🌳 Odori Park: A Year-Round Adventure Through Sapporo’s Green Heart
🌸 Overview
Right in the heart of Sapporo lies Odori Park (大通公園, Ōdōri Kōen), a long green oasis running through the city center and separating Sapporo into its northern and southern halves. Stretching 1.5 kilometers across twelve blocks, it is the vibrant median of Odori Street and a favorite hangout for locals and visitors.
In spring and summer, the park bursts into color with flower beds, fountains, and open-air events. Every February, it transforms into the main venue of the Sapporo Snow Festival, where dazzling ice sculptures fill the park with magic.
At the eastern end stands the Sapporo TV Tower, an iconic landmark under 150 meters tall. From its 90-meter observation deck, enjoy sweeping views of the park and city skyline. When evening falls, the illuminated tower adds an elegant glow, creating the perfect backdrop for Sapporo’s laid-back charm.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
Odori Park is beautiful all year, but spring and autumn are especially recommended.
| Season | Months | Highlights | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March – May | Blooming tulips, lilacs, cherry blossoms, hanami picnics | 10–15°C |
| Summer | June – August | Sapporo Beer Festival, flower exhibitions, fountain shows | 20–25°C |
| Autumn | September – November | Maple and ginkgo foliage, Sapporo Autumn Fest, crisp air | 10–15°C |
| Winter | December – February | Sapporo Snow Festival, snow and ice sculptures, winter lights | -5–0°C |
Summer brings lively energy with the Sapporo Beer Festival, where the park becomes a huge open-air beer garden. In winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival fills Odori Park with massive snow and ice sculptures.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit after sunset during the Snow Festival to see the illuminated sculptures for a magical experience.
🚆 How to Get There
Getting to Odori Park is simple. From New Chitose Airport, take the rapid airport train to Sapporo Station (around 35 minutes), then transfer to the Namboku Line or Toho Subway Line and ride one stop south to Odori Station, located directly beneath the park.
If you prefer walking, the park is roughly a 10-minute stroll from Sapporo Station. You can use surface streets or the underground walkway to stay dry or warm.
💡 Pro Tip: Odori Station connects multiple subway lines, making it a convenient starting point to explore nearby attractions such as the Sapporo TV Tower and Tanukikoji Shopping Street.
⏰ Opening Hours
Odori Park itself is open all day, every day, with free entry. Some events have fixed schedules, so check ahead before visiting.
Opening Hours:
- Park: Open 24 hours
- Sapporo Snow Festival: Early February
- Beer Garden Festival: Mid-July to early August
🎉 Things to Do in Odori Park
Odori Park may seem like a single green strip, but each block offers something different. Here are the top 10 things to enjoy:
Sapporo Snow Festival (February)
Every February, Odori Park turns into a winter wonderland with gigantic ice sculptures across twelve blocks. Nighttime illumination creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy mini sledding and local winter snacks.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Spring)
Odori Park is one of Sapporo’s best hanami spots. Spread a picnic mat under the cherry blossoms, take photos, and soak in the fleeting beauty of spring.
Relax with a Picnic
Enjoy quiet moments on the lawns surrounded by fountains and sculptures. Try local favorites like buttered corn and Hokkaido potatoes from nearby stalls.
Sapporo TV Tower
Climb to the 90-meter observation deck for panoramic views of Odori Park and downtown Sapporo. Sunset and evening lights make it a perfect photo opportunity.
Sapporo Flower Festa (June)
The park comes alive with floral exhibitions and art installations. Don’t miss the famous Black Slide Mantra sculpture for memorable photos.
Odori Beer Garden (July to August)
Enjoy Japan’s largest beer garden, sample local brews and dishes, and join the friendly atmosphere. The Hokkai Bon Odori dance is a highlight for visitors.
Sapporo Autumn Fest (September to October)
Taste Hokkaido’s harvest bounty at this culinary celebration. Seafood, ramen, craft beer, dairy treats, and seasonal delicacies make it a food lover’s paradise.
Odori Art Trail
Discover sculptures and open-air installations scattered across the park. Each piece tells a story and offers a perfect spot for photography.
Outdoor Performances
Weekends and special events bring live music, tea ceremonies, and cultural performances to the park. It’s a great way to feel Sapporo’s creative spirit.
Fountain and Water Shows (Summer)
Evenings in summer feature fountains with colorful water displays and music. Kids can enjoy splashing in the shallow water area at Odori Nishi 9-chome.
💡 Pro Tip: Start your walk from the Sapporo TV Tower and move west to experience each block’s unique charm.
For a deeper experience, you can book guided Odori Park tours on laimi.com to explore hidden corners and learn local stories.
🎟️ Tickets and Visitor Info
Entry to Odori Park is free. Some attractions like the Sapporo TV Tower or festival zones may require tickets. For up-to-date schedules, queue-free entry, and seasonal offers, check laimi.com before visiting.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early or later in the day during festivals to enjoy a calmer experience.
👨👩👧 Who Will Enjoy It
Odori Park welcomes everyone. Families love the open lawns and playgrounds. Couples find romantic moments under lilac blooms or snow lights. Photographers can capture postcard-perfect scenes at every block. Festival-goers will enjoy joining locals in Sapporo’s most lively celebrations.
Discover Odori Park tours on laimi.com to make your visit more interactive and guided.
🎒 What to Bring and Know Before You Go
Odori Park is best enjoyed with a little planning. Wear comfortable shoes for walking across the twelve blocks. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat in summer to stay protected during the Beer Festival and outdoor events. In winter, layer up with warm jackets, gloves, scarves, and sturdy footwear for icy paths. Check weather forecasts and dress accordingly, since conditions can change quickly. A small umbrella or raincoat comes in handy for spring showers. Keep a water bottle and snacks with you, especially if you plan to explore the entire park or attend festivals. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture beautiful moments.
💡 Pro Tip: Try the Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream near the TV Tower and consider booking guided tours on laimi.com to enjoy expert insights and hidden spots you might otherwise miss.
💖 Conclusion
Odori Park is the lively soul of Sapporo. Each season brings something new: spring flowers, summer laughter, autumn colors, and sparkling winter sculptures. Whether you are relaxing on the grass or exploring festival lights, the park makes Sapporo feel welcoming and magical all year round.
✨ Ready to experience it yourself? Check laimi.com for the latest events and tour options to plan a memorable visit with ease.
