A Stroll Through Maruyama Park in Autumn and Hokkaido Shrine

Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine in Sapporo are popular spots in autumn for enjoying the vibrant fall foliage and experiencing traditional Japanese culture. Suggested Itinerary Start your visit at Maruyama Park, which is open 24 hours a day, making it convenient to visit at any time. The park is expansive, with a sea of red leaves and golden ginkgo trees scattered throughout. From the park, you can walk towards Hokkaido Shrine. The opening hours of Hokkaido Shrine vary by season. Starting in November, it is open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly and avoid going too late. Even if you don’t enter the shrine, walking around its exterior is equally atmospheric, offering picturesque views of traditional architecture framed by autumn leaves. Must-Visit Photo Spots 1. Central Avenue of Maruyama Park — Rows of golden ginkgo trees form a natural golden tunnel. 2. Main Gate of the Shrine Torii — A perfect blend of autumn leaves, traditional architecture, and red lanterns, exuding a quintessential Japanese vibe. 3. Shrine Pathway — Sunlight filtering through the autumn trees and fallen leaves on the ground create a scene straight out of a painting. 4. Rest areas like stone benches and pavilions in the park — The surrounding scenery is captivating and perfect for photos. Travel Tips - Although November marks late autumn, the fall foliage is still vibrant and photogenic in many areas. - Maruyama Park is large, so wear comfortable shoes to explore more. - The shrine’s opening hours are limited (7:00 AM to 4:00 PM in November), so plan ahead if you wish to enter. - Some pavilions or restrooms are tucked away, so it’s a good idea to check the map beforehand. - Sapporo’s autumn weather can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, so bring a jacket, and carry an umbrella in case of rain. - When visiting the shrine, maintain silence and avoid taking photos during prayer times to capture better shots without disturbing others.