Sapporo Events 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Festivals, Culture & Illumination Highlights
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost region. With approximately 2 million residents, it boasts the fourth-largest population in Japan.
Sapporo city's streetscape features many historic buildings that preserve its rich history, creating beautiful urban scenery. The suburban areas are surrounded by vast natural landscapes, making it a city where urban life and nature harmoniously coexist.
Since Sapporo is located in northern Japan, temperatures are lower compared to Honshu regions like Tokyo, allowing visitors to experience Hokkaido's unique seasonal characteristics. Throughout the year, various events are held in Sapporo to match each season.
This article introduces the notable Sapporo Event 2025 attractions, highlights, basic information, event schedules, and access information to venues.
Sapporo Event 2025 Schedule
| Summer (June–August) |
Fall (September–November) |
Winter (December) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Events |
YOSAKOI Soran Festival Hokkai Bon Dance Hokkai Soran Festival |
||
| Natural Attractions | Mt. Yotei Makkari Climbing Route Opening | Sapporo Chrysanthemum Festival | |
| Special Experiences |
2025 Green Belt Festival JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE TOYAKO Manga & Anime Festival 2025 Susukino Festival Tanuki Festival TxT GARAGE Makomanai Fireworks Festival Craftsman Workshop Takino Fireworks Kitano Community Summer Festival & Fireworks Display Ebetsu Fireworks Iwamizawa Colorful Flower Festival Fireworks Display Doshin-UHB Fireworks Festival Chitose Citizens' Fireworks Festival Eniwa Sanshikai Summer Evening Fireworks Festival Otaru Ushio Festival Grand Fireworks Display Pacific Music Festival Sapporo 2025 Lake Toya Long Run Fireworks Festival Bankei Summer Festival Grand Fireworks Display Tomakomai Port Festival Tomamin Tomakomai Centennial Fireworks Small Hometown Creation "Tanabata Evening" Fireworks Festival Iwanai Doto Festival Fireworks Display Mikasa Hokkai Bon Dance Summer Evening Fireworks Festival Kitamura Countryside Festival Numaue Rapid-Fire Fireworks Display Rusutsu Resort Summer Vacation Special Fireworks Festival Rusutsu Resort Light Maze Sky Art Night Sapporo Fireworks Illusion Iwamizawa Park Fireworks Festival Fighters Super Fireworks Festival Hokkaido Marathon 2025 |
Hokkaido Art Fireworks Sapporo Autumn Fest Doshin Autumn Fireworks JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE Sapporo International Short Film Festival Sapporo Marathon Miyanomori Frances Church Illumination Garden Sapporo Factory Giant Christmas Tree Shiroi Koibito Park Sweet Illumination |
Sapporo White Illumination Munich Christmas Market Pokemon Center Winter Festival Sapporo JR Tower T38 "Sky New Year's Eve" |
| Gourmet Events |
Otaru Shukutsu Herring & Otate Festival 2025 Otaru Amazake Festival 2025 Welfare-Sponsored Sapporo Odori Beer Garden China Festival 2025 |
Summer Events in Sapporo 2025
While Honshu's summer is characterized by high humidity and many extremely hot days exceeding 30°C (86°F), Sapporo's summer maintains comfortable temperatures between 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F) with pleasant weather. The low humidity creates a dry climate, attracting many tourists from across Japan seeking relief from the heat.
During the summer season when many tourists visit, numerous large-scale events are held for both locals and visitors to enjoy. Here we introduce the Sapporo Event 2025 summer festivals. Please check individual event articles for specific dates and access information.
Notable Sapporo Events in June 2025
June, when temperatures gradually warm and seasonal transitions are clearly felt, hosts various events. With average daytime temperatures of 19°C (66°F), visitors can enjoy events in pleasant weather conditions.
The Sapporo Event 2025 lineup ranges from traditional dance and fireworks festivals that have been beloved for years to new subculture events, offering diverse entertainment options.
YOSAKOI Soran Festival
Source:Official website
Every June, Sapporo hosts the annual "Yosakoi Soran Festival." Citizens perform energetic dances combining Hokkaido's traditional "Soran-bushi" dance with "Yosakoi," a traditional dance performed while holding "Naruko" (castanets-like instruments).
"Soran" is a traditional chant used when pulling up herring with net fishing, and the dance features characteristic movements mimicking the action of hauling fish. This very lively dance attracted over 250 groups from across Japan last year.
During the festival, various locations throughout Sapporo are filled with passionate energy. The event reaches its peak from June 6th-8th, featuring night parades, contests, and numerous other attractions making this a festival full of highlights.
<Information>
- Date: June 4-8, 2025
- Venue: Odori Park (main stage)
- Access: 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free; Reserved seats from 1,000 yen
- Website: https://www.yosakoi-soran.jp/en/
2025 Green Belt Festival
Source:Official website
Every June, Chitose City's beloved community space "Green Belt" hosts an annual festival. Local restaurants set up food trucks and stalls, while the stage features citizen dance performances and entertainment.
