Isamu Noguchi designed this entire park. He was a world-famous Japanese-American artist. He wanted the park to be a single sculpture. You can see his vision in every corner of the grounds.

This park is perfect for outdoor fans and art lovers. You should read our Sapporo winter travel guide for more ideas. This guide will help you plan every detail for 2026. Let us dive into the highlights of this park.

Admiring the Glass Pyramid Hidamari

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) - Sapporo.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with New Chitose Airport Terminal.

The Glass Pyramid is the crown jewel of the park. Its official name is Hidamari. The word means "sunny spot" in Japanese. This structure looks incredible during the winter season.

The glass reflects the bright, white Hokkaido snow. Inside, you will find a warm sanctuary. It houses a gallery that honors Isamu Noguchi. You can learn about his creative process here.

The pyramid acts as the park’s main visitor center. You can find restrooms and a small shop inside. There is also a restaurant serving local dishes. Use this space to warm up between walks.

The atrium is filled with natural light. It offers panoramic views of the snowy park. The contrast between the cold outside and the warmth inside is lovely. It is a great place for photography lovers.

Viewing the sunset from the pyramid is highly recommended. The sky turns pink and orange over the mountains. The glass panels catch these colors beautifully. It is a memorable moment for every visitor.

Winter Sports and Sledding Fun

Mt. Moere is the highest peak in the park. It is a man-made hill that rises 62 meters. In winter, this hill becomes a playground for tourists. It is famous for various winter sporting activities.

Many visitors love sledding down the steep slopes. You do not need to bring your own sled. You can rent gear at the Glass Pyramid. Rental prices are very affordable for travelers.

Sled rentals cost about 200 yen per day. You can also rent snowshoes or cross-country skis. Using snowshoes allows you to explore deep snow areas. It is an excellent way to see hidden sculptures.

Cross-country skiing is popular on the flat paths. The park maintains several trails during the winter months. You can follow these paths for several kilometers. It provides a great workout in the crisp air.

Always check the weather before you start activities. Heavy snowfall can limit visibility on the hill. Wear proper winter clothing in Hokkaido to stay warm. We suggest checking our guide on winter clothing for Sapporo tips before your trip.

How to Get to Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is located on the outskirts of Sapporo. Getting there requires using public transportation. First, take the Toho Subway Line from central Sapporo. Get off at Kanjodori-higashi Station.

From the station, you must take a local bus. Look for the Chuo Bus number 69 or 79. The ride takes about 25 minutes to reach the park. Buses run frequently but check the 2026 schedule.

The bus stop is right near the park entrance. A one-way bus fare is roughly 210 yen. You can use your IC card for payment. This makes the journey very simple for international visitors.

Taxis are also available from the subway station. A taxi will cost about 2,500 yen each way. This is a good option for groups of four. It saves time during the cold winter mornings.

Parking is available if you choose to rent a car. The park has a large parking lot that is free. Driving in Sapporo during winter requires experience with snow. Most tourists prefer using the subway and bus combo.

Practical Tips for Your Winter Visit

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Opening hours for the Glass Pyramid vary by season. In winter, it is usually open from 9:00 AM. It typically closes around 5:00 PM. The park grounds stay open later for visitors.

Entry to the park itself is completely free. This makes it a budget-friendly winter destination. You only need money for transportation and gear rentals. Bring some cash for the rental counter.

Food options are limited inside the park grounds. There is one French restaurant inside the Glass Pyramid. It is called L'enfant qui reve. We recommend booking a table in advance.

Most visitors bring their own snacks and drinks. You can find vending machines near the pyramid. However, hot drinks sell out quickly on cold days. Carrying a thermos with tea is a smart idea.

Plan to spend at least three hours here. This gives you time to hike and see art. If you enjoy sledding, stay for half a day. The park is vast and requires much walking.

Walking Through Sculpture and Snow

The park features several large-scale sculptures. "Tetra Mound" is a massive stainless steel structure. It looks sharp and modern against the soft snow. The steel reflects the winter sun brilliantly.

Walking to the different sites is very peaceful. You will rarely find large crowds in winter. This makes it feel like a private art gallery. The silence of the snow is very calming.

Keep an eye out for "Play Mountain". This is another man-made hill designed for interaction. Snow transforms it into a series of white terraces. It is a favorite spot for photographers.

The geometric shapes of the park are very striking. Noguchi used circles, triangles, and squares everywhere. Winter highlights these shapes by hiding the green grass. The result is a minimalist and clean aesthetic.

Bring a spare battery for your camera or phone. The cold weather drains batteries very quickly. Keep your electronic devices in an inside pocket. This helps maintain their power throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is exploring Moerenuma Park in Sapporo during winter worth it?

Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting in winter. The park offers a unique blend of art and nature. It is one of the best day trips from Sapporo for 2026 tourists. You will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and fun activities.

Can I rent winter gear at Moerenuma Park?

Yes, you can rent several types of gear. Sleds, boots, and cross-country skis are all available. Rentals are located inside the Glass Pyramid. Prices are very low, usually under 500 yen per item.

How do I get from Moerenuma Park to central Sapporo?

Take the Chuo bus back to Kanjodori-higashi Station. Then, use the Toho Subway Line to Odori Station. The return trip takes about 45 minutes in total. Public transport is reliable even during light snow.

Are there restaurants inside Moerenuma Park?

There is one high-end French restaurant located in the pyramid. A smaller take-out counter also offers snacks and coffee. Many visitors choose to eat later in central Sapporo. Always bring a snack just in case.

Exploring Moerenuma Park in Sapporo during winter is a highlight for 2026. This park offers art, exercise, and stunning views. It is a perfect addition to any Hokkaido itinerary. Start planning your winter adventure to this unique sculpture park today.

Key Takeaways

💡 Pro Tip: Book your Sapporo adventures in advance through Viator for the best deals!

Rent sleds for just 200 yen at the Glass Pyramid.
Take the Toho Subway Line and bus number 69 to get there.
Entry to the park grounds is free for all visitors.
Wear thermal layers to protect against the Hokkaido cold.

Exploring Moerenuma Park in Sapporo during winter

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