Sapporo beerfest

Japan's best beer festival takes over Sapporo city centre for a month each summer.

Sapporo is one of Japan's most cosmopolitan cities. Its wide streets and tree lined boulevards give the city an almost European feel. Coffee shops and cafes proliferate throughout the city and the centre is packed with a fantastic range of shops, restaurants and bars.

Sapporo is most alive during its festivals. The most famous is the Sapporo Yuki Matsuri which takes place in February. However, just as enjoyable is the summer beer festival, when Odori Koen, the park which runs thorugh the heart of the city, is transformed into a giant beer garden. Each of Japan's major brewers has a square where they set up a bar and outdoor seating for Sapporoites to enjoy from early afternoon until around 10 o'clock in the evening. An international tent provides a wide selection of brews from around the world. Look out for unusual offerings, such as Kirin's renowned Bikuri Tower (literally, 'surprise tower') a 4 feet tall, 3 litre pitcher of beer with a tap at the bottom for that perfect pour!

For anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Japanese urban life, a few days in Sapporo during the festival is an ideal place to be.

When to go: The festival kicks off on 21st July and draws to a close on 20th August after a full month of summer fun in the park.

Sapporo beerfest

located in Sapporo

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