Sapporo Events March 2026: Illuminations, Snow Activities & Unique Experiences Guide
Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido, located in the northernmost part of Japan. It features a food culture and scenery that is distinctly different from the main island of Honshu, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm that can only be found in Hokkaido.
In March, Sapporo still has snow on the ground, and you can enjoy illuminations and skiing. For those who want to experience snowy landscapes in Japan during March, Sapporo is the best destination to stay.
In this article, we will introduce events held in Sapporo in March 2026 along with recommended ski resorts.
Table of Contents
-In Sapporo, Where Snow Remains Even in March, You Can Enjoy Illuminations Longer Than Other Cities
-Snow Parks Where You Can Enjoy Special Events Only in 2026
-Special Experiences Only Available in Sapporo in March 2026
In Sapporo, Where Snow Remains Even in March, You Can Enjoy Illuminations Longer Than Other Cities
In Japan, March typically marks the end of the cold winter and the beginning of the flower-blooming season. However, Hokkaido is still cold with visible snowfall during this time.
While illumination events in most cities, including Tokyo, end by February, many locations in Sapporo continue their illuminations through March, allowing you to enjoy the collaboration of snowy landscapes and illuminations.
The average temperature in Sapporo in March is 2°C (35.6°F), with an average high of only 5.3°C (41°F), so cold days continue. There is about 50cm of snow accumulation (as of 2025). The lowest temperature can drop to -1.3°C (30°F), reaching below freezing on some days, so please dress warmly when viewing illuminations.
From here, we will introduce illumination spots you can enjoy in Sapporo in March.
Sapporo White Illumination
Source:Official website
Sapporo White Illumination has been a winter tradition since 1981. More than 770,000 illumination lights vividly color the streets of winter Sapporo.
The illuminations are held in five areas in central Sapporo city, with each venue offering a different atmosphere. (The main Odori Venue runs until December 25, 2025, and the Ekimae-dori Venue runs until February 11, 2026.)
The gold and silver lights adorning the street trees and monuments beautifully illuminate the snow-covered scenery of Sapporo.
Among them, the illumination at the Sapporo Station South Exit Station Square Venue is particularly recommended, where sound and video are added to the illuminations, creating a dynamic and immersive experience. Please enjoy a romantic winter night.
<Minami 1-jo Dori Venue>
Date: November 21, 2025 – March 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30 – 22:00
Access: A few minutes’ walk from "Odori Station" (Subway Tozai Line)
Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/minami-1jo/
<Sapporo Kita 3-jo Hiroba (Akapla) Venue>
Date: November 21, 2025 – March 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30 – 22:00
Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR “Sapporo Station”
Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/akapla/
<Sapporo Station South Exit Station Square Venue>
Date: November 21, 2025 – March 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30 – 24:00
Access: About a 1-minute walk from JR “Sapporo Station”
Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/ekihiro/
Shiroi Koibito Park Sweet Illumination 2026 (Blooming Snow Fantasy)
Source:Official website
Shiroi Koibito Park is a complex facility adjacent to the factory that produces Shiroi Koibito, one of Hokkaido's most famous souvenirs.
This year's illumination theme is Blooming Snow Fantasy. The park is enveloped in colorful lights, creating a fantastical atmosphere as if you were in a field of luminous flowers.
There are plenty of highlights including tree and bell monuments, a double-decker bus, and areas designed to resemble flower fields, making it a popular photo spot.
During the day, you can also enjoy factory tours and sweets-making experiences, making it a place you can enjoy throughout the entire day. Please visit and enjoy the beautiful illuminations along with Hokkaido's famous confection, Shiroi Koibito.
<Information>
Date: November 15 – March 31, 2026
Hours: 16:00 – 19:00
Access: 7 minutes’ walk from "Miyanosawa Station" (Subway Tozai Line)
Website: https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/illumination/
Miyanomori Frances Church Illumination Garden
Source:PR TIMES
Miyanomori Frances Church, known as a wedding venue, also hosts beautiful illuminations every year.
The space illuminated by approximately 10,000 lights is fantastical, making you feel as if you were under a starry sky. The galaxy-like sparkle spreading across the ceiling and the soft glow created by dandelion-fluff lights offer a romantic atmosphere unique to a wedding venue.
At the popular photo spot featuring a moon monument, many couples were happily taking pictures, and just watching them made me feel warm inside.
Although it is a bit far from the city center, this illumination is especially recommended for couples and female travelers.
