Sapporo is a bustling city that offers plenty to see and do, with countless events, shopping, and dining opportunities. But if you’re looking for a refreshing change of scenery, why not visit the nearby peak of Mt. Moiwa? From the summit of this mountain, you can see the spectacular Sapporo cityscape spread before your eyes, sparkling with bright lights at night. As a matter of fact, the night view of Sapporo has been chosen as one of the "New Three Most Beautiful Nightscapes of Japan".
The best way to get to the top of Mt. Moiwa is the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. This cable car features large glass windows that let you enjoy the scenery below as you go up to the Mid Station. At the Mid Station, there is a souvenir shop where you can buy various Hokkaido souvenirs, including original items featuring Morris and Morris Mama, the ropeway’s mascot characters. It is also the boarding point for the Morris Car that goes up to the Summit Station. The summit’s observatory has been designated as a Lover's Sanctuary, and couples can ring the Bell of Happiness, or attach a padlock to the fence as a symbol of their lasting love. The Summit Station also features a planetarium and a restaurant that has a romantic atmosphere perfect for anniversaries or marriage proposals.
Mt. Moiwa Ropeway
Address: Fushimi 5-3-7, Chuo-ku, Sapporo City
Website：http://moiwa.sapporo-dc.co.jp/
Phone: +81-11-561-8177
Season: All year round
Charges: Ropeway and Morris Car set charge: Adults (age 13 and up) 1,700 yen (round trip), 900 yen (one way) / Children (age 12 and below) 850 yen (round trip), 450 yen (one way)
Opening hours:
April 1 to late November: 10:30 – 22:00 (last ascent 21:30)
December 1 to March 31: 11:00 – 22:00 (last ascent 21:30)
December 31: 11:00 – 17:00 (last ascent 16:30)
January 1: 5:00 – 17:00 (last ascent 16:30)
Closed days: Closed for maintenance during late November
Note: Free round trip set ticket for birthday celebrants (must be on the day of your birthday). You must show your passport or other ID with your birthdate at the ticket counter.
Information about transport passes:
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/ticket/railpass/index.html
Travelling within Hokkaido
https://japanbyjapan.com/blog/travelling-within-hokkaido
*Information is correct as of January 2019.
