Sapporo November Events 2025: Guide to White Illumination, Christmas Markets & Traditional Winter Festivals
Sapporo is the prefectural capital of Hokkaido and has prospered as the political, economic, and cultural center of Hokkaido. While the area around the station features urban cityscapes, you can enjoy vast nature just by extending your trip a little, making it famous as an area where urban and natural environments harmonize.
Additionally, Sapporo is a popular tourist destination in Japan, not only dotted with famous spots like Odori Park and Sapporo TV Tower, as well as restaurants where you can eat exquisite cuisine made with local ingredients, but also regularly hosting events that can only be experienced during specific seasons.
This time, we will introduce the highlights, event periods, and access information to venues for must-see events in Sapporo during November.
In November Sapporo, the Much-Awaited "Sapporo White Illumination" Begins
In November Sapporo, the much-awaited "Sapporo White Illumination" begins - a spectacular Sapporo Event November 2025 that locals eagerly anticipate each year.
The "Sapporo White Illumination" offers various symbol objects and tree illuminations, plus entertainment through sound and light performances, creating such fulfilling content that locals want to visit repeatedly.
Depending on the venue, you can enjoy the illuminations starting from November 21, 2025, until March 14, 2026.
What is Sapporo White Illumination?
Sapporo White Illumination began in 1981 as Japan's first illumination event, serving as a connecting event to the Sapporo Snow Festival. Initially, only about 1,000 light bulbs were lit at Odori Square, but the content and scale have been upgraded year by year, growing into a major event indispensable when talking about winter in Sapporo.
There are five illumination venues that color Sapporo's nighttime cityscape:
- Odori Venue
- Ekimae-dori Venue
- Minami-Ichijo-dori Venue
- Sapporo City Kita 3-jo Square (Akapla) Venue
- Sapporo Station South Exit Station Square Venue
The highlight of this Sapporo Event November 2025 is that you can enjoy illuminations with different concepts at each venue. If time permits, please try visiting all venues to savor the various atmospheres.
Why is Sapporo White Illumination Special?
The main reason is that Sapporo White Illumination began as Japan's first illumination event and is also certified as one of the "Japan's Three Major Illuminations." Every year, domestic and international tourists visit to see this historic illumination, enjoying the fantastical scenery that brilliantly colors the darkness.
Moreover, the long duration of the illumination period, the multiple venues offering different atmospheres, and the excellent access from central Sapporo to each venue are supported by locals, which is also one of the reasons for its special appeal.
Explaining the 3 Main Venues Where Sapporo White Illumination Takes Place and Their Features
From here, we will explain the three main venues where this magnificent Sapporo Event November 2025 takes place and their features.
Odori Venue
The main venue, Odori Venue (Odori Park), is a park approximately 1.5km long located in central Sapporo, stretching from Odori Nishi 1-chome to 12-chome. The park has flowers and trees planted throughout, allowing you to enjoy seasonal scenery throughout the four seasons. It's also packed with highlights, including sculptures and fountains designed by famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi scattered throughout.
The park hosts numerous seasonal events and is always bustling with people.
Information:
- Date: November 21, 2025 December 25
- Access: Immediately from Tozai Line, Namboku Line, Toho Line Odori Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/odori/
Various Illuminations with Different Themes for Each Street
At the Odori venue, you can enjoy various illuminations with different themes for each street during this spectacular Sapporo Event November 2025:
- 1-chome: Fluttering "Wish Birds"
- 2-chome: Christmas Object "Gift of Snow"
- 3-chome: Colorful "Winter Blossoms"
- 4-chome: Dreaming "Snow Fantasia"
- 5-chome: Star-falling "Cosmic Square"
- 6-chome: Sparkling "Emerald Forest"
Each displays unique illuminations, allowing you to stroll from 1-chome to 6-chome without getting bored.
My recommendation is the 2-chome illumination where you can fully enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. At the venue, "Christmas Balls" are sold where you can write wishes and tie them to Christmas objects, so why not try it while viewing the illuminations?
Beautiful Collaboration Between Sapporo TV Tower and Christmas Tree
The beautiful collaboration between Sapporo TV Tower and Christmas tree is spectacular!
Sapporo TV Tower, representing Sapporo, is located near the Odori venue and is lit up in conjunction with the Sapporo White Illumination. Not only can you view Sapporo TV Tower from the Odori venue, but I also recommend climbing to the observatory of Sapporo TV Tower to get a panoramic view of the main event venue, Odori venue.
I have also viewed the illuminations from the observatory. The vast illuminations viewed from the observatory sparkled like scattered jewels, and I found myself gazing intently, forgetting to take photos.
