Located in the very heart of Sapporo, Odori Park (大通公園) stretches over 1.5 kilometers and serves as the city’s central green belt. Dividing the city into north and south, the park offers a refreshing contrast to the surrounding urban grid of downtown Sapporo. Whether you’re visiting in the lush greenery of summer or the snowy wonderland of winter, Odori Park is a must-see for anyone exploring Hokkaido’s capital city.
A Park for All Seasons
Odori Park is more than just a place to stroll. It’s the main stage for many of Sapporo’s most famous seasonal events. In winter, it becomes the core venue for the Sapporo Snow Festival, showcasing massive snow sculptures that attract tourists from all over the world. During the warmer months, the park hosts flower festivals, beer gardens, and cultural performances. With over 90 types of trees, beautiful fountains, and public art installations, every visit feels different depending on the season.
Sapporo TV Tower: A Glowing Landmark
At the eastern end of Odori Park stands the Sapporo TV Tower (さっぽろテレビ塔), one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1957, this 147.2-meter-tall tower offers panoramic views of Sapporo and beyond. The tower’s red-and-white structure may remind visitors of Tokyo Tower, and it shines brightly at night, especially during the winter light-up events. The tower is not only an observation deck but also houses souvenir shops and a restaurant.
What You’ll See From the Observation Deck
Take the elevator up to the 90.38-meter-high observation deck, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Odori Park stretching westward, flanked by modern buildings and framed by distant mountains. On a clear day, you might even spot the Sea of Japan to the west. In winter, the snow-covered park below looks like a glittering white carpet, while in summer, it turns into a long green promenade buzzing with life.
A Cultural and Historical Hub
The area around Odori Park is also home to many important cultural institutions such as the Sapporo City Archive Museum and the Sapporo Clock Tower. You can easily spend a day here exploring museums, local cafés, and charming shops. Odori Park’s location also makes it a natural gathering place for both locals and tourists. Whether it’s a relaxing afternoon walk, people-watching on a park bench, or enjoying a local snack from a festival stall, the park offers something for everyone.
How to Get There
Odori Park is extremely easy to access. Just take the Subway Namboku, Tozai, or Toho Line to Odori Station, and you’ll find yourself right at the park. For the Sapporo TV Tower, exit from Odori Station Exit 27, and the tower is just a few steps away. The area is also walkable from Sapporo Station (about 10–15 minutes on foot), making it a perfect starting point for your Sapporo adventure.
Opening Hours and Admission
Odori Park is open 24 hours and is free to enter. The Sapporo TV Tower Observation Deck is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally), with last admission at 9:30 PM. Admission costs 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for elementary school students, and discounts are available for groups. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online. Don’t forget to bring your camera—the view is especially magical at sunset!
Address:
- Odori Park: 1-12 Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Sapporo TV Tower: 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
TV Tower Observation Deck Hours: 09:00–22:00 (last entry 21:30)
Admission Fee: Adults: ¥1,000 / Children: ¥500
Nearest Station: Odori Station (Namboku, Tozai, Toho Line)
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