Sapporo’s winter activities make Hokkaido a dream spot for snow enthusiasts like me. The city comes alive in February with one of the most breathtaking snow festivals you’ll ever see. My 9-day Hokkaido trip plan covers everything from stunning ice sculptures to perfect powder slopes that make an unforgettable winter escape.
You’ll find February is without doubt the prime time to experience Hokkaido’s winter charm. The Sapporo Snow Festival turns Odori Park into a magical display of massive snow and ice sculptures that stretch 1.5 kilometers. This yearly celebration draws visitors from Japan and worldwide.
Many now call it one of the world’s top three snow festivals. My winter trips to Sapporo left me in awe of Japanese artists’ skill to bring snow to life through their craft. The 2026 festival runs from February 4-11, promising eight full days of winter magic at Odori Park, Tsudome, and Susukino.
Hokkaido’s February charm goes beyond the festival. The perfect mix of culture, food, and snow adventures creates Japan’s ultimate winter wonderland experience.
Consider following this suggested itinerary if you travel time in Hokkaido is between December and January.
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo and First Impressions
My trip to the winter wonderland of Hokkaido started when I landed at New Chitose Airport. I couldn’t wait to start my journey and see all the things in Sapporo winter that I’d been dreaming about for months.
Getting from New Chitose Airport to the city
The airport-to-city connection works really well. I picked the JR Hokkaido Rapid Airport train that took me to Sapporo Station in just 37 minutes. Trains run every 15 minutes, and a non-reserved seat costs 1,150 yen (about $10).
The airport limousine bus gives you another choice at 1,100 yen. It takes about 80 minutes to reach central Sapporo. While the bus ride is longer than the train, it stops right at several major downtown hotels.
Where to stay in Sapporo in winter
My research led me to pick a hotel near Sapporo Station because of its great transport links. The station area works as the city’s main hub, which makes it easy to explore Sapporo and take day trips to nearby spots.
The area around Odori Park puts you close to the Snow Festival’s main venue and cultural sites. Sapporo’s hotels give you great value compared to Tokyo or Kyoto.
A hotel with public baths offers that real Japanese experience – nothing beats warming up in a hot bath after playing in the snow. Any central location will keep you close to Sapporo’s winter attractions.
Evening stroll through Odori Park
The crisp winter air helped me shake off my travel fatigue as I walked through Odori Park. This 1.5-kilometer stretch runs through downtown Sapporo and creates a magical winter scene, especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival.
The Sapporo White Illumination caught my eye with its striking display of lights decorating the park’s trees. This light tradition started right here in Sapporo back in 1981. The TV Tower glowed at the park’s eastern end, creating an enchanting nighttime atmosphere that showed off Hokkaido’s winter charm perfectly.
Day 2: Sapporo Snow Festival and Local Culture
My excitement peaked as I woke up from a good night’s rest. The world-famous Snow Festival waited outside – one of the most spectacular winter attractions in Sapporo.
Learning about Odori Park snow sculptures
Odori Park’s winter transformation left me speechless. Local students created just six snow sculptures back in 1950. Now this massive international event draws more than two million visitors each year. The 1.5-kilometer stretch amazed me with about 200 stunning snow sculptures. Several of these frozen giants stood over 12 meters tall.
The numbers behind these frozen masterpieces blew my mind. Each large sculpture needs over 20,000 tons of snow. The process takes three months to plan and more than 9,000 people work on the building process. The International Snow Sculpture Contest area in 11-chome buzzed with activity. I watched artists from around the world add final touches to their creations.
Visit Hokkaido Shrine in Maruyama Park, which is a short walk from Maruyama Koen Subway Station.
Visit Susukino ice displays
Susukino sits just one subway stop south of Odori Park. This area showed off about 100 detailed ice sculptures that sparkled in the winter light. The Susukino Ice World, 42 years old, offered a more laid-back vibe than the main venue.
The Ice Sculpture Contest stood out as the main attraction. Artists displayed their incredibly detailed work. My timing couldn’t have been better – I saw the 2025 Grand Prize winner’s stunning Marlin Ice Sculpture. Colorful lights lit up these frozen artworks at night until 23:00. Hot nabe (hot pot) from nearby food tents helped me stay warm.
Evening view from Sapporo TV Tower
The iconic TV Tower provided the perfect ending to my winter day in Sapporo. This 147-meter giant stands at Odori Park’s eastern end. The observation deck sits 90 meters high and gives a complete 360-degree view of the festival.
