Where do you think this photo was taken?
It's not deep in the mountains, beyond the deepest part of the forest...

This is a scene from Maruyama Primeval Forest in Chuo Ward, Sapporo, about a 15-minute drive from Sapporo Station.
Isn't it surprising to encounter such a fairytale-like scene right in the heart of Sapporo?

This time, we'll be focusing on this mystical spot, Maruyama Park, and unraveling its mysteries one by one.

Table of Contents
1. What is Maruyama?
2. Maruyama Park is a classic spot for cherry blossom viewing.
3. Welcome to the mystical world of Maruyama Primeval Forest
4. How about climbing Mount Maruyama and visiting the 88 temples?
5. Maruyama Zoo
6. Hokkaido Shrine
7. Around Maruyama Park
Final thoughts

The autumn foliage is beautiful in Maruyama.

This is Maruyama Mountain in its autumn foliage.
It kind of looks like a sandcastle...isn't it adorable?
Surrounded by the cityscape of Sapporo, Maruyama stands as if it were a private space for the residents. With an elevation of only about 225 meters, it remains a beloved spot for locals to easily enjoy a hike.

This site, which has a history as a tree testing ground in the early Meiji period, was later developed into Maruyama Park, and remains so to this day.

During the season, it gets crowded with people enjoying cherry blossoms.

Maruyama Park is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing.
Golden Week is the peak season! The area is bustling with cherry blossom viewers, who are determined not to miss this opportunity.

Having endured a long winter, the people of Hokkaido flock to cherry blossom viewing spots in an effort to experience the arrival of spring as soon as possible.

Even cherry blossoms that are starting to fall have their own charm... I hope they'll bring us spring again next year!

☆Here's some information about cherry blossom viewing at Maruyama Park☆
・Entry to the park is permitted 24 hours a day.
- There is no illumination for enjoying the cherry blossoms at night.
- During the season, the use of open flames is permitted for a limited time (in designated areas).
During Golden Week, you can enjoy the stalls at Hokkaido Shrine.
・BBQ sets are available for rent, and ingredients can be delivered, so you can enjoy a hassle-free experience.

Let's enjoy cherry blossom viewing while respecting proper etiquette!

The scenery reflected on the surface of the pond is also beautiful.

Even after the cherry blossom season ends, there is a constant stream of locals and tourists visiting Maruyama Park.
Maruyama Park offers plenty of fun for the whole family, with features designed to keep even young children entertained and plenty of things to spark their sense of adventure.

Suddenly, in the middle of the primeval forest, there's a monkey bar...it looks like a work of art.

Maruyama Park has a history of being a tree testing ground in the past.
Therefore, ancient trees, some over 150 years old, continue to thrive in their original form.

These trees will continue to make history for years to come.
As I gazed upon it in awe, I completely forgot that I was in the heart of Sapporo.

You can enjoy a moment that feels like it's been cut out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Doesn't it look like they're having a conversation?

Playground equipment placed discreetly.

When you visit this place, be sure to look closely and gaze up at the top of the trees.
You might spot a squirrel scurrying up the hill silently!

On sunny days, you have a high chance of encountering adorable squirrels.

She's just too cute! Those cheeks!

Oh? Now I can hear birds chirping.
"Hmm? That's a different cry than before?"
Dozens of species of wild birds can be observed in the Maruyama primeval forest.

This is the perfect spot for birdwatchers with long telephoto cameras! Why not put your skills to the test here?
I hope you can capture that perfect, memorable photo.

Shhh! Be quiet...!! A rare wild bird spotted?!

I found this sign!

I don't know much about wild birds, and I don't have a telephoto lens.
Even those who are unfamiliar with the area can easily understand it through this sign with its illustrations.
In the Maruyama primeval forest, you can observe wild birds even at close range, where they can be seen with the naked eye.

Looking at the colors and patterns of the birds, you can have a lively discussion like, "Is it this one? Or is it that one?"
You can feel the kindness and thoughtfulness of Maruyama Park, where anyone can discover how to enjoy themselves.

This is the trailhead for the "88 Temples Course".

Eighty-eight temples... Have I heard that somewhere before?
Yes, it's named after the famous Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.

Want to fully immerse yourself in the Maruyama primeval forest? How about a hike up Mount Maruyama?
There are two hiking routes: the "Maruyama Zoo Course," which starts next to Maruyama Zoo, and this "Eighty-Eight Temples Course."

With an elevation of approximately 225 meters, this mountain is perfect for beginners looking to start hiking, as even those new to mountaineering can reach the summit in about 40 minutes from the trailhead.

Many stone Buddha statues line the hiking trail.

It's a great way to enjoy your first mountain climb with young children.

Even though the altitude is low, it seems there are some brave souls who attempt the climb in high heels and light clothing.
However, it's probably best to dress in comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement and to do some preparation beforehand.

Along the hiking trail, numerous stone Buddha statues delight hikers.
And from the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful city of Sapporo!

Taking the walking path is also an option if you don't want to overexert yourself.

