Sapporo Turns Purple: The Lavender Paradise of Horomitoge Pass

📝 Spot Details 📍 Horomitoge Lavender Garden 📌 Address: 471-110 Bankei, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido (Located above the Horomitoge Observation Parking Lot, about 10 minutes by car from central Sapporo) 🕛 Opening Period & Hours Operating Period: Typically early July to late July (Peak season for 2024: July 5th to July 28th) Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Subject to change depending on blooming conditions) Observation Parking Lot: Open 24 hours from April to November (car access only) 💰 Admission: Free entry. Parking fees apply: Daytime ¥500 / Nighttime ¥800 (for night views) --- 🌸 Highlights and Attractions Approximately **8,000 lavender plants** cover the hills in purple, creating a stunning contrast with the panoramic view of Sapporo city. The elevated location offers exceptional views. Main varieties include "Nōmurasaki Hayazaki No. 3," "Narizawa," "Okamurasaki," "Hanamoiwa," and "Provence Blue," among others. Activities include lavender harvesting experiences (paid, starting at ¥500) and shopping for lavender essential oils and seedlings at the attached shop "Yume Kobo Sato." --- 🚗 Access & Facility Information Category Details Access Approximately 10 minutes by car from Maruyama Park Subway Station / 20 minutes by car from Makomanai Station / Alternatively, take the Bankei Bus to Horomitoge Entrance and walk for 30 minutes. Parking Observation parking lot available (accommodates regular and large vehicles), paid access during day and night; pedestrian entry is restricted. Dining & Facilities Snack shop (light meals & limited items), benches, gazebos, and facilities for sightseeing tours (simple dining options). Crowd Trends Weekends tend to be crowded. Early morning or just before closing is recommended.