Former Hokkaido Government Office

Overview

The Former Hokkaido Government Office (Akarenga Chō-sha) is a Neo-Baroque red-brick building completed in 1888, modeled after Massachusetts State House. It served as Hokkaido's seat of government for 80 years and is now a free museum. The surrounding gardens are planted with 1,000 trees and are popular for cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing.

Highlights

• Red-Brick Facade: The 250,000-brick exterior is one of the most photographed buildings in Sapporo.
• Historical Exhibits: Rooms dedicated to Hokkaido's development, the Ainu people, and the Northern Territories dispute.
• Garden Grounds: A tranquil pond and garden that change dramatically through the seasons.

History

Constructed between 1886 and 1888 using over 2.5 million bricks, the building replaced a wooden predecessor destroyed by fire. It was designated an Important Cultural Property in 1969. A major multi-year renovation restored the building's interior and added modern accessibility features.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free admission makes this an easy addition to any Odori Park walk — plan 30–45 minutes for the interior.
• Tip 2: The front garden pond reflects the building beautifully for photos, especially in autumn.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.