Kitahiroshima (北広島) is a city bordering Sapporo in the central part of Hokkaido, and famous as the home ground of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. The city’s motto, “The Ambitious City,” comes from the famous phrase “Boys, be ambitious” spoken by William S. Clark when he bid farewell to students in Hokkaido, an episode tied to the area’s history.
Understand
[edit]Kitahiroshima is a suburban city in central Hokkaido, between Sapporo and Chitose. Many residents commute to Sapporo for work or study, giving the city its character as a “bed town” for the region’s capital.
The city is surrounded by gentle hills and farmland, reflecting its roots as an agricultural settlement. Kitahiroshima has developed rapidly, most notably with large-scale sports and commercial facilities connected to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters.
History
[edit]Kitahiroshima’s origins go back to the Meiji period, when settlers from Hiroshima Prefecture moved north in search of new lands. In 1884, about 25 families (107 people) migrated and laid the groundwork for what eventually became the village of Hiroshima in central Hokkaido.
In 1894, Hiroshima Village was officially founded. Over time the population and infrastructure grew, and in 1968, the village was renamed Hiroshima Town.
Finally, on September 1, 1996, Hiroshima Town was promoted to city status. Because there was already another city named Hiroshima in Hiroshima Prefecture (on the other side of Japan), the new city was renamed Kitahiroshima (literally “North Hiroshima”).
Climate
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Kitahiroshima has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Snow usually starts in November and lasts until March.
Daylight hours vary greatly through the year — summer days are long and bright, while winter days are short, with sunsets before 17:00.
Get in
[edit]Kitahiroshima is just east of Sapporo.
By train
[edit]JR Chitose Line trains run frequently to Kita‑Hiroshima Station from both Sapporo and New Chitose Airport; Rapid Airport services take about 18–21 minutes and run every 15–20 minutes in daytime hours.¥1420.
From Sapporo. Board a Rapid Airport or local JR train from Sapporo Station to Kita‑Hiroshima; typical journey time is around 18 minutes, with departures several times per hour.
From New Chitose Airport. Take the JR Rapid Airport from the airport station directly to Kita‑Hiroshima in roughly 21 minutes; trains operate all day at regular intervals.
To ES CON Field. From Kita‑Hiroshima Station, walk along the signposted Elfin Road or use the short shuttle bus from the West Exit; the shuttle takes about 5 minutes and runs on game and event days with a small fare.
- 1 JR Kita-Hiroshima Station (北広島駅), ☏ +81 11-372-3156. 7:00 - 17:30. is the main railway station of Kita-hiroshima.
By Bus
[edit]Event shuttles also operate from hubs such as Shin‑Sapporo and sometimes from New Chitose Airport on game days; check current timetables before traveling.
On Fighters game days or during large-scale events, dedicated shuttle buses operate between Kitahiroshima Station and F Village, offering a direct, crowd-friendly option for travelers.
- Hokkaido Chuo Bus: Runs regular services between Sapporo Station, Fukuzumi, and Kitahiroshima Station. Seasonal and event-day buses also serve Es Con Field HOKKAIDO.
- Airport Limousine Bus (seasonal): Operates during major games or large-scale events, providing direct access between New Chitose Airport and F Village.
By car
[edit]Kita-hiroshima is 44 minutes away from Sapporo by car with using route 12. Driving from central Sapporo or New Chitose Airport takes roughly 20–25 minutes in normal traffic; parking at ES CON Field may require advance reservation and can be congested on game days.
Get around
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Kitahiroshima's public transit is efficient and affordable, especially with IC cards, but the city is spread out with residential areas and parks, so taxis or rideshares fill gaps for shorter trips. Winter snow and ice can make walking or driving trickier—stick to cleared paths and check for delays. English signage is limited outside stations, so use apps like Hyperdia or Google Maps for real-time schedules.
By train
[edit]The JR Chitose Main Line is your best bet for getting around, with Kita-Hiroshima Station as the main hub. Trains run frequently to/from Sapporo Station and New Chitose Airport (20 minutes, ¥650). For broader Hokkaido travel, the line links to other JR routes, but local services are limited—expect 1-2 trains per hour off-peak.
