Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Travel & Lifestyle Network Editorial Department
Hokkaido’s famous winter event, the “Sapporo White Illumination,” officially begins lighting up in late November, covering the entire city in dazzling bulbs and presenting the most romantic winter scenery.
The annual “Sapporo White Illumination” officially begins lighting up in late November. (Image source / Sapporo City Official Tourism Website)
520,000 bulbs decorate Sapporo’s colorful winter nights. (Image source / camerashowdown)
The Sapporo White Illumination originally began in 1981 as Japan’s first illumination festival. Now in its 35th year, the number of bulbs has grown from an initial 1,000 to an astonishing 520,000, creating a romantic sea of lights that makes winter in Sapporo vibrant and colorful. The White Illumination features three exhibition areas: Odori Park, Nishi 1-chome Street, and Sapporo Station Front Street. Among them, the Odori Park venue uses bulbs to create iconic Christmas symbols such as the memorable Sapporo TV Tower and snowflakes, making the night shine brilliantly. Additionally, while enjoying the illuminated trees, you can also visit the “Sapporo Munich Christmas Market” at 2-chome in Odori Park (late November – late December), which is filled with a strong Christmas atmosphere. During the Christmas season, the lighting hours are extended until midnight, making it a popular date spot for couples.
The dazzling lights make Sapporo incredibly romantic. (Image source / Sapporo City Official Tourism Website)
The Munich Market creates a European Christmas ambiance. (Image source / tourismbuilder)
This year’s White Illumination began on November 20. The Odori Park illumination will continue until December 25 (Christmas); the Station Front Street venue runs until February 11, 2016; and the Nishi 1-chome venue lasts the longest until March 14, 2016. In this cold weather, why not stroll through Sapporo, wandering amidst the city adorned with brilliant lights, and experience the uniquely enchanting winter of the north?
