Sapporo Events January 2026: Illuminations, Hatsumode & Best Winter Things to Do
Hokkaido's Sapporo is one of Japan's premier tourist destinations, popular among international visitors. It offers many attractions, including fresh seafood, local cuisine, and vast natural landscapes.
January, as the city welcomes the new year, is particularly special with numerous events unique to Sapporo, making it an ideal time to experience what this season has to offer.
In this article, I'll introduce events you can enjoy in and around Sapporo. I've personally experienced Sapporo from January to February, and there were so many events that can only be enjoyed here.
I've compiled information on traditional events, illumination events, and special experiences unique to Sapporo during this season, so please read through to the end and use it as a reference for planning your trip.
Table of Contents
-If You're Visiting Sapporo in January 2026, Try Hatsumode at Shrines and Temples!
-6 Seasonal Illumination Events Lighting Up Sapporo in January 2026
-Sapporo Event January 2026: Unique Experiences Only Available in Sapporo
If You're Visiting Sapporo in January 2026, Try Hatsumode at Shrines and Temples!
"Hatsumode" refers to the first shrine or temple visit of the new year. It's an occasion to express gratitude for safely completing the previous year and to pray for happiness in the new year.
It's customary to visit between midnight on January 1st and around January 3rd. After paying respects, visitors typically purchase omamori (protective charms) and draw omikuji (Japanese paper fortunes).
This is one of the important New Year traditions cherished by Japanese people. From here, I'll introduce the shrines and temples I recommend for hatsumode in Sapporo.
Hokkaido Jingu
Hokkaido Jingu is the chief shrine of Hokkaido and the most popular hatsumode spot in the region. You can enjoy different natural scenery each season, and in January, the grounds are covered in a blanket of snow.
In addition to the main hall, there are three subsidiary shrines within the grounds, each said to offer different blessings. Over 700,000 visitors come to worship here every year.
What I always look forward to after my visit is stopping by the tea house of the long-established confectionery shop "Rokkatei" located within the shrine grounds. They have limited-edition sweets available only here, so why not visit for a rest after your worship?
<Information>
Address: 474 Miyagaoka, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Worship Hours: 7:00–16:00
Closed: None
Phone: 011-611-0261
Official Website: http://www.hokkaidojingu.or.jp/eng/
Kotoni Jinja
Kotoni Jinja, founded in the late 19th century, is a shrine deeply connected to the development of Hokkaido.
This shrine was established by soldiers who were active during Hokkaido's pioneering era, and there is a reconstructed building of the soldiers' residences on the grounds. You can feel the traces of the pioneering era throughout the shrine grounds, making it an important shrine that tells the history of this area.
The main hall, built in the 1920s, has a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. It is said to offer blessings for family safety, academic success, matchmaking, and safe childbirth, making it recommended for hatsumode.
<Information>
Address: 1-7-1-30 Kotoni 1-jo, Nishi-ku, Sapporo
Worship Hours: 7:00–16:00
Closed: None
Phone: 011-621-5544
Official Website (Hokkaido Shrine Agency): https://hokkaidojinjacho.jp/%E7%90%B4%E4%BC%BC%E7%A5%9E%E7%A4%BE/
Fushimi Inari Jinja
Fushimi Inari Jinja, located about 20 minutes by taxi from Sapporo Station, is a shrine that received its divine spirit from Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto.
The main highlight here is the tunnel of 27 consecutive torii gates. In January, the contrast between the pure white snow and the red torii gates creates a sacred and beautiful scenery. The torii gates at dusk, with their mystical atmosphere, are one of my favorite sights.
During New Year's, you can also get limited-edition goshuin (shrine stamps), so be sure to visit for hatsumode.
<Information>
Address: 2-2-17 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Worship Hours: 24 hours
Closed: None
Phone: 011-562-1753
Official Website: https://fushimiinari.or.jp/
6 Seasonal Illumination Events Lighting Up Sapporo in January 2026
Sapporo White Illumination
Source:Official website
When it comes to popular winter events in Sapporo, the Sapporo White Illumination is a must-see. Held at five venues throughout the city (the Odori Park venue runs until December), the entire city transforms into a magical wonderland. After January, snowfall increases, and the collaboration between the lights and snow becomes an additional highlight.
Four Venues Operating in January:
| Venue | Recommended Point |
|---|---|
| Ekimae-dori | • The tree-lined street stretching from Sapporo Station is illuminated with 220,000 LEDs. • Snow-covered trees create a romantic illumination along the avenue. |
| Minami Ichijo-dori | • Ginkgo-lined streets are lit with gold-toned lights. • A calm, sophisticated illumination with a mature atmosphere. |
| Sapporo City Kita 3-jo Plaza (Akapla) | • The street is illuminated with the Red Brick Government Building as a backdrop. • Cool-toned illuminations in blue and white. |
| Sapporo Station South Exit Forecourt | • Decorated under the theme “Flowers of Light.” • Colorful and pop-style illuminations using light and sound. |
Each venue has its own unique charm, so I recommend visiting all four locations.
