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Viewpoint · Sapporo, Hokkaido
Mount Moiwa
A 531-meter mountain southwest of Sapporo, with a ropeway and a small cable car to the summit observation deck. From there you can see the whole city, Ishikari Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Mount Moiwa in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Mount Moiwa
Mount Moiwa forms the southwestern boundary of Sapporo, rising to 531 meters with forest-covered slopes protected as a natural monument. The name comes from the Ainu language and was originally used for a nearby hill. From the summit you can see the grid of downtown streets, Odori Park, the Toyohira River, Ishikari Bay and, on clear days, the mountains in central Hokkaido.
The ascent is done in two stages. A ropeway departs from the station at the foot of the mountain and climbs to an intermediate station; from there, a small rail-mounted cable car, the Mo-risu Car, takes you to the top in a few minutes. At the summit there is an observation deck with a terrace, a restaurant and the “love bell,” popular with couples.
At night, with the city all lit up, the viewpoint attracts more visitors, and it was chosen as one of Japan’s new three great night views by an industry association. By day, the mountain also draws hikers: trails climb through the forest from several points in the city, and in winter a ski slope operates on the flank.
To get there, the Sapporo tram stops near the ropeway station, and a shuttle bus from the operator usually covers the final stretch free of charge. By car, a road rises to the intermediate station.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 2 hours, including the ascent and the viewpoint.
Best time
Late afternoon, so you can see the city in daylight and then illuminated. In winter, dusk comes early and the wind at the top is cold. On low-cloud days the view can disappear: check the weather before you go up.
How to get there
Take the Sapporo tram to Ropeway-iriguchi stop and walk or use the shuttle bus to the ropeway station. From the center by taxi it’s about 15 minutes.
Tip
Buy a round-trip ticket that covers both the ropeway and the cable car. Ascend before sunset, stay for the night view and check the last descent time. In winter, bring gloves and a hat for the terrace.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mount Moiwa
How do you ascend Mount Moiwa?
By ropeway to the mid-station and from there by a small cable car to the summit. There are also hiking trails through the forest and a road to the mid-station.
What is the best time to go up Mount Moiwa?
Late afternoon, to see the city by daylight and then lit up at night. The night view is most popular; on foggy days or with low clouds it can disappear.
Does Mount Moiwa operate in winter?
The ropeway usually operates in winter with different hours, and there is a ski slope on the hillside. Check the calendar and maintenance stops before you go.
How long does it take from central Sapporo to Mount Moiwa?
About 30 minutes by tram and connecting bus to the ropeway, or about 15 minutes by taxi.
Beyond the guide