IC cards like Kitaca (JR Hokkaido's rechargeable card, starting at ¥1,000 with ¥500 deposit) or interoperable ones (Suica, PASMO) work seamlessly for tap-and-go fares. Buy at station machines (English available) and top up with cash or card. One-day passes aren't common for local use, but the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass covers longer trips if you're exploring beyond Kitahiroshima.
By bus
[edit]Local buses operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus connect the station to residential areas, shopping spots like Mitsui Outlet Park Hokkaido (15-20 minutes, ¥300-500), and places such as the Dynasty Ski Resort. Routes are straightforward but infrequent (every 30-60 minutes), so check the Hokkaido Chuo Bus app or website for timetables. Event shuttles run to Es Con Field during Fighters games or concerts—often free or ¥200 with a ticket.
Fares are distance-based (¥200-600), payable in cash or IC card. Transfers between bus and JR are free within 90 minutes if using Kitaca. For winter reliability, buses are heated and equipped with snow tires, but delays are common after heavy snowfall.
By taxi
[edit]Taxis are plentiful at Kita-Hiroshima Station and Es Con Field, ideal for quick hops to hotels, parks. Hail them on the street (look for the red "空車" sign meaning available) or call via apps like JapanTaxi or GO. From Sapporo, a cab to Kitahiroshima runs ¥5,000-7,000 (30-40 minutes), but public transit is cheaper.
Metered fares start at ¥680 for the first 1.3 km, then ¥90 per 237 m (20% night surcharge after 10 PM). Most accept cash; some take IC cards or credit. English-speaking drivers are rare, so show your destination in Japanese (e.g., via Google Translate) or ask your hotel to arrange. For groups or events, charter taxis (¥20,000+ per day) offer door-to-door service to ski resorts or outlets.
By car
[edit]Driving is straightforward on well-maintained roads like Route 12 from Sapporo (44 minutes), but parking can be tight near the stadium—use lots at Es Con Field (¥500-1,000/day). Rent from major companies at New Chitose Airport (e.g., Toyota Rent a Car, from ¥5,000/day for compact; English support available). International permits required; snow chains or winter tires mandatory November-March.
Gas stations are sparse, so fill up in Sapporo. Tolls are minimal locally, but watch for speed cameras. Apps like Navitime provide English GPS with traffic alerts. Not ideal for short stays due to public transit ease, but great for side trips to rural spots like the Teine Highlands.
On foot or by bike
[edit]The station area and Es Con Field are walkable (10-15 minutes between spots), with sidewalks cleared in winter. For longer jaunts, like to Kitahiro Park trails, rent bikes at the station or outlets (¥500/hour via apps like Hello Cycling). Paths along the river are scenic but hilly—helmets recommended, and stick to designated lanes to avoid traffic. In summer, it's pleasant; in winter, bundle up for icy patches.
See
[edit]- 1 The Monument of William S. Clark (クラークの碑), 1-1 Shimamatsu, ☏ +81 11-377-5412. The Monument of William S. Clark in Kitahiroshima commemorates the American educator William S. Clark, remembered for having here spoken his farewell words to students, “Boys, be ambitious,” which became a famous phrase throughout Japan.
- 2 Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum Center Innovation Station (北広島市エコミュージアムセンター知新の駅), Koyocho, 3 Chome−１−番地. 09:00-17:00. Free.
- 3 Dynasty Ski Resort (ダイナスティスキーリゾート), 82番4 Nibetsu, ☏ +81 11 376 2611. 9:00 -21:00. Family-friendly ski resort is ideal for beginners and intermediates alike. It features gentle slopes, a snow-play zone for kids, and easy highway access via the Kitahiroshima IC. Whether you’re keen on your first run or enjoying a snowy afternoon escape, it hits the sweet spot for convenience and winter fun.
Do
[edit]- 1 Es Con Field Hokkaido (エスコンフィールド北海道), １番地 F Village (Around 20 min walk east from Kitahiroshima Station, or free shuttle on game days.). Tickets can be bought via the Fighters’ official site, Lawson (Loppi), or English-friendly resellers.
