Otaru Snow Light Path Festival 2026

• February 1, 2026 at 4:00 pm
  Event date:
• February 20, 2026 at 10:00 pm
  Event end:

Every winter, the charming canal city of Otaru transforms into a fairy-tale wonderland for the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival. Softly glowing lanterns, delicate snow sculptures, and twinkling candlelights create a romantic and dreamlike atmosphere, drawing visitors from across Japan and beyond.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

• Magical Candlelit Scenery: Thousands of handmade snow lanterns and flickering candles illuminate the streets, canals, and historical buildings.
• Otaru Canal’s Enchanting Glow: The festival’s main venue, Otaru Canal, is lined with floating candle-lit buoys, reflecting beautifully in the water.
• Charming Snow Sculptures: Discover intricate, handcrafted snow art scattered across the city, lovingly created by locals.
• Romantic Winter Atmosphere: The festival’s warm, intimate ambiance makes it a perfect destination for couples and families.
• Local Delicacies & Hot Drinks: Enjoy steaming bowls of Hokkaido ramen, fresh seafood, and warm amazake (sweet rice wine) to keep cozy.

What to Expect
Two Main Illumination Areas:

• Otaru Canal Area: A picturesque stretch of floating candles and softly glowing pathways along the famous canal.
• Temiyasen Kaijo Area: A former railway line transformed into a mesmerizing snow-lit pathway, featuring charming sculptures and lanterns.

Community Spirit & Handcrafted Beauty: Unlike massive commercial festivals, this event maintains a local, heartwarming touch, with volunteers and residents creating each lantern and display.

Gentle, Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike the crowded Sapporo Snow Festival, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival offers a tranquil and intimate experience, perfect for a quiet evening stroll.

We Recommend These Must-Try Moments

1. Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, Biei, and Blue Pond Day Tour
Visit Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its engaging animal exhibits, then explore Biei’s scenic countryside.
Marvel at the vibrant Blue Pond and the misty beauty of Shirahige Falls.
A nature-filled day tour showcasing the best of central Hokkaido.

2. Hokkaido Spring and Summer Limited | Farm Tomita & Shikisai Hill & Waterfall & Blue Pond Day Tour | Depart from Sapporo
Experience Hokkaido’s seasonal beauty with blooming flower fields at Farm Tomita and Shikisai Hill.
Enjoy tranquil stops at the Blue Pond and a local waterfall.
A colorful, photogenic journey ideal for spring and summer travelers.

3. Hokkaido: Shakotan Sea Urchin & Yoichi Whisky Distillery 1-Day Tour
Taste fresh Shakotan uni (sea urchin) and explore the dramatic coastline of the peninsula.
Tour the famous Yoichi Nikka Whisky Distillery and enjoy seaside views.
A gourmet and scenic getaway perfect for food and whisky lovers.

4. Beer Museum & Hill of the Buddha & Jozankei & Mt. Moiwa Hokkaido Day
Dive into Sapporo’s brewing history, visit the awe-inspiring Hill of the Buddha, and relax at Jozankei Onsen.
Finish with panoramic views atop Mt. Moiwa.
A balanced day of culture, relaxation, and sightseeing.

5. Hokkaido Jozankei Hot Spring Day Trip Package with Bus Ticket
Unwind in the famous Jozankei Onsen, known for its soothing natural hot springs.
Includes round-trip bus tickets from Sapporo for a stress-free getaway.
Perfect for a rejuvenating escape into Hokkaido’s mountain serenity.

Tips for Visitors

• Bundle Up Warm: February in Hokkaido is extremely cold—wear thermal layers, waterproof boots, and gloves to stay comfortable.
• Visit Early or Late at Night: Early evenings (before 7 PM) are busiest, so for a quieter experience, go later at night when the lights still glow beautifully.
• Combine with a Trip to Sapporo: The festival takes place around the same time as the Sapporo Snow Festival, making it a perfect winter getaway combo.
• Enjoy Local Specialties: Try Otaru’s famous sushi, seafood bowls, and LeTAO cheesecake to complete your magical winter night.

How to Join
The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is free to attend, and the illuminations run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily. Whether you’re a photography lover, a couple looking for romance, or a traveler seeking winter magic, this festival offers an unforgettable snowy spectacle in one of Hokkaido’s most beautiful cities.

Location