Local Guide
【2026】8 Sightseeing Spots in Sapporo in Winter

Sapporo in winter is full of fun. We have carefully selected eight recommended sightseeing spots to keep in mind, including activities where you can feel the snow with your whole body and events unique to the snowy season. Even if the temperature is low, you will be fine as long as you are well dressed. Why don't you go out and enjoy the beautiful scenery and great nature?

The twinkling lights in the city are incredibly romantic.

 Fantastic scenery enveloped by colorful lights
Fantastic scenery enveloped by colorful lights

Sapporo White Illumination" usually starts in late November. During the period, the central area of Sapporo is decorated with illuminations. The multiple venues, including Odori Park and Sapporo Station's Station Square, offer different atmospheres, and it is recommended to visit each venue to enjoy them.
At the Odori venue, symbolic objets d'art designed for each theme from 1-Chome to 5-Chome will twinkle.

Shopping in the special shopping area

 The market-like space will make your heart beat faster and faster!
The market-like space will make your heart beat faster and faster!

The "Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo" will be held at the Odori 2-chome venue during the Sapporo White Illumination. The reason why the traditional German annual event "Christmas Market" is held in Sapporo is because Sapporo is a sister city of Munich, Germany.
Original goods such as limited edition mugs and masking tapes are standard souvenirs, and many locals look forward to this event every year.

Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo
URL: https: //www.sapporo.travel/white-illumination/event/munich/
Period: November 21 (Fri) - December 25 (Mon), 2025, 11:00 - 21:00
Venue: Odori Park (Odori Nishi 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo)
Inquiries: 011-206-6780

Local Guide Comment
Illuminations in central Sapporo are a regular date spot during this season. The lights shine on the white snow, making it a perfect photo opportunity.
Sapporo White Illumination
  •  Address Odori Venue (Odori Nishi 1-6, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)
    Ekimae-dori venue (Kita 4-jo - Minami 4-jo)
    Minami Ichijo Dori Venue ((Minami 1-jo Nishi 1-chome~3-chome)
    Sapporo Kita 3-jo Square Venue ((Kita 2-jo Nishi 4-chome, Kita 3-jo Nishi 4-chome)
    Sapporo Station South Exit Station Square Venue (Kita 5-jo Nishi 3-chome) MAP
  •  Hours of Operation November 21, 2025 (Fri) - March 14, 2026 (Sat) 16:30 - 22:00
    *Depends on the venue; check website for details.
  •  TEL 080-5830-6001 (Sapporo White Illumination Executive Committee)
    011-281-6400 (Sapporo Tourist Association) outside the event period)
  •  Parking None

The snow sculptures so big you can see them from above are truly breathtaking!

 The 71st Upopoi (symbolic space for ethnic coexistence) ⒸHTB
The 71st Upopoi (symbolic space for ethnic coexistence) ⒸHTB

Speaking of Sapporo in winter, many people visit Sapporo to enjoy the nationally known Sapporo Snow Festival. The central area of Sapporo is the main venue of the festival, and the entire city comes alive against the cold during the approximately one-week event.
One of the highlights of the event is the Odori Snow Statue, the symbol of the Snow Festival. The huge yet meticulously crafted sculptures are designed differently each year, so you will be surprised no matter how many times you visit. The citizens' snow sculptures often feature popular characters or popular figures of the year, and people are always taking pictures in front of the most popular snow sculptures.

There is so much more to do besides Odori Park!

 Sapporo Snow Festival (Odori venue)
Sapporo Snow Festival (Odori venue)

There are various ways to enjoy the Snow Festival depending on the venue. At the Odori venue, there are snow sculptures and projection mapping, as well as curling experience. At the Susukino venue, you can enjoy the fantastic world of ice sculptures, and at the Tsudome venue, you can Experience attractions such as tube slides and snow rafts, making it difficult to visit all of them in a single day. Both adults and children are guaranteed to have fun.

Local Guide Comment
At the venue, snow park golf, various stage events, and other creative events are held. If you get cold, be sure to take a break at a nearby store to stay warm.
Sapporo Snow Festival
  •  Address Odori venue (Odori Nishi 1-chome to Nishi 11-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)
    Susukino venue (Minami 4-jo Dori - Minami 7-jo Dori)
    Tudomu Venue (885-1 Sakae-cho, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido) MAP
  •  Hours of Operation February 4 (Wed) - 11 (Wed), 2026
  •  Parking None

A ski resort with excellent Direction from the center of Sapporo

 You can enjoy a panoramic view of the night scenery of Sapporo at night time.
You can enjoy a panoramic view of the night scenery of Sapporo at night time.

Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort is only about 30 minutes by car from Sapporo Station, making it easy to Direction. Because of the short travel time from the center of the city, visitors can spend an active day sightseeing in the daytime and enjoy the night skiing in the evening. A full range of ski equipment and ski wear rentals are available. The night view of the city of Sapporo is very beautiful in the clear winter air, and will be a good memory of your trip.
For advanced skiers who want to enjoy the night view, the "Usagi-daira" course is recommended. The upper part of the "Dynamic Course" is also popular with beginners.

Kids can practice on the slopes without worries

 There are various programs such as one-shot lessons and group lessons for several days.
There are various programs such as one-shot lessons and group lessons for several days.

Beginners, those who have not skied in a long time, and even small children can ski here safely, and family visitors especially enjoy skiing during the winter vacation period.
Although there is no ski school directly operated by the company, it is in cooperation with various ski schools and clubs, so it is nice to be able to choose lessons of your choice from a wide variety of programs. For more information about the school, please check the website.

Local Guide Comment
Fashionable cafes are scattered near the ski slopes. Why not spend some time relaxing before or after skiing or while waiting?
Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort
  •  Address 1991 Moiwashita, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 30 minutes from Sapporo Station by car
  •  Hours of Operation December 20, 2025 (Sat) - March 15, 2026 (Sun)
  •  Admission Fee Lift ticket (Sun): Adults (16 and older) 7,000 yen, Seniors (65 and older) 6,000 yen, Juniors (4 to under 16) 5,000 yen
    Night skiing (16:00-21:00): 3,000 yen
    Rental: Ski set from 7,500 yen, Wear set from 13,500 yen
  •  TEL 050-3662-8715
  •  Parking Free of charge

Enjoy the beautiful scenery while soaking in the Outdoor hot spring

 The spacious outdoor hot spring is not bothered by the crowds.
The spacious outdoor hot spring is not bothered by the crowds.

This one-day hot spring is located in the suburbs, about 20 minutes by car from Sapporo Station. It is a rare spot where visitors can enjoy 100% pure hot spring water, which is 100% from the source and not heated or watered in any way. Commonly referred to as "beauty's hot water," the sodium calcium bicarbonate/chloride spring is popular among hot spring enthusiasts.
In the Outdoor hot spring, the president himself brought rocks from Mt. Yotei and placed a chair rock to sit on, and a sleeping area to lie down on. The view of the mountains in the distance is a perfect place to relax and unwind to your heart's content.

Don't miss the locally popular curry!

 Many visitors look forward to the curry as much as the hot spring!
Many visitors look forward to the curry as much as the hot spring!

The Indian curry served in the Property's cafeteria is just as popular as the hot spring. The curry is authentic and made with dozens of spices imported from overseas, and is said to have been carefully adjusted to suit the Japanese palate.
The famous naan is specially prepared by a Nepalese chef using a local oven, and its soft and fluffy texture is addictive and delicious. The curry is available in five levels of spiciness, so those who do not like spicy food do not need to worry.

Local Guide Comment
Surrounded by mountains, the outdoor hot springs offer a fuller sense of openness than nearby hot springs. Why not relax and refresh yourself in the seasonal scenery?
Toyohirakyo Hot Spring
  •  Address 608-2 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 20 min. from JR Sapporo Station by car
  •  Hours of Operation Bathing hours 10:00-22:30 (last admission 21:45)
    Restaurant hours: Indian cuisine 11:00 - 21:00L.O., Japanese cuisine 11:00 - 14:00/17:00 - 20:00L.O.
  •  Admission Fee Entrance fee: Adults 1,300 yen, children 600 yen
  •  TEL 011-598-2410
  •  Parking Free of charge

A popular snow play spot for locals, close to the city center

 Sledding seems to be a lot of fun on the wide and long slopes (©︎ Moerenuma Park)
Sledding seems to be a lot of fun on the wide and long slopes (©︎ Moerenuma Park)

For those who want to enjoy playing in the snow more easily than skiing or snowboarding, "Moerenuma Park" is perfect. Located only about 30 minutes by car from the center of Sapporo, it is an easy location to visit even during the cold winter season, and is crowded with many people, especially families, even in winter.
If you need a break, stop by the "Glass Pyramid" adjacent to the parking lot. Visitors can warm up and enjoy shopping at the store, which also has a nursing room and other facilities.

