We visited the tower at sunset in order to see the view both in daylight and at night. It costs JPY1000 to go up 90.38m to the observation deck, where we can get 360 degrees view all around Sapporo. Take the lift to 3F, buy ticket, and take another lift up to the top. The sun sets behind the mountain range to the west. The observation deck also sells many souvenirs at a reasonable price, comparable to those in other shops. OK to visit if you have time to kill or if getting a high vantage point of view is a priority, otherwise you don't lose much (in fact save enough for a ramen) not going up the tower.

I went around 5:30pm, when it was dark. Looking down at the lights of the city in the pitch black was amazing. The vibe of the staff member I spoke to at reception was a bit off but I understand since I was trying to communicate in very broken Japanese. It's definitely a 'must do' while visiting Sapporo, it's not too expensive (1,000円) and it is a nice experience.

Our cruise tour was given two hours in Odori Park, and one option was to go up the TV tower. It is not that high but does have very nice views over Odori Park to the mountains to the southwest of Sapporo. It was a bit crowded in the observation deck, both with people and with shops selling souvenir items, but still fun.

I visited the tv tower yesterday. It’s super convenient as its next to Odori park and is easy to find. For those who don’t want to walk, there are elevators/ lifts that take you to the top. If you are adventurous, like I was, you can climb the central stair case all the way to the top to reach the observation deck. The staff provide a bottle of water for free on hot days if you do this. Doing the stairs means you get to view the sights for longer and there is a good breeze as its metal mesh (you won’t get too hot!) After completing, you’ll receive a certificate saying you climbed the tower. If you need assistance, there is a staff member 1/2 way. The tower itself is smaller and the deck not too big but the views were incredible! Make sure to go on a sunny day to get the best view! There is also a small fortune shrine so make sure you have 200 yen to use this! Plenty of photo opportunities. Two shops - one at the top and one at the bottom- and for those collecting stamps, the machine is next to the exit lifts by the bigger shop. Overall, a really good activity for someone who has just arrived in Sapporo like me and wants a view of the city!

The Sapporo TV Tower is near the Susukino and Odori Park areas. When we visited in December there was a good winter/Christmas market near the base of the tower and a light festival in the Odori Park. We walked by several times during our visit and enjoyed it most when it was lit up at night but decided not to go up it. We had done the T38 Tower/Observatory at Sapporo Station the day before and did not think the Sapporo Tower was worth it when we visited because it was shorter, the observation deck is lower, and it cost a bit more at 1000 yen/person when we visited Sapporo while the T38 Tower was 740 yen/person. We had a very positive experience at the T38 Tower and did not think the Sapporo TV Tower view/experience could top it.