Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is a 100-hectare public green space in Sapporo with winding paths through dense vegetation, seasonal flowers, and trees that define the landscape. The most distinctive feature is the Maruyama outcrop with its prominent rocky formation, offering views across the city.

The park was established in 1957 as a green space initiative during Sapporo's post-war reconstruction and transformed the natural area into a public recreation zone. This founding was part of the city's broader effort to balance modern urban growth with access to nature.

In spring, hundreds of cherry trees bloom in soft pink, drawing visitors to traditional hanami celebrations beneath the flowering canopy. The atmosphere during this season is shaped by families gathering to picnic under the blossoms and mark the arrival of warmer weather together.

The site has two parking areas with a combined 959 spaces at different locations, giving visitors access to various parts of the park. Most paths are accessible, though some sections involve longer walks or are set in hilly terrain.

The Shima-Hangan Monument stands quietly within the natural landscape and is easily overlooked by most visitors despite holding local historical meaning. Many people walk through the park without noticing this small memorial, making it a hidden detail known mainly to local residents.