“A 1.5 km long, Western-style landscaped park featuring lawns, fountains, iconic sculptures such as Black Slide Mantra, and the Sapporo TV Tower; central to Sapporo’s cultural life and major festivals.”
Odori Park (Odori Park) stretches approximately 1.5 kilometers through the heart of Sapporo, dividing the city into northern and southern sections within Chuo Ward. Originally designed as a firebreak, the park played a crucial role in protecting the city from fires during its early development, reflecting Sapporo’s meticulously planned grid layout.
Today, the park is landscaped in a Western-style garden, featuring wide lawns, flower beds, fountains, and around 4,700 trees, including lilac, elm, and ginkgo. It also hosts notable public art installations, such as Black Slide Mantra by Isamu Noguchi (Nishi 8-chome), contributing to its cultural and artistic appeal. At the eastern end, the Sapporo TV Tower serves as a prominent landmark and observation point.
Odori Park is the center of Sapporo’s festival scene, hosting events throughout the year:
| Event | Season | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri) | February | Massive snow and ice sculptures transform the park into a world-renowned winter spectacle. |
| Sapporo Lilac Festival | Late May | Celebrates the city’s official flower with over 400 blooming lilac trees, concerts, and wine gardens. |
| YOSAKOI Soran Festival | Early June | A lively, city-wide dance festival with main stages in the park. |
| Sapporo Summer Festival | July–August | Features beer gardens, Bon Odori dancing, and various summer events along the park. |
| Sapporo Autumn Fest | September | Celebrates Hokkaido’s autumn harvest and local cuisine with large-scale food events. |
| Sapporo White Illumination | November–March | Millions of LED lights turn the park into a dazzling winter wonderland. |
Odori Park combines historical significance, natural beauty, and artistic expression, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sapporo.
How to Get There
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Subway: Odori Station (Namboku, Tozai, Toho Lines) is located directly beneath the park.
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On Foot: A 10–15 minute walk from Sapporo Station.
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Bus: Local bus routes stop near multiple park entrances.
Travel Tips
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Visit during festival periods for the most vibrant experience, though expect larger crowds.
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Early mornings are ideal for photos and enjoying quiet greenery.
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Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the entire 1.5 km stretch.
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Check festival schedules in advance as some events have specific areas or opening times.
Admission Fee:
- Free
Opening Time:
- Open 24 hours; festival-specific areas may have designated hours.