Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office)
A Meiji-Era Landmark Built with 2.5 Million Red Bricks and the Pioneer Star
Discover Hokkaido’s history at this iconic 1888 Neo-Baroque landmark, featuring 2.5 million red bricks and a symbolic octagonal tower.
Located in central Sapporo, the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building—known as the “Red Brick Office”—is a striking example of American-style Neo-Baroque architecture. Built in 1888, it served as Hokkaido’s administrative center for about 80 years and was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 1969.
Its exterior is made from about 2.5 million red bricks produced in Shiraishi and Toyohira villages. Above rises an octagonal tower symbolizing independence and pioneering spirit. The walls feature the “Goryosei,” a red star modeled after the North Star and emblem of the Hokkaido Development Commission.
Inside, original wavy Meiji-era glass windows offer a nostalgic view, creating a sense of stepping back in time. Exhibits include a full-scale replica of the 26-section Hokkaido map by Matsuura Takeshiro, who named the region, along with dioramas of Meiji-era Sapporo.
The surrounding garden changes with the seasons. Cherry blossoms and lilacs bloom in spring, followed by lush greenery and rugosa roses in summer. In autumn, the grounds turn vivid red and gold. The contrast between red brick and seasonal colors offers a new impression with every visit.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- Historic sites, castles, culture properties, architecture
- History, culture, art
- Solo trip
- Couple
- Family
- Travel style
- Travel Inspiration
- Best for a girls' trip
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Address
- 北海道札幌市中央区北3条西6丁目
- Telephone Number
- 011-206-8390（Hokkaido Red Brick Future Organization）
- Open
- 8:45-21:00
- Closed
- December 29 - January 3, November 16
- Prices
- Admission: Paid
- Directions
- ●On foot: About 8 minutes from JR Sapporo Station
●On foot: About 4 minutes from Sapporo Subway Station
●On foot: About 9 minutes from Odori Subway Station - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