- Note: Viewing may be restricted due to weddings or photo shoots, so it is recommended to check the official website or call ahead before visiting.
<Information>
Date: November 1, 2025 – March 29, 2026 (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Hours: 17:00 – 20:00
Access: About a 25-minute walk from "Maruyama-koen Station"(Subway Tozai Line)
Miyanomori frances chapel: https://www.j-mfc.com/illumination2025/
Sapporo Garden Park Winter Illumination
Source:Google Maps
Sapporo Garden Park is a complex facility operated by Sapporo Beer, one of Japan's leading beer manufacturers. The impressive brick building was constructed as a sugar factory in 1890 and was actually used as a malting plant until 1965.
In winter, the fir tree in front of the building is decorated with illuminations, warmly coloring the space. The scenery on snowy days is even more beautiful, allowing you to truly appreciate the charm of a quiet, snowy Hokkaido night.
The park has a beer hall where you can enjoy Jingisukan (grilled lamb), Hokkaido's soul food, along with beer. Please fully enjoy the world of Sapporo Beer together with the illuminations.
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Date: November 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Hours: 16:00 – 21:00
Access: About a 10-minute walk from “Higashi-kuyakusho-mae Station” (Toho Line)
Sapporo Beer Garden: https://www.sapporobeer.jp/brewery/s_museum/
Joining a Local Tour to Discover Hidden Gem Illumination Spots Is Also Recommended
Magical Trip offers tours where you can enjoy food and drinks in nighttime Sapporo with local guides.
The Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour takes you to seafood restaurants and Jingisukan restaurants popular with locals, while the Beer Lover's Night in Sapporo: 10 Craft Beers to Taste tour lets you taste 10 different beers at three breweries and bars.
Magical Trip tours are held in small groups, so the close interaction with guides and other tourists is also an attractive point.
Please enjoy the tour while having conversations, asking about recommended illumination spots and sightseeing places that only locals know, and sharing stories about your daytime travels.
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Meeting point: Under the giant NIKKA Sign outside of Susukino station
Tour area: Sapporo City (Susukino)
Start time: 18:00
Meeting point: in front of Tourlist information center
Tour area: Sapporo City
Start time: 16:00
Beer Lover’s Night in Sapporo: 10 Craft Beers to Taste
Popular food events are introduced in the "Don't Forget to Enjoy the Delicious Local Foods Loved by Sapporo Residents!" section at the bottom of this article.
If you want to enjoy exquisite cuisine at restaurants loved by locals that tourists don't know about, be sure to check it out.
Snow Parks Where You Can Enjoy Special Events Only in 2026
Rusutsu Resort
Source:Official website
Rusutsu Resort is a resort facility featuring both ski slopes and hot springs. As one of Hokkaido's largest ski resorts with 37 courses across three mountains, it boasts a total run distance of 42km.
The resort is also famous for its powder snow, attracting ski enthusiasts from both Japan and abroad who come specifically for these excellent conditions.
With courses ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for advanced skiers, this ski resort is recommended for everyone who wants to enjoy skiing.
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Address: 13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
Access: Direct shuttle bus operates from Kamori Building 3 (about a 5-minute walk from Sapporo Station)
Operating Hours: 9:00–20:00 (March 31: 9:00–17:00)
Ski Season: November 29, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Phone Number: 0136-46-3331
Official Website: https://rusutsu.com/en/rusutsu-resort-hotel-and-convention/
Rusutsu 100 Days Music Live -Season 14-
Source:Official website
For 100 days from December 12th to March 21st, jazz concerts are held daily at bars and cafes within Rusutsu Resort.
The immersive live performances by artists active both domestically and internationally will transform your post-ski relaxation time into a luxurious experience. Enjoy a special moment with friends over drinks and conversation surrounded by sophisticated music.
The schedule can be checked on the official Sapporo City Jazz website, so if there's an artist you're interested in, be sure to take a look.
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Date: December 12, 2025 – March 21, 2026
Hours: Varies by venue (generally 17:30–21:10)
Admission: Free (included in restaurant or café charges)
Website: https://rusutsu.com/events/100days-music-live/
Sapporo City Jazz: https://sapporocityjazz.jp/event/rusutsu-100days-music-live-14/
Rusutsu Skiing Distance Championship
Source:Official website
The snow mountain app "Yukiyama" measures your skiing distance when you check in. The app can be downloaded for free on your smartphone, making it easy for anyone to use.
At Rusutsu Resort, a Sapporo event in March 2026 and throughout the season involves competing for monthly skiing distances.
