Hokkaido, Japan Okurayama Ski Jumping Stadium + Hitsujigaoka Observatory Half Day Tour: Sapporo Afternoon Sightseeing Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Okurayama chairlift to the summit for a bird's-eye view of Sapporo and the historic 1972 Winter Olympic ski jump landing hill.

• Stand at the exact starting point of the Olympic ski jumpers and look down the steep 90-meter ramp to feel the adrenaline of the athletes.

• Visit the Hitsujigaoka Observation Deck to see the iconic bronze statue of Dr. William S. Clark and his famous Boys, be ambitious quote.

• Enjoy sweeping, unobstructed panoramic vistas of Sapporo's cityscape and the surrounding Ishikari Plain from the hilltop observatory.

Hidden Gems

• The Okurayama Ski Jump Museum at the base of the stadium offers interactive simulators where you can virtually experience the terrifying speed and G-force of a real ski jumper.

• Hitsujigaoka Observatory is one of the few spots in Sapporo where you can get a completely clear, elevated view of the city skyline framed by the distant Taisetsu mountain range on crisp days.

• Look for the subtle seasonal floral displays and illuminated snow sculptures that often surround the Dr. Clark statue, which change beautifully with Hokkaido's distinct seasons.

What Makes it Special

• This tour perfectly combines Hokkaido's proud Winter Olympic heritage with its most iconic historical landmark in one convenient afternoon package.

• You get hassle-free round-trip transportation and a guided experience, eliminating the stress of navigating Sapporo's public transit to these elevated outskirts.

• The afternoon timing is specifically curated to let you catch the golden hour lighting over Sapporo, making it a dream for photographers and sunset lovers.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

As an afternoon tour, the best time to experience this is during the late summer and autumn months when the skies are clearest and the sunset over the Ishikari Plain is most vibrant. Winter visits offer a magical snow-covered landscape, but be prepared for biting winds at the top of the ski jump and potential chairlift closures due to heavy snowstorms.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the dramatic perspective of the ski jump by shooting from the top observation deck straight down the landing hill, using a wide-angle lens to emphasize the steep drop.

• At Hitsujigaoka, position yourself slightly below the Dr. Clark statue during the late afternoon golden hour to silhouette his pointing finger against the glowing Sapporo skyline.

• Use a polarizing filter to cut through the glare and enhance the deep blue skies and distant mountain ranges visible from both elevated vantage points.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the Hitsujigaoka Observatory, it is customary to show respect at the Dr. Clark statue, as he is a deeply revered historical figure in Hokkaido's educational development. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so the included gratuities in your tour package mean you do not need to offer extra cash to your guide or driver. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor when exploring the Olympic museum and memorial areas.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, the Okurayama area often features spectacular illuminated snow sculptures and special night-time viewing events.

• In winter, the stadium hosts thrilling FIS Ski Jumping World Cup competitions, transforming the tour site into a buzzing hub of international athletic action.

• Autumn brings the vibrant Sapporo foliage season, where the hillsides surrounding the observatory erupt in brilliant shades of red and gold.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Hold onto your hats, scarves, and loose items while riding the Okurayama chairlift and standing on the exposed summit observation deck, as sudden gusts of wind are common.

• Stay behind the designated safety railings at both the ski jump starting point and the Hitsujigaoka Observatory edges, especially when the ground is icy or wet.

• Keep a close eye on children near the steep drops of the ski jump ramp and ensure they follow all equipment usage instructions provided by the staff.