The Hokkaido Government Building, a red brick landmark where history and the future intertwine

#SeptemberDestinations2025 The Hokkaido Government Office (formerly the Main Building), located in the heart of Sapporo, was completed in 1888 and is one of Hokkaido's most iconic historical buildings. Constructed entirely of prefectural soil, stone, and wood, the building features approximately 2.5 million bricks fired at the Suzuki Brickworks in Shiroishi Village, Sapporo. The varying iron content and firing temperatures give the building a variety of hues, ranging from bright red to crimson. This exceptional craftsmanship and technology has earned it a designation as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, becoming a symbol of Hokkaido's development and modernization. The 1968 restoration project used enlarged Meiji-era photographs to accurately recreate details such as the octagonal tower, roof windows, chimneys, and north and south-facing entrances, restoring the building to its original appearance. Following the advent of the Reiwa era, the building underwent a five-year extensive renovation beginning in 2019, resulting in a renewed look, symbolizing "preserving the past and embracing the future." The museum, now open to the public, showcases Hokkaido's history and culture, and features exhibition spaces where visitors can not only experience the rich tapestry of the red bricks but also understand how this building has endured the hardships of Hokkaido's people for over a century. Red bricks are more than just a color; they represent the accumulation of time and memories, and they will continue to illuminate Hokkaido's future. 🎫 Admission: Adults 300 yen / University and High School Students 200 yen 📍 Address: Kita 3-jo Nishi 6-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido #Hokkaido Government Red Brick Building #SapporoLandmark #Important Cultural Property of Japan #HistoricBuilding