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/
Phone: 011-281-6400
Ekimae-dori Venue
Address: Kita 4-jo to Minami 4-jo, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: November 21, 2025 – February 11, 2026
Hours: 16:30–22:00
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/ekimae/
Minami 1-jo-dori Venue
Address: Minami 1-jo Nishi 1–3-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: November 21, 2025 – March 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30–22:00
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/minami-1jo/
Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza (Akapla) Venue
Address: Kita 2-jo Nishi 4-chome to Kita 3-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: November 21, 2025 – March 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30–22:00
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/akapla/
Sapporo Station South Exit Plaza Venue
Address: Kita 5-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: November 21, 2025 – March 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30–24:00
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/ekihiro/
Yukitouro 2026 FINAL
Source:Official website
"Yukitouro 2026 FINAL," held at a shrine, is one of my favorite events. This Sapporo event in January 2026 marks the 15th and final edition of this beloved winter tradition at Jozankei Onsen.
The main highlight is the breathtaking sight of 1,000 snow candles filling the shrine grounds. These snow candles, flickering with soft light, are handmade by local residents and hotel staff.
Another attractive feature is the fusion of handcrafted warmth with cutting-edge technology, including digital light displays.
You can also enjoy a camping booth where you can experience tent saunas and bonfires, as well as food booths serving pork miso soup and hot chocolate.
Please come and experience this event before it ends forever!
<Information>
Address: 3-chome Jozankei Onsen Higashi, Minami-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: January 27 – February 3, 2026
Hours: 18:00–21:00
Phone: 011-598-2012
Official Website: https://jozankei.jp/en/event/yukituro2026/
Shiroi Koibito Park Sweet Illumination
Source:Official website
A romantic illumination event is currently being held at the theme park of Hokkaido's famous confection "Shiroi Koibito."
Throughout the venue, you can enjoy illuminations themed around this year's concept, "Blooming Snow Fantasy":
- "Sweet Flower Area" – An experience that makes you feel like you're in a flower garden of light, complete with fragrance effects
- "Love Lock" – A spot where you can hang a heart-shaped lock (sold separately) and pray for happiness
- "Amazing Tree" – A tree that changes color when you touch its base
- "Light Tunnel" – A tunnel filled with soft, gentle lights
Limited-edition sweets are also available during the event period. My recommendation is the "Shimmering Snow Soft Cream," made with Hokkaido fresh milk and white chocolate. Please give it a try!
<Information>
Address: 2-11-36 Miyanosawa 2-jo 2-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: November 15, 2025 – March 31, 2026 (Closed January 1 & 2)
Hours: 16:00–19:00
Phone: 011-666-1481
Official Website: https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/illumination/
Miyanomori Frances Church Illumination
Source:Official website
This popular Sapporo event in January 2026 has ranked first in Hokkaido's illumination rankings for three consecutive years. Located about 25 minutes by taxi from central Sapporo, this church is a romantic spot where weddings are also held.
The church garden is filled with over 10,000 lights in white and blue tones, creating a scene that looks like a sea of light. There is a bench on the blue crescent moon sculpture, offering a fantastic experience as if you were sitting on the moon floating in the night sky.
During the event period, there is also a plan where a dedicated professional photographer takes your photos (reservation required), so please check the official website if you're interested.
Enjoy this fantasy world under Sapporo's clear January night sky.
<Information>
Address: 3-25 Miyanomori 3-jo 10-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Event Period: November 1, 2025 – March 29, 2026
Hours: 17:00–20:00
Phone: 011-633-1111
Official Website: https://www.j-mfc.com/illumination2025/
Chitose - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
Source:Official website
An ice event is held at Lake Shikotsu, about one hour by car from Sapporo. This is an event that was especially well-received when I once took my foreign friends there.
The various large and small ice sculptures filling the vast grounds are impressive, making you feel as if you have wandered into an icy world.
These sculptures are created by spraying water from Lake Shikotsu—known for having some of the clearest water in Japan—using sprinklers. At night, they are illuminated with colorful lights, creating an even more magical scene.
If you stay at a nearby hot spring inn, you can purchase a premium ticket that allows entry after the venue closes. You can also watch the creation process on the official website and Instagram, so be sure to check those out too.
<Information>
Address: Shikotsuko Onsen, Chitose City, Sapporo (Shikotsuko Onsen Minamoa Park)
Event Period: January 31 – February 23, 2026
Hours: 10:00–20:00 (Light-up: 16:30–20:00)
Phone: 0123-23-8288
Official Website: https://hyoutou-special.asia/
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyoutou_ice_festival/
Minami Ward Winter Snow Light
Source:Official website
"Minami Ward Winter Snow Light" is a series of events held in various areas of the city, created by local residents. The Yukitouro at Jozankei mentioned earlier is also part of this initiative.
