Sapporo: Mt. Maruyama Hike & Okurayama Ski Jump Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Hike the scenic 2.5 km forest trail of Mt. Maruyama alongside an English-speaking guide to spot local wildlife and lush flora.

• Ride the thrilling chairlift at Okurayama Ski Jump to the observation deck for a bird's-eye view of Sapporo and the Ishikari Plain.

• Explore the Sapporo Olympic Winter Museum to test your skills on interactive ski jump and bobsleigh simulators.

• Capture stunning panoramic photographs of the city skyline and surrounding mountains from two distinct elevated vantage points.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the wild Ezo red squirrels and varied bird species that frequently dart across the Mt. Maruyama hiking trails.

• Visit the base of the Okurayama Ski Jump to see the exact starting point and landing hill where Olympic athletes made history in 1972.

• Ask your guide to point out the distant silhouette of Mount Yotei, often referred to as the Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido, on clear days from the observation deck.

What Makes it Special

• Seamlessly combines an active nature hike with iconic Olympic sports history in a single, well-paced day tour.

• Includes round-trip transportation directly from Sapporo Station, eliminating the stress of navigating local transit to the trailheads.

• Led by an English-speaking guide who provides fascinating insights into Hokkaido's ecology and the legacy of the 1972 Winter Olympics.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The tour is highly rewarding from late spring to early autumn when the Mt. Maruyama trails are clear of snow and the forest canopy is vibrant. Early morning departures offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for hiking, while autumn visits reward you with spectacular fall foliage. Winter tours are possible but require snow gear, as the hike transforms into a snowshoeing experience and the ski jump views are beautifully stark.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a wide-angle lens at the Okurayama observation deck to capture the full expanse of Sapporo city and the distant Ishikari Bay.

• Look for dappled sunlight filtering through the dense tree canopy on the Mt. Maruyama trail for moody, atmospheric nature shots.

• Capture action shots of the chairlift ride and the steep incline of the ski jump hill to convey the thrilling scale of the Olympic venue.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When passing the Hokkaido Jingu Shrine area near Mt. Maruyama, maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor as it is an active place of worship. It is customary to bow slightly when greeting your guide and to express gratitude at the end of the tour, though tipping is not expected or practiced in Japan. Always stay on the marked hiking trails to protect the local flora and respect the sacred nature of the mountain.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Visit during the Sapporo Snow Festival in February to see the city blanketed in white and the ski jump hill illuminated for special winter events.

• Experience the vibrant autumn colors from late September to mid-October when the Mt. Maruyama forest transforms into a stunning canvas of red and gold.

• Join the lively Hanami cherry blossom viewing parties in early May, when locals gather at the base of Mt. Maruyama to celebrate the brief but beautiful blooming season.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Be aware of your surroundings on the Mt. Maruyama trail, as brown bears occasionally inhabit the deeper forested areas of Hokkaido, though sightings on this popular route are rare.

• Hold onto the safety bars securely while riding the Okurayama chairlift and keep your belongings stowed to prevent them from dropping down the steep ski jump hill.

• Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed during the hike, informing your guide immediately if you feel fatigued or experience any joint discomfort.