Makomanai Park (For running: 3 km)

 Image: Makomanai Park - February 2026

Makomanai Park is a famous place for having hosted the 1972 Winter Olympic Games in Sapporo. Since then, this area was developed into Makomanai Park, which opened to the  public in August 1975, according to the official website (in Japanese).

Due to its calm and peaceful atmosphere, many locals visit this park throughout the year, except during the winter season.

Access to the park

The park is located in Minami-ku in Sapporo. The nearest Sapporo Subway Station is Makomanai Station on the Namboku Line (Green Line). However, I would recommend visiting the park by car as there are several car parks, allowing you to choose depending on your purpose. (Free on weekdays, ￥320 on weekends and holidays)

Map: Makomanai Park, Car Park No.1

Image: Car Park No.1 - August 2026

Image: Car Park No.1 - February 2026

In this article, I would like to introduce this park as a running course. I really love running here because the path is wide enough that you do not need to worry too much about other runners and it offers a variety of views as well as gentle ups and downs along the route. Thus, each runner is able to concentrate on their own pace.

My recommended course is a 3‑km loop because you can easily decide to stop running in the middle of the route if you do not feel well. On top of that, you can find five toilet facilities along the route, so you do not have to worry about that either.

Image: 3-km loop - February 2026

There is a signboard marking the start line, and signboards are set up every 0.5 km along the route. 

0 km ~ 0.5 km

The first 0.5 km consists of a very gentle incline. It features deep‑green foliage in summer and several sakua trees in full bloom in spring.

Image: Start Line - August 2026

Image: Start Line - February 2026

Image: Beautiful trees - August 2026

Image: Ezo-zakura - May 2019

Image: Shade on the route - August 2026

0.5 km ~ 1.0 km

After passing the 0.5-km checkpoint, you will find plenty of shade from trees and the route gradually becomes steeper. 

Image: o.5-km checkpoint - August 2026

1.0 km ~ 1.5 km

You will find the 1.0-km checkpoint as soon as the route bends to the left At this point, you are already on the steep climb, so you may want to focus on maintaining your pace. I actually like this part because I feel a sense of achievement when I reach the top and the downhill section begins.

Image: 1.0-km checkpoint

1.5 km ~ 2.0 km

After passing the top, there is a short descent followed by another small climb. After that, the downhill section begins and you will pass the 1.5-km checkpoint.

As you head downhill, a wide green field opens up on your left. If you are fortunate, you might be able to see deer here.

Once you reach the bottom of the descent, turn right and cross the bridge.

Image: View from the bridge - August 2026

2.0 km ~ 2.5 km

Shortly after crossing the bridge, you will reach the 2.0-km checkpoint. Most of this section is a gentle downhill.

Image: Ajisai (hydrangea) - August 2026

2.5 km ~ 3.0 km

Once you pass the 2.5‑km checkpoint, you are in the final section. However, there is one more slope ahead, so you might want to push hard on it.

Image: one of five toilet facilities along the route

Image: Final slope

After crossing the bridge, turn right in front of the stadium and you will see the start line.

Image: Outdoor ice rink in the stadium - February 2026

The rest of the route is straight. If you still feel good, you may want to go for a second round.  

There is also a 10-km route that leads to the banks of the Toyohira River. This route provides a direct connection between Makomanai Park and the Toyohira River, so you do not need to worry about cars until you complete the course.