The most popular attraction of this Sapporo Event 2025 festival is the test ride experience featuring boom lifts and small-sized heavy equipment. The opportunity to ride vehicles you can't normally experience is exciting even for adults! This is a family-friendly event enjoyable for everyone from small children to elderly visitors. Since vehicle rides require numbered tickets, we recommend visiting early in the morning if you want to participate.
Chitose City is located near Chitose Airport and is a beautiful city surrounded by rich natural landscapes. With excellent accessibility, we highly recommend combining sightseeing here when visiting Sapporo City.
<Information>
- Date: June 14-15, 2025
- Venue: Green Belt
- Access: From Chitose Airport, take JR Chitose Line to "Chitose Station," then 5-minute walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://web-ckk.com/2025/04/21/green-festival2025/
Mt. Yotei Makkari Trail Opening
Source:Official website
"Mt. Yotei" is an independent peak with an elevation of 1,898m located in the western part of Sapporo. Mt. Yotei, with its beautiful appearance resembling "Mt. Fuji," is also affectionately known as "Ezo Fuji." The summit features a dynamic crater, and you can enjoy hiking while observing over 100 species of alpine plants and wild birds.
In June, the snow near the summit melts and a mountain opening event is held. At the shrine at the base of the mountain, prayers are offered for climbers during the summer climbing season. After the prayers, a tape-cutting ceremony is held at the opening ceremony to mark the start of the season. Mt. Yotei can be climbed from the mountain opening in June every year until early October.
Since there are no mountain huts on Mt. Yotei's hiking trails, when climbing, be sure to stay at accommodations around Mt. Yotei and plan a day trip before climbing.
<Information>
- Schedule: Mid-June 2025
- Venue: Mt. Yotei Makkari trailhead
- Access: From JR Sapporo station, take "Sapporo–Lake Toya route," get off at "Rusutsu." From Rusutsu, take "Kutchan–Rusutsu route," get off at "Yotei shizen koen iriguchi"
Reservations are required for the Sapporo–Lake Toya route
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.makkari-kanko.jp/2024/05/31/羊蹄山真狩登山コースの山開き-3/ (This is the 2024 site)
Mt. Yotei: https://www.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp/tourism/yoteizan/
TOYAKO Manga Anime Festival 2025
Source:JAPAN 47 GO
For those interested in Japanese Otaku culture, there's a must-see event held in Hokkaido as well. "Toya-ko Manga Anime Festa" is one of Hokkaido's largest anime and manga festivals, and Toya-ko city becomes lively with cosplayers gathered from all over Japan.
Around the main venue, sales of "Doujinshi" (derivative work manga by fans) and exhibitions of creations such as cosplay and models are held. On stage, performances by cosplayers are held, and the venue is bustling with anime characters. The exhibition of "Itasha" (cars with anime characters printed on them) is content that even I, a car enthusiast, look forward to, and you can enjoy Japanese Otaku culture to the fullest.
<Information>
- Schedule: June 28-29, 2025
- Venue: Toya-ko city
- Access: From JR Sapporo station, take "Sapporo–Lake Toya route," get off at "Toyako Onsen"
- Reservations are required for the Sapporo–Lake Toya route
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://tmaf.toyako-prj.net/
Takino Fireworks
Source:Official X
Speaking of Japan's summer traditions, it's fireworks. In Japan, when summer arrives, fireworks festivals are held nationwide. "Takino fireworks festival" is the earliest summer fireworks held in Sapporo city, with 3,000 fireworks coloring the night sky.
In the park surrounded by magnificent nature, you can enjoy fireworks in an open environment that you can't experience in the city. I especially recommend the camp site seats. After enjoying the fireworks, you can stay overnight, so you can spend a dream-like time enjoying both camping and fireworks simultaneously. They also rent out tents and other equipment necessary for camping, so you can enjoy it without worrying about luggage even while traveling.
During the day, a meat festival is also held where you can enjoy exquisite local meat dishes, so please enjoy it together!
<Information>
- Schedule: June 29, 2025
- Venue: Takino park
- Access: From JR Sapporo station, take Subway "Namboku line," get off at "Makomanai." From Makomanai, take shuttle bus
Shuttle bus requires reservations. https://t.pia.jp/pia/event/event.do?eventCd=2510780
- Admission: From 5,000 yen
- Website: https://www.takinohanabi.com/
Related Article
・Sapporo in June 2025: Highlights, Events & Festivals
In Sapporo during June, various types of events take place, including the YOSAKOI Soran Festival. By checking out this article, you'll discover not only the appeal and highlights of the YOSAKOI Soran Festival, but also other events you should attend.
After visiting Sapporo and enjoying sightseeing as part of your Sapporo Event 2025 experience, I also recommend participating in the "Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour" hosted by Magical Trip in the evening.
