November marks the start of the winter season in Hokkaido. By the end of the month, snow begins to settle, welcoming the arrival of a long winter. From now through March, enchanting illuminations and heartwarming events will be happening all over, letting you fully enjoy the unique winter charm of Hokkaido. Be sure to check out this month’s must-see events!

• Events in Sapporo
• Events in Douou Area
• Events in Dounan Area
• Events in Douhoku Area

Events in Sapporo

Sapporo White Illumination

• Location: Odori Venue, Ekimae Dori Venue, Minami 1-Jo Venue, Kita 3-Jo Plaza (Akapla), and Sapporo Station South Exit
• Dates: November 22, 2024 (Fri) – March 14, 2025 (Fri)
• Website: Sapporo White Illumination Official Site

At five venues in central Sapporo, the “Sapporo White Illumination” lights up the city. At Odori Nishi 2-Chome, you can also visit “Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo,” where you’ll find Christmas goods, German food, and warm mulled wine.

Sapporo Factory Christmas Illumination

• Location: Sapporo Factory
• Dates: Early November – Around December 25, 2024
• Website: Sapporo Factory Illumination, Sapporo Factory Official Site

Starting in November, a 15-meter-tall giant Christmas tree made from Todo fir will be on display at Sapporo Factory for about two months. From 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, enjoy music and light shows each hour, immersing you in the holiday spirit.

Events in Douou Area

Blue Canal Illumination

• Location: Otaru Canal
• Dates: November 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025, Sunset – 10:30 PM
• Website: Blue Canal

The Otaru Canal sparkles in a dreamy blue, thanks to 10,000 LED lights. Don’t miss the “Wine Glass Tower” and popular night cruises.

Toyako Onsen Illumination Tunnel

• Location: Toyako Onsen Nigiwai Plaza
• Dates: November 1, 2024 – April 27, 2025
• Website: Toyako Illumination Tunnel

With 400,000 lights, Toyako Onsen’s plaza transforms winter nights into a romantic wonderland.

Events in Dounan Area

Hakodate MOMI-G Festival

• Location: Kosetsuen Garden (Hakodate)
• Dates: October 18, 2024 – November 4, 2024
• Website: Hakodate MOMI-G Festival

This autumn leaf illumination event showcases Kosetsuen Garden’s iconic maple-lined path and Japanese garden in a magical light.

Hokuto Autumn Leaf Corridor

• Location: Hokuto City, Hachirounuma Park
• Dates: October 18, 2024 – November 4, 2024
• Website: Hokuto Autumn Leaf Corridor

Enjoy the enchanting sight of colorful autumn leaves reflected in the water, with food booths and candle-making workshops available.

Hakodate Christmas Fantasy 2024

• Location: Red Brick Warehouse Area, Hakodate
• Dates: November 30, 2024 – December 25, 2024
• Website: Hakodate Christmas Fantasy

A giant Christmas tree floating on the sea shines with 150,000 lights, lighting up with fireworks each day. Enjoy winter treats like warm soup, too!

Events in Douhoku Area

Blue Pond & Shirohige Falls Illumination

• Location: Blue Pond, Shirohige Falls
• Dates: November 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025
• Website: Biei Official Website

Enjoy the changing lights on the Blue Pond throughout the seasons, with a particularly magical winter scene set against snow.

Machiakari Illumination

• Location: Asahikawa Station
• Dates: November 25, 2023 – March 3, 2024
• Website: Machiakari Illumination

With over 210,000 lights, Asahikawa’s city center glows under the winter night sky, creating a breathtaking scene.

Bundle up warmly and get ready to enjoy winter in Hokkaido!

Winter in Hokkaido may be harsh, but it’s also full of warmth and wonder. Each area offers unique sights and traditions, adding to the season’s charm. So, dress warmly, explore your favorite events and illuminations, and make unforgettable winter memories in Hokkaido.