Taking the cable car to Mount Moiwa for a night view in Japan

When visiting Sapporo, you simply cannot miss the enchanting night view from Mount Moiwa. For this trip, I chose to take the Sapporo Mount Moiwa Ropeway to ascend the mountain and personally experience one of Sapporo's top three night views. While Sapporo is vibrant during the day, Mount Moiwa at night offers a completely different romantic atmosphere—the city’s silhouette illuminated by twinkling lights is undoubtedly a highlight of any Sapporo trip! Whether you love photography, romance, or simply want to enjoy the serene beauty of Hokkaido, this destination is a must-add to your itinerary.

Recommended Attractions

Sapporo Mount Moiwa Ropeway
Starting from 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, the semi-transparent cable car cabins provide a stunning 270-degree view. As you ascend, the cityscape gradually unfolds. It’s best to go up in the evening to enjoy the transition from sunset to nightfall.
【Opening Hours】
January 2 - March 31, December 1 - December 30: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM; April 1 - November 30: 10:30 AM - 10:00 PM; Closed on January 1 and December 31.

Mount Moiwa Observation Deck
Also located at 5-3-7 Fushimi, the observation deck is open year-round and is just a short walk from the cable car station. The spacious viewing area at the summit offers a panoramic view of Sapporo’s nightscape: a sea of city lights with the silhouette of distant mountains clearly visible. The lights twinkle like stars in the darkness, creating a soothing atmosphere. There’s also a charming “Lover’s Bell” at the summit, making it a perfect romantic photo spot. Be sure to bring a jacket, as it can get windy and chilly at the top, especially at night.

My Night View Experience Tips

Have you ever experienced the night view of Japan’s northern winter? Mount Moiwa in Sapporo is, in my opinion, one of the most popular yet surprisingly delightful night view spots. As the cable car ascends, the view transitions from dusk to night, with the city below lighting up one streetlamp at a time—a truly magical transformation! The crisp night air at the summit, combined with the breathtaking view of Sapporo’s city center and the distant mountain silhouettes, makes it perfect for chatting with friends or capturing romantic moments with your partner. One tip: during winter, the summit can be very windy, so don’t forget to bring a scarf and gloves to stay warm while waiting for the night to fall.

Additional Practical Information
Transportation: From Sapporo city center, take the streetcar to "Moiwa Sanroku Station" and transfer to the cable car to ascend the mountain. The overall transportation is very convenient.
Food Recommendations: There’s a summit observation restaurant near the cable car station where you can enjoy Hokkaido’s signature desserts and hot drinks. Savoring warm treats while admiring the night view is a delightful bonus to your trip.
Tips: The summit has a heated observation room, so if you’re feeling cold, you can take a break indoors without worrying about the outdoor temperature.

The night view from Mount Moiwa in Sapporo is not just a visual feast but also one of the most unforgettable romantic experiences of a Hokkaido winter. With the fun of the cable car ride and the stunning city lights from the summit, it’s a destination worth visiting during your stay in Sapporo.