This tour visits three izakaya (Japanese style bars) together with local guides knowledgeable about Sapporo city and food. This tour starts at a restaurant where you can taste fresh seafood such as salmon and sea urchin. In the cold waters around Hokkaido, high-quality fish with good fat content grow. Therefore, you can taste exquisite seafood at restaurants in Sapporo.
The second stop visits a restaurant where you can taste Hokkaido soul food such as lamb cuisine "Genghis Khan," and for the third stop, you can choose between a ramen shop or sweets shop. Join the tour and fully enjoy the culinary attractions of Hokkaido!
- Meeting point: Susukino Station
- Tour area: Sapporo city (Susukino area)
- Start time: 18:00
Featured Sapporo Event 2025 in July
July in Sapporo has an average temperature of 23°C (66°F), making it very comfortable, and many outdoor events are held during this time. Among them, the "Sapporo festival" is the largest event held in Sapporo throughout the year.
Many events feature traditional Japanese summer attractions such as "Summer festivals" and food stalls called "Yatai," so please join us and get excited together about these amazing Sapporo Event 2025 celebrations.
Welfare-Sponsored Sapporo Odori Beer Garden
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
Every year when July arrives, the Sapporo summer festival is held. This festival has been beloved by citizens as a summer tradition since 1954, and with an event period lasting over a month, Sapporo city is enveloped in the hot festival mood.
One of the events held as part of this festival is the "Sapporo odori beer garden." A beer garden is specially set up in Odori park, which serves as a relaxing place for citizens, where you can enjoy beer under the pleasant blue summer sky. You can enjoy four popular beers distributed in Japan, including "Sapporo beer," which represents Hokkaido. There are also booths for beers from around the world and craft beer, making this Sapporo Event 2025 recommended for those who want to enjoy beer hopping.
<Information>
- Date: July 18 August 13, 2025
- Venue: Odori park
- Access: 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/summerfes/event/#beer-garden
Tanuki Festival
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
"Tanukikoji shopping street" is one of Sapporo's largest shopping districts, with 200 stores gathered in a 900m section. With over 150 years of history, it is loved by people as the oldest shopping street in Sapporo city. At Tanukikoji shopping street, a festival is also held every July as part of the Sapporo summer festival.
Among the festival events, the Night bargain, where food stalls and stages are set up in the shopping street to enjoy traditional Japanese festivals, and the powerful "Mikoshi" where people carry palanquins containing gods, are particularly exciting. If you want to experience the atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals, please visit this exceptional Sapporo Event 2025.
<Information>
- Date: July 18 August 16, 2025
Night bargain: July 26
Mikoshi: August 2
- Venue: Tanuki koji shopping street
- Access:
15-minute walk from JR Sapporo station
From JR Sapporo station, take Subway "Namboku line" to "Susukino," then 3-minute walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/summerfes/event/tanukikoji/
- Tanuki koji shopping street: https://tanukikoji.or.jp/
TxT GARAGE Makomanai Fireworks Festival
Source:Official website
The "TxT GARAGE Makomanai fireworks festival" is one of Sapporo city's largest fireworks festivals, with 22,000 fireworks colorfully decorating the venue.
The festival uses fireworks from long-established companies with over 100 years of history in Japan. Each carefully crafted firework is as beautiful as a work of art.
Since this is a fireworks festival held inside a stadium, you can enjoy powerful fireworks from close range. The fireworks launched in sync with music feel like watching a musical of sound and light. With dynamic effects including lights and flames, this Sapporo Event 2025 can be enjoyed like a show stage.
Information
Date: July 12, 2025
Venue: Sekisui Heim Stadium
Access: From JR Sapporo station, take Subway "Namboku line" to "Makomanai," then 30-minute walk
Admission: From 5,000 yen
Website: https://www.makomanai-hanabi.com/about/
Hokkai Soran Festival
Source:HOKKAIDO LOVE!
The unique word "Soran" is a chant used during herring net fishing. When going out to fish, they would pull up the nets powerfully with the spirit of "Soran! Soran!" This type of herring net fishing has been practiced since around 1706.
In 1935, a song was created based on the Soran chant, and it is still loved today as "Soranbushi," a folk song representing Hokkaido. It is sung together with dance choreography resembling net fishing, with impressive dynamic movements that convey strength.
The port town of Yoichi, where the "Hokkai Soran festival" is held, is also known as the birthplace of Soranbushi. The Soran dance performed in this authentic location is full of power. This is a must-see Sapporo Event 2025 for those who want to see traditional cool Japanese dance.
Information
- Date: July 5, 2025 (scheduled)
- Venue: Yoichi city
- Access: From JR Sapporo station, take "JR Hakodate line" to "Otaru" station, transfer to "JR Hakodate line Bound for Kuchan" and get off at "Yoichi"
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.town.yoichi.hokkaido.jp/kankou/event/2024-0513-1533-19.html (This is the 2024 website)
Related Article
・Sapporo July 2025 Events Guide: Summer Festivals, Fireworks & Beer Gardens
If you're visiting Sapporo in July, be sure to check out events where you can enjoy fireworks and outdoor food and drinks. I provide detailed explanations about the appeal and highlights of the summer festival events I especially recommend.