A 1,000 yen ticket bought me amazing views of lit-up snow sculptures, city lights, and the Winter Olympic ski jump in the distance. The tower welcomes visitors until 10:00 pm, so I had plenty of time to take in the festival’s magical nighttime glow.
In the evening, you can visit Mount Moiwa, one of the top places to visit in Sapporo. From there tourists enjoy an amazing panoramic view of Sapporo City, Ishikari Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Food and History in Sapporo
My third day in wintery Hokkaido led me through Sapporo’s food scene and historical sites. This northern city amazed me with its rich cultural heritage that thrives even during the cold months.
Sapporo Beer Museum and Genghis Khan dinner
The Sapporo Beer Museum, Japan’s oldest beer museum, became my first stop. This historic place tells the story of Japan’s beer industry since 1876. The museum will close temporarily from March to December 2025 for repairs. I chose the Premium Tour which comes with a special perk – exclusive beer tasting. The best part was tasting the unique Fukkoku Sapporo-sei Beer, a special recreation of the original recipe you can taste only here.
The adjacent Sapporo Beer Garden caught my eye next. This beautiful red brick building, which used to be a sugar mill and malt factory, creates a magical atmosphere. The Genghis Khan dinner became the highlight of my evening. The lamb comes grilled on a unique dome-shaped skillet that looks like Mongolian soldiers’ helmets. The meat’s apple and onion marinade paired beautifully with the special sauce. A glass of Hokkaido-exclusive Sapporo Classic beer made the meal complete.
Nijo Market and local seafood
Nijo Market, known locally as “Sapporo’s Public Kitchen,” beckoned me next. The market’s story dates back to the early Meiji Period when local fishermen started selling their catch from Ishikari Bay. Fifteen fisheries and fishmongers line the narrow paths, showcasing spectacular displays of king crab, sea urchin, and scallops.
The market also proudly displays Hokkaido’s famous melons, corn, and fresh local produce. The “Noren Yokocho” dining area became my lunch spot, where I savored a kaisendon – a rice bowl topped with the day’s freshest sashimi.
Sapporo Clock Tower and Red Brick Office
The Sapporo Clock Tower stood next on my list. This wooden structure, built in 1878, started as a drill hall for Sapporo Agricultural College and now houses a fascinating museum about the city’s history. American Midwest architectural influences show clearly in its design, reflecting Japan’s modernization journey.
The Former Hokkaido Government Office, the “red brick office,” rounded out my day. This magnificent American neo-baroque building has stood since 1888 and served as the government office for about 80 years. Renovations will keep it closed until July 25, 2025, but its exterior with the Hokkaido Development Commission’s red star symbol remains a stunning sight.
Day 4: Day Trip to Otaru
I took a break from the busy metropolis and started one of the most popular day trips from Sapporo. The charming port city of Otaru is just a 30-minute train ride away along a scenic coastal railway.
Otaru Canal and Snow Light Path Festival
The historic Otaru Canal welcomed me with its picturesque warehouses and gas lamps. This romantic setting instantly took me back in time. February brings real magic to this area with the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival that runs with the Sapporo Snow Festival. The canal changes into a dreamlike scene from 17:00 to 21:00 daily. Floating candle-lit buoys and delicate snow sculptures line the pathways.
You’ll find three main festival venues here. The iconic Unga venue spans 300 meters of the canal. The Temiyasen venue stretches half a kilometer along an old railway line. The Tenguyama venue offers amazing city views. Local residents add to the community spirit by placing lantern displays in front of their shops and homes. Snowy townscapes and glittering lanterns create a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from Sapporo’s larger snow sculptures.
Glassworks and music box museum
Otaru’s connection to Venice goes beyond its canal to its thriving glassware industry. Sakaimachi Street has many glass shops that show off beautiful handcrafted items. This tradition started back when glass oil lamps were vital in Hokkaido before electricity became common.
The Otaru Music Box Museum was without doubt the standout attraction. Japan’s largest music box store houses about 25,000 music boxes. The museum sits in a historic building from 1915 that was once a rice merchant’s office. I explored three floors filled with whimsical treasures. The collection ranges from jewelry cases to carousel-shaped boxes and even sushi-themed music boxes that spin while playing.
