Sapporo Winter Wonderland: Top Spots, Snow Adventures & Local Delicacies You Can’t Miss
Sapporo is the center of Hokkaido and has long been a driving force for the region's culture and politics. Hokkaido is blessed with both seafood and mountain delicacies, and Sapporo, as the central city, is known as one of Japan's premier gourmet destinations. Packed with various attractions, Sapporo is one of the most popular tourist areas in Japan.
The Sapporo winter, with its heavy snowfall, allows visitors to enjoy snow activities, attracting many tourists. Therefore, many tourist destinations become even more attractive during winter. From here, we will explain recommended ways to spend time in winter Sapporo and spots you should visit during the Sapporo winter, providing advice to help you enjoy winter Sapporo even more.
Table of Contents
-Sapporo Winter Highlights
-10 Best Spots Recommended by the Author to See Beautiful Scenery During Sapporo Winter
-Author's Selection! 6 Recommended Ski Resorts Around Sapporo in Winter
-Monthly Introduction of Winter Events You Can Enjoy in Sapporo
Sapporo Winter Climate and Recommended Clothing
First, let's introduce the climate and recommended clothing for winter Sapporo. Since Hokkaido is located in the northern part of Japan, the cold is severe, and proper preparation is necessary.
December: The snow season begins in earnest.
Climate characteristics → Average temperature is -0.9℃, maximum temperature is 2.1℃, minimum temperature is -4.1℃, and snowfall exceeds 130cm.
Recommended clothing → For outerwear, thick coats or down jackets are essential. For inner layers, items that cover areas where wind easily enters, such as the neck, wrists, and ankles, help maintain warmth. Accessories like gloves and scarves that cover exposed skin are also indispensable.
January: The coldest month in Sapporo.
Climate characteristics → Average temperature is -3.6℃, maximum temperature is -0.6℃, minimum temperature is -7.0℃. Temperatures rarely exceed 0℃ during the day, and snow falls almost daily. Snowfall exceeds 170cm, creating magnificent snow landscapes.
Recommended clothing → For outerwear, prepare waterproof down jackets or long coats due to heavy snow. For inner layers, choose moisture-wicking and heat-generating types, and layer thick socks or thick tights under pants. Snow boots, scarves, gloves, hats, and earmuffs become essential cold-weather accessories.
February: The cold slightly eases compared to January, but severe cold continues.
Climate characteristics → Average temperature is -3.1℃, maximum temperature is 0.1℃, minimum temperature is -6.1℃, with snowfall still heavy at around 150cm.
Recommended clothing → For outerwear, waterproof down jackets or long coats are still recommended, as in January. Choose warm materials like fleece or wool for tops, and high-insulation inner layers remain essential. Continue using cold-weather accessories like snow boots, scarves, gloves, and earmuffs.
Sapporo Winter Highlights
Did you know that winter Sapporo has numerous highlights?
The winter features include illuminations that color the city as a winter tradition, spectacular views created by the collaboration of snow and famous landmarks, meals using seasonal ingredients that reach peak flavor in winter, and limited events held throughout the region - all experiences you can only have in Sapporo!
Here are our top 4 recommended highlights.
Spectacular Views Created by Snow and City Lights Collaboration
The first highlight is the spectacular views created by the collaboration between snow accumulation and city lights.
In winter Sapporo, where snow falls frequently, the entire city is covered with snow, accumulating not only on the ground but also on buildings. From evening onward when the surroundings become dim, falling snow and accumulated snow are illuminated by lights leaking from buildings, creating wonderful scenery that glows gently.
You can see spectacular views everywhere while strolling through the city, so make sure to dress warmly and venture out into the streets!
Traditional Annual Illuminations
The second highlight is the traditional illuminations held annually. Famous spots in Sapporo are decorated with colorful, brilliant illuminations in winter, brightening the entire city.
There are various illuminations, including Christmas-themed ones and those inspired by snow crystals and flowers, allowing you to enjoy different atmospheric landscapes depending on the location. During my trip, I created a schedule to enjoy sightseeing during the day and tour illuminations at night, fully enjoying Sapporo's charm throughout the day.
Why not visit illuminations at various locations and find your favorite spot?
Exquisite Food Reaching Peak Season in Winter
The third highlight is exquisite food that reaches peak season in winter.
Hokkaido, surrounded by the sea and with vast inland areas, is famous as a treasure trove of ingredients where you can enjoy both seafood and mountain delicacies. Particularly in winter, seafood such as crab, scallops, and salmon roe reach their peak season, offering the finest flavors.