For those planning to visit Tokyo along with Sapporo, we recommend participating in a tour hosted by magical trip where you can taste high-quality Sushi and Tempura. This tour visits luxury Sushi and Tempura specialty restaurants with excellent reputations in Ginza.
Both restaurants have counter seats reserved, so you can enjoy the live atmosphere of chefs cooking right in front of you. High-end restaurants that require proper dining etiquette can be difficult for individuals to enter, but in this tour, local guides will provide instruction, allowing you to relax and enjoy the cuisine.
The tour offers specially prepared courses exclusively for the tour. Please enjoy the charm of Japanese cuisine along with Sapporo's flavors.
- Meeting point: Lion Statue at Ginza Mitsukoshi
- Tour area: Ginza
- Start time: 15:30
Notable Events in Sapporo for August 2025
August is the hottest season in Japan. While Tokyo experiences scorching days of 35℃ (95℉), Sapporo maintains a comfortable average temperature of 24℃ (75℉).
August is the season when fireworks events are held most frequently throughout the year. It's also characterized by many events where you can enjoy the atmosphere of traditional Japanese Summer festivals, including "Ennichi" with food stalls lined up and "Bon Dance."
Susukino Festival
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
"Susukino" is Sapporo city's pleasure quarter. It's one of Japan's largest pleasure quarters, comparable to Tokyo's Kabukicho, where you can enjoy deep nightlife.
Susukino holds the Susukino festival every August. This is a traditional festival representing Sapporo that has continued since 1965. More than 100 food stalls line the streets, and citizens perform Japanese taiko drums and dance performances.
The festival's main highlight is the parade of "Oiran," prostitutes who were active during the Edo era. Even as a Japanese person, I rarely get to see Oiran dressed in gorgeous traditional costumes. The distinctive graceful gestures and walking style unique to Oiran are also must-sees.
<Information>
- Dates: August 7-9, 2025
- Venue: Sapporo Ekimae-dori street
- Access: About 5 minutes walk from JR Sapporo station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/summerfes/event/susukino/
Susukino Festival: http://www.susukino-ta.jp/history/index3.html
Hokkai Bon Dance
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
In mid-August, Japan enters a period called "Bon," when "the souls of the deceased return to this world." "Bon dance" is a dance that has been performed since ancient times during the Bon season to honor the deceased.
While Bon dance was originally performed for memorial purposes, in recent years it's also danced to deepen local community bonds and enliven festivals. The "Hokkai Bon dance festival," which is also one of Hokkaido's largest Bon dances, has been held annually since 1954 and has been cherished by local people. Bon dance steps are very simple, and everyone can dance immediately. Please join and get excited together!
<Information>
- Dates: August 13-16, 2025
- Venue: Odori park
- Access: 15 minutes walk from JR Sapporo station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/summerfes/event/odori02/
Bankei Summer Festival Grand Fireworks Display
Source:Official website
"Bankei summer festival" is a summer festival held at Bankei ski area, which is popular as a ski resort in winter. It features areas with food stalls called "Ennichi," which are essential to Japanese Summer festivals, plus concerts and fireworks that can be enjoyed from daytime to night. Since you can enjoy various events simultaneously, this is an event I look forward to every year.
The finale fireworks display launches 7,500 fireworks on a large scale, brilliantly coloring the event's climax.
Since this is a festival where you can enjoy the atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals, if you're planning to visit during this time, please definitely participate.
<Information>
- Date: August 2, 2025
- Venue: Bankei ski area
- Access: From JR Sapporo station, take "Subway Namboku line" to "Odori," transfer at "Odori" to "subway Tozai line" to "Maruyama koen," then take shuttle bus from Maruyama koen station
- Admission: From 5,200 yen (including shuttle bus fare)
- Website: https://www.bankei.co.jp/hanabitaikai2024/ (This is the 2024 website)
Sky Art Night Sapporo
Source:HOKKAIDO LOVE!
"Sky Art Night Sapporo" is a spectacular fireworks festival held at Bankei Ski Area, representing one of the most anticipated Sapporo Event 2025 highlights. While the previously mentioned Bankei Summer Festival offers the traditional atmosphere of a classic summer festival, Sky Art Night Sapporo provides a show-like fireworks experience utilizing cutting-edge music and visual technology.
The artistic display of 7,000 fireworks synchronized with sound and light using the latest technology is a must-see for fireworks enthusiasts.
What makes this Sapporo Event 2025 unique is the opportunity to enjoy fireworks while lying on the grass field - a distinctive way to experience entertainment that only Bankei Ski Area can offer. During the day, there are also food trucks and stalls where you can taste local gourmet cuisine, so join from the afternoon to luxuriously enjoy both food and fireworks!
