Hokkaido University in Japan, with a history of over 100 years, features European-style farms and wallet-friendly cafeterias

Text/Photos byMonaka

With its beautiful scenery and century-long history, Hokkaido University has become a well-known tourist attraction in Sapporo and ranks among the campuses most desired by travelers to visit across all of Japan.

It takes just 10 minutes to walk from Sapporo Station to the university’s main gate, making convenient transportation one of the reasons for its popularity. However, most visitors only explore the southern and central areas, with not many venturing to the northern part — unaware that the northern farm offers a completely different vibe from the rest of the campus.

To save some energy, you can take the subway to North 18th-Jō Station, and from there walk into the “Sapporo Agricultural College Second Farm,” which is designated as an important cultural property.

The predecessor of Hokkaido University was Sapporo Agricultural College. The farm preserves many historic buildings — rows of red-brick sloped-roof wooden farmhouses built on lush green lawns, surrounded by dense woods. Under the vast blue sky like a giant canvas, for a moment you might feel as if you’ve flown to a Nordic farmstead. The barns, cowsheds, and livestock houses all retain their original designs, offering a glimpse into the pioneering days of modern dairy farming.

Heading south, you’ll pass by the buildings of various faculties. Watching college students pedal past you, sweating and full of youthful vigor, almost makes you feel like you’ve gone back to being 18 again.

Arriving at the Central Cafeteria, located on the main road in the center of the campus, it’s very easy to find and becomes the most frequently visited cafeteria by tourists. It offers buffet meals, N<饭、拉面等各式餐点，只要三、四百日圆的铜板价，就能吃到丰盛美味又饱足的一餐，这么佛心的价格，非常适合想节省荷包的背包客。

There’s also the Hokkaido University Co-op Central Store, essentially the campus convenience store, selling affordable drinks, snacks, and stationery — some even cheaper than convenience stores — making it a great energy refill spot for travelers. They also sell various limited-edition souvenirs issued by the university, including T-shirts, fans, and postcards printed with the Hokkaido University logo... perfect as mementos of your visit.

The Poplar Avenue (ポプラ並木) is one of the symbolic landmarks of Hokkaido University. Standing in the middle of the seemingly endless path, surrounded by towering poplar trees on both sides, the lush green sight in summer is already spectacular — it’s hard to imagine how beautiful it must be when the leaves change color in autumn.

In addition to the most iconic Poplar Avenue and Ginkgo Avenue, tree-lined paths can be found throughout the campus. Take a deep breath, and the air is filled with the fragrance of greenery.

Head to “Ōno Pond” in the center of the campus, stroll along the path encircling the pond, embraced by the shade of towering trees, and admire ducks playing in the water and the elegant presence of water lilies.

The General Museum, with its historic European-style exterior, houses numerous exhibitions that are regularly updated with new themes, providing students with a diverse range of knowledge.

In front of the memorial statue of the first president, Dr. Clark, there’s always no shortage of tourists eager to take commemorative photos. The statue bears the inspirational quote: “Boys, be ambitious!”

The Clark Hall houses the Clark Cafeteria, another popular budget-friendly eatery among students.

The white building standing out vividly against the greenery is the “Furukawa Hall,” designed in French Renaissance style and registered as a tangible cultural property of Japan.

The affiliated library boasts a rich collection of books and advanced multimedia facilities.

The Academic Exchange Hall is often used as a venue for large conferences or international symposiums in Sapporo.

The endless expanse of emerald-green lawns makes you want to run and roll around on them. Indeed, many students are seen lying on the grass with a book in hand, enjoying a read. It’s hard not to envy these students — studying in such a beautiful campus is truly a privilege.

A leisurely stroll from the northern farm to the main gate takes about two hours. The lush, expansive campus, with its historic European-style buildings, natural beauty, artistic aesthetics, and strong academic atmosphere, is perfect for a walk or seeking inspiration. It’s highly recommended to spend a half-day here as a “fake university student” and rediscover your youthful spirit.

Hokkaido University
Official Website
Address: Kita 8 Jo Nishi 5 Chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Phone: 011-716-2111
Transportation: 10-minute walk from the north exit of JR Sapporo Station

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