Sapporo Underground Walkway (Chikaho) | Walking from Sapporo Station to Odori

Chikaho is the common nickname for the Sapporo Ekimae-dori Underground Walkway. It links the Sapporo Station area with Odori underground, making it especially useful during winter or rainy weather.

Where does Chikaho go?

The main underground pedestrian section is approximately 520 metres long. It runs generally north–south between the Sapporo Station area and Odori. If you are heading toward Odori from Sapporo Station, follow signs south; for Sapporo Station from Odori, head north.

Is it an underground shopping mall?

Not exactly. Chikaho is primarily a public pedestrian walkway, although it connects to shops, buildings and other underground spaces. It is distinct from the Aurora Town and Pole Town underground shopping malls.

Can I walk to Susukino underground?

You can continue south from Odori through connected underground shopping areas toward Susukino. Pay attention to changes in signage when leaving Chikaho and entering other underground facilities.

Entrances, events and facilities

The walkway has multiple street exits and connections to adjacent buildings. Public spaces along the route sometimes host exhibitions and small events. Facilities and accessible routes may vary by entrance, so check the official maps before visiting.

Step-by-step: Sapporo Station to Odori

1. From the JR Sapporo Station concourse, follow signs for the subway and underground pedestrian routes.
2. Find signs for Sapporo Ekimae-dori Underground Walkway or Chikaho.
3. Continue south along the broad pedestrian passage.
4. At the Odori end, follow signs to the subway, Odori Park, Aurora Town or Pole Town depending on your destination.

You do not need a subway ticket to walk through Chikaho itself. Shops and building entrances along the route may have their own opening hours.

From Odori to Susukino

Chikaho ends at the Odori area. To continue south underground, follow signs into Pole Town, which runs toward Susukino. Aurora Town instead leads east toward the Sapporo TV Tower side of Odori.

For more detail, see the Aurora Town and Pole Town guide.

Practical tips for first-time visitors

• Use the numbered exits and building names shown on local signs to find your destination.
• Check elevator routes if traveling with a stroller, wheelchair or large luggage.
• The pedestrian route and individual shops do not necessarily share the same hours.
• Allow extra time during busy events and commuting periods.

When is it most useful?

• Walking between Sapporo Station and Odori in snowy or rainy conditions.
• Traveling with luggage or children while avoiding busy surface crossings.
• Visiting buildings with direct underground access.
• Getting a sense of central Sapporo’s north–south layout.

For a more detailed Japanese explanation, read SP-0170.

This English edition summarizes the original Japanese guide. Transport details may change; verify them with the official operator before traveling.