A National Important Cultural Property
Overlooking the Western End of Odori Park [Free Admission]
Facility Overview
Shiryokan was originally constructed in 1926 as the Sapporo Court of Appeals (now the Sapporo High Court). Following its relocation, the court opened as an archive museum in 1973. Recognized for the high historical value of both its design and structure, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 2020.
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, this historic landmark warmly welcomes visitors from around the world. Inside Shiryokan, you will find exhibition rooms where you can learn about the history of Sapporo's development or explore works by a famous Sapporo-born artist. The building also features rental spaces, including mini-galleries for displaying artwork and multi-purpose rooms available for workshops and meetings.
Odori Park & Seasonal Highlights
Visiting Odori Park for a seasonal festival? Take a short walk to the very end of the park and discover how the beauty of Sapporo's seasons blends perfectly with our historic building.
Spring (May) | Lilac Season: Enjoy the sweet scent of blooming lilacs in Odori Park, then step into our peaceful courtyard for a relaxing break away from the crowds.
Summer (Jul-Aug) | Beer Garden: After enjoying the lively Sapporo Odori Beer Garden, cool down inside our historic stone building. The thick stone walls offer a natural, refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Autumn (Sep) | Autumn Fest Stroll: Grab some local food at Sapporo Autumn Fest and walk over to explore Sapporo's history.
Winter (Feb) | Snow Festival: We are located near the International Snow Sculpture Contest venue of the famous Sapporo Snow Festival! Escape the biting wind and warm up in our cozy lounge.
Key Highlights inside the Building
Highlight 1: Historic Architecture (Built in 1926)
Constructed using "Sapporo Soft Stone (Sapporo Nanseki)", a unique local volcanic rock, the building's exterior is designed in a Renaissance style, while its details and carvings reflect the 'Taisho Modern' aesthetic―a unique blend of Japanese and early 20th-century Western design. Don't miss the emblem of the Goddess of Law carved above the main entrance!
Highlight 2: Criminal Court Exhibition Room
Step into a fully restored pre-war courtroom. You can see the judge's bench up close and experience the unique legal history of Japan.
Highlight 3: SIAF Lounge & Cafe
Browse through international art books, look over art festival archives, or simply enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee with a scenic view of Odori Park in a cozy, modern cultural space.
Highlight 4: Hiroshi Oba Memorial Museum
Explore the whimsical, heartwarming illustrations and cartoons created by Hiroshi Oba, an artist born and raised right here in Sapporo.
Photography Friendly
Photography for personal use and social media sharing is fully permitted and warmly welcomed throughout the public areas of the building.
Feel free to snap & post! #shiryokan
Visitor Information
- Hours:
- 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Admission:
- Free
- Closed:
-
- Mondays (Closed on the next weekday if Monday is a national holiday)
- New Year's Holidays (December 29 - January 3)
- Access & Location:
-
- Address: Odori Nishi 13-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
- Subway: A 5-minute walk from Nishi-juitchome Station (Exit 1) on the Tozai Line.
- Streetcar: A 6-minute walk from Chuo-kuyakusyo mae Stop or Nishi-jugochome Stop.
- Walking Trail: A beautiful, direct walk through Odori Park from Sapporo TV Tower (approx. 15-20 minutes).
- Accessibility:
- A chair-type stair lift is available for visitors with limited mobility. Please feel free to ask our staff or the office.
