What other travelers are saying about Sapporo TV Tower
On Friday 22/11/2025 at 4pm, as the snow started to fall and the sky darkened, we went to 札幌テレビ塔 Sapporo TV Tower. At 4:30pm, we watched the lights-on ceremony of the annual Sapporo White Illumination Festival. It was magical seeing the lights came on fron the Sapporo TV Tower observatory deck.
I learnt that a Japanese Band called Hamburger Boys actually sang a song on Sapporo TV Tower. Pretty cute song and music video.
Afterwards, we walked to Odori Park for the German Christmas Market and witness the breathtaking さっぽろホワイトイルミネーション Sapporo White Illumination, a spectacular light festival that celebrates the coming winter with dazzling LED displays.
This Tower is 147.2 meters (483 feet) high, with an observation deck located at 90.38 meters above the ground. It was built in 1957 by architect Tachū Naitō, who also designed Tokyo Tower. The tower stands at the eastern end of Odori Park in central Sapporo, Hokkaido, serving as both a broadcasting tower and a popular tourist attraction. Its significance lies in its role as an iconic landmark of Sapporo. It was originally built as a TV transmission tower and now functions primarily as a repeater for local radio stations. The observation deck offers panoramic 360-degree views of Sapporo city and Odori Park, making it popular both day and night, especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival when the park is a winter wonderland. The tower also features large digital clocks visible from afar, enhancing its cityscape presence. It is a symbol of post-war modernization and the growth of Sapporo as a modern city.
Visitors can ascend to the observation deck to enjoy sweeping views of Sapporo, which is particularly beautiful during the day or illuminated at night. The tower also houses souvenir shops, restaurants, and exhibition spaces.
Yes, Sapporo TV Tower is equipped with facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including elevators and accessible restrooms.
The best time to visit can depend on personal preference. Daytime offers clear city views, while nighttime provides a spectacular view of the city lights. Visiting during a festival or special event can also enhance the experience.
The souvenir shop in the tower offers a range of items, from exclusive Sapporo TV Tower merchandise to local Hokkaido specialties.
The tower is easily accessible by subway, with the closest station being Odori Station. Several bus lines also stop near the tower, making it convenient for visitors traveling from different parts of the city.
Entrance fee is only 1,000 yen per adult, which is very worth it. No need to buy tickets in advance—you can purchase them directly at the counter on the spot. From the top, you get a beautiful 360° view of Sapporo City. I went during late autumn, with just a little snow on the ground, and the view was already stunning. I can imagine it being even more breathtaking in winter when everything is completely covered in white.
There’s a souvenir shop at the top and another one on level 2 or 3 (I can’t remember exactly). They also have four stamp stations, and if you collect all of them, it forms a complete picture—fun if you like small activities like that.
The tower is also located very close to Odori Park and the Sapporo Clock Tower, so it’s easy to include this in your itinerary if you’re visiting the nearby spots.
The Sapporo TV Tower is such a fun and iconic landmark right in the heart of Odori Park! 🗼✨ The view from the observation deck is amazing – you can see the whole stretch of Odori Park, the city skyline, and on a clear day even the surrounding mountains. Both day and night views are beautiful, but the evening lights of Sapporo are especially magical.
The tower itself is well maintained, easy to access, and has a friendly staff that makes the experience smooth and welcoming. The little shops at the base also have some nice souvenirs unique to Sapporo. It’s not just about the view – visiting here feels like checking off a must-do cultural landmark of Hokkaido.
Highly recommend adding it to your Sapporo itinerary – whether for sightseeing, photography, or simply enjoying the city from above! 🌆📸
We arrived at Sapporo TV Tower from Keio Plaza Hotel by walking, which took about 15–20 minutes. Since it was the weekend, the atmosphere was lively, but not overly crowded — a very pleasant vibe.
📅 13 December 2025
To avoid the cold, we walked through the underground passage, which conveniently leads directly to the front of Sapporo TV Tower and Odori Park.
When we arrived, there was a German Christmas Market, and the whole area felt very festive and full of Christmas spirit. There were many beautiful Christmas stalls set right in front of the tower, making the experience even more special.
This is definitely a must-visit photo spot in Sapporo, especially during the winter and Christmas season.
Went at night to overlook Sapporo. Very beautiful overlook and great vantage point.
Can get a little cramped up there as there is a shop for gifts etc. but overall great experience
