Odori Park

A Stretch of Green in the Heart of Sapporo

Odori Park is a beautiful stretch of green in the heart of Sapporo, japan. This park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. With its lush trees, fragrant rose garden, and interesting statues, Odori Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The park covers a total of thirteen blocks and spans approximately 1.5 kilometers in length. It was originally constructed in 1871 with the purpose of serving as a fire break for the city. The park’s original name was Shiribeshi Dori, but it was later changed to Odori in June 1881. The name “Odori” translates to “large street” in Japanese, which is fitting considering the park’s size and prominence within the city.

One of the highlights of Odori Park is its large, fragrant rose garden located on the west side of the park. Here, visitors can stroll among the beautiful blooms and enjoy the delightful scent of the flowers. The rose garden is a popular spot for picnicking, and it offers a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the park.

Throughout the park, visitors will also find various fountains that add to the park’s charm. These fountains provide a soothing ambiance and create a sense of serenity. The sound of the flowing water adds to the overall tranquility of the park, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or a quiet afternoon of reflection.

In addition to the rose garden and fountains, Odori Park is also home to several interesting statues. These statues are scattered throughout the park and offer a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. Each statue tells a story and adds a unique element to the park’s atmosphere.

After a day of exploring the park, visitors can satisfy their appetite at the small stalls that sell two of Hokkaido’s specialties—grilled corn on the cob and hot, buttery potatoes. These delicious treats are a must-try for anyone visiting the park, and they provide a tasty snack to refuel after a long walk.

Don’t Miss

While visiting Odori Park, there are a few events and attractions that should not be missed. One of these is the Autumn Fest, which takes place in September. This festival is a celebration of local delights and offers visitors the opportunity to feast on a variety of Hokkaido’s best dishes. From fresh seafood to traditional Japanese cuisine, the Autumn Fest is a food lover’s paradise.

Another event not to be missed is the Yosakoi Soran Festival, which takes place in June. This vibrant festival showcases traditional Japanese dance and music, and it is a true spectacle to behold. Dancers dressed in colorful costumes perform intricate choreography to the beat of drums and other traditional instruments. The energy and enthusiasm of the festival are contagious, and it is a great way to experience the local culture.

For beer enthusiasts, a visit to the Odori Beer Garden is a must. This open-air beer garden is open from late July to mid-August and offers a wide selection of local and international beers. Visitors can enjoy a pint of their favorite brew while taking in the sights and sounds of the park. The atmosphere is lively and festive, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Superb statues at the Sapporo Snow Festival in February

One of the most famous events held in Odori Park is the Sapporo Snow Festival, which takes place in February. This internationally renowned festival attracts visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at the impressive snow and ice sculptures on display. The festival features intricate sculptures of famous landmarks, characters from popular culture, and even entire buildings made entirely of snow and ice. It is a truly breathtaking sight and a testament to the skill and creativity of the artists involved.

How to Get There

Getting to Odori Park is relatively easy. Visitors can catch a 35-minute rapid airport train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station, and then transfer to the Namboku or Toho subway line to Odori Park, which is just one stop south. For those who prefer to walk, the park is approximately 10 minutes away from Sapporo Station, with paths both above and below ground.

A Walk in the Park

As visitors explore Odori Park, there are several attractions worth checking out. One of these is the Sapporo City Archive Museum, located at the west end of the park. This museum houses thousands of documents and artifacts that tell the story of Sapporo’s history. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and is a great place to learn more about the local culture.

For families with children, Nishi 8-chome and 9-chome in the park are great places to stop. These areas offer playgrounds and slides for children to enjoy, providing a fun and safe environment for families to spend quality time together.

Another must-visit attraction in Odori Park is the iconic Sapporo TV Tower, located at the east end of the park. This tower offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Visitors can take an elevator to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo’s skyline. It is especially beautiful during sunset and at night when the city lights up.

Party All Along Odori

Odori Park is known for hosting numerous large-scale events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Sapporo White Illumination, which takes place in December. During this event, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. It is a magical sight to behold and creates a festive atmosphere that is perfect for the holiday season.

Another event worth attending is the Sapporo German Christmas Market, also held in December. This market features traditional German food and drinks, as well as crafts and gifts. Visitors can indulge in bratwurst, mulled wine, and other delicious treats while browsing the stalls for unique holiday presents.

The famous Sapporo Snow Festival is another event that draws visitors to Odori Park. This festival takes place in February and showcases incredible snow and ice sculptures. The park is transformed into a winter playground, with sculptures of all shapes and sizes on display. Visitors can admire the artistry and craftsmanship of the sculptures, and even participate in snow-related activities such as snowboarding and sledding.

In June, the Yosakoi Soran Festival kicks off the summer season in Odori Park. This lively festival celebrates traditional Japanese dance and music, and it is a sight to behold. Dancers dressed in vibrant costumes perform energetic routines, accompanied by the beat of drums and other traditional instruments. The festival exudes energy and excitement, and it is a great way to experience the local culture.

During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy the open-air Odori Beer Garden, which is open from late July to mid-August. This beer garden offers a wide selection of local and international beers, as well as delicious food. Visitors can relax and enjoy a cold beer while taking in the sights and sounds of the park. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it provides a fun and lively atmosphere.

For those who prefer cooler weather, Odori Park hosts food and flower festivals in the spring and autumn months. These festivals showcase the region’s culinary delights and floral beauty. One of the most notable festivals is the Autumn Fest, which is the newest addition to the lineup. This festival celebrates the flavors of Hokkaido and offers visitors the opportunity to sample a wide variety of local dishes. From fresh seafood to Hokkaido’s famous dairy products, the Autumn Fest is a food lover’s paradise.

In conclusion, Odori Park is a must-visit destination in Sapporo, Japan. With its lush greenery, fragrant rose garden, and interesting statues, the park offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore the local culture, or attend one of the park’s many events, Odori Park has something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself in Sapporo, be sure to take a stroll through Odori Park and experience the beauty and tranquility it has to offer.

Address And Maps Location:

7 Chome, Odorinishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido


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