A world of silver snow that you wouldn't believe is within the city limits of Sapporo

 Adults and children alike seem to get into playing in the snow (©︎ Moerenuma Park)
Adults and children alike seem to get into playing in the snow (©︎ Moerenuma Park)

Unlike most parks, sledding in Moerenuma Park is a powerful experience. The 52-meter-high Moerenuma has both gentle and steep sections, and by choosing the right section, both children and adults can enjoy long sledding runs. Sleds can be rented for a fee, so there is no need to bring your own snow play equipment. Snowshoes, walking skis, and boots can also be rented.
There are few places in the city where you can enjoy sledding on such a long slope. Adults are also encouraged to come dressed for snow play.

Local Guide Comment
On a clear day, the blue sky seen through the glass pyramid is very beautiful. It is also a wonderful place to visit for a winter stroll to enjoy art.
Moerenuma Park
  •  Address 1-1 Moerenuma Park, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 30 min. from JR Sapporo Station by car
  •  Hours of Operation 7:00-22:00 (varies according to each Property in the park)
  •  Closed No holidays (some properties in the park are closed on certain days)
  •  TEL 011-790-1231
  •  Parking Free of charge
  • memoWinter Sports Equipment Rental
    Period: January 6, 2026 (Tue) to mid-March) *Closed on Mondays (or Tuesdays if the Monday is a national holiday)
    Hours: 10:00 - 16:00 (last return time)
    Rental location: Glass Pyramid 1F Shop *Present your ID card

Not only the statue of Dr. Clark, but also a wide variety of snow play programs

 Each Activity is free of charge!
Each Activity is free of charge!

The "Hitsujigaoka Snow Park" held in winter at the "Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill," which is famous for its statue of Dr. Clark, is a very popular event every year. Visitors can enjoy playing in the snow on the vast, white snowfield while staying in Sapporo, experiencing activities such as tube sliding, walking skiing, making mini snowmen, and snow striders (for 2-5 year olds only).
Tubing is available for one and two people, and small children can experience it with an adult.

▼ Hitsujigaoka Snow Park
URL: https: //www.hitsujigaoka.jp/snowpark/?lang=ja#googtrans(en|en)
Dates: January 9 (Fri) - March 8 (Sun), 2026, 10:00 - 15:00
Fee: Adults 1,000 yen, elementary/junior high school students 500 yen, preschool children free

Warm up with Hokkaido's local delicacies after a day of fun!

 Popular
Popular "Lamb Genghis Khan Set Meal" (2,300 yen)

The Hitsujigaoka Rest House Restaurant will warm you up after a long day of playing in the snow. The spacious restaurant offers a wide variety of menu items that allow you to taste Hokkaido's famous Jingisukan. Each table is equipped with a dedicated Jingisukan grill, and the cozy atmosphere is also attractive, as you can enjoy your meal while looking out the window at the magnificent nature.
The "Lamb Jingisukan Set Meal," using shoulder meat with few peculiarities, is very popular and comes with rice, miso soup, and vegetables. Be sure to try the restaurant's original special dipping sauce, which goes perfectly with the meat.

Local Guide Comment
Although an admission fee is required, there are no Experience or Rental fees for each Activity, which is very attractive. With the Sapporo Dome nearby, you can enjoy the whole day in this area.
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
  •  Address 1 Hitsuyokegaoka, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Take a bus from Fukuzumi Subway Station and get off at Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill.
  •  Hours of Operation Observation deck: Oct-May 9:00-17:00, Jun-Sep 9:00-18:00 (last admission 15 minutes before)
    Hitsujigaoka Rest House May-Sep 11:00-16:00, Mon-Apr 11:00-15:00 (L.O. 30 minutes before closing)
  •  Admission Fee General Adults 1,000 yen, Elementary/Junior high school students 500 yen, Free for preschool children
  •  TEL 011-851-3080
  •  Parking Free of charge

Enjoy the fantastic winter scenery

 Colorfully illuminated objet d'art is a great photo spot!
Colorfully illuminated objet d'art is a great photo spot!

This annual ice festival is held in Chitose City, about an hour's drive from Sapporo City. The Chitose-Lake Shikotsu Hyoto Festival takes advantage of the frigid climate of Lake Shikotsu by using water from Lake Shikotsu, one of the clearest lakes in Japan, which is located in Chitose City.
Ice sculptures of various sizes, made by spraying lake water into the framework with sprinklers, glow in natural blue during the day and are illuminated with colorful lights at night, creating a fantastic world.