<Event Information>
- Date: Scheduled for August 2025
- Venue: Bankei Ski Area
- Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take Subway Namboku Line to "Odori," transfer to Subway Tozai Line to "Maruyama Koen," then take shuttle bus from Maruyama Koen Station
- Admission: From 6,600 yen (Shuttle bus fare: 1,650 yen)
- Website: https://moula.jp/LP/skyartnight/
Fighters Super Fireworks Festival
Source:Official website
"Nippon Ham Fighters" is Hokkaido's representative baseball team. At their home stadium ES CON FIELD, a Summer Festival is held in August as part of the exciting Sapporo Event 2025 lineup. While the regular schedule typically features only baseball games, during the Summer Festival period, various events are held in conjunction with games, including high-fives with players, comedy performances, and idol stages.
On the final day of the Summer Festival, a spectacular display of 6,000 fireworks lights up the venue, creating tremendous excitement. While you can view the fireworks without watching the game, when you come to Sapporo, be sure to watch a game and cheer for the Nippon Ham Fighters alongside the locals!
Event Information:
- Date: August 24, 2025 (Festival period: August 5-24)
- Venue: ES CON FIELD
- Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take JR Chitose Line to "Kita Hiroshima Station," then take shuttle bus or walk 30 minutes
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.fighters.co.jp/expansion/2025/summer/index.html
Related Article
・Ultimate Sapporo August 2025 Events Guide: Fireworks Festivals, Summer Celebrations & Cultural Experiences
In August, Sapporo hosts numerous fireworks festivals. During your stay, you might be able to participate in several fireworks displays and traditional Japanese "bon odori" dancing. If you want to enjoy events where you can experience Japanese culture, be sure to check out this article beforehand.
When visiting Sapporo in summer, enjoy food hopping with locals during the cooler evening hours!
During the cooler summer evenings, why not participate in a bar hopping tour? Magical Trip offers the "Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour," where you can enjoy bar hopping with local guides - a perfect complement to any Sapporo Event 2025 experience.
This tour visits restaurants featuring fresh seafood caught in Hokkaido's nearby waters and establishments serving local specialty meat dishes. Finally, you can choose between a ramen shop or a bar where you can enjoy sweets. This three-venue tour allows you to fully experience Hokkaido's culinary attractions.
This tour visits hidden gems beloved by locals that are unknown to tourists. The easy communication with locals is also one of the tour's attractions. Be sure to join the tour and enjoy both cuisine and conversation!
- Meeting Point: Susukino Station
- Tour Area: Sapporo City (Susukino Area)
- Start Time: 18:00
Sapporo Event 2025 Autumn Schedule (September to November)
As autumn arrives, Sapporo enters a season of pleasant, cool weather. Temperatures gradually decrease, and the first snow is often observed in November. The autumn foliage season, a quintessential autumn feature, begins in mid-October, making it a season to enjoy beautiful scenery.
Sapporo's autumn features various events ranging from cultural activities to illuminations as part of the comprehensive Sapporo Event 2025 calendar. While many events are held outdoors, evenings can be chilly, so be sure to bring a jacket. Please check detailed event information in each monthly event article.
September 2025 Sapporo Highlight Events
Sapporo gradually becomes cooler in September. During the lingering summer heat season, daytime temperatures often exceed 20°C (68°F), but nighttime temperatures drop to around 15°C (60°F), making outerwear useful.
While Sapporo is cooling down, September features many fireworks events as part of the Sapporo Event 2025 series. It's also a season when events celebrating autumn's harvest bounty are held. Please enjoy the combination of food and the atmosphere of lingering summer heat.
Hokkaido Art Fireworks
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
"Hokkaido Moerenuma Art Fireworks" is the largest fireworks festival held in September, serving as a crown jewel of the Sapporo Event 2025 autumn lineup. Approximately 20,000 fireworks are launched over 50 minutes, dynamically illuminating the night sky.
The distinctive feature of Hokkaido Moerenuma Art Fireworks, as the name suggests, is the opportunity to enjoy highly artistic fireworks. Each individual firework is crafted with care, and you can witness techniques by Japan's top-level fireworks specialists. The combination techniques using multiple fireworks and the symphony with music are presentations that can only be realized at Moerenuma Park with its vast grounds. Please enjoy Japan's top-level fireworks that combine both power and beauty!
<Event Information>
- Date: September 6, 2025
- Venue: Moerenuma Park
- Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take Subway Toho Line to "Sakae-machi," then take shuttle bus from Sakae-machi Station (reservation required)
Shuttle Bus: https://l-tike.com/event/mevent/?mid=695688
- Admission: From 5,000 yen
- Website: https://www.moere.jp/
Sapporo Autumn Fest
Source:Official website
The "Sapporo Autumn Fest" is a gourmet event where you can enjoy Hokkaido's local food and drinks. This is one of Sapporo's largest-scale gourmet events, with 300 stores gathering along approximately 1km of Sapporo Odori. You can enjoy diverse meals from various areas across the vast Hokkaido region.
Hokkaido, with its clean air and water, is said to be one of Japan's top-class destinations for delicious food. Among these, my personal recommendations are seafood such as crab, scallops, and oysters. Fresh seafood pairs excellently with alcohol, and you can also enjoy food pairings.