LeTAO desserts and shopping
My final stop was LeTAO’s famous double fromage cheesecake. This multi-layered treat combines baked cheesecake topped with smooth mascarpone mousse. The Otaru-based confectionery is 25 years old and has earned huge praise across Japan. The name comes from Otaru’s syllables spelled backwards.
LeTAO has six different locations throughout Otaru. These include specialty shops that focus on chocolate and cheese danishes. I grabbed plenty of sweet souvenirs. Their main café sits in a small European-style tower that has become the city’s symbol. It was the perfect end to my winter adventure in this enchanting port town.
Day 5: Outdoor Fun or Relaxation
My four action-packed days of learning about Hokkaido’s winter attractions left me ready for a change of pace. Day five seemed perfect to either satisfy my sweet tooth or relax in hot springs—two completely different yet equally enjoyable winter activities in Sapporo.
Option 1: Shiroi Koibito Park and chocolate making
Shiroi Koibito—a cookie with chocolate sandwiched between langue de chat biscuits—is without doubt Sapporo’s most famous sweet. The park let me watch these beloved treats being made while I explored their newly renovated facilities. About 750,000 visitors come here each year, and tickets cost 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for kids between 4-15 years old.
The journey takes about 40 minutes from Sapporo Station. You’ll need to take the Namboku Line to Odori Park, switch to the Tozai Line to Miyanosawa Station, and walk for 10 minutes. The park’s “My Shiroi Koibito” workshop gave me a chance to decorate a heart-shaped cookie with colorful chocolate pens. The CHOCOTOPIA Factory tour also shows you how they make both Shiroi Koibito and baumkuchen.
Option 2: Jozankei Onsen day trip
My other option was a trip to Jozankei Onsen, a historic hot spring resort in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The resort sits just an hour from central Sapporo but feels like a different world. The Kappa Liner bus makes it easy to get there from Bus Stop 27, right outside the red brick Hokuren Building near JR Sapporo Station’s South Exit.
Jozankei’s charm comes from its 56 hot springs filled with clear, colorless sodium chloride spring water that really warms you up. These mineral-rich waters help with muscle soreness, joint pain, and skin conditions. Day-trip bathing costs between 500 to 2000 yen. February brings snowy views from outdoor baths and unique experiences like cooking eggs in hot spring water, making Jozankei a perfect winter getaway.
Evening illuminations in Sapporo
Whatever I did during the day, I made sure to return to central Sapporo for the stunning White Illumination. This Japanese tradition started right here in Sapporo in 1981 and has altered the city’s nighttime appearance. Odori Park, Ekimaedori, and Minami 1-jo dori turn into magical nighttime wonderlands. Trees wrapped in glittering lights create perfect backdrops for evening walks. These beautiful displays run through winter—Odori Park stays lit until December 25, while places like Minami 1-jo dori keep shining until mid-March.
Day 6: Travel to Niseko and Settle In
My winter adventures in Sapporo’s city streets came to an end as I started a journey to Niseko, the crown jewel of Japan’s ski destinations and a must-visit spot on any Hokkaido winter trip.
How to get to Niseko from Sapporo
The 100km trip offered several transport choices. The Hokkaido Resort Liner bus turned out to be the best value at ¥5,500 per adult with a 2.5-hour ride. The bus makes convenient stops at key locations like Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Annupuri.
You can also take the train by hopping on the JR Rapid Airport Line from Sapporo to Otaru (30 minutes), then switching to the JR Hakodate Line to reach Kutchan or Niseko Station (75-90 minutes). This option costs about ¥2,100. Private taxis are available too, with prices between ¥10,000 and ¥45,000 based on the car size.
Where to stay in Niseko
Niseko has several unique areas. Hirafu Village won me over with its lively vibe and easy-to-walk layout. Most places here put you within 10 minutes of the lifts. Upper and Middle Village spots let you ski right from your door.
Niseko Village draws families who want all-inclusive stays. Big names like the Hilton and Ritz Carlton offer direct ski access. Annupuri stands out as a peaceful option with amazing powder snow and new luxury places popping up.
First onsen experience or night skiing
I faced a tough choice after checking in – should I relax in an onsen or try Niseko’s famous night skiing? Niseko’s night skiing area is Japan’s biggest, running from 16:00 to 19:00 during regular season (14 December 2024 to 25 March 2025).
Each resort puts its own spin on night skiing. Grand Hirafu lights up the most varied runs, with green, red, and black slopes all ready to go. Hanazono’s Symphony Gondola takes you to great beginner and intermediate slopes. They even put on amazing fireworks shows every Saturday night.
