Complete Guide to Enjoying Sapporo's "Odori Park" in All Four Seasons! Top 8 Nearby Attractions and Culinary Delights

Located in the heart of Sapporo, "Odori Park" is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hokkaido. Spanning 13 city blocks, this urban park offers cherry blossoms in spring, a beer festival in summer, and a white illumination festival in winter, along with numerous nearby culinary delights. Join Kinnso to explore every corner of Odori Park!

The history of Odori Park dates back to 1869 when it served as a wide firebreak. Over the years, it has been transformed into Sapporo's favorite leisure spot. Stretching 1.5 kilometers with a total area of approximately 7.8 hectares, the park is divided into 12 sections from east to west, each with its own unique features. Odori Park offers different activities throughout the year, making it a must-see attraction in Sapporo.

One of the highlights of visiting Odori Park is the springtime cherry blossom experience. Around May each year, over 1,000 cherry trees bloom, creating a stunning display of pink petals against the blue sky and white clouds. The park boasts a variety of cherry tree species, including Somei Yoshino and mountain cherry blossoms. Strolling under the cherry trees and experiencing the romantic "flower rain" is truly refreshing. During the cherry blossom season, the park hosts a cherry blossom festival featuring nighttime light shows and outdoor cafes, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the cherry blossom viewing experience.

From late July to mid-August, Odori Park hosts a month-long summer beer festival, attracting a large number of locals and tourists. The park sets up numerous large beer tents featuring famous beer brands from all over Japan, such as Sapporo Beer and Kirin Ichiban. You can purchase beer tickets and enjoy a variety of beer flavors. Accompanied by BBQ delicacies and live performances, it's a perfect way to spend a summer evening with friends.

In addition to spring cherry blossoms, Odori Park's autumn foliage is equally enchanting. From mid-September to late October, the park's maple and ginkgo trees gradually turn red and yellow, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors. Different tree species display a range of hues from red to orange to yellow, offering a visual feast. You can sit on a park bench in the afternoon sun, quietly admiring the lush autumn scenery and enjoying a rare moment of leisure. Many couples also choose this spot for romantic autumn foliage wedding photos, capturing their most beautiful moments.

Starting in late November, Odori Park transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. The annual Munich Christmas Market is held in the park, adorned with snowy lights, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. You can explore wooden stalls, savoring hot mulled wine and grilled sausages. From late December to February, the "Sapporo White Illumination Festival" decorates the park's trees with LED lights, creating a magical Christmas ambiance. This dazzling display is a winter-exclusive spectacle."

At the eastern end of Odori Park stands the Sapporo TV Tower, a landmark rising 90 meters high with an observation deck at the top. You can take a direct elevator to the observation deck and enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Odori Park and the surrounding cityscape. As night falls, the "million-dollar night view" from the deck is particularly enchanting, with the sparkling night lights creating a mesmerizing scene. The base of the tower houses shops and restaurants, providing a convenient spot for visitors to rest and dine.

To the southwest of Odori Park lies the Susukino District, one of Hokkaido's famous entertainment areas. This bustling district is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as large shopping complexes like BIC Camera and Don Quijote. You can go on a shopping spree for electronics and beauty products, or at least pick up some Hokkaido-exclusive snacks and souvenirs from the supermarkets. If you're interested in experiencing the local nightlife, why not have a few drinks and soak in the lively atmosphere?

Odori Park is well-connected by public transportation, allowing you to easily visit major tourist attractions via the Namboku Line or Tozai Line. A 10-minute subway ride will take you to Susukino Station, where you can explore historic buildings such as the Former Hokkaido Government Office and the Sapporo Clock Tower, which exude a nostalgic charm. The "Akarenga Terrace" in front of the old government office often hosts performances like concerts and magic shows, making weekends an ideal time to visit.

Sapporo's culinary delights extend beyond seafood ramen, with many local specialties worth trying. Take a walk to the nearby Tanukikoji Shopping Street, where you'll find numerous affordable eateries. Don't miss the rich curry soup at the popular "Ajino Tokeidai" or the miso chashu ramen at Tokyo's famed "Santouka." You can also savor freshly grilled Sapporo specialties like lamb skewers from street vendors, with their tender and juicy flavors leaving a lasting impression.

Kinnso has compiled a seasonal guide to enjoying Odori Park in Sapporo, featuring eight recommended attractions and culinary delights to inspire your Hokkaido trip! From cherry blossom viewing in spring, beer festivals in summer, romantic autumn foliage, to winter light festivals, coupled with shopping and dining options, there's plenty to keep you captivated. Next time you visit Sapporo, make sure to follow this guide and explore the Odori Park area!