Well, if you're not up for mountain climbing, why not try walking along this trail?
A walking trail extends from just before the trailhead for the "88 Temples Course."

This route is well-maintained and easy to walk, allowing you to fully enjoy the Maruyama primeval forest in just a few minutes.

Along the way, there's a river flowing, allowing you to fully enjoy Hokkaido's nature!

Huge trees stand majestically along the walking path, but of course, the trees take priority.
Since it is a protected primeval forest, my feelings of gratitude turn to one of gratitude: "We are the ones being allowed to enter!"

What on earth is this?

These are stone tablets posted inside the park and in front of the trailhead.
"Is this a monkey's hand?" "Rabbits are faster than lions!"
It looks like this could be the start of some parent-child communication.

Because it's set up at a child's eye level, curious children can't help but touch it once they see it!
Maruyama Park is filled with such playful and fun ideas.

Are the animals depicted on this stone tablet connected to Maruyama Zoo?
So, what do you think? Aren't you starting to want to see the animals at Maruyama Zoo?

[Maruyama Park]
■ Location: Miyagaoka, Chuo-ku, Sapporo City
■ TEL: 011-621-0453
■ URL:http://maruyamapark.jp/

I've been waiting for you to come, bear♪

Maruyama Zoo, located in Chuo Ward, Sapporo City, is the first zoo in Hokkaido.

I wonder what kind of reactions the residents of Hokkaido had when they saw animals they don't usually see.
Maruyama Zoo hosts a variety of events, so please check their official website for details.

We hope that visitors from outside Hokkaido who come here for sightseeing will find at least one thing that is uniquely Hokkaido.

We're waiting for you, filled with lots of excitement and joy!

[Maruyama Zoo]
■ Location: 3-1 Miyagaoka, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
■ TEL: 011-621-1426
■ Business Hours: March 1st to October 31st
9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
From November 1st to the end of February
9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Last entry at 3:30 PM)
■ URL:http://www.city.sapporo.jp/zoo/

After passing through a primeval forest of giant trees, Hokkaido Shrine appears.

Hokkaido Shrine is the most visited shrine in Hokkaido.
This shrine, possessing both dignity and a rich history, is also known as a power spot that can improve one's luck.

Cup your hands in water and rinse your mouth.

As you walk around the temple grounds, you can hear various languages ​​being spoken.
It seems that many foreigners also come to worship here.
No wonder fortune-telling slips are a global phenomenon.

Colorful fortune slips in foreign languages ​​were being sold. It might be fun to try the English version for a change of pace!
I really hope you get Extreme Luck!

[Hokkaido Shrine]
■ Location: 474 Miyagaoka, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
■ TEL: 011-621-1426
■ Business Hours: From April 1st to October 15th
6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
■URL:http://www.hokkaidojingu.or.jp/

The Maruyama district, famous as one of Sapporo's fashionable areas, is full of cafes and general stores!
They offer a wide variety of delicious takeout options that are perfect for a picnic at Maruyama Park, making it convenient to stock up before heading to the park.
Please enjoy exploring the town as well!

Maruyama Hill is nestled between buildings! South 1st Street near Maruyama Park Station on the Tozai Subway Line.

Final thoughts

Seasonal flowers are always in bloom in the park.

I hope you were able to get a sense of the charm of Maruyama.
Maruyama Park, a place of relaxation for Sapporo residents, changes its appearance with the seasons, always captivating the hearts of its citizens.

Seasonal events are also held, so be sure to check the website before you visit!
Public transportation is readily available, so please feel free to stop by.

[Check these out too]
Enjoy nature without leaving Sapporo! A recommended short hike up Maruyama Mountain.
・Animals of the northern regions come alive! Highlights of Sapporo's Maruyama Zoo in winter!
・A fun summer event! I went to Sapporo's Maruyama Zoo at night!
・Be moved by the cherry blossoms in Hokkaido! 8 popular cherry blossom viewing spots recommended by locals!
・Top 5 Power Spots in Sapporo! Recharge your energy and find healing here.

Please also check out these related articles.

• 

  Congratulations on Vanilla Air's launch! 8 recommended souvenirs you can buy at Hakodate Airport.

• 

  A world of ice on the lake! Exploring the charm of Shikaribetsu Lake Kotan [Shikaribetsu Lake]

• 

  We explored the charms of Shigechan Land, a mysterious wonderland in Tsubetsu Town!

• 

  Want to enjoy spring in the port town of Otaru? Recommended sights and events.

• 

  I want to tell everyone! Common things about Hakodate and Southern Hokkaido

• 

  A complete guide to getting to Asahiyama Zoo! Access and parking information [from New Chitose Airport, Sapporo, and Asahikawa city] 2017 edition

• 

  A time slip from the Meiji to the Showa era! The history and highlights of the Sapporo Clock Tower.

• 

  Let's go to Shiriuchi Town, famous for its oysters and Shinkansen viewing spots!

Introducing our sister site (please check it out if you're interested)