1 Famous Models & Influencers Gather at "SAPPORO COLLECTION 2024 SPRING/SUMMER" (Sapporo)

Image source: SAPPORO COLLECTION 2024 SPRING/SUMMER

The "SAPPORO COLLECTION," Hokkaido's largest fashion and culture event that attracts a huge crowd from across Japan, will be held on Saturday, March 16th at Hokkai Kitayell. This marks the 20th event since its inception in 2007. Titled "SAPPORO COLLECTION 2024 SPRING/SUMMER," it will be held under the theme of “BUTTERFLY (add a little edge).”

Image source: SAPPORO COLLECTION 2024 SPRING/SUMMER

The stage will feature today's hottest artists and models, as well as models and influencers from Hokkaido, showcasing ever-evolving entertainment and newly created fashion. In addition to the runway walks by models and special guests, the live performances by artists are a must-see.

2 One of Hokkaido's Three Great Winter Festivals: The "49th Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival" (Kamikawa)

Image source: Sounkyo Tourist Association

This popular winter event takes place in Sounkyo Onsen, located in Kamikawa Town, almost in the exact center of Hokkaido. The "Hyobaku" in "Hyobaku Matsuri" (Ice Fall Festival) means the freezing of water flowing down a waterfall. The festival features a variety of large and small ice sculptures created using the natural cold, which is intense enough to freeze waterfalls.

Image source: Sounkyo Tourist Association

At night, the venue is illuminated, and fireworks are launched against the backdrop of the glowing ice sculptures. Hot drinks and light meals are also available for sale to warm you up from the cold.

3 Savor Treasures from the Sea and Land at the "26th Shiriuchi Winter Food Battle: Oyster vs. Chive Festival" (Shiriuchi)

Image source: Town of Shiriuchi

The town of Shiriuchi in Southern Hokkaido is famous for two specialty products: large, firm Shiriuchi oysters and chives, of which it is the top producer in Hokkaido. At this festival, in addition to selling these local specialties, food and drink stalls will be open for the first time in four years. You can enjoy the bounties of both the sea and the land at the same time.

Image source: Town of Shiriuchi

A sizzling grilled oyster corner will be set up at the venue, where the sound of oysters cooking will whet your appetite. Other dishes featuring plenty of chives and oysters will also be served, such as chive shabu-shabu, oyster hot pot, fried oysters, and Genghis Khan (Mongolian barbecue) with chives.

4 [CANCELED] An Evening for Grown-Ups in a Hot Spring Town: "The 1st Snack Bar Tenkaichi Budokai in Kawayu Onsen ~Favorite Mama Championship~" (Teshikaga)

Held in Kawayu Onsen, a hot spring resort in Eastern Hokkaido popular for its natural beauty and excellent water quality, this event aims to pass on the Showa-era charm of Kawayu Onsen's "snack bar" culture to the next generation. For one night only, the "Snack Bar Tenkaichi Budokai" will transform the hot spring town into a glamorous dream stage.

Image source: Lake Mashu Tourist Association

Participants will visit two snack bar venues in Kawayu Onsen, where they will be entertained by local "mamas" (female bar owners) from Kawayu Onsen, as well as guest mamas from all over the country. After enjoying sightseeing, winter sports, and hot springs, why not experience snack bar culture and spend a mature evening out?

5 Enjoy Wine from a Town of Fruit: "Winter Wine Party in NIKI -Masquerade Grape Gala-" (Niki)

Image source: Winter Wine Party in NIKI -Masquerade Grape Gala-

Niki Town, known for fruit picking and its orchards, is also gaining attention as a producer of wine made from rich grapes grown in its favorable climate. For the first time, an event will be held where you can enjoy Niki's wine together with the producers.

Image source: NIKI Hills Winery

Over 20 types of wine from seven wineries in Niki will be available. In addition, a special appetizer box and other foods that pair well with wine will be offered. You'll also have the chance to be the first to taste new vintage cellar-release wines, available only on the day of the event! And if you wear the mask distributed at the reception or come in costume, you can enjoy a "Masquerade Grape Gala" instead of a masquerade ball.

6 A Sneak Peek at a Food and Film Fest: "HOKKAIDO FOOD FILM FESTIVAL Pre-Event" (Sapporo)

This is a pre-event that offers a taste of the "HOKKAIDO FOOD FILM FESTIVAL," a food and film festival scheduled to be held in the fall of 2024. You can enjoy food-related films, meals prepared by chefs using Hokkaido ingredients, and local Hokkaido wines.

Screenings of food-themed films will be held at multiple venues in central Sapporo, and there will also be special talk shows with directors and cast members. After watching a movie, enjoy a cinema dinner prepared by a chef or go on a food tour of Sapporo's unique restaurants.

7 March 3rd is the Peach Festival: "The 15th Hina and Musha Doll Festival" (Fukushima)

Image source: Fukushima Town Tourism Association

This event is held annually to coincide with the Peach Festival (Hina Matsuri or Girls' Day) and Tango no Sekku (Boys' Day). The venue, Fukushima Town Chiroppu Museum, is a facility that exhibits Jomon pottery, tools used for fishing and agriculture that have supported life since ancient times, as well as Showa-era retro dolls and nostalgic everyday items.

Image source: Town of Fukushima

The "Hina and Musha Doll Festival" is held for a period that includes the Peach Festival on March 3rd and Tango no Sekku on May 5th. During this time, a multitude of magnificent dolls are displayed, and visitors are greeted by a vermilion-lacquered arched bridge and a gorgeous Japanese-style boat. Pay attention to the detailed exhibits, which extend even to the ceiling.