In Hokkaido, the air is cold and clear, and the night sky is beautiful. Have you decided where you're going to go this winter? This time, we bring you 7 recommended winter illuminations in Hokkaido, selected by the Domingo editorial team! Since it's outdoors, you can enjoy it without getting too close. Find the perfect spot for a date or family trip in your area!

7 popular illuminations in Hokkaido!

1 [Southern Hokkaido] Hakodate City, Goryo Star Dream

In winter, the moat of Goryokaku Park is lit up with about 2,000 light bulbs, creating the shape of a five-pointed star. On the first day, Sunday, November 29th, fireworks will be launched from 4:45 pm, lighting up the night sky of Hakodate. Goryokaku Tower's opening hours will be extended until 7pm, so you can enjoy the illuminations from the tower's observation deck.

2 [Central Hokkaido] Sapporo City 40th Sapporo White Illumination

Selected as one of the three biggest illumination events in Japan, the Sapporo White Illumination is a representative event that colors Sapporo in the winter! Held annually since 1981, the event features a variety of illuminations at Odori Park, Ekimae-dori, and Minami Ichijo-dori. At the main venue, Odori Site, illuminations with various themes are set up, making it a popular date spot in Sapporo!

3 [Eastern Hokkaido] Hiroo Town Hiroo Santa Land Illumination

Hiroo Santaland is the only Santaland in Japan, recognized by Norway, the home of Santa Claus. At night, the venue, Omaruyama Forest Park, is illuminated with approximately 150,000 lights, illuminating the Tokachi night sky. There are plenty of spots that the whole family can enjoy, such as the "Santa's Bell" zone, where you can ring the bell while making a wish, and "Santa's House," where Christmas goods are sold and displayed!

4 [Central Hokkaido] Otaru City/Yoichi Town Otaru and Yoichi Snow Story

The Otaru-Yoichi Snow Story is held in Otaru city, one of Hokkaido's leading tourist destinations, and its neighboring town, Yoichi. The "Blue Canal," where about 10,000 LEDs light up the Otaru Canal in blue, and the "Wine Glass Tower" installed inside the Canal Plaza are very popular. In Yoichi Town, "Amber Dreams" has been set up, featuring about 8,000 twinkling lights inspired by whiskey, to warmly welcome tourists to the town.

5 [Central Hokkaido] Toyako Town Toyako Onsen Illumination Tunnel

An illumination display of approximately 400,000 electric lights will be set up at Nigiwai Hiroba in the center of Toyako Onsen town. The 70-meter-long tunnel is lit up in various colors, creating a fantastical glow over the historic hot spring town. The lights are on from 6pm until 10pm, so it's recommended to enjoy it after warming up in Toyako Onsen.

6 [Northern Hokkaido] Shimukappu Village: The Ice Town "Ice Village"

The Ice Village, which only appears on winter nights, is a seasonal winter feature in Tomamu, an ice town with 10 ice domes lined up across a 3.2 hectare site. Since its launch in the winter of 1998, it has continued to offer experiences that can only be enjoyed in the cold. This year, the Ice Milk Cafe and Ice Fruit Shop will be newly opened, and you can enjoy many experiences that you can only enjoy in the cold at the "Ice Terrace" and "Ice Hotel"!

7 [Northern Hokkaido] Asahikawa City Asahikawa Street Lights Illumination 2020

The Asahikawa Street Lights Illumination 2020, which will be held from Saturday, November 28th, will be held in four areas in the center of Asahikawa City, soothing the hearts of Asahikawa residents with its warm light. Each area has its own unique display, brightening up the snowy town with a festive atmosphere. The "Friendly Illumination" will be installed in Japan's first "pedestrian paradise", and will feature a variety of lights that will make walking more enjoyable, making it the perfect spot for a winter evening stroll!

Enjoy a special outing this winter!

How was it? This time, we introduced seven of Hokkaido's most popular illuminations. There are plenty of other places to visit in Hokkaido that you can enjoy while still following the "New Hokkaido Style." Check them out on the Domingo app or the event page on the website.