Jozankei Onsen's winter illumination event, marketed as 'Jozankei Two Lights,' runs for several months through the cold season, lighting up the forested riverbanks of the Toyohira River with approximately 800,000 LED bulbs. The contrast of warm amber lights against deep snow and steam rising from the hot springs creates an otherworldly, hushed atmosphere quite different from the bustle of Sapporo's major festivals. Visitors often combine the illumination walk with a soak in one of the onsen ryokan lining the valley, turning the evening into a full sensory winter experience. The short drive from central Sapporo makes it ideal as an evening excursion.
- Type
- Experience
- Category
- Snow/Winter
- Season
- Winter
- Month
- November to March
- Region
- Hokkaido
- Prefecture
- Hokkaido
- City
- Sapporo (Jozankei)
Highlights
- ◆800,000 LEDs illuminating snow-covered riverside forest trails
- ◆Steam from natural hot springs drifting through the light displays
- ◆Combine with a relaxing onsen ryokan stay in the valley
- ◆Quieter, more serene alternative to city-centre winter festivals
- ◆Easy access from Sapporo as a half-day evening trip