Hokkaido University

Go on a self-guided tour of Hokkaido University and glimpse the daily activities of the city’s higher education students. Hokkaido University is famous for its leafy gardens and buildings that showcase varying architectural styles. Visit the campus museum to see collections that honor everything from a university founder, to Nobel laureates and natural science exhibits.

Start at Central Lawn, a gently sloping green space decorated with trees. A stream flows through this part of the campus. This is the southern end of Main Street, a grand boulevard crossing the campus and lined with impressive faculty buildings. Look for a statue of Dr. William S. Clark, who contributed to the founding of the university in 1876. Admire the resplendence of the French-Renaissance style Furukawa Hall and wander amid a thicket of elm trees.Stroll down Main Street to observe students and city residents jogging, riding bikes and relaxing on lawns.

The Hokkaido University Museum stores over 3 million scientific artifacts and academic items. See a life-size replica of a woolly mammoth, read about university history and have fun with interactive exhibits that stimulate the five senses. Stop to rest at the waterside café adjacent to nearby Ono Pond.

Continue your visit on the central avenue and pass through sections of glorious poplar and ginkgo trees. At the northern entrance to the campus is the Sapporo Agricultural College Model Dairy Farm. Among its balloon-framed timber structures are a bull barn, milking shed, stables and food and milk processing plants. Examples of animal-drawn farm tools from the U.S. and farming instruments from Hokkaido are on display.

Return to Central Lawn via the riverfront walkway that follows the Sakushukotoni River. Have lunch at the restaurant inside Clark Hall.

Reach the university by taking the metro to Kitajuhachijo, Kitajunijo or Sapporo station. Other city attractions associated with the university include the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden.

Visit Hokkaido University, the museum and dairy farm for free. Come in fall to witness the beautiful gold, orange, red and yellow colors of the foliage.