Old Hokkaidō Government Office Building

Sapporo


Known by all as Akarenga (red bricks), this magnificent neo-baroque building was constructed of bricks in 1888 and is surrounded by lovely lawns and gardens. There are various historical exhibits and shows from local artists inside. While Akarenga closes at 6pm, the gardens are open until 9pm and are a popular place for a stroll.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Sapporo attractions

1. Hokkaidō Ainu Center

0.15 MILES

In an office building across the street from Hokkaidō University Botanical Garden, this cultural centre is run by the Hokkaidō Ainu Association and has a…

2. Hokkaidō University Botanical Garden

0.2 MILES

Among the highlights of this meandering, 14-hectare outdoor garden maintained by Hokkaidō University, is a collection of 200 plants and herbs historically…

3. Sapporo Clock Tower

0.29 MILES

No Japanese tourist can leave Sapporo without snapping a photo of the city's signature landmark and oldest building, the clock tower. Built in 1878, the…

4. Black Slide Mantra

0.36 MILES

This sculpture in Ōdōri-kōen by Japanese-American artist Noguchi Isamu is hands-on art at its best: made of black stone to stand out in the snow, the…

5. Tower Three-Eight

0.37 MILES

Defeating Sapporo TV Tower when it comes to views and class (but not cultural significance!), the 38-floor JR Tower (173m) has a spacious observatory with…

6. Ōdōri-kōen

0.38 MILES

This haven in the heart of the city is fully 13 blocks (1.5km) long, with the TV Tower at its eastern end. Among the green lawns and flower gardens are…

7. Sapporo TV Tower

0.47 MILES

Beating Tokyo Tower by two years, Sapporo TV Tower (147m) arrived in 1956, bringing with it the modern television age. It was designed by 'Dr Tower' Naitō…

8. Hokkaidō University

0.52 MILES

Established in 1876 this university is a scenic spot, with a number of unique buildings, including the Furukawa Memorial Hall and the Seikatei. The bust…