Buddha Hill in Hokkaido

If you're in Hokkaido, visit the unusual Buddha Hill and Makomanai Cemetery on your trip to Japan.

The Makomanai Takino cemetery, where the Buddha stands, is surprisingly large, measuring over 180 hectares. Located in the middle of nature on the outskirts of the city of Sapporo in Hokkaido, it offers a unique and very strange perspective. Replicas of Moai, the famous Easter Island statues with their enormous heads and buried bodies, open the way.

Tadao Ando, the project architect

Entirely self-taught, Tadao Ando is one of the greatest architects of the XXᵉ century. His work aspires to create spaces of refuge, combining minimalism of form with the integration of natural elements such as water, vegetation, light... The eminent architect from the island of Naoshima is illustrated in numerous creations around the world, where the form of his buildings mark the places in which they stand.

The Atama Buddha Statue

Lost in the midst of nature, this impressive structure provides calm and serenity thanks to the architectural genius of Tadao Ando. The Buddha is depicted seated on a lotus, his hands clasped in front of his body. In winter, the statue is covered with snow on its head and knees, accentuating the peaceful atmosphere of this site, one of the most beautiful in Japan.

Makomanai Takino Cemetery

On the same complex, Ando has installed a replica of Stonehenge near the cemetery, and Moai statues from Easter Island line the top of a mound. Climb up close to one, and you'll be able to take in the view of the landforms and nature that surround this place in the middle of the typical Japanese countryside. Finally, the cemetery itself is dotted here and there with works by Tadao Ando. This unusual place in the heart of Hokkaido is well worth a visit!

How and when to get there?

From the Susukino district in central Sapporo, take the Namboku line to Makomanai Eki station. From there, take the Ma 106 Takino Sen bus to Takino toge station (滝野峠). The journey takes around 1 h 30. By car, from Sapporo, it takes 45 minutes.

Tip: Buddha Hill is quite a distance from the center of Sapporo. If you want to make up for the journey, take the time to visit the Takino Suzuran Hillside Park which is in the same area.

It's a big park, with fields of flowers and little hiking trails in spring and summer, as well as activities and attractions for children! In winter, the park turns into a ski resort, as there's a large hill that can be transformed into a ski slope or toboggan run! The Ashiribetsu waterfalls are a must-see, either surrounded by lush nature or frozen by the winter chill. If you plan to stay for the day, you can take a picnic, or enjoy a meal in the park's restaurant.