Mt. Moiwa (Moiwa-yama)

Mt. Moiwa’s summit and observation deck are accessible via Mt. Moiwa Ropeway. This aerial tramway system climbs two-thirds of the way up the mountain to a transfer station, where passengers change to a mini cable car. Five hiking trails of varying lengths lead visitors up the forest-covered mountain. Visitors find an observation deck, restaurant, and planetarium at the summit. Many sightseeing tours of Sapporo, by day and night, include a trip up the mountain.

• There is a fee for the ropeway and cable car.

• Check before setting out: The ropeway occasionally closes for maintenance.

• Thanks to its romantic night view, Mt. Moiwa is a popular destination for couples.

Take the Sapporo Streetcar (Sapporo shiden) for 25 minutes from Susukino in the heart of Sapporo to Ropeway Iriguchi station. You can walk five minutes to the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway or jump on the free shuttle bus, which runs every 15 minutes and takes five minutes to reach the ropeway station.

The view from Mt. Moiwa is beautiful after sunset. The nighttime view from the summit is so popular that it's known as one of Japan’s top night views, along with spots in Nagasaki and Kobe. If visiting after dark, give yourself plenty of time as you may need to wait in a long line for the ropeway and cable car.

On the mountain's southeastern slope, Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort is a ski-only resort (no snowboarding. It has 10 runs suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts, as well as families. A popular spot for nighttime skiing, the resort is typically open from late December through late March.

Yes. A trip up to Mt. Moiwa gives you an incredible view of the city lights and surrounding mountain landscape. You’ll definitely want to add the short ride up the ropeway to the observation deck to your Sapporo City itinerary—there's even a restaurant at the top.

While you can drive to the base of Mount Moiwa in Sapporo, Japan, the final ascent to the summit is typically by cable car or a ropeway—many people actually think the combination of driving and using these transport options actually enhance the overall experience. The panoramic views of Sapporo from the summit make it a popular destination.

Yes, you can hike one of the five trails up Mt. Moiwa. But be warned: This is no walk in the park. The terrain is steep, but the views are the reward. A hiker's rest facility at the top has a lounge, washrooms, changing rooms, and a snack shop.

The best time to visit Mt. Moiwa is on a clear day in October. That's when the air is crisp, the sun is shining, and the view from the summit is more vibrant and clear. It's not too warm to spend a lot of time outside in fall, either.

Yes, it's absolutely worth it. The scenic location and panoramic views are reason enough to make the trek up the mountain. And the cable car ride that takes you from the city high up into the mountains is an adventure in itself.

Yes. Going up to the mountain's summit at night is, in many ways, an even better experience than going up in daylight hours. The views of the city's illuminated skyscrapers—combined with the starry sky and cool mountain breeze—make for an experience that's both exciting and peaceful.