Mt. Moiwa

Just about 20 minutes by public transport from downtown Sapporo, Mt. Moiwa stands 531 meters tall and still preserves its primeval forest. Its easy accessibility has made it a beloved getaway for locals.

Make your way to the summit observatory for impeccable, wide-open views of the Ishikari Plain and, on clear days, the distant waters of Ishikari Bay. While the daytime scenery is impressive, the real highlight is the breathtaking night view—Sapporo's dazzling city lights, chosen as one of Japan’s New Three Major Night Views, spread out in a stunning 360-degree panorama. The glittering lights and illuminations against the evening sky create what many call the most spectacular view in Sapporo.

To reach the summit, beginners can choose from five hiking trails, each taking about 1 to 2 hours one way. Along the way, you'll be treated to birdsong, a variety of trees and flowers, and possible encounters with squirrels and Ezo red foxes.

For those not keen on hiking, you can easily reach the summit by combining a ropeway ride with a mini cable car, or by driving up via a dedicated road using a rental car or taxi. In winter, the southeastern slope of the mountain transforms into the Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort, offering seasonal fun.