
Winter Wonderland Destinations in Sapporo, Hokkaidō, Japan
1. Odori Park Ice Festival
A 1.5 km long winter wonderland with over 500 ice and snow sculptures lit up at night.
- Unique Sculptures: Sculptures change annually, showcasing various themes.
- Family-friendly: Interactive ice carvings and evening light shows for all ages.
- Central Location: Located in Sapporo's city center, easy to access by public transport.
2. Sapporo White Illumination
Over a million lights illuminating Odori Park and the nearby buildings for a magical winter experience.
- Illumination Patterns: Lights synchronize with music, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle.
- Warm Atmosphere: Hot drinks and food available throughout the park for visitors to enjoy.
- Long Illumination Period: Illuminations run from early November until late February.
3. Tanukicoice Festival
A festival dedicated to the creation of giant ice and snow statues of Tanuki (racoon-like creatures) in Susukino district.
- Traditional Tie-in: Statues are dressed in traditional Hokkaido attire.
- Unique Location: Held in Sapporo's entertainment district, Tanukicoice offers a lively atmosphere.
- Ice Bar Experience: Visitors can enjoy drinks at an ice bar located within the festival grounds.
4. Sapporo Snow Festival Cruise
A unique way to experience the Odori Park Ice Festival by taking a cruise on the Tsoya River.
- Unobstructed Views: Cruise offers a different perspective of the ice sculptures.
- Comfortable Experience: Heated indoor and outdoor seating areas for comfort during the cruise.
- Photography Opportunities: Capturing scenic photos of the ice sculptures from the river is a popular activity.
5. Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about Sapporo's brewing history while enjoying fresh beer and food at this museum.
- Historic Significance: Built on the site of Sapporo Beer's first brewery.
- Tasting Experience: Taste various types of Sapporo beer in the museum's tasting rooms.
- Interactive Exhibits: Exhibits explain the brewing process and history of Sapporo Beer.
6. Okurayama Ski Jump
Visit the site of the 1972 Winter Olympics ski jumping competitions and enjoy panoramic city views.
- Historic Significance: One of the iconic sites from the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympic Games.
- City Views: Offers a stunning view of Sapporo city and its surrounding mountains.
- Winter Sports Facility: Ski jump tower is open for visitors to climb during the winter season.
7. Shiroi Koibito Park
A chocolate-themed park where visitors can see the making of Shiroi Koibito cookies and enjoy a museum dedicated to their history.
- Chocolate Delights: Taste various flavors of Shiroi Koibito cookies and other chocolate treats.
- Interactive Exhibits: Exhibits explain the history, making process, and flavors of Shiroi Koibito cookies.
- Farm Visit: Visit a nearby farm to see dairy cows used in the cookie production.
8. Sapporo TV Tower
A towering structure offering panoramic views of Sapporo city and its surroundings.
- City Views: Offers a stunning view of Sapporo city and its surrounding mountains.
- Observation Deck: An outdoor observation deck for breathtaking views during the winter season.
- Restaurant and Shopping: Features a revolving restaurant, gift shop, and souvenir store.
9. Ishikari River Park
A peaceful winter wonderland with frozen river views, ice sculptures, and hot springs.
- Natural Beauty: Features a beautiful, frozen Ishikari River.
- Ice Sculptures and Light Shows: Showcases ice sculptures and evening light shows along the river.
- Hot Springs: Relax in nearby hot springs after exploring the park.
10. Furano Snow Mikoto Snow Park
A ski resort offering a variety of winter activities and breathtaking views.
- Variety of Activities: Offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing for visitors.
- Stunning Scenery: Features beautiful landscapes and scenic mountain views.
- Convenience: A range of accommodations, restaurants, and rental services available on-site.
11. Blue Pond (Aoiike)
A picturesque, man-made pond surrounded by forest and known for its striking blue color.
- Unique Color: The pond's blue color is due to the minerals in the water.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by a beautiful forest, offering peaceful winter walks.
- Photo Opportunities: A popular spot for landscape photography during the winter season.
12. Moiwa Observation Hill
An observation hill offering panoramic views of Sapporo city and its surroundings.
- City Views: Offers a stunning view of Sapporo city and its surrounding mountains.
- Observation Deck: An outdoor observation deck for breathtaking views during the winter season.
- Restaurant and Shopping: Features a restaurant, gift shop, and souvenir store.
13. Hokkaido Shrine (Suehiro Shrine)
A peaceful shrine surrounded by a forest offering a serene winter wonderland experience.
- Historic Significance: Established in the 1700s.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by a beautiful forest, offering peaceful winter walks.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: A tranquil place to reflect and relax during the winter season.
14. Sapporo Dome (Tatsumi Stadium)
A large stadium that hosts concerts and sports events during the winter season.
- Entertainment Venue: Hosts a variety of concerts, sports events, and exhibitions.
- Spacious Seating: Offers spacious seating for visitors during events.
- Convenient Location: Located in Sapporo city center, easy to access by public transport.
15. Mt. Okura Ropeway
A ropeway offering breathtaking views of Sapporo city and its surroundings.
- City Views: Offers a stunning view of Sapporo city and its surrounding mountains.
- Ropeway Experience: Enjoy the experience of riding a ropeway during the winter season.
- Convenient Location: Located in Sapporo city center, easy to access by public transport.