The area’s many onsens offer perfect relaxation spots. You can find private baths at hotels or head to public facilities – both are great ways to rest your muscles after traveling or hitting the slopes.
Day 7: Skiing in Niseko
The sight of fresh powder snow outside my window got me excited about spending a full day on Niseko’s legendary slopes. This winter playground gives you some of the best skiing experiences during Hokkaido winter.
Best slopes for beginners and pros
Niseko United combines four interconnected ski resorts—Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri—that stretch over 47 kilometers of groomed slopes for all skill levels. The terrain here amazes visitors with its diversity.
Beginners love the many gentle, wide slopes that help build confidence. My morning started on the Family Run in Grand Hirafu before I explored Juicy Fruit in Hanazono using the Symphony Gondola. These areas work perfectly for skiers who want to improve their skills.
Advanced skiers will find thrilling challenges at the infamous Strawberry Fields in Hanazono and Miharashi run in Grand Hirafu. Niseko Village’s exceptional off-piste terrain offers amazing volcano crater skiing opportunities at the summit. The consistently excellent powder conditions make these slopes special—even steep inclines become manageable with fresh snow.
Ski rental and lessons
Several ski schools around the resort welcome international visitors. My choice was a private lesson with Niseko International Snowsports School (NISS), which operates from Hirafu and Hanazono. GoSnow stands out for first-timers as the only school in Niseko-Hirafu with a base at the main gondola that features on-snow beginner facilities.
Schools here offer private coaching for individual attention and group lessons with up to six guests. Private lessons run either half-day (3 hours) or full-day (6 hours with lunch break). Most accommodations can set up equipment rental packages that include skis, boots, poles, and winter clothing if needed.
Après-ski dining and nightlife
Hirafu Village’s vibrant nightlife scene differs greatly from the calm atmosphere of Niseko Village. Wild Bill’s became my evening spot after freshening up—a spacious venue with live music, DJs, and a lively dance floor. The legendary Fridge Door Bar (Gyu+) lived up to its reputation—you enter through a tiny refrigerator door to find an intimate lounge with an impressive whiskey selection.
Ezo Seafoods served spectacular fresh seafood, so it’s no surprise it’s one of the town’s most popular reservations. You need to book Niseko’s restaurants well ahead during peak season. The mix of about 100 restaurants and bars helps Niseko earn the “best skiing in Japan” award for après, restaurants, and nightlife!
Day 8: More Snow Adventures or Rest Day
My legs needed a break after conquering Niseko’s slopes yesterday. The day offered a perfect chance to try something new or just relax. A rest day in the middle of a Hokkaido winter adventure can be just as exciting as hitting the slopes.
Snowshoeing or snowmobiling options
My search for a different snow experience led me to snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Snowshoeing let me experience Niseko’s winter wonderland at my own pace.
I wandered through beautiful snow-covered forests and looked for wildlife. You can find tours at Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Hanazono Niseko. Prices start from ¥6,375 per person with a two-person minimum.
Snowmobiling gave me an adrenaline rush instead. Hanazono Niseko runs 60-minute tours with 45 minutes of actual driving time. A single machine costs ¥23,000, while tandem riding costs ¥34,000.
Beginners can join since no prior experience is needed. Kids who are 13 or older can drive single machines if they’re at least 120cm tall. Tandem machines need drivers to be 18+ and passengers must be at least 7 years old.
Relaxing in an onsen
Niseko’s many onsens helped me recover from all the activity. The area has more than 25 public onsen bathing houses. Their mineral-rich waters work wonders for sore muscles and achy joints.
This traditional Japanese experience relaxes both body and mind. I brought two towels – a small one to wash and a regular one to dry off afterward.
Local food experiences in Hirafu
Hirafu’s amazing food scene came alive at night. The village has about 100 restaurants and bars that serve both Japanese and international dishes. Crab Dining Kanon serves fresh crab courses. The Barn creates traditional French dishes using local ingredients.
Izakaya Raku pairs great local food with sake. Food trucks scattered around Hirafu serve everything from curry to gyoza to burgers. Book your table early because restaurants fill up fast during peak season and have strict cancellation policies.
Day 9: Return to Sapporo and Departure
My last day in Hokkaido started with packing bags for the trip back to Sapporo. I wanted to make every minute count with a few must-see spots before my flight the next day.
