Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Takushinkan is a private photo gallery established by renowned landscape photographer Shinzo Maeda. It is located on the former site of Chiyoda Elementary School in Biei, Hokkaido. Even if the weather is not perfect, this is a place where you can encounter the astonishingly beautiful landscapes of rolling hills that will leave you breathless.

Maeda devoted his life to capturing the stunning scenery of Biei. His works became widely known throughout Japan, often featured in postcards, photo books, advertisements, and TV commercials. Inside the gallery, visitors can take their time appreciating his extensive collection of photographs that vividly showcase the charm of Biei’s landscapes.

The expansive grounds surrounding the gallery are also worth exploring. You can stroll through a picturesque white birch corridor and enjoy vibrant lavender fields. No matter the season, Takushinkan offers visitors the unique beauty and atmosphere of Hokkaido’s changing landscapes.

Step into the world of Sumio Goto, a celebrated master of Nihonga — traditional Japanese painting created with natural mineral pigments. The Sumio Goto Art Museum is dedicated to his life's work, showcasing permanent exhibitions of his most famous large-scale paintings and original sketches. Many of these captivating pieces were inspired by the breathtaking scenery of Hokkaido.

Among all the beautiful places in Hokkaido, Kamifurano held a special place in Goto's heart. In 1987, he chose to build his personal studio here, which later became this remarkable museum.

After immersing yourself in Goto's vivid and emotionally rich art, don't miss the chance to visit the museum's restaurant on the upper floor. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Tokachidake Mountain Range, a perfect spot to reflect on the natural wonders that inspired Goto’s masterpieces.

Standing on a nostalgic wooden school building within a site of about 70,000 square meters. Currently, the second floor features a gallery where sculptures are displayed in classrooms that retain the atmosphere of the time. The spacious grounds are dotted with about 40 abstract sculptures by the sculptor Kan Yasuda from Bibai. In the experience workshop, a class called "Carving the Heart" is held every first Saturday and Sunday of the month, where participants can slowly engage with white marble. The sessions led by Yasuda are so popular that they are drawn by lottery. If you get tired from walking around the sculptures, take a break at the "Café Arte," which is known for its comfortable atmosphere. You can relax slowly with a cup of coffee while enjoying the view from the window.

Moerenuma Park in Sapporo is a magnificent art park created by world-famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The entire park is considered his final masterpiece. Built on a former waste disposal site, it was transformed over About 23 years into a vast green space that now stands as a symbol of environmental renewal, featuring eco-friendly systems that use natural energy.

Spanning 189 hectares—About the size of 40 Tokyo Domes—the park offers wide-open landscapes filled with geometric hills, fountains, sculptures, and creative playgrounds. Each season brings a unique experience:

Spring: Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Summer: Children love Moere Beach, a popular water play area.

Autumn: The park is painted in vibrant autumn colors.

Winter: Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and sledding.

The park’s iconic symbol is the Glass Pyramid "HIDAMARI", which changes its appearance throughout the day and seasons as it reflects the surrounding scenery. Inside, visitors can explore an art gallery featuring Noguchi’s life and work, a shop with exclusive items, and a French restaurant that serves dishes made with fresh Hokkaido ingredients.

Other highlights include Mt. Moere, a white pathway leading to the top of a geometric hill with panoramic views, and the Sea Fountain, a powerful and artistic water display. Every corner of Moerenuma Park feels like walking through an open-air museum, offering countless photo opportunities.

Rental bicycles are available, making it easy to explore the park at your own pace while fully enjoying the beautiful fusion of art and nature.

For art-lovers visiting Sapporo, the Sapporo Art Park is a must-see attraction. The park’s Sculpture Garden is home to 74 unique pieces of art, collected from sculptors all around the world. Visitors are invited to get up close and personal with the sculptures encouraged to touch them and take photos with them. In the winter, visitors can rent snowshoes and walk through this magical white wonderland of snow and art. In addition to the museum, there is a wood workshop, a glass workshop, and an outdoor stage area that serves as a venue for both the Pacific Music Festival and the Sapporo City Jazz festival.

A giant Buddha statue sits on a hill at the center of the Makomanai Takino Cemetery. This symbol of the cemetery was designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. As per his designs, the giant Buddha’s head peeks out from the top of a hollow hill, which is surrounded by 150,000 lavender bushes during the summer months. This solemn statue sitting quietly among the purple blossoms is an unforgettable sight to behold. Visitors can take a tunnel into the statue hall in order to gaze upon its massive glory.