Hokkaido Winter Events Calendar 2025-26

Winter in Hokkaido is packed with spectacular festivals, cultural events, and seasonal activities.
Whether you’re planning your trip around the biggest snow festivals or looking for unique local experiences to fit in between your powder turns, this calendar highlights the must-see events for winter 2025-26. Plan your trip well and you could even fit in some iconic Hanami (cherry blossoms viewing)!

December 2025

Christmas Illuminations (All December – Various Locations)

Cities across Hokkaido, including Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate, light up with stunning illuminations to celebrate the festive season.
Best spots: Sapporo Odori Park, Hakodate Christmas Fantasy, and Otaru Canal.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (Mid-December 2025 – Late February 2026)

A stunning frozen wonderland featuring illuminated ice sculptures at Lake Shikotsu, near Sapporo.
The sculptures glow in different colors at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

Opening of Ski Resorts (Early to Mid-December 2025)

Most ski resorts in Hokkaido, including Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu, open for the season, offering world-class powder snow.
Opening dates may vary depending on snowfall conditions.

2026

EVENTS

January 2026

Sapporo Snow Festival (February 2-9, 2026)

Japan’s most famous winter festival featuring massive snow and ice sculptures displayed across Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome. 
Night illuminations, food stalls, and interactive snow activities make this a must-visit event.

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (February 7-16, 2026)

Otaru’s canals and streets are lined with thousands of glowing lanterns made of snow, creating a fairytale-like setting. 
A romantic and peaceful alternative to the bustling Sapporo Snow Festival.

Asahikawa Winter Festival (February 5-11, 2026)

Home to some of Japan’s largest snow sculptures, with live performances and fireworks displays. 
Features interactive snow activities and local food stalls.

February 2026

Drift Ice Festival (Abashiri & Shiretoko – Early February to Mid-March 2026)

Witness the natural spectacle of drift ice floating along the Okhotsk Coast. 
Take an icebreaker cruise in Abashiri or experience a drift ice walk in Shiretoko National Park.

Chinese New Year (February 17, 2026)

Important travel note: Expect increased tourism from China and other Asian countries during the holiday period. 
Book accommodations and transportation well in advance, as demand will be high.

Lake Akan Ice Festival (Late January – Mid-March 2026)

Enjoy fireworks, ice fishing, and traditional Ainu cultural performances on the frozen surface of Lake Akan.

Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival (Late January – Mid-March 2026)

A breathtaking display of frozen waterfalls, illuminated ice sculptures, and tunnels in Daisetsuzan National Park.

March 2026

Yuki Akari no Michi (Snow Light Path Festival) in Jozankei (Early March 2026)

A smaller, intimate snow festival featuring hundreds of lanterns lighting up Jozankei Onsen. 
A perfect spot to enjoy onsen bathing combined with a beautiful winter atmosphere.

End of Ski Season Events (Late March 2026)

Many resorts host spring skiing celebrations, including costume ski days, live music, and fireworks. 
While most major resorts stay open until April or May, March is an excellent time for softer conditions and fewer crowds.

Expected Cherry Blossom (Sakura) Dates for Japan – Spring 2026

While Hokkaido’s winter is a wonderland of snow, sakura season is a highlight for spring travelers. Japan’s territory spans significantly from North to South, so Hanami season (sakura viewing) varies accordingly from place to place. Here are the estimated blooming periods across Japan, listed in chronological order:

Okinawa & Southern Islands: Mid-January – Mid-February 2026 
Kagoshima Region: Early – Mid-March 2026 
Fukuoka & Northern Kyushu Region: Mid-March – Early April 2026 
Tokyo & Kyoto: Late March – Early April 2026
Sendai (Tohoku Region): Early – Mid-April 2026
Sapporo (Hokkaido): Late April – Early May 2026

For real-time updates, check this Sakura Forecast Page closer to the season. Sakura Forecast Page closer to the season.

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Plan Your Trip to Hokkaido’s Winter Events

Hokkaido’s winter calendar is filled with cultural, natural, and seasonal experiences that make this region a must-visit during the snowy months.
To ensure you don’t miss out on these incredible events, book your accommodations and transport early, especially around Chinese New Year and the major snow festivals.

For personalized travel planning and guided experiences, contact us at hello@hokkaidoadventure.com!

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