I once ate boiled king crab during winter Sapporo. The king crab raised in cold seas had firm flesh, full of the crab's natural sweetness and umami, with a deliciousness that made me smile involuntarily.
For seasonal ingredients, I recommend eating them simply boiled or grilled without adding seasonings, as you can directly taste the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Winter Events Popular with Locals
The fourth highlight is winter events that are popular with locals.
Sapporo winter is packed with events that can only be enjoyed in winter, such as illuminations held at tourist spots, the Sapporo Snow Festival, and Christmas markets. My recommendation is the Sapporo Snow Festival. The festival is packed with content including viewing large and small snow and ice sculptures, stage shows, and dining on Hokkaido gourmet food, with a reputation for keeping visitors entertained all day.
The snow and ice sculptures expressing famous characters and celebrities that change every year are spectacular, and it's understandable why locals return repeatedly. Ice sculptures, in particular, allow you to see the surrounding scenery through transparent ice, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
These are events that people of all ages can enjoy, so please feel free to participate.
10 Best Spots Recommended by the Author to See Beautiful Scenery During Sapporo Winter
From here, we'll introduce a full 10 recommended spots where you can see beautiful scenery during Sapporo winter. The collaboration of pure white snow with famous landmarks captivates viewers with landscapes that make you want to keep looking forever. Be sure to capture these scenes in photos and share them with family and friends!
Sapporo White Illumination
The "Sapporo White Illumination," representing Sapporo winter, consists mainly of six event venues:
・Odori Park
・Munich Christmas Market
・Ekimae-dori Park
・Minami 1-jo Street venue
・Sapporo City Kita 3-jo Square (Akapura) venue
Famous landmarks are decorated with colorful illuminations, allowing you to enjoy the most vibrant Sapporo winter nights of the year.
Odori Park
At Odori Park, you can enjoy illuminations with different themes from 1-chome to 6-chome.
・1-chome: Wish Birds
・2-chome: Gift of Snow
・3-chome: Winter Blossoms
・4-chome: Snow Fantasy
・5-chome: Cosmic Square
・6-chome: Emerald Forest
My recommendation is the Winter Blossoms at 3-chome, where you can also enjoy watching the illuminations change from lilac purple to blue and red. The flower illuminations shining brightly in the night have a dignified elegance, and I was able to leisurely appreciate them in a calm space during my Sapporo winter visit.
Please stroll from 1-chome to 6-chome and find your favorite illuminations.
<Information>
Address: 1-12 Odori Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 16:30-22:00
Closed: None
Phone: 080-5830-6001
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/
Ekimae-dori Venue
At the Ekimae-dori venue, approximately 220,000 LEDs decorate and illuminate the street trees planted along the approximately 1.5km stretch from JR Sapporo Station to Susukino. Sapporo's main street is enveloped in gentle light, creating a romantic atmosphere you can't usually experience during Sapporo winter.
I've also strolled down this street, and while there's no eye-catching flashiness, I found the simple illuminations refreshing and memorable. This is a spot for adults who want to enjoy subdued illuminations during their Sapporo winter experience.
I recommend this for people who want to savor illuminations with a different charm from colorful ones - illuminations that evoke a sense of atmosphere during Sapporo winter.
<Information>
Address: Kita 5-jo Nishi 3-6, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 16:30-22:00
Closed: None
Phone: 080-5830-6001
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/
Sapporo Station South Exit Venue
The Sapporo Station South Exit venue, titled "Satsueki (a nickname locals affectionately use for Sapporo Station and its surrounding area) Illumination," features brilliantly shining light flowers within illumination-decorated objects.
My point of interest is that you can also enjoy light art of flowers and snow crystals at your feet. It makes you feel as if you're in a flower field, and I was so captivated by its fantastical beauty that I forgot words and immersed myself in the illumination world during this magical Sapporo winter experience.
During the period, the sound and light performance program changes four times, making it one of the spots that locals frequently visit during Sapporo winter.
<Information>
Address: Kita 5-jo Nishi 4, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 16:30-22:00
Closed: None
Phone: 080-5830-6001
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/
Mount Moiwa Observation Deck
Mount Moiwa Observation Deck is an observation deck located at the summit of Mount Moiwa, which stands 531m above sea level and is positioned almost in the center of Sapporo. From the base to the middle slope, you can take either a ropeway or the Mount Moiwa Sightseeing Automobile Road, and from the middle slope to the summit, you ride the world's first drive system mini cable car called "Morris car."
