Explore Sapporo’s spiritual and secular wonders in a day: visit Hill of the Buddha, enjoy city views, and savor local sake.
Explore Sapporo’s spiritual and secular wonders in a day: visit Hill of the Buddha, enjoy city views, and savor local sake.
- Butsuganji Sapporohonzan - Upon arriving at The Butsugan-ji (Sleeping/Lying Buddha), visitors are visually captivated by the 45-meter-long Buddha Nirvana statue, peacefully reclining on the roof of the Great Nirvana Temple Hall. This remarkable site is now regarded as one of the most spiritually powerful locations in Japan. It attracts numerous…
- Butsuganji Sapporohonzan - Upon arriving at The Butsugan-ji (Sleeping/Lying Buddha), visitors are visually captivated by the 45-meter-long Buddha Nirvana statue, peacefully reclining on the roof of the Great Nirvana Temple Hall. This remarkable site is now regarded as one of the most spiritually powerful locations in Japan. It attracts numerous visitors from across Japan and around the globe. Besides the Buddha, guests can admire the stunning Jodo Pure Land Garden, which boasts an authentic Japanese design. Nearby, a pond and a waterfall with pristine water enhance the serene atmosphere. Ancient, immaculate garden rocks are scattered throughout the garden. People visit this temple not only for its beautiful ambiance but also for its potent spiritual energy.
- Hill of The Buddha - This intricately sculpted stone Buddha statue is surrounded by a rotunda on a gently sloping artificial hill within a cemetery’s grounds. Standing 13.5 meters tall and weighing 1500 tonnes, the Buddha’s head, visible from a distance, exudes a solemn and serene presence. The entrance features a water garden that visitors typically walk around. Following this, a walk through an arched concrete tunnel leads to the Buddha statue, positioned at the center of an open rotunda that allows sunlight to illuminate it. The circular opening of the rotunda, with light streaming in, creates a “halo” effect around the Buddha statue. It is truly a magnificent sight to behold and a “must-visit” destination at any time of the year.
- Sapporo TV Tower - Next, the tour returns to central Sapporo to visit The Sapporo TV Tower. Constructed in 1957, it stands at 147.2 meters tall. This tower was designed by Tachu Naito, a renowned Japanese architect also known for designing the Tokyo Tower. Visitors can ascend to the top observation deck to enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire city of Sapporo. The guide will point out various directions from the observation deck and inform guests about specific locations.
- Susukino - The tour concludes at The Yata Sake Stand Bar, a cozy and charming stand bar frequented by both locals and tourists. The reason for its popularity is clear. The staff are exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable about sake. This is a “must-visit” for anyone who enjoys sake and wishes to learn more about the different varieties available.

- English Speaking Guide
- Entry fees at all tour locations
- Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities
- Sake Tasting
- English Speaking Guide
- Entry fees at all tour locations
- Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities
- Sake Tasting
- Lunch
- Accommodation
- Transport to meet-up point
- Lunch
- Accommodation
- Transport to meet-up point
This delightful one-day tour offers an exploration of Sapporo’s contemporary religious heritage, complemented by breathtaking views of its downtown area and expansive central park, culminating in a sake tasting experience to conclude the day!
The tour includes a visit to the impressive golden sleeping Buddha at Butsuganji Temple and the Hill of the…
This delightful one-day tour offers an exploration of Sapporo’s contemporary religious heritage, complemented by breathtaking views of its downtown area and expansive central park, culminating in a sake tasting experience to conclude the day!
The tour includes a visit to the impressive golden sleeping Buddha at Butsuganji Temple and the Hill of the Buddha, which beautifully blends modern art with ancient religious traditions, showcasing the unique way the people of Sapporo combine spirituality and creativity.
Following lunch, the tour continues with a trip to downtown Sapporo, a journey up the iconic TV Tower, and a sake tasting session at a cozy local bar, providing a glimpse into the secular aspects of this Northern Japanese city.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.