Those who place 1st and 25th will receive hotel accommodation vouchers. Even if you don't win, keeping a record will surely become a special memory.
Try challenging various courses and aim for your personal best record.
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Date: March 1–31, 2026
Admission: Free (Limited to holders of the 25-Hour Ticket or Top-Up 5 Ticket)
Website: https://rusutsu.com/events/yukiyama/
T-Rex Race in Rusutsu Resort 2026
Source:Official website
Events where people race while wearing T-Rex inflatable costumes are currently trending in Japan. I personally love this event too, and I can't help but smile just watching the participants running desperately in their adorable costumes.
As a special Sapporo event in March 2026, Rusutsu Resort will hold a race on the snow. It's sure to be a race full of laughter and excitement, with T-Rexes dashing at full speed and some tumbling along the way.
Anyone can participate by bringing their own air-inflated full-body costume (the same type as shown in the photo), so if you're interested in taking on the challenge, be sure to sign up.
<Information>
Date: March 21, 2026
Hours: 9:30–12:30
Admission: 2,000 yen
Website: https://rusutsu.com/events/t-rex-race-winter/
Takino Snow World
Source:Official website
Takino Park is an expansive park located in the southern part of Sapporo. The park consists of four areas where you can enjoy forest walks and camping.
One appealing point is that it's easily accessible from central Sapporo city in about one hour by subway and bus.
In winter, it transforms into Takino Snow World, a field where you can enjoy skiing and snow play. It's famous for having one of Japan's largest 200m tube sledding courses and is popular among families. With many gentle slopes, it's also recommended for beginners and those who want to casually try skiing.
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Address: 247 Takino, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Access: About a 30-minute bus ride from "Makomanai Station" (Namboku Line) get off at "Takino Suzuran Park"
Operating Hours: 9:00–16:00
Ski Season: December 23 – March 31
Phone Number: 011-592-3333
Official Website: https://www.takinopark.com/parkinformation-en/
Walking Ski 100km Competition
Source:Official website
Takino Snow World has five "walking ski" courses that can be enjoyed with a mountain climbing-like sensation.
When you report your daily skiing distance at the reception, they will record the distance on a stamp card. Those whose total distance exceeds 100km during the period will receive an achievement award and have their name displayed in the park.
For tourists, just recording your daily achievement will make a great memory. Courses start from 3km, making it easy for beginners to participate.
Refresh yourself while walking through gentle courses surrounded by forest and enjoying the snowy scenery.
<Information>
Date: December 23 – March 31
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.takinopark.com/competition/
Events for Children
Source:Official website
Takino Snow World, popular among families, is packed with events for children. During the winter season, two events themed around the park's characters are held: "Kinotan Expedition" and "Takinuts Rally."
Both events progress using visual hints such as illustrations and animal footprints, so anyone from children to adults can easily participate, even those who don't understand much Japanese.
Why not take on the walking rally and experience an adventure between snow play activities?
<Kinotan Expedition>
Date: December 23, 2025 – March 15, 2026
Hours: 10:00–15:00
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.takinopark.com/daibouken/
<Takinuts Rally (featuring the acorn fairy)>
Date: December 23, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Hours: 9:00–16:00
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.takinopark.com/kinominoyousei/
Hitsujigaoka Snow Park
Source:Official website
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is an observation deck where you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapporo city. In winter, it opens as a Snow Park where visitors can enjoy playing in the snow, attracting many people looking to have fun in the winter wonderland.
This popular spot offers tube sledding and snow play activities, making it highly recommended for families with small children.
Accessible in about one hour from central Sapporo city, this is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience snow play in Sapporo. If you're looking for a Sapporo event in March 2026 that offers winter fun, why not pay a visit?
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Address: 1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Access: About a 10-minute bus ride from "Fukuzumi Station" (Toho Line) take the bus bound for "Hitsujigaoka Observatory"
Operating Hours:10:00–15:00
Ski Season: January 9 – March 8, 2026
Phone Number: 011-851-3080
Website: https://www.hitsujigaoka.jp/snowpark/?lang=en_US#googtrans(ja|en)
A Wide Variety of Snow Activities
Source:Official website
The appeal of Hitsujigaoka Snow World lies in the variety of snow activities available to enjoy.
From tube slides that everyone from children to adults can enjoy together, to Snow Striders designed for children, the plaza bustles with young people and families having fun in the snow.
Building Kamakura (large snow igloos) and making snowmen are experiences only possible with substantial snowfall, which is a unique charm of Hokkaido.