From the summit, you can see not only Sapporo's cityscape but also overlook the Sea of Japan's Ishikari Bay and the Masukke-Shokanbetsu Mountains, enjoying magnificent scenery. When I first saw Sapporo's night view from the observation deck, I was mesmerized by the jewel-like sparkling scene. The observation deck has been selected as one of the "100 Best Moons in Japan" because of the beautiful moon visible from there.
The collaboration of dancing snow and Sapporo's night view during Sapporo winter is a must-see!
<Information>
Address: 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: (Summer) 10:30-22:00 (Winter) 11:00-22:00
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 011-561-8177
Official Website: https://mt-moiwa.jp/facility/st-summit/observation-deck/
Shiroi Koibito Park
Source:Official website
Shiroi Koibito Park is a sweets theme park where you can enjoy various activities including factory tours of "Shiroi Koibito," a staple Hokkaido souvenir, hands-on confectionery making experiences, shopping at the shopping center, and strolling through the flower-filled courtyard.
The notable event at Shiroi Koibito Park is the Sweet Illumination, featuring colorful illuminations held in the courtyard from November to March, which is popular during Sapporo winter. The event includes interactive light attractions where you press switches to divine your fortune and hands-on trick trees, earning praise for its innovative interactive illuminations.
The entire building has a charming design reminiscent of picture books, enjoyable for children and adults alike. This spot is also recommended for families with small children visiting during Sapporo winter.
<Information>
Address: 2-2-11-36 Miyanosawa, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 10:00-17:00
Closed: None
Phone: 011-666-1481
Official Website: https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/
Sapporo Factory
Source:HOKKAIDO LOVE!
Sapporo Factory is a large-scale complex commercial facility built on the site of the famous Sapporo Beer brewery in Japan. This was the first beer factory built by Japanese hands and is known as the birthplace of Japan's beer industry. The facility is divided into seven areas and houses approximately 160 shops including restaurants, movie theaters, and hotels, always bustling with many visitors.
The illuminations held inside the facility from November to December feature a spectacular 15-meter tree displayed in the open atrium. The tree's towering height is truly impressive, and I was completely overwhelmed by its presence. The 5-minute music and light show held every hour is also a must-see during your Sapporo winter visit.
Why not leisurely enjoy the illuminations in this facility where you can spend time without worrying about the weather?
<Information>
Address: 4 Chome Kita 2-jo Higashi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: Varies by store
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 011-207-5000
Official Website: https://sapporofactory.jp/
During the tour, you can enjoy dishes made with plenty of fresh seafood and local ingredients, along with beer, sake, and shochu. For the finale, you can choose between a parfait shop or ramen shop depending on your mood. While "shime ramen" (finishing ramen) is famous in Japan, Hokkaido has a deeply rooted "shime parfait" (finishing parfait) culture, so sweet lovers should definitely try the parfait challenge!
Why not satisfy both your stomach and heart in Sapporo, known as a gourmet city, during your Sapporo winter adventure?
<Information>
Meeting Point: Susukino Station
Tour Area: Susukino
Start Time: 18:00
Okurayama Viewing Point
If you're visiting Sapporo in winter, why not try enjoying exquisite food with local guidance? The Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour allows you to savor delicious cuisine and drinks in Susukino, Sapporo's famous entertainment district.
Okurayama Viewing Point is a spot where you can enjoy Sapporo's night view over the ski jump. This jump was donated to Sapporo City by the founder of Japan's famous hotel "Hotel Okura" and was used as one of the venues for the 1972 Winter Olympics.
From the observation deck at the 307-meter-high ski jump starting point, you can enjoy a grand panorama that overlooks not only Sapporo city but also the Ishikari Plain and Miyanomori Jump Stadium. I was moved by the shining silver world covered with snow that could be seen from the observation deck, and I stopped to gaze at it for a while during my Sapporo winter experience.
On days when there are no competitions, you can experience what it's like to be a jumper from the "Observation Lounge" behind the starting point, so please be sure to stop by.
<Information>
Address: 1274 Miyanomori, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 8:30-18:00 (summer), 9:00-17:00 (winter), 18:00-21:00 (night)
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 011-641-8585
Official Website: https://okurayama-jump.jp/
Moerenuma Park
Moerenuma Park is a park created by world-famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi with the concept of "making the entire area one sculptural work." The vast grounds are dotted with art-like playground equipment and buildings where you can enjoy the fusion of nature and art.
