During the Hakodate Winter Festival, come enjoy the illuminations, fireworks, and even a garden of light! Being a more relaxed, local version of the Sapporo Snow Festival, it’s perfect for a fun night out with the family or a romantic evening stroll.
Article Index
When is the Hakodate Winter Festival
The Hakodate Winter Festival will be held on the following dates.
| Event Date | Time |
|---|---|
|
December 01, 2022 - February 28, 2023 |
Sunset to 22:00 |
What is the Hakodate Winter Festival
This is a special winter event where the streets of Hakodate become a glittering, otherworldy fantasy realm. During the festival, various events will be held, such as the “Hakodate Illumination,” where illuminations will be decorated along historical buildings in the Motomachi District. There will also be winter fireworks that shine brightly against the clear night sky.
The color of the shimmering bright lights of the Illuminations against a backdrop of powdery, white snow creates a sight to behold. It is the winter event that represents Hakodate and is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
Fun Things to do
Hakodate Illumination
The Motomachi District, a district of Hakodate that is famous for it’s famous historical buildings and churches, is decorated with beautiful lights and decorations.
Nijukkenzaka
Hachimanzaka
Kaiko Street
Motoisaka
Hakodate Winter Fireworks
Come see the Hakodate Winter Fireworks light up the night sky.
The fireworks begin at 20:00 and continue for about 10 minutes. The Hakodate Winter Fireworks show is among the most famous fireworks shows in Japan — come see why!
| Date | Time |
|---|---|
|
February 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th 2023 |
20:00 - 20:10 |
Although the fireworks themselves are launched from a nearby island called Green Island, the island itself is off-limits so please find a suitable place from which you can watch and enjoy the show.
Hakodate Garden of Light
Motomachi Park, which overlooks the harbor and the cityscape of Hakodate, is transformed into an alien landscape teeming with colorful lights and LED perlights and stardust lasers.
You can stroll through the park while gazing down at the glittering Motozaka Hill, where the Hakodate Illumination is held concurrently. Also, if you happen to go on a Saturday, you can even view the Hakodate Fireworks show from the park as well.
| Date | Time |
|---|---|
|
Every Friday and Saturday during February 2023, and the 22nd and 23rd of February 2023. |
17:00 - 20:30 |
Things to know before going
Weather Conditions During the Event
Winter in Hokkaido is extremely cold, and the average temperature is below freezing. A thick coat, down jacket, hat, muffler, and gloves are a must. Please also wear warm underwear to protect yourself from the cold.
Entry Fees
There are no entry fees — entry is free!
Official Event Website
The Official Event Website can be accessed here.
How to get there
The Hakodate Winter Festival will be held in the Motomachi district of Hakodate, Hokkaido.
Thanks for Reading
Come and enjoy the beautiful nightscape of Hakodate with your family, friends, or significant other!
Beginning in February, there are also many other events in the surrounding area. If you are interested in extending your trip and adding some stops, please look below for some other interesting things do to!
