Sapporo TV Tower - Hokkaido

Sapporo TV Tower (さっぽろテレビ塔) is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Sapporo City. It is located at 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Sapporo TV Tower

Sapporo TV Tower Details

Standing tall in the heart of Sapporo since 1957, the Sapporo TV Tower is a testament to Japan’s architectural ingenuity and serves as a cultural landmark. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Tachū Naitō, famed for his work on the Tokyo Tower, the Sapporo TV Tower was constructed with a budget of 170 million yen. Over the decades, it has evolved from a key broadcasting facility to a celebrated tourist destination offering panoramic views and unique experiences.

Sapporo TV Tower - Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Brief History of the Sapporo TV Tower

Initially, a transmission hub, the tower’s broadcasting role diminished after a transmission facility was established on Mount Teine. However, the Sapporo TV Tower found a new purpose as a repeater for AIR-G and FM North Wave radio stations. Its legacy expanded in 1961 with the installation of digital clocks, positioned 65 meters above ground. These clocks, donated by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. (now Panasonic), were the brainchild of founder Konosuke Matsushita, who envisioned them as a feature to draw attention to the tower.

Sapporo TV Tower as seen from Odori Park

Sapporo TV Tower rises to an impressive height of 483 feet, offering stunning panoramic views of Sapporo City and its surroundings

The clocks underwent two significant repairs in 1998 and 2006. During the latter renovation, LED technology replaced the old display, enhancing visibility and energy efficiency. That same year, the tower’s exterior saw updates, with the wall colors transitioning from pale green to dark green, symbolizing a modernized look.

You can get commemorative stamps on the ground floor area

In 2007, the Sapporo TV Tower celebrated its 50th anniversary with events and discounts, cementing its place as a beloved symbol of the city.

Sapporo TV Tower floor map

Can someone tell me who this mascot is?

The trash cans are interestingly designed as Terebi-Tōsan

Welcome to Sapporo TV Tower

I ❤ Sapporo TV Tower

Terebi-Tōsan's family

You can also get Sapporo TV Tower gold coins as a souvenir here

Terebitousan Shrine

Features and Facilities

The Sapporo TV Tower offers a variety of attractions for visitors:

Ground Floor: An information center and souvenir shops greet visitors upon entry.

Second Floor: Houses a multipurpose hall and the administration office.

Third Floor: Features a souvenir shop, a restaurant, and access to the observation deck elevator.

Basement: Directly connected to Aurora Town, Sapporo’s underground shopping arcade, and the "Tele-chika Gourmet Court," where numerous restaurants can be found.

Terebi-Tōsan plushies

The tower also boasts two mascots: the official “Tawakkie” and the unofficial yet popular “Terebi-Tōsan” (Television Daddy), adding a whimsical touch to the landmark.

The Observation Deck Experience

Rising to a height of 90 meters, the observation deck provides stunning 360-degree views of Sapporo. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking sights of Odori Park, Mount Ōkura, and Maruyama, making it a prime spot for photographers and sightseers. Tickets to the observation deck can be purchased on the third floor.

The view from the Sapporo TV Tower

Odori Park as seen from the Sapporo TV Tower

Southern view

Western view

Northern view

Eastern view

While the tower’s prominence has been somewhat overshadowed by the construction of surrounding high-rise buildings, its charm and historical significance continue to draw locals and tourists alike.

Team Nicerio visits Sapporo TV Tower

On July 28, 2023, during our Sibling Road Trip 4, my daughter, siblings, and I had the opportunity to visit the iconic Sapporo TV Tower. This visit was particularly special as it marked my 634th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme and became a highlight of our time in Sapporo City.

Although I’ve seen the Sapporo TV Tower countless times during my trips to the city, this was my first time venturing up to its observation deck. Inside, we discovered a variety of souvenir shops offering unique keepsakes.

Sapporo TV Tower Admission Fee

Sapporo TV Tower tickets

Entry to the lower level of the Sapporo TV Tower is completely free, where you’ll find the Outdoor TV Dad Shop and the Sapporo Tourist Information Center. 

Access to the observation deck, however, requires a ticket priced at 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for junior high and elementary school students. Children below elementary school age can enjoy the experience for FREE.

Sapporo TV Tower Operating Hours

Sapporo TV Tower is open from 9 AM to 10 PM. 

Please check the official website of Sapporo TV Tower for equipment inspection days (closed days). Here’s the LINK. 

Why visit the Sapporo TV Tower?

Visiting the Sapporo TV Tower is a must for its panoramic views, rich history, and central location. From the observation deck, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Odori Park, Mount Ōkura, and the cityscape, making it an ideal spot for photography. The tower also houses souvenir shops, restaurants, and connects to the underground Aurora Town shopping arcade, ensuring a complete experience. Whether you're exploring Sapporo for the first time or revisiting, the tower offers a unique perspective and a glimpse into the city's charm.

Getting to the Sapporo TV Tower

 

Sapporo TV Tower is located in the heart of Sapporo City. It is easily accessible through various means. The nearest subway station is the Odori Station, which is around 220 meters away from the Sapporo TV Tower.

For those coming by bus, the nearest bus stop is the Kita 1 jo bus stop and the Chuo Bus Sapporo Terminal.

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