[Paid Advertisement] ๐ง Sapporo & Otaru in December
Snow-covered streets, sparkling holiday lights, and silent evening walks โ each moment felt like a page from a winter postcard.
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Sapporo TV Tower illuminated in vibrant colors during the winter light festival, with a glowing Christmas tree leading the way.
๐ Location & How to Get There
Sapporo โ Capital of Hokkaido, famous for its snow festival, ski resorts, and winter illuminations
Otaru โ A charming port city known for its romantic canal, glassware, and music box shops
- From Sapporo to Otaru: JR Hakodate Main Line (about 35โ40 min)
- From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo: JR Rapid Airport Express (about 40 min)

Description: Otaru Station โ A charming retro-style railway hub with a brick faรงade and clock tower, welcoming visitors to the historic port city of Otaru.
Image source: Google Maps Street View / Otaru Station
โ๏ธ Seasonal Highlights
- December: Christmas markets in Sapporo, Otaru Snow Light Path early illumination
- JanuaryโFebruary: Sapporo Snow Festival, ski slopes in nearby resorts
- Winter in Otaru: Snow-covered streets, warm cafรฉs, and canal lights at night

Description: Otaru streets at night, illuminated by warm streetlights and colorful building lights, creating a festive winter atmosphere.
Image source: Photo by Dominic Kurniawan Suryaputra on Unsplash
๐ก Travel Tips
- Wear waterproof shoes โ snow can be deep and streets slippery
- Try Sapporo miso ramen & Otaru fresh sushi
- Visit Otaru in the late afternoon to enjoy both day and night canal views

Description: A snowy evening street in Otaru, with city lights stretching into the distance under a serene winter sky.
Image source: Photo by KWON YOUN on Unsplash
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Description: Snow-covered Otaru Canal during winter, with historic brick warehouses reflected in the still water under a clear blue sky.
Image source: Personal photo, edited with AI
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