Snow play equipment such as snowshoes and ski gear are all available for free rental, so please feel free to give them a try.
The Harmony of Snow and Tourist Attractions
Source:Official website
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is also famous as a scenic spot, offering views of the vast Ishikari Plain from the observation deck.
At the observation deck stands a bronze statue of William Smith Clark, who had a significant influence on the development of Hokkaido, and it has become a beloved symbol. He provided guidance for the development of Hokkaido and left his famous words to his students upon parting: "Boys, be ambitious."
This statue was created to capture the image of him proclaiming that phrase. Taking photos while striking the same pose as Clark's statue is a popular way to enjoy the spot, and in winter, the snowy landscape adds an even more dramatic scene to the experience.
Special Experiences Only Available in Sapporo in March 2026
PINGU × AOAO SAPPORO SWEET AQUARIUM
Source:Official website
AOAO is an aquarium located inside a building in Sapporo's bustling downtown area. The facility spans three floors where visitors can encounter various marine creatures including penguins and jellyfish, offering an authentic exhibition experience despite being inside a building.
Until March 22nd, a collaboration event with PINGU, the popular Swiss-born character, is being held. The event is packed with content that fans will love, including photo spots, original merchandise, and collaborative food items.
One particular highlight is the stamp rally held within the facility, which is perfect for enjoying with family and friends. Collecting all the stamps earns you a sticker as a souvenir. Please enjoy the marine creature exhibits while immersing yourself in the world of PINGU.
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Date: December 19, 2025 – March 22, 2026
Venue: AOAO Sapporo
Access: About a 3-minute walk from “Odori Station” (Namboku, Tozai, and Toho Lines)
Hours: 10:00–22:00 (Last entry 21:00)
Admission: ¥2,200
Website: https://aoao-sapporo.blue/pingu/
Hiina no Matsuri (Seki Gofukuten Main Store)
Source:Instagram
In Japan, Hina-Matsuri is held on March 3rd to celebrate the growth and health of girls. During Hina-Matsuri, there is a tradition of displaying dolls called Ohinasama.
Ohinasama are modeled after the Emperor and Empress of the Heian period (794–1185), and in addition to the two main dolls, visitors can enjoy various other dolls such as Gonin-bayashi (a group of five court musicians) and Sannin-kanjo (three court ladies).
At Seki Gofukuten, approximately 600 dolls are displayed together each year, allowing visitors to enjoy the gorgeous Ohinasama. Each doll has different kimono and facial features, and simply viewing them draws you into their beautiful world.
This is a must-visit spot for those who love kimono and Japanese traditions and history. This Sapporo event in March 2026 offers a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture.
<Information>
Date: February–March 2026 (Details TBA)
Venue: Seki Gofukuten Shinkotoni Honten(Seki Kimono Store Shinkotoni Main Store)
Access: About a 20-minute walk from “Asabu” Station (Namboku Line)
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (Closed on Sundays and national holidays)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.instagram.com/p/DGTxYapSzP_/?img_index=1
Seki Gofukuten: https://kimono-seki.square.site/
Don't Forget to Enjoy the Exquisite Local Foods Beloved by Locals When You Visit Sapporo!
Hokkaido is famous as a "treasure trove of food" with fresh seafood and dairy products. When visiting Hokkaido, enjoying the local cuisine is essential.
Magical Trip offers tours where you can explore restaurants beloved by locals alongside local guides and enjoy gourmet food.
Sapporo Local Food Tour: Dine Like a Local in the Evening Glow takes you to Susukino, one of Sapporo's premier nightlife districts, where you can savor seafood, Jingisukan, and sweets. This recommended tour lets you experience the nightlife while drinking alongside locals.
Sapporo Market & Seafood Brunch Tour: Taste Hokkaido's Freshness takes you to markets selling fresh seafood where you can enjoy ocean delicacies. In addition to sushi and other seafood, the tour offers a chance to fully enjoy Hokkaido's flavors including Buttered Hokkaido potatoes and soft-serve ice cream.
Please join our tours and savor the culinary delights of Hokkaido.
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Meeting point: Under the giant NIKKA Sign outside of Susukino station
Tour area: Sapporo (Susukino)
Start time: 17:00
Sapporo Local Food Tour: Dine Like a Local in the Evening Glow
Meeting point: In front of Tourist information center
Tour area: Sapporo City
Start time: 10:30
Sapporo Market & Seafood Brunch Tour: Taste Hokkaido’s Freshness