In winter, the grounds are covered with a pure white carpet of snow as far as the eye can see, offering magnificent scenery. My recommended scenic spot is the collaboration between the glass pyramid "HIDAMARI," which can be called the symbol of Moerenuma Park, and the snow. The building standing tall on the pure white snow has a dignified beauty, and I was overwhelmed by its presence during my Sapporo winter visit.
The park offers snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals, so you can enjoy the winter scenery while playing in the snow.
<Information>
Address: 1-1 Moerenuma Park, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 7:00-22:00
Closed: None
Phone: 011-790-1231
Official Website: https://moerenumapark.jp/
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
Source:Official website
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is a popular tourist spot where you can see the statue of Dr. Clark, who contributed to Sapporo's development, enjoy sheep-related events, and taste foods unique to Hokkaido. The observation deck is located at an elevation of 136 meters, and you can view Sapporo city from various points throughout the grounds.
The highlight is being able to enjoy various snow activities while looking at the cityscape of Sapporo spreading in the distance. Activities include tube sliding, snow strider, and walking skiing, and it's attractive that even children can try them. I challenged the popular walking skiing and completed the short course while enjoying the scenery of Sapporo during my Sapporo winter adventure! Time passes quickly because you're looking at beautiful scenery.
Since this is a facility that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, let's play to your heart's content for a full day!
<Information>
Address: 1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00-18:00
Closed: None
Phone: 011-851-3080
Official Website: https://www.hitsujigaoka.jp/
Sapporo Beer Garden
Source:Official website
Sapporo Beer Garden is a facility housed in a building where red brick creates a retro atmosphere, where you can learn about the history of Sapporo Beer and taste fresh draft beer and Genghis Khan (Hokkaido's local dish of grilled lamb and vegetables).
The historic red brick building, built in the Meiji period, is designated as a Hokkaido Heritage site, and in winter, the building becomes snow-covered, allowing you to enjoy a charming landscape. At night, the 19-meter-tall fir tree next to the building is illuminated with LED lights, creating a different atmosphere from the daytime and earning a good reputation during Sapporo winter nights.
At Japan's oldest beer museum, please enjoy beer and meals while also taking in the emotionally rich scenery.
<Information>
Address: 2-10 Kita 7-jo Higashi 9, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 11:00-21:00
Closed: December 31st
Phone: 0570-098-346
Official Website: https://sapporo-bier-garten.jp/
Jozankei Shrine (Snow Light Road)
Source:Jozankei Onsen
Jozankei Shrine (Snow Light Road) is an event where 2,000 candles are lit within a shrine built in 1905. It began in 2011 with the wish to "gather and let people enjoy" the snow candles that hotels and inns at Jozankei Hot Springs had been decorating as hospitality.
The sight of candles casting gentle light in the crisp winter air has mystical beauty, and I forgot about the harsh cold and kept taking photos during my Sapporo winter experience. The art-like scenery created by candles on the snow will surely become an unforgettable memory.
As part of the event, "JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE," themed around illuminations co-created with nature, is also held, so why not enjoy it together?
<Information>
Address: 3-218 Jozankei Onsen, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 24 hours
Closed: None
Phone: 011-598-2012
Official Website: https://jozankei.jp/spot/181/
Author's Selection! 6 Recommended Ski Resorts Around Sapporo in Winter
From here, I will introduce 6 carefully selected ski resorts around Sapporo in winter that I recommend. This is a must-see for winter sports enthusiasts!
Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area is characterized by exceptional powder snow, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The fluffy snow gives you the sensation of gliding above clouds, and once you try it, it's said to be addictive.
The ski resort has 13 courses and is equipped with 6 lifts including gondola lifts and quad lifts. Courses range from gentle, wide beginner-friendly slopes to long runs up to 4000m in length, allowing everyone from beginners to advanced skiers to enjoy.
The resort is also known for its excellent views from the slopes. I was able to enjoy skiing while viewing Mount Yotei in the distance, which is famous for resembling Mount Fuji. I recommend this for people who want to enjoy winter sports while taking in spectacular scenery.
<Information>
Address: 485 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 8:30-16:30
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Phone Number: 0136-58-2080
Official Website: https://annupuri.info/
Rusutsu Resort
Source:Official website
Rusutsu Resort offers 4 gondolas and 37 courses, and is a popular ski resort that won the "Japan's Best Ski Resort" award at the 2024 "World Ski Awards" for the 5th time in 3 years. Located conveniently about 90 minutes from both Sapporo city center and New Chitose Airport, you can enjoy authentic winter sports, and I have visited many times myself.