Annual Tradition of Overwhelmingly Powerful Illuminated Objects
The annual tradition of overwhelmingly powerful illuminated objects cannot be missed during this amazing Sapporo Event November 2025.
At the venue, you can see beautiful objects up close that can only be seen here, including tunnels themed on lilacs and lily of the valley flowers that symbolize Sapporo, snow crystals, domes with star and space motifs, and light forests that recreate rich greenery.
Beyond just viewing, there are also interactive illuminations such as tunnels you can actually walk through and domes where light performances begin in response to human movement - I found myself enjoying them with childlike wonder.
The content is enjoyable for children too, so it's recommended for families with children.
This comprehensive guide to the Sapporo Event November 2025 ensures tourists won't miss any of the magical experiences this winter wonderland has to offer!
Ekimae-dori Venue
The Ekimae-dori venue is Sapporo's main street that extends from the south exit of Sapporo Station toward Odori Park and Susukino. The street is lined with commercial facilities, hotels, and offices, and is known as an area where many people come and go regardless of weekdays or weekends.
Underground, there is the "Sapporo Ekimae-dori Underground Walkway (chi-ka-ho)" that connects from JR Sapporo Station to Subway Susukino Station, which is convenient to use on days with bad weather.
Information:
- Date: November 21, 2025 February 11, 2026
- Access: Walking distance from JR Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/ekimae/
Beautiful Objects Displayed in Front of JR Sapporo Station
The beautiful objects displayed in front of JR Sapporo Station are also worth checking out!
At the south exit of Sapporo Station, you can see the "Satsueki (nickname for Sapporo Station and its surroundings) Illumination," which features illuminations of "flowers of light" decorated with colorful lights.
The highlight is the light projection at your feet. Flowers and snow crystals appear on the ground through light, and you can enjoy watching the entire area transform into flower fields and snowy landscapes. With this heart-stirring production, I forgot about the cold and became intoxicated with the world of light art.
During this Sapporo Event November 2025 period, the sound and light program changes four times, making this a venue with a high repeat visitor rate among locals.
Trees Illuminated Over Approximately 1.5km and Fantastical Atmosphere
Source:Official website
Pay attention to the trees illuminated over approximately 1.5km from in front of JR Sapporo Station to Susukino and the fantastical atmosphere you can enjoy there.
On the street, approximately 220,000 LED lights decorate the trees on the central divider, allowing you to enjoy adult-oriented illuminations with subdued colors. While colorful illuminated decorations are gorgeous and impressive, simply arranged illuminations are also recommended as they provide a sense of elegance.
The mystical glowing scenery of Sapporo's representative main street will be unforgettable once you see it.
Akapla Venue
The Akapla venue (Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza) is an outdoor plaza located between Sapporo Ekimae-dori and the Hokkaido Government Red Brick Building. From the plaza, you can view the Hokkaido Government Red Brick Building, which is popular for its retro appearance, and in autumn, you can enjoy the autumn-colored ginkgo tree-lined street.
Cultural events are held each season, and it is cherished as a place of relaxation for citizens.
Information
- Date: November 21, 2025 March 14, 2026
- Access: 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, 2-minute walk from Namboku Line Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/akapla/
Collaboration of the Illuminated Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building and Illuminations
The collaboration of the illuminated Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building and the illuminations is a must-see.
The sight of the ginkgo tree-lined street, which is the oldest existing street trees in Hokkaido located in the plaza, glowing gently enhances the charm of the Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building and gives the building more gravitas, which is an attractive point.
If you take a photo with the Hokkaido Prefectural Government Red Brick Building at the center and ginkgo tree-lined streets positioned at both ends, you can capture a shot that conveys the weight of history.
Elegant Illuminations You Can Enjoy Quietly in a Calm Atmosphere
The elegant illuminations that you can enjoy quietly in a calm atmosphere are popular for their productions that allow you to enjoy changes in light. The illuminations with subdued colors gently shine as if they blend in without damaging the surrounding landscape, giving a sense of elegance that you could watch forever.
I once enjoyed viewing the illuminations with a friend while holding hot drinks. When we visited, there were fewer people than at other venues, and it was impressive that we could enjoy the scenery at our own pace.
This is recommended for people who want to avoid crowds and leisurely enjoy the illuminations during this special Sapporo Event November 2025 season.
Other Venues
Sapporo Station South Exit Station Plaza Venue
Information
- Date: November 21, 2025 March 14, 2026
- Access: 1-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station and Namboku Line Sapporo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/ekihiro/
Minami 1-jo Street Venue
Information
- Date: November 21, 2025 March 14, 2026
- Access: Directly accessible from Tozai Line, Namboku Line, and Toho Line Odori Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/illumination/minami-1jo/
Don't Miss the Simultaneously Held "Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo"!
