1 Approximately 1,000 snow candles will light up Jozankei in winter at "Snow Lantern 2026 FINAL"

The popular "Yukitouro" snow lantern festival, which has colored the winters of Jozankei, Sapporo's inner sanctum, will reach its finale in its current form in 2026. Around 1,000 snow candles will be lined up at the venue, Jozankei Shrine, and the surrounding area, casting a gentle, warm light across the snowy valley. The tranquil, mystical scenery, which can only be experienced in the crisp winter air, will gently envelop the hearts of all who visit.

At the back of the Snow Candle Area, a performance space called "Forest of Prayer" will be created, blending nature and digital elements. It will depict snowy landscapes and mysterious animals that dwell in the trees. During the event, the "Snow Lantern CAMP Festival" will also be held, where you can enjoy a bonfire experience and hot food, which will warm you up after a cold day. Why not spend a special winter night in Jozankei to conclude the festival's 15-year history?

2 Popular chocolates from around the world gather in Sapporo for "Salon du Chocolat 2026 - A Chocolate Festival from Paris"

Ahead of Valentine's Day, the Parisian chocolate festival "Salon du Chocolat" will be held again this year at Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store. Talented chocolatiers from around the world, including France, Belgium, Italy, and Japan, will gather to offer exquisite chocolates. Why not try tasting the attention to detail and philosophy that each chef has poured into their creations, from the selection of ingredients to the manufacturing process, and the design of the melt-in-your-mouth texture and aroma?

Chocolate from Hokkaido is also available! NISEKO CACAO CROWN "Mandian Nuts & Strawberry Set" 1,920 yen

The venue will have a lineup of limited edition assortments, selection boxes, and chocolates from directly imported brands that will surely make you dizzy. It's perfect as a Valentine's Day gift, but it's also recommended to enjoy tasting and comparing the different varieties to find the one that suits you best. Special sweets such as soft serve ice cream, canelés, and croissants will also be available, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness of freshly baked treats.

3 Celebrating 20 years of the popular manga with fans: "Gintama 20th Anniversary Exhibition - Gathering of 20 Years"

"Gintama" was serialized in "Weekly Shonen Jump" and continues to enjoy enduring popularity even after its conclusion. To commemorate its 20th anniversary in 2023, an exhibition will be held with the aim of celebrating with fans in full force. The exhibition will feature handwritten manuscripts by original author Hideaki Sorachi, as well as exhibits and photo spots that allow you to experience the world of the work. There will also be limited items unique to this commemorative exhibition, such as visitor benefits and tickets with merchandise, and the exhibition is recommended not only for fans who have been with Gintama since its serialization, but also for those who have come into contact with the series through the anime and movies.