Mt. Moiwa rises 531 metres on the southwest edge of central Sapporo, and its ropeway is the easiest way to reach a true mountain viewpoint without leaving the city. From the base station the ropeway climbs about 1,200 metres in five minutes to a middle station, where a small cable car called the Morris Car carries you the rest of the way to the summit observation deck. From the top the whole city spreads out below: the grid of streets, Odori Park, the TV Tower and the sea beyond. The summit has a viewing terrace and a restaurant, and the night view is the main draw, with the city lights stretching toward the horizon. In winter the summit is cold and often snowy, so dress warmly. The ropeway is a short trip from downtown, which makes it a popular evening outing for couples and visitors with only one night in the city.
The ride
The journey is part of the fun. The ropeway cabin climbs steadily above the trees, with views opening up behind you, and the mini cable car at the middle station is a charming short ride that takes you through the forest to the top. The summit observation deck is open to the air in places, so a windbreaker or a warm layer is useful at any time of year.
The view is wide, taking in Sapporo from the hills on one side to the coast on the other, and on a very clear day the horizon seems to go on forever.
When to go
The night view is the reason most visitors come, and it is frequently ranked among the best night views in Japan. Go in the hour before dusk to see the city in daylight, in golden light and then lit up. Weekend evenings and holidays are busier, with queues at the base station. In bad weather the summit can be shrouded in cloud, so check the forecast. The ropeway can pause for wind, snow or scheduled maintenance, and the operator publishes its schedule, so check before you travel.
Getting there
The base station is reached from the city by streetcar to the Ropeway-Iriguchi stop and then a short shuttle bus, or by taxi. Allow about 90 minutes for the whole outing, longer with dinner at the summit. If you want a private ride, a taxi from downtown takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Combine it with an afternoon in the city and a late dinner, and make sure you have warm clothes for the top.
What to expect
The experience
A ropeway to a middle station, then a mini cable car to a summit observation deck with a terrace and a restaurant.
Best time
The hour before dusk on a clear evening, so you see the city by day, at golden hour and lit up.
How long
About 90 minutes door to door from downtown, longer with dinner.
Tips
Dress warmly even in summer, check the operator for wind or maintenance closures, and take a taxi back if the last shuttle has gone.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Night-view lovers and couples who want a mountain outing without leaving the city.
- Families
- Easy for children, though the top is windy and cold in the evening.
- Couples
- A sunset ride and a late dinner at the summit.
- Pair with
- The TV Tower, the JR Tower deck and dinner in Susukino.
- Time needed
- Allow two hours including travel.
Good questions
How high is Mt. Moiwa?+
The summit is at 531 metres. The ropeway and a small cable car take you most of the way up.
How long does the ropeway ride take?+
The ropeway covers about 1,200 metres in five minutes. A mini cable car then runs from the middle station to the summit.
When is the best time to go?+
Go in the hour before dusk on a clear day for daylight, golden hour and city lights in one trip. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Can the ropeway be closed?+
Yes, strong wind, heavy snow or scheduled maintenance can pause the ropeway. Check the operator before you travel.
How do I get to the base station?+
Take the streetcar to the Ropeway-Iriguchi stop and a short shuttle bus, or take a taxi from downtown. The base is on the southwest side of the city.
