Hoheikan Sapporo
A historic 1881 European-style building in Nakajima Park, once a hotel for emperors, now a museum and event space.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat in a cool space
Hoheikan Sapporo
Best Time
Escape the heat in a cool space

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1881 European-style building in Nakajima Park, once a hotel for emperors, now a museum and event space.
"A surprisingly interesting and pretty gem of a building, meticulously maintained."
☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break
The cafe inside offers a peaceful spot to relax with a drink after exploring the historic building.
🏛️ Appreciate the Architecture
While interiors can be sparse, focus on the building's European-style design and historical significance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
Nakajima Park
Step back in time at this stunning Meiji-era European-style building, a former hotel for Japanese emperors.

Tranquil Cafe
Inside Hoheikan
Enjoy a coffee and relax in a calm, historic setting within the building's annex.

Event Space & Museum
Hoheikan
Explore the building's history as a museum and witness its use as a venue for events and weddings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Location & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break
The cafe inside offers a peaceful spot to relax with a drink after exploring the historic building.
🏛️ Appreciate the Architecture
While interiors can be sparse, focus on the building's European-style design and historical significance.
🚶♀️ Combine with Park Visit
Hoheikan is located in Nakajima Park, perfect for a stroll before or after your visit.
💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced, making it an accessible historical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break
The cafe inside offers a peaceful spot to relax with a drink after exploring the historic building.
🏛️ Appreciate the Architecture
While interiors can be sparse, focus on the building's European-style design and historical significance.
🚶♀️ Combine with Park Visit
Hoheikan is located in Nakajima Park, perfect for a stroll before or after your visit.
💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced, making it an accessible historical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hoheikan is appreciated for its historical significance and European-style architecture, offering a glimpse into Sapporo's past. While some find the interiors a bit sparse, the affordable entry and peaceful cafe make it a worthwhile stop, especially when combined with the adjacent Nakajima Park.
"There isn‘t that much to see but it‘s still an interesting place to visit! The tickets are very cheap (for university students just 150¥!) and english information is available. It‘s fun to imagine being a guest in the hotel a hundret years ago!
I just think that the building is too sparely decorated. There are very few furniture inside, some rooms are just empty. On walls you can see hooks where it seemed there was a painting hanhing, but now they are just blank. I think it would be nice the interior was more than the original since it looks a little bit lost in it‘s empty state.
Nevertheless, a good spot to experience some history in the heart of Sapporo!"
Patority
"An important historical piece of architecture thats well preserved and conserved. This is now a museum and events place. We weren't able to go in as it's closed but we got to enjoy the beautiful exterior."
Jeff McD
"surprisingly interesting and pretty gem of a building used as a hotel for three emperors of Japan . Very modest interiors but due to royal fans bestowed to it , everything is meticulously maintained. They even built an annex to the back of the structure to allow disabled access and presumably stabilize the old building ."
Wing Au
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hoheikan is located within Nakajima Park. You can reach it via the Sapporo Subway Namboku Line to Nakajima-Koen Station. From there, it's a short walk to the building.
Yes, Hoheikan is well-served by public transport. The nearest subway station is Nakajima-Koen, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Sapporo.
While it's a bit of a walk, you can reach Hoheikan from Sapporo Station by walking through Odori Park and then heading towards Nakajima Park. Alternatively, take the subway.
Information on specific parking near Hoheikan is limited, but Nakajima Park has parking areas. It's generally recommended to use public transport for easier access.
An annex was built to allow for disabled access, suggesting some accessibility features. It's advisable to check directly for the most up-to-date information regarding strollers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hoheikan's opening hours can vary as it also functions as an event space. It's best to check their official website or local listings for current operating times before your visit.
Entry tickets to Hoheikan are generally inexpensive, with student discounts often available. Prices are considered very reasonable for the historical experience offered.
Advance booking is typically not required for general visits to Hoheikan, but it's always a good idea to check if you plan to attend a specific event.
While not always explicitly advertised, staff may be available to provide information. Some visitors have mentioned friendly staff who can share details about the establishment.
Hoheikan has been featured during the Sapporo Snow Festival with projection mapping. Check the festival schedule for specific events and displays.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside Hoheikan, you can explore its historical architecture, learn about its past as a hotel for emperors, and visit a cafe. Some visitors note the interiors can be sparsely decorated.
Many visitors find Hoheikan worthwhile for its historical significance, European-style architecture, and the peaceful atmosphere, especially when combined with Nakajima Park.
Hoheikan is a significant historical building from 1881, known for its European architectural style and its past role as a hotel for three Japanese emperors.
While not always extensive, there are often videos and displays detailing the establishment's history. Visitors can spend time watching these and exploring the building.
Photography is generally permitted inside Hoheikan for personal use, allowing you to capture its unique architecture and historical ambiance.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within Hoheikan, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy coffee and relax amidst the historic surroundings.
The cafe offers coffee and other beverages. Some visitors mention the option of a ticket that includes a drink.
Hoheikan is located in Nakajima Park, and the surrounding Sapporo city center offers numerous dining options, from ramen to seafood.
Hoheikan primarily functions as a museum and event space with an attached cafe. It is not a full-service restaurant, but the cafe provides refreshments.
The cafe is described as having a beautiful, calm, and quiet atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of Hoheikan, with its European-style architecture set against the backdrop of Nakajima Park, is very photogenic. The interior also offers unique architectural details.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Hoheikan for personal use, allowing you to capture its historical charm.
Hoheikan is beautiful year-round. In spring, cherry blossoms surround it; in summer, it's lush green; and in winter, it can be picturesque with snow.
Hoheikan is ideal for architectural photography, historical site photography, and capturing serene moments, especially with its park setting.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a day with good weather to enjoy the park. The cafe inside Hoheikan can be a nice spot for a break, and the affordable ticket prices make it an accessible option for families. Focus on the story of the emperors visiting to make the history more engaging for younger visitors.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
While the interiors might be minimalist, the focus remains on the building's structural integrity and historical context. The fact that it hosted three Japanese emperors adds a layer of royal significance. Combine your visit with exploring other historical sites in Sapporo to get a broader understanding of the city's past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Sapporo's Past
While the building's exterior is striking, many visitors note that the interior can feel somewhat sparsely decorated. However, this simplicity allows for a focus on the architectural details and the historical narrative. The presence of an annex for disabled access also highlights its ongoing preservation and adaptation.
Visiting Hoheikan offers a unique opportunity to connect with Sapporo's history beyond the more modern attractions. It’s a place to appreciate architectural heritage and the stories embedded within its walls, making it a valuable stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Experiencing Hoheikan and Nakajima Park
Visitors can easily combine their trip to Hoheikan with a leisurely stroll through Nakajima Park. In spring, the park is known for its cherry blossoms, while summer offers lush greenery. The park provides a serene environment to reflect on the historical significance of Hoheikan and enjoy the outdoors.
This combination makes Hoheikan and Nakajima Park an ideal destination for a relaxed half-day outing. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a peaceful park setting, this area offers a well-rounded experience in Sapporo.
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