Here are four recommended spots I'd like to introduce:
-Sumikawa Station Square Illumination
Gates of light and pop animal-themed sculptures
Colorful and festive atmosphere
-Makomanai Station Square Illumination
Simple illumination lighting up the trees
Events such as ice candles and handbell performances are also held
-Moiwa District Ice Candles
Ice candles with candles lit inside ice containers
The transparency creates a sparkling, magical glow
-Ishiyama Snow Fantasy - Town Lights
Atmospheric light displays utilizing stone warehouses
A unique ambiance reflecting this district's history as a prosperous stone quarry
The Moiwa District event, where residents place ice candles in front of their homes, is my top recommendation for this Sapporo event in January 2026. Enjoy the warm atmosphere as the entire neighborhood is bathed in gentle light.
-Venue: Sumikawa Station Square Illumination
Event Period: Early December 2025 – Late February 2026
Hours: 16:00–23:00
-Venue: Makomanai Station Square Illumination
Event Period: December 1, 2025 – March 20, 2026
Hours: 15:30–24:00
-Venue: Moiwa District Ice Candles
Event Period: January 24–25, 2026
Hours: 17:00–20:00
-Venue: Ishiyama Snow Fantasy - Town Lights
Event Period: December 6, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Hours: 16:00–21:00
Official Website: https://www.city.sapporo.jp/minami/shinko/yukiakari.html
When You Visit Sapporo, Enjoy Authentic Hokkaido Food at Restaurants Loved by Locals!
After enjoying the events, why not indulge in Sapporo's exquisite cuisine? On Magical Trip's bar-hopping tour, a local guide will take you to three carefully selected favorite spots.
Savor classic Izakaya (Japanese Bar) dishes such as sashimi, tempura, and yakitori, along with Hokkaido's finest sake. Even if you're unfamiliar with Japanese dining etiquette, having a guide with you means you can relax and enjoy.
Once, when I took guests to a standing bar frequented by locals, they were delighted, saying, "We would have walked right past this place because it seemed too intimidating to enter on our own." This tour is perfect for those who want a dining experience that lets them blend in with the local scene.
<Information>
Meeting point: Susukino Station
Tour area: Susukino Area
Start time: 18:00
Sapporo Event January 2026: Unique Experiences Only Available in Sapporo
Hitsujigaoka Snow Park 2026
Source:Official website
Hitsujigaoka Snow Park is a winter-exclusive event held at Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill. Once you pay the observation hill admission fee, all activity fees and rental charges are free, allowing you to enjoy snow play to the fullest.
Popular Activities:
- Tube sliding
- Cross-country skiing
- Mini snowman making
- Snow slide (mini slide)
Tube sliding, where you ride a rubber tube down a snowy hill, is absolutely thrilling. Families can enjoy it together with their children.
My personal recommendation is cross-country skiing while gazing at the vast, pure white snow fields. Please enjoy this wonderful experience that can only be had in Sapporo during this season, on the pastureland that is normally off-limits to visitors.
<Information>
Address: 1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo
Event period: January 9 – March 8
Hours: 10:00 – 15:00
Phone: 011-851-3080
Official website: https://www.hitsujigaoka.jp/snowpark/?lang=en_US#googtrans(ja|en)
Dinosaurs and the Story of the Sea Exhibition
Source:Official website
At AOAO SAPPORO, an urban aquarium located in Sapporo, an event is being held where you can learn more about dinosaurs and the sea. Under the theme of "Experience the history of life connecting from ancient times to the present," exhibits are divided into four categories: dinosaurs, whales, ammonites, and penguins.
You'll find rare items you can't see anywhere else, such as vertebrae fossils of the "Sapporo Whale" and full-body reconstructed dinosaur skeletons.
What made me stop and stare was "The Penguin Story" booth. You can view a growth record of two penguins born in June 2025 through a handmade album created by the aquarium staff.
Be sure to try the limited-edition sweets featuring ammonite motifs at the cafe inside the museum!
<Information>
Address: Minami 2-jo Nishi 3-20, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Event period: October 9 – January 21
Hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Phone: 011-212-1316
Official website: https://aoao-sapporo.blue/all/28366/
If You Want a Special Experience in Japan, Join Local Tours Across the Country!
When I travel abroad, I often join tours with local guides. That's because they offer unique experiences specific to that region that are difficult to arrange on your own.
Magical Trip also offers various experience tours throughout Japan. All programs are attractive experiences that are difficult to arrange individually, such as sumo, maiko (apprentice geisha), and temple training.
By listening to local guides' explanations and learning about the cultural background, you can deeply explore the traditions of the area while experiencing them firsthand. On a sumo experience tour I once guided, small children and mothers—the whole family—had a wonderful time together.
If you want a special experience that can only be had in Japan, check out the details of each tour!
Meeting point: Shinkawasaki Station
Tour area: Kawasaki Beya
Start time: 9:30
Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary
Meeting point: Gion Shijo Station
Tour area: Gion Area
Start time: 18:30
Dinner with Maiko in a Traditional Kyoto Style Restaurant Tour
Meeting point: Family Mart Nakai Tofukuji Store
Tour area: Around Tofuku-ji Temple
Start time: 10:30
Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour at a Zen Temple with traditional Sho-jin lunch
