Sapporo Olympic Museum

Must Do Experiences

• Challenge yourself on the ski jumping simulator to experience the breathtaking rush of launching off the Okurayama ramp.

• Test your precision and focus with the biathlon shooting simulator, a fan favourite that mimics real Olympic conditions.

• Explore the comprehensive exhibition hall to see authentic gear, medals, and memorabilia from the 1972 Sapporo Winter Games.

• Try the bobsleigh and figure skating simulators to understand the incredible balance and speed required by elite winter athletes.

Hidden Gems

• The museum offers a fantastic vantage point of the actual Okurayama Ski Jump hill, allowing you to grasp the sheer scale and steepness of the 90-metre ramp.

• Look for the interactive wind tunnel experience that demonstrates the aerodynamics and body positioning crucial for ski jumpers.

• Visit the museum shop for exclusive Olympic merchandise and unique Hokkaido souvenirs that you will not find anywhere else in Sapporo.

What Makes it Special

• It is one of the few places in the world where you can actively participate in highly realistic winter sports simulators rather than just observing exhibits.

• The museum is situated right at the base of the iconic Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, blending indoor interactive learning with outdoor sporting history.

• Admission is completely free for children under 15, making it an exceptionally affordable and educational family outing.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is right when the museum opens in the morning to beat the school groups and tour buses that typically arrive by midday. While it is an excellent indoor activity during the snowy winter months, visiting in late autumn or spring offers a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Keep in mind that winter visits require allowing extra travel time due to potential snow on the roads leading to Miyanomori.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the dramatic scale of the Okurayama Ski Jump hill from the outdoor viewing areas near the museum entrance, especially when dusted with fresh snow.

• Take action shots of your friends and family mid-flight on the ski jumping simulator, utilizing the dynamic background screens for a realistic effect.

• Photography is generally permitted inside the museum, but be mindful of other guests and avoid using flash near the interactive simulator screens.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese museums value quiet and respectful behaviour, so keep voices down in the historical exhibition areas while saving the cheering for the simulator zones. It is customary to queue politely and wait your turn for the interactive machines, allowing everyone a fair chance to experience the activities. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply thank the staff with a polite bow or a simple arigatou gozaimasu after they assist you with the simulators.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Special anniversary exhibitions and guest speaker events are occasionally hosted around February to commemorate the opening of the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics.

• During the annual Sapporo Snow Festival in early February, the museum often features special winter sports promotions and extended family activities.

• The Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium next door frequently hosts international FIS Ski Jumping World Cup events in January, creating an electrifying atmosphere in the surrounding area.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Follow all staff instructions and safety briefings before using the physical simulators to prevent muscle strains or minor injuries.

• Ensure children are closely supervised in the interactive zones, as some simulator equipment requires a certain height or physical strength to operate safely.

• Watch your step when transitioning between the indoor museum and the outdoor viewing areas, as pathways can become slippery with snow or ice during the winter season.