I got tickets to go and see a football match at Sapporo Atsubetsu Park Stadium, the home ground of Consadole, Sapporo, a Japanese professional football team. Coming from London I have a rather negative image of these games, the word hooligan coming to mind.
So, I was rather surprised to find myself in a comfortable, amiable and pleasant atmosphere. All ages were present and there was a strong family turn out for Consadole Sapporo versus Gifu.
Everything was well managed with lots of staff on hand. There were food stalls and shops selling football memorabilia. Everyone lined up quietly to buy.
Nearly everyone was there to support Consadole Sapporo, you could tell because they were all wearing the red and black striped tops of the team. The crowd applauded and sighed at the right moments and there was constant well-mannered cheering going on with drums and hooters.
It was a joy to be there, a place where everyone was out to simply enjoy themselves and watch a match.
You cannot take cans of drink into the stadium, instead you are given a plastic cup to use so you can leave the can at the door. What an excellent idea.
Sapporo Atsubetsu Park Stadium is a multi-use stadium. Field and track events take place here and in winter, there is ski-walking.
The place has ample parking. The bus stops almost outside, so very easy to get to.
It was such an enjoyable day out, I would go again at the drop of a hat.
