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An annual Sapporo city tradition and one of Hokkaido’s biggest summer festivals.
The Sapporo Summer Festival is slated each year mid-July to mid-August, holding rank as one of the largest summer festivals in Hokkaido. The festival is packed each year with full programming and events that center mostly around Odori Park in downtown Sapporo.
The festival’s biggest highlight is one of Japan’s largest beer gardens, laid out in six sections of Odori Park. Famous domestic and international beer brands set up stalls, offering a wide selection of beers, including Japan’s four major beer brands, locally brewed craft beers from Hokkaido, and German and other world-famous beers. Each section has a unique look and feel, with plenty of seating options including large tents, wood-decked terraces, and shaded areas beneath trees.
At the Tanukikoji area you’ll find the Tanuki Festival, a prime spot for night bargains and children’s mikoshi (portable shrine) parades. Meanwhile, in the Susukino district, the Susukino Festival showcases events like the glamorous Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) and mikoshi parades, along with a bustling array of food stalls.
During the Obon period, the Hokkai Bon Odori dance is held at Odori Park’s Nishi 2-chome area, continuing a long-cherished local tradition.
The beer garden is always a beloved gem, serving up beers from Japan and around the world.
Some sections offer covered seating inside tents.
The Hokkai Bon Odori takes place during the Obon season.
The Tanuki Festival is held in Tanukikoji.
At the Susukino Festival, you can witness the Oiran Dochu parade.
