Hokkaido Spring Feast: The Sapporo Lilac Festival Begins

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department, Liao Qiyu, compiled and reported
 

With the long winter finally over, spring in Hokkaido is arriving with the onset of May. Beyond the purple lavender fields of Furano, the blooming lilacs, lilies of the valley, and various other colorful floral landscapes in Sapporo bring a vibrant palette to the region. This year’s Sapporo Lilac Festival kicks off at Odori Park from May 16th to 31st, followed in early June by the energetic “YOSAKOI SORAN” Festival, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of Sapporo’s spring and summer seasons.

Odori Park is the most famous festival venue in downtown Sapporo. Whether it’s the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival in winter or the lilac flower festival in spring, this park plays host to both. During the event, visitors can admire up to 400 lilac trees bursting into bloom with their delicate white and purple flowers. On the first day of the festival, there is also a lilac sapling giveaway, along with exciting performances such as live music and outdoor tea parties, all celebrating the arrival of spring and the enjoyment of warm sunlight and lush greenery.

Following the lilac festival is the high-energy “YOSAKOI SORAN” Festival, a traditional event originating from Kochi Prefecture that is known for its large, lively dance troupes — with over 100 teams participating. Young students don their self-designed costumes, turning the streets into their stage as they freely express youthful moves and creativity through dance. The four-day dance festival, running from day to night, always reaches thrilling climaxes. This year’s event takes place from June 10th to 14th, inviting all visitors to join in the fun and shake a leg.