Makomanai Takino Cemetery is a large memorial park located in the southern part of Sapporo on the island of Hokkaido. Unlike traditional cemeteries, it was developed as a combination of memorial grounds, landscape park, and outdoor art gallery. The vast area of rolling hills, open lawns, and artistic structures creates a tranquil yet visually impressive environment.

The cemetery is internationally recognized for its integration of architecture, sculpture, and natural scenery. Visitors can explore the site as if walking through a large outdoor museum where monumental artworks and architectural landmarks are spread across the landscape.

Major Highlights Inside the Cemetery

Hill of the Buddha

• The most famous attraction of the cemetery, designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The giant Buddha statue is partially hidden inside a large circular hill, allowing only the head to be visible from outside. Visitors enter through a long concrete tunnel before reaching a circular courtyard where the full statue is revealed. The surrounding hill is planted with about 150,000 lavender plants, creating a spectacular purple landscape in summer.

Moai Statues

• A row of massive Moai statue replicas inspired by the famous statues of Easter Island. These stone figures stand along a hillside and create one of the most surreal and photogenic scenes in the cemetery.

Stonehenge Replica

• A circular arrangement of large stones modeled after the ancient Stonehenge monument in England. This replica adds a mysterious and historical atmosphere to the landscape.

Extensive Landscaped Grounds

• The cemetery covers a vast area of hills and lawns carefully designed to harmonize with the sculptures and architecture. Seasonal changes greatly transform the scenery—from lavender fields in summer to snow-covered landscapes in winter.

Through the integration of nature, architecture, and monumental art, Makomanai Takino Cemetery has become not only a memorial site but also one of the most unusual cultural and architectural destinations in Hokkaido.

From Sapporo Station:

• Take the Namboku Subway Line to Makomanai Station (about 20 minutes).

• From Makomanai Station, take a bus toward Makomanai Takino Cemetery (about 20–25 minutes).

• Get off near the cemetery entrance and walk into the grounds.

• Plan 1–2 hours to explore the area.

• Visit in summer to see the lavender fields around Hill of the Buddha.

• In winter, snow transforms the landscape into a peaceful minimalist scene.

• The site is ideal for architecture photography and landscape photography.

Admission Fee:

• Approximately 300 yen for entry to Hill of the Buddha.
  Other areas of the cemetery are generally free to visit.

Opening Time:

• Approximately 09:00 – 16:00 / 17:00 depending on the season.