Hidden in the Snow: Sapporo’s Surprising Moai Statues & Buddha Hill!

Sapporo in winter is already magical — but did you know there’s a place where snow meets sacred serenity and ancient mystery?

Just 25 minutes from the city, I discovered Makomanai Takino Cemetery, home to towering Moai statues that look like they were transported straight from Easter Island. Seeing them blanketed in snow was surreal — silent guardians standing tall under the winter sky, surrounded by untouched white. It’s a hidden photo gem with almost no tourists!

But the real showstopper? The Hill of the Buddha by Tadao Ando. You walk through a long, dark tunnel, then suddenly — the path opens to reveal a giant seated Buddha emerging from a snow-covered hilltop. The moment felt spiritual and cinematic. In the stillness of winter, the contrast of cold snow and warm awe was unforgettable.

This spot is more than just architecture — it’s an experience.

Travel Tips:

Take the subway to Makomanai Station, then taxi or drive 20–25 mins to the site.

No entrance fee and open all year.

Snow boots and warm clothing are a must — the wind can be icy!

Morning visits have the best light and fewer people.

Bring a thermos with hot tea and take a moment to just breathe it all in.

Most visitors stick to the usual Sapporo city stops — but this peaceful escape just outside town gave me one of the most unique winter memories of my trip.

#moaiinsapporo #hillofthebuddha #hiddengemsjapan #snowyescape #winterinhokkaido #sapporosecrets #architecturalwonder