Sapporo: Explore the Historic Red Brick Government Office

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. The Former Hokkaido Government Office, or Red Brick Office (Akarenga Chosha), is one of Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks. Built over 120 years ago, it once served as the administrative headquarters of Hokkaido after the pioneering era began in the late 19th century, symbolizing the island’s development and Japan’s frontier spirit. Its distinctive red brick exterior has remained intact since construction, making it a true witness to Hokkaido’s history. Inside, restored interiors recreate its days as a government office, complete with a grand staircase. Today, it functions as a museum with exhibits on pioneering history, the Ainu people, the building’s architecture, and the Northern Territories. Displays also highlight the culture and specialties of Hokkaido’s towns. Located in central Sapporo, the Red Brick Office is easy to access and stands as both a cultural attraction and a symbol of Hokkaido’s heritage.

   1.5 hAdmission included

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Know before you go

How it compares in Sapporo

• Its from-price is 64% below the median of the 381 experiences we list in Sapporo.
• It is shorter than most of them.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a grid-planned city of wide parks, an annual snow festival, miso ramen and mountains close behind.

Sapporo was laid out as a grid in the 1870s, when Japan's government developed the northern island, so its streets are wide and straight, split by Odori Park, a long green strip through the middle. The red-brick former Hokkaido government building and the white clock tower, both from the Meiji period, recall that era, and the Hokkaido Shrine lies in a wooded park in the west.

Top-ranked sights in Sapporo: Odori Park (Odori Koen), Susukino, Sapporo TV Tower.

See all 381 experiences in Sapporo