Travel by Season logo
Travel by Season
Travel by Season logo
Travel by Season

How to Get to Odori Park Sapporo: 2026 Guide

January 3, 2026
By Editor
How to Get to Odori Park Sapporo: 2026 Guide

How to Get to Odori Park Sapporo for the 2026 Festival

Odori Park is the beautiful heart of Sapporo city in northern Japan. Many visitors want to know how to get to Odori Park Sapporo easily. This guide provides the best routes for your winter trip in 2026. You will find clear steps and helpful tips for every traveler.

Taking the Subway to Odori Park Sapporo

The subway is the fastest way to reach the park from any location. Odori Station serves as the main hub for three different and efficient subway lines. You can use the following lines to arrive at the park safely:

  • Namboku Line: Connects the north and south parts of the city.
  • Tozai Line: Runs from the east to the west across Sapporo.
  • Toho Line: Provides access from the southeastern and northeastern suburbs.

Subway fares usually cost between 210 and 380 yen for most adult subway riders. You can buy tickets at automated machines found in every local Sapporo subway station. Most machines have an English language option for tourists and many international visitors. Use a rechargeable IC card like Sapica or Suica for the best travel convenience.

Exit the train at Odori Station for immediate access to the beautiful park grounds. Look for exits 2, 5, or 8 to reach the snowy surface very quickly. These exits lead directly to the main festival areas and the giant sculptures. Follow the signs to find the official dates for 2026 Sapporo Snow Festival events.

Walking Routes from JR Sapporo Station

Walking is a great choice if the weather is clear and sunny. The walk from JR Sapporo Station takes about fifteen minutes at a steady pace. Head south from the station's main south exit to reach the city center quickly. You will see wide sidewalks and many interesting shops along the busy road.

You can also use the underground pedestrian walkway which locals call the Chi-Ka-Ho. This path connects Sapporo Station directly to Odori Station in a warm environment. It is perfect for staying warm during the cold winter months in Hokkaido. Many local shops and small cafes line this busy and convenient walkway.

The underground path is exactly 500 meters long from start to finish. It features clear maps and helpful directions in many different foreign languages. This route is very helpful for avoiding crowds at Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 on the street. It is also fully accessible for families using strollers and modern wheelchairs.

Using Local Buses and Taxis

Buses offer another reliable way to reach the city center in 2026. Many local bus lines stop near the edges of the snowy park. You can check the Sapporo Travel website for specific route numbers and times. Bus fares are similar to subway prices for most short city trips.

Taxis are plentiful around the main train station and major local hotels. A taxi ride to the park is quick and very comfortable for groups. Expect to pay around 700 to 1,200 yen for most short rides. Most drivers do not speak fluent English but use helpful navigation apps.

Taxis are very useful if you have heavy luggage or small children. They can drop you off right at the main park entrance gates. During the winter, taxis use special tires for the icy and snowy roads. This ensures a safe journey to your destination during the 2026 season.

Getting to the 2026 Snow Festival Site

The park becomes very busy during the 2026 winter festival season. Crowds are largest near the giant snow sculptures and local food stalls. Plan your visit during weekday mornings to enjoy much more personal space. Check our Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 Guide for detailed maps.

The park spans twelve city blocks from the east to the west. Start your walk at the TV Tower for the best scenic views. This iconic landmark sits at the eastern end of the large park. You can see the entire festival layout from the high observation deck.

  • Warm clothing: Wear many layers to stay comfortable in the cold.
  • Good boots: Choose shoes with strong grip for walking on ice.
  • Camera: Bring a spare battery because cold weather drains power quickly.

Wear warm boots with good grip for the icy and snowy paths. The ground can be very slippery near the busy subway station exits. Look for the Sapporo White Illumination 2026 schedule for evening light displays. These events make the park look magical after the winter sun sets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nearest station to Odori Park?

Odori Station is the closest station to the park. It serves the Namboku, Tozai, and Toho subway lines. You can reach the park surface in just a few minutes. It is the best choice for reaching the festival center. Most exits lead directly into the different festival blocks.

How much does it cost to enter Odori Park?

Entry to Odori Park is free for all visitors in 2026. You do not need a ticket to see the snow sculptures. Some special attractions like the TV Tower require a separate fee. Most outdoor events and light displays are open to the public.

Can I walk from Sapporo Station to Odori Park?

Yes, you can walk from Sapporo Station to the park easily. The walk takes about 15 minutes through the city streets. You can also use the underground walkway to stay warm and dry. This path is very popular during the cold winter months.

Is the underground walkway open 24 hours?

The underground walkway is not open 24 hours a day. It usually opens at 6:00 AM and closes at midnight daily. Plan your travel times accordingly if you are out late at night. The subway follows a similar schedule for all city travelers.

Getting to Odori Park is simple with the right travel information. Use the subway or the underground walkway for the fastest journey. Enjoy the incredible sights of the 2026 festival with your family. Start planning your Sapporo adventure today to see the giant snow sculptures.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.