Even off-season, the surrounding F Village offers cafés, local food stalls, and seasonal events such as winter illuminations.
Even on non-game days, the surrounding F Village offers many attractions.
Visitors can stay at Tower 11 Hotel, a modern on-site hotel overlooking the field, or relax by the outdoor Ballpark takibi terrace allpar, which offers campfires and food trucks. - 2 Kitahiro park (北広公園), 2 Chome-51 Sakaecho (5 min walk from Kitahiroshima Sta. JR), ☏ +81 -11 -376 -6637. 24 Hours. This spacious community park sits quietly in the center of Kitahiroshima, serving as one of the city’s most popular local gathering spots. Built in 1972, the park has wide lawns, tennis courts, and a children’s playground, making it a go-to spot for families on weekends and during cherry blossom season.
Buy
[edit]Fighters merchandise — Official team stores around ES CON Field carry Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters jerseys, towels, cheering goods, and limited snacks; easiest stop pre‑ or post‑game.
Outdoor and winter gear — Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima has a wide range of outdoor and snow brands, with off‑season discounts that can be steep.
Dairy sweets and butter cookies — Hokkaido’s milk and butter drive a deep lineup of local cookies, caramels, and custard cakes that keep well as omiyage.
Regional products — Small market corners sell local produce, seafood preserves, and Hokkaido gift items in convenient sizes for travelers.
- 1 Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima (三井アウトレットパーク 札幌北広島), 3 Chome-7-6 Omagarisaiwaicho, ☏ +81 -11 -377 -3200. 10:00 - 20:00. Large outlet mall a short ride from central Kitahiroshima with international brands, outdoor gear, and a spacious food court; useful for bargain hunting on non‑game days.
Eat
[edit]- 1 Tonkatsu Hachifuku (とんかつ 八福), 3 Chome-1番地17 Misawa, ☏ +81 11 887 8396. Tu-Su 11:30 - 15:00, 16:30 - 20:00. Famous local tonkatsu place near by Es con field Hokkaido. ¥1000-2000.
- 2 Ryo Sushi (良寿し), Kyoeicho, 1 Chome−１−10, ☏ +81 11 372 3523. 11:00-21:00. Their sushi is served in modest portions with fresh, seasonal fish, emphasizing subtle flavors over extravagance. The restaurant features private rooms and counter seating, making it ideal for both solo diners and intimate groups. 1000¥~2000.
- 3 ArtlaczÉ Gelato & Pizza (ArtlaczÉ（アルトラーチェ）北広島店), Misawa, 5 Chome−1番1 キャンバーズアンドアングラーズ 北広島店 敷地内. 10:30 - 20:00. A desert place close to Es Con field Hokkaido serving stone-baked pizza and rich handmade gelato made from local Hokkaido milk. The place has a sunny terrace and even a small dog-run, making it a relaxing stop for families and travelers alike. ¥1000 - 2000.
- 4 Bazzar (バザール), 1 Chome-52 Sakaecho, ☏ +81 -11 -398 -9311. 06:30 - 22:00. Upscale buffet in the ES CON Field HOKKAIDO Hotel with creative plates, a full bar, and window views toward the ballpark—handy for pre-game lunch or post-game dinner near Kitahiroshima Station. ¥4,000~5,000.
- 5 Lamb Ou Jingisukantei Kitahiroshimaten (個室で食べ放題 ジンギスカン邸 ラム王 北広島店), Sakaecho, 1 Chome−1−2 パルシティビル 4F, ☏ +81 -50 -5488 -1366. 12:00 - 22:30. All-you-can-eat jingisukan near Kitahiroshima Station featuring thick‑cut lamb with soy or miso sauces, simple sides like vegetables and rice, and friendly staff who explain how to grill; a stylish dining room and credit‑card acceptance make it easy for first‑timers. ¥3,000~4,000.
- 6 Oo Akkeshi Tonarie Kitahiroshima Ten (大厚岸トナリエ北広島店), Kitahiroshima, Sakaecho, 1 Chome−52 tonarie, ☏ +81 -50 -3556 -5326. 11:00 - 20:30. Casual seafood spot inside Tonarie Kitahiroshima near the station, specializing in fresh Akkeshi oysters served raw or grilled, plus simple rice bowls and Hokkaido sides; easy for a quick pre‑ or post‑game meal by ES CON Field. ¥1,000~2,000.
