Discover the Spectacular Views and Winter Sports of Sapporo: A Complete Guide to Okurayama Viewing Point

Located at the summit of Mt. Okura, the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium served as the venue for the 90-meter ski jump (now classified as a large hill) during the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics.
The streamlined ski jump platform stretches along the mountain ridge, and many visitors come to relive the memories of that historic event.
The Okurayama Viewing Point offers a sweeping view of Sapporo’s cityscape—seen right beyond the ski jump itself.
It’s only about 30 minutes from JR Sapporo Station, making it one of the world’s few ski jumps situated so close to a city center.
The grounds also feature one of only three Olympic Museums in Japan, where visitors can learn about the history of the Olympic Games and enjoy winter sports simulators.

From JR Sapporo Station, the starting point for many sightseeing trips in Sapporo, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the observatory by combining train and bus.
Walk from JR Sapporo Station to Sapporo Subway Station, then take either the Namboku Line or the Toho Line.
Transfer at Odori Station to the Tozai Line and ride to Maruyama Koen Station. From there, take the Kuramaru-go Bus for approximately 15 minutes.

Start your visit by heading to the observatory, where you can feel the impressive scale of the ski jump up close.
A lift—used by actual ski jump athletes—takes you near the top of the jump platform.
As the lift travels right alongside the jump, you'll get an up-close look at its sheer size and steepness.
Lift tickets can also be purchased online. Since special discounts are occasionally available, be sure to check in advance.

After about five minutes of this aerial ride, you’ll arrive at the summit. From the observatory at the top, you can not only look down over the ski jump but also enjoy a panoramic view of Sapporo’s cityscape.
In winter, the snow-covered jump and city below create a particularly stunning scene.
Every year from July 1 to September 30, the observatory’s hours are extended—from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (last ticket sale at 8:00 p.m.).
This allows visitors to take in Sapporo’s night views—which have been recognized as one of Japan’s New Three Most Spectacular Night Views—from a unique vantage point overlooking the ski jump.

A visit in autumn is also highly recommended.
The combination of the ski jump, colorful autumn foliage, and cityscape creates a breathtaking seasonal panorama.

At Café Celeste, located at 307 meters above sea level, you can relax with soft-serve and drinks while overlooking the city of Sapporo.

After enjoying the view from the observatory, head to the Sapporo Olympic Museum.
Inside, you’ll find interactive simulators that let you experience various winter sports, such as ski jumping and bobsledding.

Be sure to take a look at the exhibits that convey the origins of the Olympics, the inspiration of the Sapporo Olympics, and the development of winter sports over time.

Don’t forget to stop by the Museum Shop, where you can pick up exclusive souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Before you leave, make your way to the second floor of the Sapporo Olympic Museum to dine at Nouvelle Pousse Okurayama, a creative French restaurant.
Both lunch and dinner courses are available, featuring dishes that blend Japanese culinary sensibilities with classic French techniques—using only the finest local ingredients from Hokkaido.
One of the highlights is dining while looking out over the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium.

This article has introduced how to enjoy Okurayama Viewing Point, where you can fully experience Sapporo’s appeal as a city known for winter sports.
It’s a place where you can enjoy not only stunning views of the city, but also the excitement of winter sports.
When visiting Sapporo, be sure to use this guide and make a stop at Okurayama Viewing Point.