1 The 2026 Sapporo Snow Festival, a major event symbolizing Hokkaido's winter

This is Hokkaido's biggest winter event, attracting over 2 million visitors from both within Japan and overseas. At the main Odori venue, snow and ice sculptures of all sizes are lined up along a stretch of about 1 kilometer from 1-chome to 11-chome, creating an extraordinary view of the city center. At night, the area is lit up, creating a fantastical atmosphere that is different from the daytime.

In addition to the Odori venue, there are other venues, such as the Susukino venue with its rows of ice sculptures and illuminations, and the Tsudome venue where you can enjoy playing in the snow. Each venue has its own unique atmosphere, and each offers different ways to enjoy it. In addition, during the period, sponsored events such as illuminations, playing in the snow, and live artist performances will be held in various parts of the city.

2 Snow Miku 2026 festival to support Hokkaido

"SNOW MIKU 2026" is a festival in which Snow Miku (Hatsune Miku) supports Hokkaido. It began in 2010 and is now in its 17th year. This time, Snow Miku and her pet rabbit character Yukine will appear in costumes themed around "Happy Patisserie," and will liven up Hokkaido's winter through various collaborative projects such as exhibitions, workshops, snow sculptures, and merchandise sales.

*Image is for illustrative purposes only

In Sapporo, a Snow Miku snow sculpture will appear at the Sapporo Snow Festival Odori 11th Street venue, and at night, it will be lit up to the theme song of "SNOW MIKU 2026." In addition, collaboration projects that can be enjoyed in Sapporo will be developed, such as the operation of a streetcar fully wrapped in Snow Miku "Snow Miku Train." The main event will be held at Wing Bay Otaru, and will include exhibitions, workshops, stage events, merchandise sales, and more.

3 Tasting and comparing Hokkaido sake at Moyuku Sapporo "Hokkaido Sake Fair in Moyuku Sapporo Winter"

This event allows you to casually enjoy sake and pot-distilled shochu from breweries all over Hokkaido. Approximately 40 brands of alcohol are available in shots (30ml) at the venue. Prices start from 100 yen, making it easy to pick up, and the appeal is that you can try a little at a time to compare different drinks. If you find a brand you like, you can also purchase it by the bottle, and nationwide shipping is available, so it's also recommended for those looking for souvenirs from Hokkaido.