Best Views from Mt Moiwa Ropeway in Sapporo, Japan

Discovering the Best Views from Mt. Moiwa Ropeway in Sapporo, Japan

Mt. Moiwa, located in the heart of Sapporo, offers breathtaking panoramic views that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you're interested in daytime vistas or enchanting nightscapes, Mt. Moiwa's ropeway and observation deck provide an unforgettable experience.

Accessing Mt. Moiwa

To reach Mt. Moiwa, you can take Sapporo's streetcar line to "Ropeway Iriguchi" station, which is about a 25-minute ride. From there, a free shuttle bus operates to the lower ropeway station, or you can walk for about five minutes.

For those preferring to drive, the "Kanko Highway" toll road leads to a parking lot at the summit, open from mid-April to early November.

The Ropeway and Cable Car Experience

The journey to the summit of Mt. Moiwa involves a two-part ride. The ropeway, which departs from Moiwa Sanroku Station, travels 1,200 meters in just five minutes, offering stunning views of Ishikari Bay and the cityscape of Sapporo. From the midpoint, you transfer to the unique "Morris Car" mini cable car, which takes you through the forest to the summit.

Panoramic Views from the Summit

At an altitude of 531 meters, the observation deck at the summit of Mt. Moiwa provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Sapporo, the Ishikari Plain, and Ishikari Bay. On clear days, you can see as far as the Sea of Japan. The view is particularly spectacular after sunset, with the city lights transforming into a dazzling display of sparkling lights.

Night View and Romantic Spots

Mt. Moiwa was selected as one of Japan's most beautiful city night views, alongside Nagasaki and Kobe. The peak observatory is a romantic spot, especially with the "Bell of Happiness" where couples can ring the bell and leave a padlock with a message of love on the railing. These padlocks can be purchased at the souvenir shop or restaurant at the summit.

Dining at The Jewels

Located at the summit, "The Jewels" is a fusion French restaurant that offers a unique dining experience with nearly 270-degree views of the city. The menu features local ingredients from Hokkaido, making it a perfect spot to enjoy both the food and the view.

Hiking Trails and Nature

For those who prefer to hike, Mt. Moiwa offers five mountain trails ranging from 2.4 kilometers to 4.5 kilometers. These trails allow you to explore the Moiwa Primeval Forest, which is home to various species of trees and was designated as a natural monument in 1921.

Additional Attractions

The summit complex also includes a planetarium and theater, adding to the variety of activities you can enjoy during your visit. The area is also known for its unique merchandise featuring the Mt. Moiwa character, Mo-risu, which is fashioned after the Siberian flying squirrels that inhabit the mountain.

Practical Information

• Admission: The roundtrip fare for the ropeway and mini cable car is 700 yen.
• Hours: Admission ends 30 minutes before closing, and the ropeway operates from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Seasonal Tips: If visiting during winter, be sure to wear warm clothing as it can be quite windy at the summit.

By combining these elements, Mt. Moiwa Ropeway offers an experience that is both visually stunning and rich in natural and cultural significance, making it a highlight of any visit to Sapporo.