Sights in Sapporo
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Clock Tower
A famous Sapporo landmark, the clocktower is about a 10-minute walk from the JR Sapporo Station or a three-minute walk from Ōdōri Station. Enter by 17:00. Visitors can look at some clocks and get a brief history of the building, which was built in 1878 and (supposedly) has never missed tolling the hour for 120 years.
It's also known as one of Japan's top three gakkari (disappointing) spots, mainly because the brochure photos often remove the urban metropolis that dwarfs the small building. You might walk right by before realising it's right in front of you.
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B
Hokkaidō University
Established in 1876, Hokkaidō University is a scenic place to meander and has a number of unique buildings within its grounds. The bust of William S Clark is a landmark, as are the Poplar and Gingko Aves. (Caution: the odoriferous gingko nuts sometimes cause an itchy rash; it's best not to handle them.) Elms and oaks are also common. Many of the tallest and oldest trees on campus were damaged in 2004 by a severe typhoon. The Furukawa Memorial Hall and the Seikatei are architecturally noteworthy. Several campus museums are open to the public.
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C
Hokudai Shokubutsuen
This botanical garden and museum complex, run by Hokkaidō University, has more than 5000 varieties of Hokkaidō's flora and is a relaxing spot for an afternoon nap. Near the main gate is a small Ainu (Japanese aboriginal people) museum with a good collection of Ainu tools, clothing, household utensils and ceremonial objects.
It's open daily except during October and early November when it is closed on Monday. Between early November and April, only the greenhouse is open to visitors.
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D
Tokei-dai
This clock tower was constructed in 1878 and has now become the symbol of Sapporo and a useful landmark for visitors. It's not particularly stunning, but you can wander around a small museum of local history. It's open daily (except Monday).
The clock tower was renovated in 1998, although the clock itself did not need repairs. Two generations of the Inoue family have voluntarily kept it in meticulous working order - allegedly, the clock has never missed tolling the hour in over 120 years.
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Hokkaidō Jingu
The temple's near Maruyama-kōen, nestled in a forest so dense it's easy to forget that the city is just beyond the temple's grounds. Attention has been paid to labelling the natural surroundings: a large plaque lists a number of local birds and the largest trees have identification signs. To the right of the temple, near the toilets, you'll find a small souvenir shop that serves free ocha (green tea) and sweets. Purchasing postcards or a confection is not required.
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Moiwa-yama Ropeway
This ropeway offers panoramic views of Sapporo, especially on a clear night. Don't plan on bringing your date here for a fancy meal, though: the food is cafeteria-style and far from romantic. Very occasionally, the ropeway may be closed due to high winds.
Be sure to ask for the discount coupon when you take the tram, as you receive a discount if the conductor stamps your ticket.
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Salmon Museum
Half aquarium, half museum, the interesting salmon museum is a tribute to one of the world's most delicious fish. It's located across the street from the Sapporo Winter Sports Museum. Check out over 20 different species of salmon in varying stages of development. Salamanders, turtles and frogs are on display as well. Great place to go with kids.
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Hokkaidō Museum of Literature
This offers viewers the opportunity to see the private side of many of Japan's famous novelists, primarily those with a Hokkaidō connection. Letters, memorabilia, books and short films all help viewers understand why these writers have earned a place in the canon of Japanese literature. English signage is limited.
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TV Tower
There's no way you'd overlook the Eiffel Tower-shaped affair at the east of Ōdōri-kōen: the TV Tower is 90m high. It has a 360-degree view of the city and souvenir shops below.
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E
Ainu Association of Hokkaidō
Located just across the street from Sapporo's impressive botanical gardens and museum, the association has an office and a display room of robes, tools and historical information.
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Hokkaidō Museum of Modern Art
There is a comprehensive collection of modern works by primarily Japanese artists. Special exhibitions feature a variety of foreign and native artists. Enter by 16:30.
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Viewing Deck
The city hall's viewing deck is free. It's just northwest of the TV Tower, on the 19th floor.
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