The PRECIOUS TABLE, where you can enjoy the flavors of renowned restaurants, is an area I look forward to every time. You can taste numerous sophisticated, high-level dishes prepared by famous chefs all in one location. Since it's held all day from morning to night, please visit Sapporo Odori whenever you get hungry!
<Information>
- Date: September 12 October 4, 2025
- Venue: Sapporo City
- Access: Within walking distance from JR Sapporo Station
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/autumnfest/about/
Doshin Autumn Fireworks
Source:Hokkaido Shimbun
The "Doshin Autumn Fireworks" is a new fireworks festival that was held in 2024. With 18,000 fireworks launched, it's perfect for blowing away the lingering summer heat.
It features highly entertaining fireworks using the latest technology, allowing you to enjoy high-level collaboration of sound, light, and fireworks. The dynamic fireworks launched consecutively during the climax are particularly spectacular in their beauty.
Since the fireworks are launched using the stadium, you can watch them from very close proximity from the venue seats. This fireworks festival is also recommended for those who want to enjoy powerful fireworks.
<Information>
- Date: September 14, 2025
- Venue: Daiwa House Premist Dome
- Access: Take Subway "Toho Line" from JR Sapporo Station, get off at "Fukuzumi," 10-minute walk
- Entrance Fee: From 3,000 yen
- Website: https://moula.jp/LP/doshin_akihanabi/ (This is the 2024 website)
Notable Sapporo Events for October 2025
October in Sapporo enters a season when you begin to feel the chill, with average temperatures of 13°C (55°F). Hokkaido, being Japan's coldest region, has an early autumn foliage season, and you can see warm-toned autumn scenery everywhere.
October hosts various events that let you feel autumn, from active events like marathons to cultural events. Please enjoy these events while appreciating the beautiful autumn foliage.
JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE
Source:Official website
"Jozankei" is a hot spring area surrounded by rich nature, located in the western part of Sapporo City. It's the closest hot spring area to Sapporo City and is beloved as a relaxation spot for Sapporo citizens. Additionally, in Jozankei, surrounded by valleys, you can enjoy activities not available in urban areas, such as canoeing and mountain climbing.
From June to October, illumination events are held in Jozankei's hot spring district. Using the latest technology such as projection mapping, you can enjoy elaborate illumination displays. The beautiful world of light spreading throughout the valley offers a mystical worldview where nature and technology merge.
October, during the autumn foliage season, is also the most beautiful time of the year, so please visit Jozankei along with your Sapporo sightseeing.
<Information>
- Date: June 1 October 31, 2025
- Venue: Futami Park
- Access: Take "Jotetsu Bus Kappa Liner" (reservation required) from JR Sapporo Station, get off at "Jozankei Onsen"
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: https://jozankei.jp/en/event/luminarie/
Sapporo International Short Film Festival
Source:PR TIMES
The "Sapporo International Short Film Festival" is a festival of short films composed of animations, dramas, and other works ranging from 1 to 30 minutes in length.
This event is like an Academy Awards ceremony for short films, with over 2,000 submissions from countries around the world last year. Excellent works are screened in movie theaters for viewing. Since you can watch rare, highly artistic works on the big screen that are seldom shown elsewhere, this is a must-see event for movie lovers.
Even if you don't plan to visit during this period, award-winning works from the Sapporo International Short Film Festival can be viewed online for a limited time. If you're interested, please check it out: https://sapporoshortfest.jp/page_update_jp/ssf2024-online/
<Information>
- Date: October 10-13, 2025
- Venue: Satsugeki Theater
- Access:
15-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station
Take Subway "Namboku Line" from JR Sapporo Station, get off at "Susukino," 3-minute walk
- Entrance Fee: 1,500 yen
- Website: https://sapporoshortfest.jp/index-en/
Sapporo Marathon
Source:Official website
The "Sapporo Marathon," held every October, is Hokkaido's largest-scale marathon. With courses prepared from 1km to half marathon, even those who lack confidence in long-distance running can easily participate in this marathon.
The 1km to 5km courses run through Makomanai Park, allowing you to enjoy running while feeling the rich nature.
The half marathon, which runs from Makomanai Park through central Sapporo City, is a recommended course where you can enjoy Sapporo City's streetscape while running. Watching the scenery change from nature-rich parks to a major city is one of the joys of marathon running. If you're confident, why not try challenging the half marathon?
Information:
- Date: October 5, 2025
- Venue: Sekisui Heim Stadium (starting point)
- Access: Take Subway "Namboku Line" from JR Sapporo Station, get off at "Makomanai," 30-minute walk
- Entrance Fee: 7,000 yen (Half Marathon)
- Website: https://satumara.sapporo-sport.jp/
Featured Sapporo Events 2025: November Highlights
When November arrives, the average temperature drops to 6°C (49°F), marking the beginning of a season where you can truly feel the cold. The sun sets early, and nighttime brings illumination events that you can enjoy.
