Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a modern, spacious city laid out on a grid unlike anywhere else in Japan. Its green spine, Odori Park, and a handful of historic landmarks make the centre easy and pleasant to explore on foot, a fine introduction to Japan’s northern island.

Odori Park

This long, tree-lined park runs through the heart of the city, hosting seasonal events from summer beer gardens to the famous winter Snow Festival. At its eastern end stands the Sapporo TV Tower, whose observation deck gives a clear sense of the city’s orderly layout.

Historic Landmarks

The wooden Sapporo Clock Tower and the red-brick former Hokkaido Government Office are reminders of the city’s late-19th-century founding, when American advisors helped plan its development. Both sit a short walk from Odori and tell the story of Hokkaido’s frontier era.

Getting Around

Sapporo’s subway, trams and walkable centre make sightseeing simple, with Odori as the natural hub. An underground walkway links the station to the park, a blessing in winter.

The city centre sets the scene for Sapporo. In winter it transforms for the Snow Festival, one of Japan’s greatest events.

More Sapporo Travel Guides

• The Sapporo Snow Festival and Winter in the City
• Susukino and Sapporo’s Food Scene
• Day Trips from Sapporo: Otaru and Hokkaido Nature

See our Sapporo Travel Guide for the full overview. Planning the whole trip? Visit The Complete Sapporo Guide for every guide and hotel in one place.