Is there an admission fee to enter the Former Hokkaido Government Building?

No, entry to the Former Hokkaido Government Building is free. Visitors can explore the building and its exhibits without any charge.

What are the best times to visit the Former Hokkaido Government Building?

While the building is fascinating year-round, the spring and autumn seasons are particularly beautiful due to the cherry blossoms and fall foliage in the surrounding gardens.

Why is it called the "Red Brick Office"?

The building is commonly referred to as the "Red Brick Office" due to its distinctive red brick facade, which stands out as a prominent architectural feature in the area.

Can visitors tour the inside of the building?

Yes, visitors can tour the inside of the building. It houses various exhibitions and displays that provide insights into Hokkaido's history and culture.

Is photography allowed inside the building?

Photography rules can vary, with some areas allowing photography while others may restrict it. It's advisable to follow on-site guidelines or ask staff for clarification.

Hokkaido

Former Hokkaido Government Building

4.1 (1860)City HallLocal Government OfficeGovernment OfficePoint Of InterestServiceEstablishment

Last updated May 24, 2026

The Former Hokkaido Government Office Building, known locally as Akarenga or "Red Brick Building," stands as one of Sapporo's most recognizable landmarks. Constructed in 1888 during the Meiji era, this American neo-baroque style structure served as the administrative center of Hokkaido for 80 years until 1968. The building's distinctive red brick facade, made from approximately 2.5 million bricks, has become an iconic symbol of Hokkaido's development history and the island's rapid modernization during Japan's early modern period.

The building holds significant cultural value as a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, representing the architectural ambitions of Hokkaido's colonial administration. Its design reflects Western architectural influences that swept through Japan during the Meiji Restoration, while the structure itself tells the story of Hokkaido's transformation from frontier territory to fully integrated prefecture. The building has been carefully preserved and now functions as a museum documenting Hokkaido's administrative history and development.

Visitors can explore the building's elegant interior rooms, which have been restored to their original appearance with period furnishings and historical exhibits. The museum displays include documents, photographs, and artifacts related to Hokkaido's governmental history and the island's settlement. The spacious grounds feature beautifully maintained gardens with ponds and seasonal flowers, providing a peaceful urban retreat. The building is particularly photogenic during winter when snow covers its red brick exterior, creating striking contrasts.

The Former Hokkaido Government Office Building is located in central Sapporo, approximately 10 minutes' walk from Sapporo Station. Visitors can also reach it via a 5-minute walk from Odori Station on the Namboku, Tozai, or Toho subway lines. Admission to both the building and grounds is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. The site is conveniently positioned near other Sapporo attractions including Odori Park and the Sapporo Clock Tower, allowing for easy integration into a walking tour of the city's historic center.

Hours

Monday: 8:45 AM – 5:30 PM

Tuesday: 8:45 AM – 5:30 PM

Wednesday: 8:45 AM – 5:30 PM

Thursday: 8:45 AM – 5:30 PM

Friday: 8:45 AM – 5:30 PM

Phone

+81 11-231-4111

Website

www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp

Overview

Address

6-chōme-1 Kita 3 Jōnishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0003, Japan

Places & attractions near Former Hokkaido Government Building

A tall red and white broadcast tower rises above lush green trees and colorful flower beds in a sunny park under a vibrant blue sky with scattered clouds.

Odori Park

A close-up view of a white clock tower with Roman numerals, framed by blooming lilac flowers and green leaves against a clear blue sky.

Sapporo Clock Tower

A lush, green park with scattered trees, people walking or relaxing in the background, and sunlight filtering through the branches. The scene is peaceful and spacious with a mix of shade and open grassy areas.

Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens

Lake Onneto, Ashoro

Places & attractions near Former Hokkaido Government Building

Odori Park

Sapporo Clock Tower

Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens

Lake Onneto, Ashoro

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

If you are in Sapporo, make sure to visit this place. I went last January '26 and the building was so beautiful covered in snow. I appreciate the displays and visuals in the museum. Some parts were interactive and very engaging. I especially like the room showcasing products from different towns of Hokkaido. The store inside has the best and cutest Shima Enaga souvenirs I found during my trip. There was an entrace fee but it was worth it as I stayed more than an hour because I really enjoyed it.

Grace Cornelio

Feb 4, 2026

This looked even more beautiful surrounded by snow. It feels like stepping into another time upon seeing the historical facade of the building. We took a lot of photos here because of the contrast of the red building and the white snow.

Former Hokkaido Government Office Building is a beautiful red brick landmark in Sapporo. The exhibitions are interesting, especially the rooms showcasing products from different cities across Hokkaido. A nice place to explore and learn more about the region.

If you wish to explore the interior, an entrance ticket is required. However, if you prefer not to go inside, you can still walk around the exterior, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings for free. The interior design is very elegant and refined — for its time, it must have been considered truly luxurious and grand.

We visited the Former Hokkaido Government Office, affectionately known as the Red Brick Office, during our walk around Sapporo and were pleasantly surprised by how charming it was. The red-brick architecture really stands out in the city—it’s elegant, classic, and photogenic from every angle. Even though restoration works were ongoing, the surrounding gardens were still open and beautifully maintained. We strolled through paths lined with flowers and trees, and there were plenty of spots to stop for photos or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Inside, we explored some of the history exhibits and even saw a reconstruction of the Governor’s office. It’s not a huge museum, but it’s rich in Hokkaido’s heritage and doesn’t take long to explore. This place felt like a calm, green pause in the middle of the city and gave us a meaningful glimpse into Hokkaido’s past. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Sapporo.