Sapporo has many establishments where you can savor exquisite cuisine and drinks, and the illuminations further enhance the nightlife. Please enjoy bar hopping while gazing at the sparkling city lights.
Miyanomori Frances Chapel Illumination Garden
Source:PR TIMES
Morinomiya Frances Chapel is a chapel with impressive beautiful stained glass. It's primarily used as a wedding venue where many couples have been united in marriage.
At Morinomiya Frances Chapel, illuminations are held every year from November through the following year. The adorable cotton-like lights and lighting that resembles the Milky Way floating in the sky are unique presentations exclusive to Morinomiya Frances Chapel.
The warm and romantic atmosphere, as if blessing couples, is perfect for dates. The crescent moon object is my recommended photo spot with excellent Instagram-worthy appeal. When you visit Sapporo for a winter date, please be sure to stop by.
<Information>
- Schedule: November 2025 ~ March 2026 (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
- Venue: Miyanomori Frances Chapel
- Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take Subway Namboku Line to "Odori," transfer to Subway Tozai Line at "Odori," get off at "Maruyama Koen," then walk 25 minutes
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/night-view-guide/event/miyanomori-frances/ (This is the 2023 site)
Sapporo Chrysanthemum Festival
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
The Sapporo Chrysanthemum Festival is an autumn tradition of Sapporo City. Nearly 1,000 beautiful chrysanthemums brilliantly decorate Sapporo City's underground shopping area.
The world of chrysanthemums is profound, and even the same chrysanthemum can be cultivated into various forms by human hands. At the festival, you can admire more than 10 different varieties of chrysanthemum formations. The Aurora Flower Bed in Aurora Square, composed of multiple chrysanthemums, is the main highlight—an art-like gorgeous creation with excellent photo opportunities.
Since this Sapporo Event 2025 is held in the underground shopping area directly connected to the station, visitors stopping by the station should pause and enjoy a thorough appreciation.
<Information>
- Schedule: November 1-3, 2025
- Venue: Around Sapporo Station
- Access: About 5-minute walk from Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/chrysanthemum-festival/
Sapporo Factory Jumbo Christmas Tree
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
Sapporo Factory is a shopping mall with vast grounds. Built on the site of a former Sapporo Beer factory, it's recommended not only for shopping and dining but also for exploring the building's interior, including the Atrium and brick-built Beer Brewery.
When November arrives, a 15-meter Christmas tree is installed in the center of the Atrium, creating a lively Christmas atmosphere. The tree used for the Christmas tree is a real fir tree grown in Tokachi in eastern Hokkaido. From 4 PM onwards, lights are illuminated, and the venue becomes an even more gorgeous world. Sound and light shows are held every hour, so be sure to check them out when you visit this spectacular Sapporo Event 2025!
<Information>
- Schedule: November ~ December 2025 (planned)
- Venue: Sapporo Factory
- Access: About 17-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/event-list/jumbo_christmas_tree/
Sapporo Factory: https://sapporofactory.jp/
Shiroi Koibito Park Sweet Illumination
Source:Official website
Shiroi Koibito Park is a complex facility attached to the factory that produces "Shiroi Koibito," Hokkaido's representative souvenir.
At the facility, you can enjoy a full day with factory tours, confectionery-making workshops, and museum visits. Illuminations are held every year from mid-November. There are plenty of highlights, including large bell monuments and Christmas trees. Foods using chocolate that can only be enjoyed during the illumination season are also must-sees.
Shiroi Koibito is a cookie similar to langue de chat, and it's one of my favorite sweets. Collaborative sweets like parfaits using Shiroi Koibito can only be eaten here, so sweets lovers should definitely visit this unique Sapporo Event 2025 experience.
<Information>
- Schedule: Mid-November 2025 ~ March 2026 (planned)
- Venue: Shiroi Koibito Park
- Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take Subway Namboku Line to "Odori," transfer to Subway Tozai Line at "Odori," get off at "Miyanosawa," then walk 7 minutes
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/illumination/ (This is the 2024 site)
Sapporo's Year-end and Winter Events in December 2025
Japan's northernmost region, Hokkaido, is one of Japan's representative heavy snowfall areas. Sapporo also records an annual snowfall accumulation of 50cm. When December arrives, snow begins to fall in earnest, and Sapporo's streets are enveloped in a beautiful silver world.
Throughout the winter season, illumination events are held, and the city is wrapped in romantic scenery of snow and illuminations. Although it's a time when you can feel the cold, please venture outside to enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
Detailed information about each event is provided in the respective event article sections, so please check there for more information.
Notable Sapporo Event 2025 Highlights in December
Sapporo's average temperature in December drops to -1.9℃ (28.58℉), entering below freezing. The full-fledged snow season begins, and snow accumulation becomes visible.
December is Christmas season, when the city is adorned with beautiful illuminations. There are also many traditional events that evoke the year-end and New Year atmosphere, making it a season where you can experience beauty and tradition firsthand.
