Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office)

Red Brick Office | Hokkaido

The Former Hokkaido Government Building was built and rebuilt many times and was based on designs that were popular in the United States at the time. Built to be the administrative base for Hokkaido, the building is currently open to the public with exhibition and conference rooms on two floors and a gift shop. While it was once the largest building in Japan, multiple fires and reconstruction have occurred long-since the building was first constructed. The building features French-inspired brickwork, a unique ventilation system with chimneys and tiles, wooden pane windows, triple decorative arches, and paintings by locals are hung up in the corridors and exhibition rooms.

Cherry Blossom Viewing

While the Flower Carpet event is held in the summer, the Former Hokkaido Government Building is also a great place to view cherry blossoms during the spring. There are many types of cherry blossom trees planted along the building including the yae and kasumi-zakura's. Due to the variety, the trees bloom at different times making it a great stop any time in May to see Japanese cherry blossoms. There are also other Japanese flowers to enjoy in the front that bloom during the same time as the sakura, causing many to flock to the building during the warmer months. The Red Brick Building is considered one of the best places to go during hanami in Spring or while the Autumn leaves turn crisp shades of orange and red during koyo season.

Akarenga

The building is affectionately called Red Brick or akarenga by the locals because of the bright red facade. Some of the bricks have scorch marks from previous fires towards the base of the building while the bricks to the top maintain a bright red look. The deep red is especially pronounced during the winter holidays, when fresh snow blankets the building in a powdery white.

Regardless of the season, Sapporo's Red Brick building is perfect to enjoy Japan's cherry blossoms, the changing leaves, or fresh snow while on a Hokkaido Tour. Consider adding the Red Brick Building to a custom vacation in Spring to maximize your hanami vacation. We also offer fully-guided Hokkaido Japan Tour Packages for guests during Summer and Fall to explore the charms of Japan's northern island.

Former Hokkaido Government Office Building | Related Japan Tours

Former Hokkaido Government Office Building | Related Travel