Odori Park — Attraction in Sapporo

The YOSAKOI Soran Festival

Was born in 1992 in Sapporo, initiated by a group of students from Hokkaido University.

The idea was to merge the local tradition of "Soran Bushi" fishermen's song with Yosakoi dance, known for its colorful costumes and contagious energy.

The event began with just 10 teams and 1,000 dancers.

Today, in 2025, 270 teams and 27,000 participants will be present, enlivening the streets and stages of Sapporo with their vibrant and colorful performances.

The 34th YOSAKOI Soran Festival will take place this year from Wednesday, June 4 to Sunday, June 8, 2025, primarily in Odori Park, in the heart of Sapporo, as well as at 17 venues throughout the city.

Featuring spectacular parades, dance competitions, open stages where the audience can join the dancers, and special demonstrations for young participants.

A dedicated spectator area will be set up in Odori Park (West 10th Street), allowing for up-close viewing of the performances.

Waodori Square, a participatory dance space, invites everyone to learn and dance.

The dancers, dressed in original costumes and equipped with naruko (traditional wooden clappers), will move to the rhythm of Soran Bushi melodies and modern musical creations.

The atmosphere promises to be festive, joyful, and inclusive, with numerous local food stalls and entertainment for all ages.

Sunday evening, with the grand finale and awards ceremony, will crown the best teams of the year.

Admission is free to most venues, making this an event accessible...

Odori Park is a famous tourist spot in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, and is also the site for the Sapporo Snow Festival. It is one of the best recreational spots for a family tour. The mesmerizing clock tower is just opposite the park, making it the gem in the heart of Sapporo city. Its expansive green spaces, beautiful flower gardens, and serene atmosphere make it a delightful experience. This rectangular park is also the site for hosting different cultural events, local festivals, and many more events. The park is surrounded by beautiful Gnetum trees, cherry trees, and other greenery, but cherry blossoms take place during the spring season. Snowfall starts in the last part of November, transforming the region into a picturesque environment. During the snow festival from the month of February onwards, visitors and tourists from around the world visit this iconic wonderland to enjoy the lively events. The unique snow sculptures of famous Japanese personalities, monuments, and others are exhibited, adding more beauty to the park. Proper shoes are a must as the park becomes too slippery. The park gets filled with food stalls containing delicious Japanese food to serve the hunger of people with varied tastes and desires from around the world. It is a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll, for resting, and spending your time just enjoying the day, and is really a five-star...

🌳 Odori Park – Sapporo’s Green Artery of Culture and Calm

Odori Park is more than just a stretch of greenery—it’s the beating heart of Sapporo, offering a refreshing blend of nature, culture, and seasonal charm right in the middle of the city. Spanning over 1.5 kilometers from the iconic Sapporo TV Tower to the west end near the Shiryokan (Former Court of Appeals), the park divides the city’s downtown into north and south, acting as both a scenic corridor and a lively gathering space.

Each block of the park has its own character. You’ll find beautifully maintained flower beds, fountains, sculptures, and benches perfect for people-watching or enjoying a snack from nearby vendors. In spring and summer, locals and tourists alike lounge under trees or stroll past blooming tulips and roses. Autumn brings golden foliage, and winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland—especially during the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, when massive ice sculptures and illuminations take over the space.

Odori Park also hosts seasonal events like beer gardens, food festivals, and cultural performances, making it a dynamic space year-round. Despite its central location, it retains a peaceful vibe, offering a welcome pause from the urban bustle.

Whether you're walking from Nishi 11-Chome to the TV Tower or just soaking in the scenery, Odori Park is a must-visit slice of...