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Park · Sapporo, Hokkaido
Moerenuma Park
A park of about 190 hectares designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi on a former garbage dump in northern Sapporo. It has a glass pyramid, artificial mounds, a large fountain and play areas.
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
Moerenuma Park 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 Moerenuma Park
Moerenuma Park occupies about 190 hectares in northern Sapporo, on land that served as the city’s dump. The project is by Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, who designed the entire park as a single sculpture. He died in 1988 shortly after presenting the plan, and the work was completed by the city and his collaborators, with full opening in 2005.
The main elements are large-scale geometric forms. Mount Moere, at 62 meters, is an earthen pyramid with paths and stairs to the top, offering views of the city and the mountains. The glass pyramid, called Hidamari, houses an exhibition space and a café. The Sea Fountain in the center shoots water jets in programmed sequences, and there is a shallow splash area for children in summer.
The park also features a smaller artificial hill made of earth and stone, play areas designed by Noguchi in bold colors, groves of cherry trees and a horseshoe-shaped lake, Moerenuma, which gives the place its name. In winter, part of the area becomes a cross-country skiing and sledding field, and Mount Moere is used for snow runs.
It’s a half-day outing by bike or on foot, appealing to families and those interested in architecture and landscape design. Bikes are usually available to rent at the entrance during the snow-free season.
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 2 to 3 hours.
Best time
From May to October, when the fountains usually operate and bicycle rentals are available. In winter the park is covered in snow and used for cross-country skiing and sledding. Check the fountain schedule before you go.
How to get there
It’s about 10 km from the center. Take the Toho subway line to Kanjo-dori-higashi and then a bus for about 25 minutes to the park entrance. By car or taxi it’s about 30 minutes from downtown.
Tip
Climb Mount Moere to get an overall sense of the park’s layout. Bring a snack or use the café at the glass pyramid, because there are few food options nearby. On the way back, check the bus schedule—service runs less frequently in the late afternoon.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Moerenuma Park
Who designed Moerenuma Park?
The sculptor Isamu Noguchi, who designed the whole park as a landscape-scale sculpture. The work was completed after his death, following the original plan.
How to reach Moerenuma Park by public transport?
Take the Toho subway line to Kanjo-dori-higashi and the bus to the park, about 25 minutes. Check return schedules.
Is Moerenuma Park good for children?
Yes. It has playgrounds designed by Noguchi, a shallow beach with water in summer and sledding areas in winter. The lawns and mounds are open for running.
Can you visit Moerenuma Park in winter?
Yes. The park remains open with areas for cross-country skiing and sledding. The fountains and bicycle rentals usually operate only in the snow-free season.
Beyond the guide
