Take a leap from the “Okura Ski Jump Stadium” and plunge into the stunning scenery of Sapporo

▲ The “Okura Ski Jump Stadium” in Sapporo — do you have the courage to jump from the starting point 307 meters high? (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Have you ever felt the urge to dive headfirst into the city lights when gazing at the glittering homes of a metropolis from above? The Okura Ski Jump Stadium in Hokkaido was once the venue for ski jumping competitions during the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics. Since then, it has hosted numerous ski jumping events. Whether viewed from the base looking up or from the top looking down, the varied perspectives make it a popular sightseeing spot.

Ride the chairlift as it winds gradually up the slope of the ski jump. Imagine yourself as a competitor ready to take the leap from the top, diving for glory. As you look back, the urban landscape of Sapporo stretches out endlessly, transitioning from the nearby to the distant, until finally, the city’s prosperity unfolds under the boundless blue sky, extending all the way to the horizon visible only to the eye.

Located on Mount Okura in the suburbs of Sapporo, the Okura Ski Jump Stadium has been a key venue for ski jumping competitions in Japan for over 30 years. It can accommodate around 30,000 spectators. After multiple renovations, it now hosts grass skiing jump competitions in summer, not just winter events.

When there are no competitions or athlete practices, the site is open to the general public. To facilitate easy access for athletes and visitors, a two-seater ski lift has been installed at the end of the jump ramp. Though your feet dangle mid-air during the short five-minute ride, daring to look back reveals the urban sprawl of Sapporo slowly rising into view, stretching to the far-reaching horizon visible only to the naked eye.

Upon reaching the observation deck at the top of the ski jump, you’ll see below the 307-meter starting point where athletes prepare to launch themselves into the air. Perhaps you’ll never have the same courage as the ski jumpers to take the plunge, but through the transparent windows, you can gaze out at the vast Ishikari Plain, the lush greenery of Hokkaido University, and the Sapporo Sports Forum — as if you have the entire city of Sapporo at your feet.

▲ Gaze down from the jump start point at night to witness Sapporo’s breathtaking nighttime scenery. (Photo / fromHokkaido Likers Chinese Fan Page)

Additionally, during special limited-time periods when it's also open at night, the observation deck offers a night view that rivals other famous sightseeing spots. That’s why it’s highly recommended as a hidden gem for night views among locals.

“Okura Ski Jump Stadium”

Address:1274 Miyanomori, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Recommended Transportation:Exit 2 of Maruyama Park Station on the Sapporo Subway Tozai Line. Take the JR bus from Maruyama Bus Stop
(Route Maru 14 – Araiyama Line), get off at “Okura Ski Jump Stadium Entrance,” a 10–15 minute ride. Then walk about 10 minutes from the bus stop to the destination.
Round-trip Chairlift Fare:Adults: 500 yen (approx. NT$150); Children: 300 yen (approx. NT$90)
Chairlift Operating Hours:
November 1 to April 7, and April 21 to 30: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
May 1 to October 31: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
※ Closed from April 8 to 20