Last-minute shopping at Tanukikoji
Tanukikoji Shopping Street turned out to be perfect for grabbing those final souvenirs. This pedestrian arcade stretches about 900m through seven blocks with nearly 200 shops, making it one of Hokkaido’s oldest shopping destinations since 1873.
The covered walkway kept me safe from February’s snow while I checked out stores selling traditional Japanese goods and trendy fashion items.
The street’s charm comes from its unique blend – it draws tourists but stays true to its local roots as Sapporo’s residents shop here regularly. Each block feels different, from fashion boutiques to hidden gems like tearooms and unique izakaya pubs.
Visit Shiroi Koibito Park (if missed)
I managed to squeeze in a visit to Shiroi Koibito Park, where they make Hokkaido’s famous souvenir cookies. Adults pay 800 yen to enter, while kids aged 4-15 get in for 400 yen. The park sits just 15 minutes away on the Tozai Subway Line from Odori Station to Miyanosawa Station, plus a short 10-minute walk.
Sweet aromas fill the air around this fairytale-like building. The experience goes beyond buying cookies – I spent time at CHOCOTOPIA FACTORY watching treats come to life through large windows. The place really feels like “a world filled with sweets you dreamed of as a child”.
When you are at the Airport
Ramen Dojo at New Chitose Airport
My winter adventure in Hokkaido ended at New Chitose Airport’s Hokkaido Ramen Dojo. The third floor of the domestic terminal houses this amazing collection of 10 popular ramen spots from all over Hokkaido.
A cool map of Hokkaido made entirely from ramen bowls greets visitors at the entrance. Each spot serves the three classic ramen flavors—miso, shio (salt), and shoyu (soy sauce)—along with special airport-only dishes you can’t find anywhere else. Since Sapporo is famous for its miso ramen topped with corn and butter, I had to grab one last bowl before saying goodbye to this winter wonderland.
Hokkaido is Truly a Great Place to Visit
I spent nine winter days in Hokkaido this February, and it turned into a trip I’ll never forget. Japan’s northernmost island showed off its magic. The Sapporo Snow Festival filled the city with incredible snow and ice sculptures everywhere, and Niseko’s powdery snow made skiing amazing.
We checked out the snow art at Odori Park, walked along Otaru’s canal glowing with snow lanterns, and tackled the slopes in Niseko. The food was unforgettable too—fresh seafood at Nijo Market, sizzling Genghis Khan lamb, creamy LeTAO cheesecake, and steaming hot bowls of miso ramen.
We mixed outdoor adventures with cultural activities during our trip, like snowshoeing in untouched forests and soaking in hot spring baths near snowy peaks. At first, we worried about the freezing weather, but smooth transportation and kind locals made the trip easy.
Hokkaido in February feels like a winter wonderland. You can enjoy skiing unique festivals, or delicious food in the beautiful snowy scenery.
FAQs
Q1. When is the best time to visit Hokkaido for winter activities? February is the ideal time to visit Hokkaido for winter activities. This month offers the perfect combination of snow-covered landscapes, cultural events like the Sapporo Snow Festival, and excellent skiing conditions in resorts like Niseko.
Q2. What are some must-visit attractions in Sapporo during winter? Key attractions in Sapporo during winter include the Sapporo Snow Festival in Odori Park, the Susukino Ice World, the Sapporo Beer Museum, and the Nijo Market for fresh seafood. The Sapporo TV Tower also offers panoramic views of the illuminated city.
Q3. How can I get from Sapporo to Niseko? You can travel from Sapporo to Niseko by bus, train, or private transfer. The most economical option is the Hokkaido Resort Liner bus, which takes about 2.5 hours and costs around ¥5,500 per adult. Train and private taxi services are also available.
Q4. What winter activities are available in Niseko besides skiing? Niseko offers various winter activities beyond skiing, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and relaxing in onsens (hot springs). Night skiing is also popular, with Niseko boasting Japan’s largest night skiing area.
Q5. Are there any day trips worth taking from Sapporo in winter? A popular day trip from Sapporo in winter is to the charming port city of Otaru. Here, you can enjoy the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, visit glassworks and the music box museum, and indulge in LeTAO’s famous desserts. Another option is a trip to Jozankei Onsen for a relaxing hot spring experience. For more day trip ideas, read our guide “the Best Day trips from Sapporo.”
