Odori Park — Sapporo's Central Green Axis

**Snow Festival timing:** The Sapporo Snow Festival attracts 2 million visitors over one week in early February (dates vary annually, typically first week). Book accommodation 3-6 months ahead. The main Odori site features 100+ large ice sculptures illuminated until 22:00. Best viewing: weekday evenings (18:00-20:00) to avoid daytime crowds. Dress for -10°C with wind chill. **Summer Beer Garden:** From July to mid-August, Odori Park hosts open-air beer gardens serving Sapporo Beer, Asahi, and Kirin with Hokkaido BBQ (lamb jingisukan, grilled corn, seafood). Each brewery operates separate zones — Sapporo Beer Garden (west end) is most popular. Budget ¥3,000-5,000 per person. Arrive by 17:00 to secure tables without reservation. **Local insight:** The park's flower gardens (May-October) are meticulously maintained by the city — tulips and pansies in spring, roses in summer. The Lilac Festival (late May) celebrates Sapporo's official flower with food stalls and concerts. Most tourists miss this in favor of winter visits, making it a peaceful time to experience the city.