At the resort, you can enjoy not only skiing and snowboarding, but also diverse programs such as winter river trips, dog sledding, and ice fishing. During breaks from skiing and snowboarding, I definitely recommend trying winter activities that can only be experienced in Hokkaido's great nature!
<Information>
Address: 113 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00-17:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Phone Number: 0136-46-3111
Official Website: https://rusutsu.com/
Kiroro Resort
Source:Official website
Kiroro Resort is a state-of-the-art family-oriented resort facility equipped with childcare services, hot springs, and heated pools where you can enjoy winter sports.
The resort has 4 areas:
・Club Med Kiroro Peak
・Club Med Kiroro Grand
・Kiroro Snow World
・Yu Kiroro
I have stayed at Club Med Kiroro Peak before. Since this facility is limited to users 12 years and older, I was able to truly refresh myself with top-class hospitality in a high-quality adult-oriented space.
Additionally, for ski and snowboard private lessons, experienced instructors can teach you skiing techniques in English or Chinese. Since these are private lessons, even foreigners with little skiing experience can participate with confidence.
<Information>
Address: 128-1 Tokiwa, Akaigawa-mura, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00-16:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Phone Number: 0115-34-7171
Official Website: https://www.kiroro.co.jp/ja/
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is located about 1 hour by car from Sapporo city center and is a ski resort famous for some of Hokkaido's finest powder snow. The operating period is from mid-November to early May, known for having one of the longest operating seasons among ski resorts near Sapporo.
The facility has 7 courses and a snow park where you can play with sleds and tubes. Among them, the "Rinkan-Märchen Course" with a maximum skiing distance of 3.6km is a low-difficulty long course that is reputed to be suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. I have also challenged the "Rinkan-Märchen Course" and was able to enjoy the silver world non-stop, experiencing an exhilarating feeling.
Since the famous hot spring town of Jozankei Onsen is nearby, I also recommend making a detour there on your way back.
<Information>
Address: 937 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00-17:00
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Phone Number: 011-598-4511
Official Website: https://www.sapporo-kokusai.jp/
Moiwayama Ski Area
Source:Sapporo Tourist Association
Moiwayama Ski Area is located on the slopes of Mount Moiwa at an elevation of 531m, making it an easily accessible ski resort just 30 minutes by car from Sapporo Station. This unique ski area is rare in Hokkaido as it prohibits snowboarding and is exclusively for skiing, but it has been beloved by locals since opening in 1960.
I have skied the beginner-friendly "Kanko Doro Course" (Tourist Road Course). This course allows you to enjoy skiing while taking in views of Sapporo's cityscape, giving you the feeling of snow trekking. Among the 10 available courses, 8 operate at night, making it possible to ski while enjoying Sapporo's night views. You can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the city during the day and night skiing in the evening!
<Information>
Address: 1991 Moiwashita, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00-21:00
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 011-581-2518
Official Website: https://www.rinyu.co.jp/moiwa/
Bankei Ski Area
Source:Wikipedia
Bankei Ski Area boasts excellent accessibility, located about 20 minutes by car from Sapporo, with night operations until 21:00 on weekdays and 22:00 on Saturdays. The resort features 17 diverse courses ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to the FIS-certified ban.k Mogul Course, which served as the venue for the "2017 Winter Asian Games Sapporo," and Japan's largest ban.k Half Pipe.
Separate from the main slopes, there's a "Snow Park" where visitors can enjoy activities like sledding and tube sliding, making it an attractive point where ski beginners and children can safely enjoy playing in the snow.
The resort offers convenient services including hands-free packages where you can rent all ski equipment and wear, and taxi packages from accommodation facilities. Since it's close to the city center, why not casually enjoy winter sports during your Sapporo winter experience?
<Information>
Address: 410 Bankei, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00-21:00 (22:00 on Saturdays only)
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 011-641-0071
Official Website: https://www.bankei.co.jp/
Monthly Introduction of Winter Events You Can Enjoy in Sapporo
From here, we'll introduce winter events you can enjoy in Sapporo by month. There are many events you can only experience in Sapporo, so please check them out and visit during your Sapporo winter trip.
Must-See December Events in Sapporo
First, let me introduce the must-see December events in Sapporo.
Sapporo White Illumination
Known as one of Japan's top three illumination events, this started in 1981. While it began with 1,048 light bulbs, in recent years approximately 740,000 light bulbs across five venues create various light objects, brilliantly illuminating the entire city during the magical Sapporo winter season.