Be sure to participate in the simultaneously held "Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo" as well.
The "Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo" began in 2002 as part of a sister city partnership initiative, since Munich is Sapporo's sister city. The venue features numerous booths selling authentic German Christmas cuisine such as sausages and Glühwein, as well as Christmas items, beautifully decorating Odori Park.
Additionally, Christmas illuminations, German music stage shows, and workshops are held, creating an exciting atmosphere at the venue. I enjoyed watching Christmas stage shows while drinking Glühwein, which warmed both my body and soul, making me forget the cold.
Once you step into the venue, people of all ages will undoubtedly be immersed in the Christmas spirit.
Information
- Dates: November 21 December 25, 2025
- Access: Directly from Odori Station (Subway)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/munich
Tour Tourist Spots with Locals and Fully Enjoy Sapporo's Exquisite Food!
When visiting Sapporo, why not tour tourist spots with locals and fully enjoy Sapporo's exquisite food? The Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour allows you to visit three izakaya (Japanese pubs) bustling with locals in Sapporo's entertainment district, Susukino.
The first stop is a hidden underground izakaya where you can taste fresh seafood caught in Hokkaido with rich fat content, paired with alcohol. For the second stop, a knowledgeable Sapporo guide will take you to an izakaya that suits your mood at the time. The third stop fills your stomach at either a parfait shop or ramen shop. In Sapporo, "finishing parfait" (Shime Parfait) has become established as part of drinking culture, so if you don't dislike sweets, try choosing the parfait shop.
Please fully savor the exquisite gourmet food in Sapporo, known as a culinary city.
Information
- Meeting Point: Susukino Station
- Area: Susukino
- Start Time: 6:00 PM
3 Sapporo Events in November 2025 to Enjoy Along with White Illumination
Here we introduce three Sapporo Events in November 2025 that you'll want to enjoy along with the White Illumination.
2025 Sapporo Chrysanthemum Festival
The first is the 2025 Sapporo Chrysanthemum Festival, where you can see various chrysanthemum artworks with the Sapporo Ekimae-dori Underground Walkway (chi-ka-ho) as the main venue. The event holds judging competitions for the size and beauty of chrysanthemum flowers, with excellent works receiving ministerial awards and Hokkaido Governor's awards.
Additionally, special exhibitions of chrysanthemums lovingly cultivated by enthusiasts are held at Sapporo Chikagai Aurora Town (Aurora Square) and Hokuhoku Sapporo Building, delighting passersby.
Why not view beautiful chrysanthemum art pieces up close, colored in various hues of purple, white, and yellow?
Information
- Dates: November 1-3, 2025
- Access: Directly from Sapporo Station (Namboku Line) and Odori Station (Namboku, Tozai, Toho Lines)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/chrysanthemum-festival/
Sapporo Art Stage
Source:Official website
The second, Sapporo Art Stage, is an art event that began in 2005, allowing visitors to experience visual arts, theater, and music at various locations throughout Sapporo. It also aims to enhance Sapporo's urban appeal by creating cutting-edge domestic and international art.
During the month-long event, various programs are planned, including the "Sapporo Theater Festival" where over 30 groups perform original works, "Art Street" where nationally active artists display works in the Sapporo Ekimae-dori Underground Walkway, and "Crossroad Live" where musicians from Hokkaido perform live, painting Sapporo in art colors.
The notable "Kids Art Fest" features artists conducting workshops for children and displaying completed works. The content that nurtures children's creativity receives favorable reviews every year, with many children participating.
November in Sapporo offers a chance to enjoy the autumn of art between sightseeing!
Information
- Dates: November 1-30, 2025
- Access: Varies by venue
- Admission: Varies by venue
- Website: https://s-artstage.com//
Sapporo Factory Giant Christmas Tree
The third is the Sapporo Factory Giant Christmas Tree, where a Christmas tree so large you must look up to see it is displayed in the atrium of the commercial facility "Sapporo Factory."
The Christmas tree uses a Todomatsu fir about 15 meters tall, and when viewed up close, you'll be overwhelmed by its presence. During lighting hours from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, you can see colorful ornaments and illuminations, plus enjoy approximately 5-minute music and light shows every hour.
Since it's installed for two months from early November to late December, please view it when using the facility for shopping or dining.
This comprehensive guide to Sapporo Events in November 2025 will help tourists make the most of their visit to Japan's winter wonderland city!
