Ever wanted to experience ski jumping? Head to Sapporo, Hokkaido’s Okurayama Viewing Point!

Ever wanted to experience ski jumping? Head to Sapporo, Hokkaido’s Okurayama Viewing Point!

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Written by Takashi Sato

Sapporo prides itself in having something to offer everyone: tourist attractions, gourmet food, and nature galore! And ever since hosting the Winter Olympics in 1972, it’s earned itself a spot on the map as a city of sports as well!
The Okurayama Viewing Point’s 134 meter ski jump is used by athletes for practice all year round, and it is the seasonal home of many international competitions.

After following the long tunnel out of the parking lot, the first thing you'll see is the large hill ski ramp spread before you.

The facility has two main areas: the viewing lounge and the Winter Sports Museum.

Taking the lift, which runs alongside the course, up to the viewing lounge will give you an idea of the scale of the jump.

Inhale deeply as you take in the panoramic view of Sapporo City from the viewing lounge! Try to feel what the athletes feel as they soar through the sky looking out over the city. What an exhilarating feeling it must be!

When it’s time for a break, you’ll want to grab a cone of Hokkaido’s famous Yubari melon ice cream!

The Winter Sports Museum is simply fascinating—and you don’t have to be an athlete or sports-enthusiast to enjoy it. The museum offers you what may be your only chance to experience most of these winter sports first-hand—well, practically!

Inside you’ll find an exciting exhibit that will take you on a walk through the history of winter sports. Learn about everything from skiing to ice hockey.

In the Sensation/Experience Zone, visitors can learn more about different winter sports via indoor simulators.

Visit the Okurayama Crystal House's first floor to pick up some original goods and Hokkaido souvenirs to bring back home with you. After shopping, you can enjoy the night view while indulging in some Genghis Khan (grilled mutton and vegetables) at the second floor's restaurant, Lamb Dining Okurayama. Trust me when I say that this is a facility that will keep you amused all day long!

Basic information on Okurayama Viewing Point

Takashi Sato

Author

Birth place: Hokkaido prefecture

Takashi Sato