By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
As winter arrives, Hokkaido enters another peak travel season. In addition to its timeless natural beauty and snowy vistas that attract tourists year-round, the area’s convenient shopping options and an abundance of refined, diverse goods and local products encourage repeat visits. Capitalizing on the spending power of travelers in Hokkaido, banks are offering exclusive debit card deals for shopping in Hokkaido, Japan. Taking advantage of these offers is a must for savvy and enjoyable travel.
Hokkaido’s most iconic winter festival – the Sapporo Snow Festival. (Image provided by Sapporo Tourism Association)
One of the most popular winter attractions and events in Hokkaido is undoubtedly the Sapporo Snow Festival. Along the Park Avenue surrounding Sapporo Tower, creatively designed and amusing snow sculptures take center stage, enhanced by lighting and digital technology to create even more stunning visual highlights. It’s a major winter event for both locals and international visitors. The Christmas light displays transform the streets of Sapporo into a magical winter wonderland, with beautiful snowy scenery complemented by dreamy illuminations. The festive Christmas atmosphere fills the air, bringing warmth and happiness to visitors – making it a must-see highlight of winter travel in Hokkaido.
Mitsukoshi Sapporo, located near Odori Park, is a top shopping destination in Hokkaido. (Image / MOOK)
The Odori Park area is also one of Sapporo’s main shopping hubs, home to major department stores and fashion malls. Two must-visits – Mitsukoshi and Marui Imai Department Store – are situated in this bustling shopping district. Founded in 1872, Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store is the oldest department store in Hokkaido. Shopping at either of these two department stores with a debit card is very convenient. It’s especially recommended to activate the “cross-border service function” with your issuing bank before traveling. This can also be done online for added convenience.(Online activation URL: http://www.smart2pay.com.tw/web_smartpay.php)
The historic Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store is a must-visit shopping destination in Sapporo. (Image source / MARUI IMAI SAPPORO)
Mitsukoshi Sapporo and Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store, both close to Odori Park, offer easy access for sightseeing and shopping. (Image source / MARUI IMAI SAPPORO)
During the promotion period, spend ¥20,000 or more at either Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store or Mitsukoshi Sapporo to receive a gift set of two “Imabari-made” soft Egyptian cotton yukata towels (color options may vary based on availability). (Image source / Imabari Towel)
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