<Information>
Location: Odori Park, Ekimae-dori, Minami 1-jo-dori, Kita 3-jo Hiroba, Sapporo Station South Exit Plaza
Schedule: Late November to mid-March (varies by venue)
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/
Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo
This event started in 2002 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the sister city partnership between Sapporo and Munich. Visitors can enjoy Christmas-related shopping, dining, and various events. The venue is packed with Christmas goods, and it's well-regarded for letting visitors fully enjoy the Christmas spirit during Sapporo winter.
<Information>
Location: Odori Park
Schedule: November 22 - December 25
Official Website: https://www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/munich/
Sapporo Factory Christmas Illumination
This is a Christmas illumination held at Sapporo Factory, featuring a giant Christmas tree approximately 15m tall as the highlight. The tree is installed in an all-weather atrium, making it an attractive feature that can be enjoyed regardless of weather conditions throughout the Sapporo winter season.
<Information>
Location: Sapporo Factory
Schedule: Late November to late December
Official Website: https://sapporofactory.jp/
Must-See Events in Sapporo in January
Here are the must-see events to experience the magical Sapporo winter in January:
Shiroi Koibito Park Illumination
You can enjoy interactive illuminations at this theme park where you can savor the charm of Hokkaido's popular sweet "Shiroi Koibito." During your Sapporo winter visit, it's highly recommended to warm up with the "Shiroi Koibito Chocolate Drink" sold outdoors while viewing the illuminations.
<Information>
Location: Shiroi Koibito Park
Schedule: From mid-November through the end of March
Official website: https://www.shiroikoibitopark.jp/illumination/ (2024 site)
Historical Village of Hokkaido Winter Life Experience
This is an event where you can experience winter life from the pioneer era at the Historical Village of Hokkaido. You can wear the clothing that was worn at the time to protect from the harsh Sapporo winter cold, and also enjoy snow activities like bamboo skis and wooden sleds.
<Information>
Location: Historical Village of Hokkaido
Schedule: From early January to mid-March
Official website: https://www.kaitaku.or.jp/
JR Tower T38 Sky First Sunrise
You can see the first sunrise of the year, which is considered auspicious, at the JR Tower observation deck "T38" directly connected to Sapporo Station. They start special operations from 6:00 AM on January 1st, making it a perfect way to begin your Sapporo winter experience. Wake up early and head there!
<Information>
Location: JR Tower T38
Schedule: January 1st
Official website: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1264740816977462/jrt38/
Must-See Events in Sapporo in February
Finally, here are the must-see events that showcase the beauty of Sapporo winter in February:
Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill Snow Park
At Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill where you can enjoy sheep-related activities, you can experience various Sapporo winter snow activities such as making mini snowmen and snow slides. Snow activities can be enjoyed by children and are free, so feel free to participate.
<Information>
Location: Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
Schedule: From early January to early March
Official website: https://www.hitsujigaoka.jp/snowpark/(2025 site)
Jozankei Shrine Snow Light Road
This is a candle event held at Jozankei Shrine in Jozankei Onsen, famous as Sapporo's hot spring district. Handmade snow candles by local people light up warm lights in the solemn shrine grounds, creating a fantastical Sapporo winter atmosphere.
<Information>
Location: Jozankei Shrine
Schedule: January 27th - February 3rd, 2026
Official website: https://jozankei.jp/event/yukitouro2026/
Sapporo Art Park Sculpture Garden Snowshoe Walk
At this comprehensive art facility with art museums, workshops, and outdoor stages, you can stroll through the facility wearing "kanjiki" (snowshoes) for walking on snow. Although the Sapporo winter cold is still harsh during this time, you'll gradually feel your body warming up as you push through the snow.
<Information>
Location: Sapporo Art Park Sculpture Garden
Schedule: From early January to mid-March
Official website: https://artpark.or.jp/
To Fully Enjoy Japan's Winter, It's Best to Be Guided by Locals Who Know Each Area Inside and Out!
To fully enjoy Japan's winter, especially the enchanting Sapporo winter season, it's best to be guided by locals who know the area inside and out. Local guides can show you hidden gems and deep local restaurants not found in guidebooks, and introduce you to the best ways to enjoy the city during your Sapporo winter adventure.
With Magical Trip tours, many tour guides who are knowledgeable about the area are on staff, promising you an unprecedented tourism experience during your Sapporo winter visit. Also, an attractive point is that you can see the guides' self-introductions on the site beforehand, so you can participate with peace of mind.
Join a local tour and enjoy the city's charm to the fullest during your unforgettable Sapporo winter journey!
