Odori Park: The Heartbeat of Sapporo

• Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayonara]
• Yesはい
  [Hai]
• Noいいえ
  [Iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Douzo]
• Thank youありがとう
  [Arigatou]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [Menyuu o misete kudasai]
• I don't eat meat肉を食べません
  [Niku o tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
• Go away!去って！
  [Satte!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [Keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [Isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷いました
  [Michi ni mayoimashita]
• I'm ill具合が悪い
  [Guai ga warui]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです...
  [Kaitai desu...]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [Miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock1時です
  [Ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)10時半です
  [Juuji han desu]
• Morning朝
  [Asa]
• Afternoon昼
  [Hiru]
• Evening夕方
  [Yuugata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [Kinou]
• Today今日
  [Kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
• 1一
  [Ichi]
• 2二
  [Ni]
• 3三
  [San]
• 4四
  [Yon]
• 5五
  [Go]
• 6六
  [Roku]
• 7七
  [Nana]
• 8八
  [Hachi]
• 9九
  [Kyuu]
• 10十
  [Juu]

• Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？
  [...wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せていただけますか？
  [Chizu de misete itadakemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)（…）までのチケット
  [(...) made no chiketto]

Odori Park is situated in the heart of Sapporo, a city founded in 1868 during the Meiji Era. Originally a military base, Sapporo was planned as a modern city and became the administrative center of Hokkaido. Odori Park was developed as part of this urban plan, initially serving as a firebreak for the city. The park was designed in 1886, with its name meaning 'large street' in Japanese, reflecting its role as a significant thoroughfare.

Odori Park gained international recognition during the 1972 Winter Olympics held in Sapporo. The park served as a venue for various events, including the Olympic Opening Ceremony. This grand occasion showcased Sapporo's capabilities as a host city and highlighted the significance of Odori Park as a central gathering place for both locals and visitors. The successful execution of the Olympics cemented Sapporo's status on the global stage.

Throughout the years, Odori Park has become a hub for cultural events, including the Sapporo Snow Festival, which began in 1950. This annual winter event features magnificent ice sculptures and attracts millions of visitors from around the world. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, celebrating the artistry and creativity of its creators while fostering community spirit and tourism in the region.

In the late 20th century, Odori Park underwent renovations to enhance its aesthetics and usability as an urban green space. The park features seasonal flower displays, walking paths, and public art installations, promoting environmental consciousness within the urban landscape. This transformation aligns with Sapporo's efforts to balance development with the preservation of green spaces, contributing to the city's reputation as a livable and environmentally friendly city.

Odori Park has always been a vital space for Sapporo's community life, providing a venue for seasonal festivals, concerts, and public gatherings. The park serves as a focal point for social interaction and cultural expression, reflecting the values and traditions of Sapporo's residents. Its historical significance as a meeting point underscores the park's importance in fostering a sense of community and belonging among the city's inhabitants.

Odori Park is centrally located in Sapporo, making it accessible via various modes of transportation. From Sapporo Station, take the Sapporo City Subway Namboku Line to Odori Station, which is just a short walk from the park. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from multiple neighborhoods, with stops near the park. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city, providing a convenient option for direct access.

Odori Park is best explored on foot, as its scenic pathways and gardens are pedestrian-friendly. The park is well-served by public transport, including the Sapporo City Subway and city buses. For those who prefer cycling, bicycles can be rented from nearby shops or through local bike-sharing services. Additionally, there are numerous taxi stands around the park for quick trips to nearby attractions.

Odori Park is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas during events or festivals. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep your belongings secure. Areas around the outskirts of the park or less trafficked streets at night may have higher risks, so it’s best to avoid wandering too far from well-lit, populated areas.

In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies in Japan. The nearest hospital is Sapporo Medical University Hospital, located a short distance from the park. It is advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the locations of nearby convenience stores and pharmacies for minor health needs.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Don't wear overly casual attire if you plan to visit upscale restaurants nearby. Religion: Do be respectful when near memorials or monuments. Don't engage in loud conversations near quiet spaces. Public Transport: Do keep your voice down and avoid eating on public transport. Don't block entrances/exits. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite 'Konnichiwa' (hello). Don't assume familiarity—maintain a respectful distance. Eating & Drinking: Do try local snacks and drinks available at kiosks within the park. Don't bring outside food into the park's designated areas.

To experience Odori Park like a local, visit during seasonal festivals, such as the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter or the Lilac Festival in spring. Join locals at the park's beer garden during summer, where you can enjoy local brews and food. Participate in tai chi or morning yoga sessions held in the park, often attended by residents. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of the city.