- 7 Hirayama Shoten (平山商店), Misawa, 3 Chome−4−20 エルフィンハウス, ☏ +81 -80 -9610 -0917. 8:00- 125:00. Small bakery-café and specialty grocery near Kitahiroshima Station known for house-baked sweets, light café bites, and carefully selected local products; a few counter seats, takeout-friendly, and a relaxed stop for coffee and snacks in Misawa.
Drink
[edit]- 1 Sumibiizakaya En Kitahiroshimaten (炭火居酒屋 炎 北広島店), Sakaecho, 1 Chome−１−2 パルシティビル, ☏ +81 -11 -373 -8891. 16:00 - 24:00. Lively spot a minute from Kitahiroshima Station that fills up on game days, with upbeat service and tasty dishes; the signature 生つくね (fresh chicken tsukune) is the standout and worth ordering. ¥2,000~3,000.
- 2 刺身と日本酒の店 しま (Sashimi to Nihonshu no Mise Shima), Hokushincho, 1 Chome−２−4, ☏ +81 -80 -4040 -0022. 18:00 - 23:00. Small, counter‑only izakaya two minutes from Kitahiroshima Station, focused on fresh sashimi flights and curated sake; a calm, intimate room with seasonal specials makes it a good stop before or after ES CON Field. ¥4,000~5,000.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Minn Kitahiroshima Station East (Minn 北広島 Station East), 5 Chome-8-1 Central (5 min walk from Kitahiroshima station), ☏ +81 50 1721 8684. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10:00. ¥10,000-20-000.
- 2 tower eleven hotel, tower eleven hotel, エスコンフィールド北海道 tower eleven hotel, 4F, 1 F Village (Inside of Es Con field Hokkaido), ☏ +81 50 3171 7525. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 09:00. This hotel is built directly into ES CON Field Hokkaido, offering a one-of-a-kind stay literally inside the ballpark. Opened in 2023 along with the stadium, Tower Eleven Hotel provides rooms that overlook the field itself, letting guests watch baseball games right from their windows or balconies. Singles ¥20,000, doubles ¥40,000 but in the off season it can be as little as ¥15,000 per night.
- 3 Ballpark takibi terrace allpar (オルパ), F Village, 8番地 Ballpark takibi terrace allpar, ☏ +81 11 373 5030. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10:00. Located within the F Village complex beside ES CON Field, ALLPAR is an outdoor terrace area designed for barbecues and bonfires with a perfect view of the ballpark. Visitors can enjoy local Hokkaido ingredients, craft beer, and relaxed open-air dining while warming up by the fire pits — especially popular on cool summer nights or snowy winter evenings. The terrace blends camping and sports atmosphere, making it a cozy hangout spot before or after a game, or even for those who just want to enjoy the stadium vibe without a ticket. 15,000~25,000¥.
- 4 Sapporo Kitahiroshima Classe Hotel (札幌北広島クラッセホテル), 316-1 Nakanosawa, ☏ +81 11-373 3800. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10:00. This upscale hotel, set on a hill overlooking the Sapporo Kitahiroshima Golf Club. ¥10,000.
- 5 Es con field Hokkaido hotel Kitahiroshima Station (エスコンフィールドHOKKAIDOホテル 北広島駅前), 1 Chome-52 Sakaecho, ☏ +81 50-1721-1414. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10:00. Es con field Hokkaido hotel Kitahiroshima Station is located near the Hokkaido Ballpark in Kitahiroshima, offering easy access to both the surrounding nature and Sapporo’s urban attractions. The hotel features a rooftop terrace overlooking the ballpark, an on-site restaurant, a café, and spacious rooms with air conditioning and free Wi‑Fi. Selected rooms provide views of the city, mountains, or nearby park.
Stay safe
[edit]Like most of Hokkaido, the sidewalk and road of Kitahiroshima tend to accumulate a lot of ice or snow in the winter.