Sapporo White Illumination
Source:Official website
When December arrives, Sapporo city is enveloped in a Christmas mood, creating romantic cityscapes. From late November, Sapporo city is also decorated with beautiful illuminations, and when night falls, gorgeous lights enliven the city.
In Sapporo city, you can enjoy illuminations at various spots, centered around the area from the station to Odori. Among them, the "Snow Fantasia" installed at Odori, which evokes the image of a snow tunnel, and the "Winter Blossoms" created to represent Hokkaido's symbols - lily of the valley and rugosa rose - are my favorite spots that offer a dreamlike world experience. There are so many other highlights that I cannot write them all, so please walk through the city and enjoy nighttime strolling!
<Information>
- Date: November 21, 2025 March 14, 2026
- Venue: Sapporo city
- Access: About 10 minutes walk from JR Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/
Munich Christmas Market
Source:Official website
Sapporo city is also a sister city of Munich, Germany, which is the home of authentic Christmas celebrations. In such Sapporo, you can enjoy an atmosphere just like an authentic Christmas market.
The venue features mulled wine, a Christmas market staple, along with 30 shops selling food and goods. Additionally, workshops for making handmade snowmen and Santa Claus are very popular corners for children. On the stage, you can enjoy performances by local artists and folk songs from around the world. It's an event that the whole family can enjoy, so please enjoy it together with the illuminations!
<Information>
- Date: Late November 2025 December 25
- Venue: Odori Park
- Access: 5 minutes walk from Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/munich/
Pokemon Center Winter Festival Sapporo
Source:Official website
"Pokemon Center Sapporo" is a Pokemon concept shop where you can shop while experiencing the Pokemon world. It's directly connected to Sapporo Station, making it a must-see for Pokemon fans.
Inside the store, where adorable Pikachu monuments welcome you, everything from plushies to daily goods - all kinds of Pokemon merchandise are available. As a Pokemon lover myself, this is one of my favorite shops, and just being inside the store fills you with excitement.
Every December, Pokemon Center Sapporo holds a winter festival event. This features mini-games themed around popular monsters like Eevee and Snorlax that can only be enjoyed during this time, and greetings with Pikachu - events that are irresistible for fans! This Sapporo Event 2025 winter celebration is definitely worth experiencing during your visit.
<Information>
- Date: Scheduled for late December 2025
- Venue: Pokemon Center Sapporo
- Access: About 5 minutes walk from JR Sapporo Station, Daimaru Sapporo 8F
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://voice.pokemon.co.jp/stv/sapporo/2024/12/post-15018.html
Pokemon Center Sapporo: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/shop/en/pokecen/sapporo/
New Year's at Hokkaido Shrine
Source:Official website
Hokkaido Jingu is a shrine established in 1869 with over 150 years of history, and it is the largest shrine in Sapporo city. The magnificent shrine building is impressive and popular as a spot where you can feel the authentic Japanese atmosphere.
During the New Year period, many worshippers visit and create a lively atmosphere. While shrines are usually very quiet at night, the late night hours from December 31st to January 1st see the most visitors coming to pray. Worshippers are served "Omiki," sacred sake offered to the gods, allowing you to feel the festive New Year atmosphere.
New Year worship can involve waiting in line for over 2 hours, so we recommend planning your schedule with plenty of time. Please visit for New Year prayers and welcome a great start to the year.
<Information>
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Venue: Hokkaido Jingu Shrine
- Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take the Subway Namboku Line to "Odori," transfer at "Odori" to the Subway Tozai Line to "Maruyama Koen," then 12 minutes on foot
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://www.hokkaidojingu.or.jp/eng/
JR Tower T38 "Sky New Year's"
If you visit Sapporo during this time, why not welcome the start of the new year from the highest point in Hokkaido?
JR Tower T38 is an observation deck directly connected to Sapporo Station. Located in Hokkaido's tallest building, this observation deck on the 38th floor at 160 meters height offers a dynamic panoramic view of Sapporo city.
T38 holds New Year's events at the end of the year. Mini concerts and New Year's countdown events are held, enveloping the observation deck in a celebratory mood. This is the only spot where you can overlook the entire Sapporo cityscape during the New Year period, making it a recommended location for those who want to welcome the New Year romantically.
<Information>
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Venue: Tower THREE EIGHT
- Access: Directly connected to JR Sapporo Station
- Admission: 740 yen
- Website: https://www.jr-tower.com.e.os.hp.transer.com/t38
Summary
This time we have introduced events held in Sapporo for 2025, representing some of the most exciting Sapporo Event 2025 offerings.
From events where you can feel people's energy to traditional events that have continued since ancient times, and events where you can enjoy seasonal atmosphere - there are many attractive events with rich variety, making it difficult to decide which events to participate in.
If you find any events that interest you, please be sure to check them out. After enjoying the events, we also recommend participating in the bar hopping hosted by Magical Trip that we introduced earlier.
Please enjoy your fulfilling time in Sapporo, from sightseeing to dining!
