Nakajima Park

Overview

Nakajima Park is a tranquil urban park in central Sapporo featuring a large pond, Japanese garden, and several historic buildings. The park's centerpiece is Hasso-an, an Edo-period teahouse relocated from a feudal lord's estate, where visitors can enjoy matcha tea in a traditional setting. The park is a quiet respite just south of the Susukino entertainment district.

Highlights

• Hasso-an Teahouse: A designated Tangible Cultural Property offering matcha and sweets in a 200-year-old setting.
• Shobu Pond: A scenic pond with rental paddle boats in summer and ice views in winter.
• Kitara Concert Hall: Sapporo's premier classical music venue, located within the park grounds.

History

Originally a lumbering area, the land was developed as a park in the 1880s. Hasso-an was originally part of an estate in Takasago, Hyogo Prefecture, built in the early 19th century. It was dismantled, transported, and reassembled in Nakajima Park in 1963.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Stop at Hasso-an for matcha and Japanese sweets (¥700) — it's one of the most atmospheric tea experiences in Sapporo.
• Tip 2: The park connects to the Susukino area via a short walk — plan it as a midday break from shopping or sightseeing.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.