📝 1. Overview
Affectionately known as the “Red Brick Office,” the Former Hokkaido Government Office is a proud symbol of Hokkaido’s frontier history. Built in 1888 and restored to its Meiji-era grandeur, this Western-style structure stands out with its red bricks, grand dome, and serene gardens. Whether you’re admiring cherry blossoms in spring, strolling among summer flowers, or capturing golden leaves in fall, it’s a peaceful and photogenic escape right in the heart of Sapporo. A visit here blends culture, history, and natural beauty all in one.
🌟 2. Highlights
🏛️ Red Brick Architecture – Classic 19th-century American neo-baroque style
🌸 Seasonal Gardens – Cherry blossoms (April), tulips (May), fall leaves (October)
📸 Top Photo Spot – Reflection pond with red-brick building backdrop
🖼️ Historical Exhibits – Learn about Hokkaido’s development and pioneers
🎓 Library & Archive Room – Insight into early Hokkaido governance
🌃 Night Illumination – Subtle lighting makes it glow after sunset
🌿 Free Admission – Walk through the building and gardens freely
💡 3. Tips
📸 Best photo spots:
– Front pond for reflection shots
– Side garden paths during cherry blossom or fall foliage
– Nighttime shots when the building is gently lit
🌸 Visit in mid to late April for cherry blossoms
🍁 Fall foliage peaks in late October to early November
🕒 Arrive in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds
🎫 Entry is free, but check for special exhibitions inside
🧥 Bring layers in spring/fall — gardens are breezy
🛏️ Ideal for travelers interested in architecture, history, or quiet strolls
🍽️ 4. Nearby Eats – Top 3 Around Red Brick Office
- Aka Renga Terrace
🍝 Stylish food court & restaurants next to the government building
📍 4 Chome-1 Kita 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward
🕒 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🚶 2 min walk from Red Brick Office - CAFE de NORD
☕ Elegant café with parfaits, sandwiches & Hokkaido milk soft cream
📍 Inside Sapporo Grand Hotel
🕒 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
🚶 4 min walk from the site - Soup Curry Yellow
🍛 Bold-flavored soup curry with veggie & meat options
📍 2 Chome-4-3 Minami 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward
🕒 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM / 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
🚇 10 min walk or 1 subway stop from Odori
🍽️ 4B. Sub-Zone Picks – Red Brick Office Grounds
🏛️ Main Building Interior
– Free museum with Hokkaido development history
– Historical furniture, old maps, and government records
🌿 Front Garden & Pond Area
– Iconic selfie/photo spot
– Seasonal flower beds and benches
🌸 Side Paths & Lawn
– Best for cherry blossoms and foliage
– Calm escape just minutes from downtown
🚗 5. Access
📍 From Sapporo Station
🚶 7–10 min walk south (follow signs to “Aka Renga”)
🚇 Subway Namboku Line → Odori Station (1 stop), then walk 5 min
📍 Getting Around Locally
🚶 Walkable from Sapporo Station, Odori, and nearby shopping areas
🚲 Rent-a-cycle options nearby for short rides
🛏️ Stay in Sapporo Station area for easy access to major landmarks
📞 6. Contact / Info
🌐 https://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp
📍 6 Chome Kita 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
📞 +81-11-204-5019
🕒 8:45 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Year-end/New Year)
🎟️ Admission: Free