Snow activities at a separate venue

 Dynamic winter attractions!
Dynamic winter attractions!

North Snowland in Chitose", a winter recreation spot in Chitose, opens as a separate venue. Although it is a separate venue from the Lake Shikotsu Hyobaku Festival, Direction is very convenient: about 35 minutes by JR from the center of Sapporo and about 15 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport. Visitors can enjoy unique snow activities such as tube slides, ATVs, the very popular snow rafting, and mini snowmobiles (some items are charged).
The exhilaration of running through the clear winter air is guaranteed to be addictive for all ages.

▼North Snowland in Chitose
URL: https: //www.northsnowland.com/
Address: 26, Rangetsu, Chitose, Hokkaido
Period: December 30 (Tue), 2025 - March 5 (Thu), 2026
Admission: 800 yen for junior high school students and older, 500 yen for elementary school students, free for children 5 years old and younger *Other optional fees apply.
Tel: 0123-27-2121

Local Guide Comment
The ice sculptures lit up at night on the shores of Lake Shikotsu are worth seeing, but the ice seen under the blue sky in the daytime also stands out for its beauty. If you have time, try to visit both day and night.
Chitose Lake Shikotsuko-Hyoto Festival, North Snowland in Chitose
  •  Address Lake Shikotsu Onsen, Chitose City, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Hours of Operation January 31 (Sat) - February 23 (Mon), 2026 10:00 - 20:00
    Light-up 16:30 - 20:00
  •  Admission Fee Junior high school students and older: 1,000 yen (free for elementary school students and younger)
  •  TEL 0123-23-8288(Lake Shikotsu Festival Executive Committee)

You don't need to bring anything, and you can ask for a pick-up service from the center of the city.

 Even on the ice, it's warm inside the tent!
Even on the ice, it's warm inside the tent!

Wakasagi fishing, one of Hokkaido's winter pastimes, can be experienced in the suburbs of Sapporo. The Barato River, which runs from Sapporo to Ishikari City, is lined with wakasagi fishing tents during the winter and attracts visitors of all ages.
Giro21, which provides transportation to and from hotels in Chuo-ku or Kita-ku, Sapporo, and to the north exit of JR Sapporo Station by car, makes it easy to get around from where you are staying or going out. Free rental snow boots and thermal pants are available, but a thermal hat, hooded outerwear, and gloves are recommended.

A friendly and homey atmosphere during the Experience.

 Tempura of freshly caught Wakasagi (smelt) is exceptional!
Tempura of freshly caught Wakasagi (smelt) is exceptional!

All necessary equipment is provided, and even if you are new to wakasagi fishing, there is no need to worry as you will be given an easy-to-understand guide on how to fish and bait your catch. With the support of Staff/staff members, you can drill holes in the ice for your own catch and even fry tempura together, in the style enjoyed by the locals, creating a very private and memorable experience. You can enjoy the experience of cooperating and competing with your family and friends, and warming your body and soul in the snowy landscape that is typical of Hokkaido.

Local Guide Comment
You may be worried about the coldness of the outdoor Experience in winter, but inside the tent is warmer and more comfortable than expected. You will feel as if you were in a kamakura.
Wakasagi Fishing Giro21
  •  Address Approximately 30 min. by car from central Sapporo (pick-up service available) MAP
  •  Hours of Operation Wakasagi Fishing Tour: January 10, 2026 (Sat) - March 10, 2026 (Tue) *Subject to change depending on ice conditions
    9:00-13:00 approx. 4 hours including pick-up and drop-off time (subject to change, please check the website)
  •  Closed Please check the website for details.
  •  Admission Fee Half-day course: Adults 9,000 yen, Junior-high-senior high-senior high-senior high-senior high-senior high-senior high-senior college students 8,000 yen, Children (5 years old to elementary school 6th grade) 7,000 yen
    Included in the price: Wakasagi fishing guide fee, tent use fee, rental of fishing gear, boots and over pants, tempura tasting, transportation, and insurance.
  •  Age limit Ages 5 and up *Elementary school students and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  •  Memo Acceptance is based on a minimum of two people. For safety reasons, children under 5 years old and pregnant women are not allowed to participate or accompany.
    In case of bad weather, the tour may be canceled. No cancellation fee will be charged in that case.
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.