Sapporo TV Tower

Wednesday, July 24, 2019 Updated

Giant TV Tower in Sapporo | Hokkaido

Located on the edge of Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower is a popular landmark of Hokkaido. The top of the observation deck stands at approximately 90 meters above the ground with a gorgeous 360° view of Sapporo. Built in 1957 by the same Japanese architect and firm who designed Tokyo Tower (Tachu Naito), Sapporo TV Tower is a beloved landmark by locals and tourists alike.

The TV tower has five floors and two functioning elevators for travelers to use. The first (ground) floor includes an information center and souvenir stores. The second floor features a multipurpose hall and administration office, while the third floor has another souvenir shop, restaurant, and elevator services to the observation deck high above. The observation deck is a popular tourist attraction in Sapporo, especially during the scenic Flower Carpet Event or Winter Snow Festival.

Popular Hokkaido Tourist Destination

In addition to the tourist shopping sections on the third floor, Sapporo Tower also offers other great entertainment options. In case travelers have a fear of heights, there are also shopping and dining options connected through the basement of the tower in the Aurora Town shopping arcade and Tele-chika Gourmet food court. The food court is a must for any Hokkaido Tour visiting Sapporo to experience the fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables available in the northern island.

After a little more than halfway up the tower are digital clocks (65 meters above the ground) on each side of the tower donated by Matsushita Electrical Industrial Co. Like many Japanese cities and landmarks, Sapporo Tower's official mascot is named Tawakkie with merchandise available at the stores in the tower.

Popular Winter Holiday Illumination

While the Tower used to stand out in Sapporo, the observation deck remains a popular tourist spot despite the increase in tall buildings in the surrounding area. The observation deck is especially popular during the Winter holiday season, when the entire Odori Park is lit up with stunning lights for a memorable winter illumination show. The tower also dons lights and the resulting scene looks to be as from a Japanese fairly tale filled with magic and wonder.

Couples can also rent out the observation deck after the tower closes for 30 minutes at a time (reservation required). Enjoy the beautiful Sapporo skyline with Japan Deluxe Tours during our fully-guided Hokkaido Tour vacations available during Summer and Winter holidays.