Sapporo White Illumination is one of Japan's oldest winter light festivals, held annually since 1981 along Odori Park and the Minami Ichijo shopping promenade. Hundreds of thousands of illuminated bulbs are strung across trees, arches, and sculptures, drawing millions of visitors during the holiday season. The event runs concurrently with the city's pre-Christmas atmosphere and pairs beautifully with local seafood and Sapporo beer. It is distinct from the Snow Festival and typically begins in late November, extending into late December.
- Type
- Festival
- Category
- Snow/Winter
- Season
- Winter
- Month
- Late November – December
- Region
- Hokkaido
- Prefecture
- Hokkaido
- City
- Sapporo
Highlights
- ◆Illuminated arches and light sculptures along Odori Park
- ◆Minami Ichijo street decorated with canopy lighting
- ◆Free public event easily combined with city dining
- ◆Festive Christmas market atmosphere in central Sapporo