Things to do over Christmas in Hokkaido

Hokkaido can be quite busy over the Christmas period, and for good reason – snow!  We get it first and tooons of it, so there’s no place more Christmassy feeling in Japan than up in the north.

Did you know that Japanese do not actually celebrate Christmas?  That’s because the most common religion in Japan is Buddhism.  So being in Japan on this day can really open up ones eyes on ways to celebrate.  A few traditions that may be different to yours back home – 1; Christmas eve is more of a romantic day for couples, 2; all the shops etc. are still open, and 3; a lot of people like to eat KFC for Christmas lunch.

But that doesn’t mean that there’s no Christmas spirit around.  There are plentiful Christmas trees, decorations and illuminations about to make even the Grinch get in to it.  Here’s our favorites that we think you’ll enjoy too!

The main park in the heart of Sapporo city is transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland, covered in more than 800,000 lights.  Gorgeous displays are lit all throughout the park, making for the perfect Christmas picture and romantic night out.  This runs in conjunction with the Christmas Markets (on the Eastern side of Odori) where you can buy handcrafted Russian influenced Christmas decorations and goodies.

Or click and enquire if you’d like to come with us this Christmas!

Set next to the water infant of the beautiful brick warehouses, this super romantic location makes for another wonderful option.  The massive Premium Red Tree, when covered in red lights, is lit for 15mins three times a day and is joined with fireworks.

Or click and enquire if you’d like to come with us this Christmas!

Toyako will transform over the Christmas period in to a gorgeous winter wonderland with its beautiful white and blue light displays.  A really special place to be is under the 70m long tunnel that is set up at Nigiwai Plaza, made up of more than 400,000 beautiful lights.

Or click and enquire if you’d like to come with us this Christmas!

You know the first shot of the factory in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory?  When it’s all covered in snow?  Well if you don’t, this spot will jog your memory.  A popular spot all year round, Shiroi Kobato Park is a wonderful spot for all ages.  This.chocolate factory is always decorated to the seasons events, and Christmas is no exception.  Enjoy the beautiful decorations (inside and our ¥¥t in the gardens) and get hands on by either making your own chocolate or your own cookies – a great souvenir or DIY Christmas gift

Or click and enquire if you’d like to come with us this Christmas!

If you’ve already frozen off every limb in your body and have no more limbs to give, head to Sapporo Factory for an indoor option.  It’s a mall, but looking at the Jumbo Christmas tree under the beautiful glass roof will make you feel like you’re outside with everyone else still.  Some restaurants also hold Christmas dinners which you can book in advance as you watch the 5min light show.  There’s plenty of shops for some last minute shopping, or head to the movies if you’re just keen to relax after your feast.

Or click and enquire if you’d like to mix this in with your Sapporo tour this Christmas!

Enjoy what’s around you, whether that be taking a stroll around in the snow or just having a relaxing day inside.  Last year we got a bunch of food from Costco, had an absolute FEAST and watched Christmas movies as the snow fell outside.  It was my first white Christmas so I couldn’t ask for anything more.

The longer I stay here and the more people I meet, the more options and places I hear about.  If you have any other cool Christmas spots or activities I’d love to hear of them, so comment below!

Merry Christmas 🙂 x