1 Day Tour in Sapporo Mt Maruyama Hike and Okurayama Ski Jump

Exploring Sapporo’s Natural Beauty: A Complete Review of the Mt. Maruyama Hike & Okurayama Ski Jump Tour

This 1-day tour in Sapporo offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and breathtaking scenery that makes it a standout option for those looking to escape city life for a day. Led by an experienced English-speaking guide, the tour takes you through two of Sapporo’s most iconic outdoor spots—Mt. Maruyama and Mt. Okurayama—each with its own unique charm and views.

What we love most about this experience is its balance of active exploration and relaxed sightseeing, offering a chance to enjoy nature without feeling rushed. The scenic hike up Mt. Maruyama is both manageable and rewarding with panoramic city views, while the visit to the Olympic ski jump stadium offers a fascinating look at Japan’s winter sports history. Plus, the included tickets and transportation add value to the overall experience.

One potential consideration is that this tour suits those comfortable with moderate outdoor activity; it covers around 2 hours of hiking and some walking around the ski stadium. For travelers seeking a leisurely day, this active component may require a bit of stamina. That said, it’s ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting an authentic slice of Sapporo’s natural landscape in a manageable full-day format.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded, scenic experience with expert guidance, especially in spring or summer when the weather makes outdoor exploration even more enjoyable.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The panoramas from Mt. Maruyama and Okurayama are truly spectacular, perfect for photography.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines hiking, sightseeing, and cultural stops with a manageable pace.
• Included Tickets & Transport: All entrance fees and transportation are covered, simplifying planning and budgeting.
• Expert Guide: An English-speaking guide ensures smooth navigation and local insights.
• Active but Accessible: The hike is comfortable, suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness.
• Seasonal Appeal: Best enjoyed in spring and summer for optimal weather and scenery.

A Closer Look at the Day’s Adventure

Starting Point at Sapporo Station

Your day begins promptly at 8 a.m. in front of Myomu, the recognizable circular stone structure near the South Exit of Sapporo Station. This spot is easy to find and serves as the perfect meet-up point. From here, the tour’s transportation kicks in, whisking you to your first destination with comfort and ease.

Hiking Mt. Maruyama: A Gentle Climb with Big Rewards

The hike up Mt. Maruyama is designed to be accessible, taking about two hours to reach the 225-meter summit. The route follows the Maruyama Hachijuhakksho Hiking Course, a popular trail that offers a gentle ascent ideal for most fitness levels. The pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to soak in the surroundings and enjoy the tranquility away from the city noise.

According to a review, the guide’s approach is “comfortable,” balancing engagement with plenty of time for photos and breaks. As you ascend, expect to see lush greenery, well-maintained trail markers, and periodic viewpoints. The summit offers panoramic vistas of Sapporo’s skyline, the surrounding mountains, and even distant glimpses of the sea on clear days.

Relaxing at the Mt. Maruyama Summit

Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views that are perfect for photos. The guide often encourages guests to relax, take in the scenery, and capture memories before starting the descent. The return hike is at a steady, comfortable pace, taking about three hours total round-trip, leaving plenty of time to explore or ask questions about the local flora and fauna.

Exploring Okurayama Ski Jump and the Olympic Winter Museum

After descending Mt. Maruyama, the tour moves onward to Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, an Olympic site that still draws winter sports enthusiasts. The site features a museum showcasing Japan’s winter sports legacy; a favorite among visitors is the insider knowledge shared by guides about the history of ski jumping in Japan, making the visit educational as well as scenic.

The highlight here is riding the chairlifts to the observation deck at the top of the ski jump. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy one of the most panoramic views on the tour—an expansive look over Sapporo, surrounding mountains, and the stadium itself. Several reviewers mention how “beautiful” and “breathtaking” the scenery is from this spot, with one noting that it’s a perfect place to appreciate the scale of the ski jump and the landscape.

Wrapping Up at Sapporo Station

The day concludes with a 15-minute ride back to Sapporo Station. The guide will ensure everyone is comfortably returned, wrapping up around around 6 p.m. depending on the pace of the group.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $149.94 per person, the price covers all admission tickets, guided commentary, and transportation—an excellent deal considering the inclusions. The tour’s compact schedule packs a lot into one day, making it perfect for travelers who want efficiency without sacrificing outdoor experiences.

The fact that all tickets are included means no surprise expenses, which is a relief for budget-conscious travelers. Plus, the small group size—capped at 15—ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it offers a chance to genuinely connect with Sapporo’s natural environment. The guide, Scott, was praised for punctuality and local knowledge, enhancing the experience with stories and tips. For example, the review quotes, “Scott turned up, on time at the agreed spot,” and adds a sense of reassurance for travelers wary of tours starting late or being disorganized.

The itinerary is well-paced for most, but travelers should be prepared for around 2 hours of hiking and some walking around the ski jump. In summer, the weather is likely warm and pleasant, making the hike more enjoyable. However, it’s wise to bring sun protection and insect repellent, as these are not included.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes transport from and back to Sapporo Station, removing the stress of navigating public transit or renting a car. Meeting at the designated spot early ensures a timely start, and the small group size fosters a friendly, conversational atmosphere.

Season Considerations

While available year-round, the best time to enjoy this tour is during spring or summer — when the weather is warmer and the views are at their most vibrant. In winter, the ski jump stadium is active, but snow and cold weather might limit some outdoor parts of the experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a perfect blend of hiking, sightseeing, and cultural insight in a manageable full-day format. It’s particularly suitable for outdoor lovers, nature photographers, and history buffs interested in winter sports.

Travelers seeking a guided experience that combines physical activity with stunning scenery will find this tour engaging and worthwhile. It’s also a great way to see some of Sapporo’s most iconic outdoor sites without the hassle of planning transportation or entry tickets.

For those new to hiking or outdoor activities, the gentle ascent up Mt. Maruyama makes it accessible. Conversely, seasoned hikers will enjoy the convenience of a well-organized tour with expert commentary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families with children, as the hike is manageable and the pace relaxed. However, very young children might find the ascent tiring.

How long is the total hiking time?
The hike up Mt. Maruyama takes about 2 hours, and the descent is included in the overall schedule. Expect about 4-5 hours total for hiking and sightseeing.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Sapporo before or after the tour.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and water are recommended. The guide doesn’t provide healthcare items, so bring what you need for personal comfort.

Can I join this tour during winter?
Yes, it’s available year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for outdoor hiking and viewing. In winter, snow might affect the walk and visibility.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This Sapporo day tour offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into the city’s natural landscapes, blending active pursuits with awe-inspiring scenery. Whether you’re after a photo-worthy hike or an energetic introduction to Japan’s northern beauty, this experience is well worth considering.