7 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Sapporo with Stunningly Diverse Scenery

According to the cherry blossom forecast announced on January 8, 2026 on “Sakura Navi” by a private weather company, the expected flowering and full-bloom dates for 2026 are as follows.
The best time to see cherry blossoms in Sapporo is around April 29 to May 6.

Maruyama Park sits on the north side of the Maruyama primeval forest and has long been loved as a classic cherry blossom spot.
Around 120 cherry trees, including Ezo-yamazakura and Somei-yoshino, are planted in the park, drawing many visitors in spring. There are many other trees besides cherry trees, so the white and pink blossoms really stand out against the rich greenery.
The Ezo-yamazakura here is known for its deep flower color, which pairs beautifully with the surrounding trees.
The park feels open and spacious, making for a very relaxing hanami experience. There are benches as well, so it is also perfect for a stroll.

Moerenuma Park is an art park created as part of a project to wrap Sapporo’s urban area in a belt of parks and green spaces.
The entire park was designed as a sculpture by artist Isamu Noguchi, and its look changes with the seasons to offer visitors new scenery throughout the year.
Its biggest charm is the harmony of nature and art, including the cherry blossoms. Around 1,600 Ezo-yamazakura and other cherry trees are planted here.
The contrast between the elegant cherry blossoms and the unique man-made playground equipment is especially striking.
You can also see cherry trees blending into the vast lawns and greenery. Being able to enjoy so many different cherry blossom scenes is what makes Moerenuma Park special.

Located in Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido Shrine is one of Hokkaido’s most important shrines.
Its history goes back to 1869. It began when Emperor Meiji ordered that the “Three Pioneering Deities” be enshrined here as a spiritual home for settlers.
Many worshippers visit throughout the year, and more than 700,000 people come every year for the New Year’s visit. The shrine is also famous for its cherry and plum blossoms. In season, you can enjoy Approx 1,100 cherry trees and Approx 120 plum trees.
One of the highlights is the avenue of cherry trees along the main approach. The blossoms arch overhead like a tunnel and create a spectacular sight.
The harmony between the historic buildings and the cherry blossoms is beautiful, and the nostalgic atmosphere is part of the appeal.

Nakajima Park sits in central Sapporo yet is wrapped in rich greenery.
You can enjoy seasonal scenery all year round, which makes it one of the most popular parks in the city among visitors.
Cherry blossoms here are set against a variety of backdrops, including a Japanese garden and Hoheikan, a Western-style historic building. This mix of scenery is one of Nakajima Park’s charms.
Hoheikan is also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
In the Japanese garden, you can see weeping cherry trees and soak up a traditional Japanese atmosphere with a touch of fleeting beauty.
The contrast between Hoheikan’s white exterior and the cherry blossoms is also stunning, making it a popular photo spot.

Odori Park lies in the heart of Sapporo. It is surrounded by Approx 4,700 trees of 92 species, including lilacs and elms. Lawns and fountains offer space to relax, so the park is loved as a green oasis by both office workers and visitors.
In spring, Approx 50 cherry trees of seven varieties come into full bloom in this relaxing space.
Ezoyamazakura, known for its deep-colored blossoms, is the most common variety here.
Cherry trees blooming amid rows of office buildings create a striking and memorable contrast.
Another highlight is how the blossoms share the stage with many other flowers in bloom around the park.
Easy access by train is another plus.

This building served as the center of Hokkaido’s administration for approx 80 years, until the current main government building was completed.
Nicknamed the “Red Brick Government Building,” the former office was built with approx 2.5 million red bricks. Distorted window glass and its American-style Neo-Baroque design give it a strong sense of history and charm.
Kasumi-zakura and yae-zakura cherry trees are planted here. The contrast between these quintessentially Japanese blossoms and the Western-style former government building is a major highlight.
There are also many other types of trees around the site. Tulips, which reach their peak around the same time as the cherry blossoms, are another thing to look out for.
The red brick building looks great in photos, so try to capture it together with the cherry blossoms.

Makomanai Park is located in Sapporo’s Minami Ward.
The 85-hectare grounds are planted with around 13,200 trees, and roughly 50,000 wild trees are also preserved here.
Around 1,000 Ezoyamazakura and yae-zakura cherry trees grow in the park. The blossoms spread out across the vast open space make for perfect photo opportunities.
The cherry trees are dotted around the park, so crowds tend to be small. That makes it easy to take your time and enjoy the scenery in a relaxed mood.
It’s an ideal spot if you want to enjoy cherry blossoms while soaking up Hokkaido’s expansive natural surroundings.