Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (Hokkaido, Japan)

With winter in Hokkaido comes snow and with the snow or Yuki in Japanese comes the FESTIVALS. In Hokkaido during the winter the snow festivals are vast and really a tradition. Families, friends and visitors all come from around the world and parts of Japan to experience the festivities.

Perhaps a less famous but by no means inferior festival is the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, located in Otaru City, Hokkaido.

Otaru is famous for their canal and its old European vibe. It was once the capital city of Hokkaido until it moved to Sapporo.

The Snow path follows the canal from one end to another, approximately three city blocks worth. The path is of course lined by lights, specifically candle lights in snow sculptures and ice blocks.

In my personal opinion I felt Otaru’s festival was a little more special. No because it was elaborate but really because of the opposite. I really enjoy the small town vibe, the families walking around and at the end of the canal theres a small gathering place for you to get snacks, warm up by a fire and listen to some really nice, calm music.

I would say that this was much more “my speed”.

Going into this festival with no expectations really helped I think. Without a grand idea in my head, I was able to enjoy it for what it was.

Otaru is about a 45 minute drive from Sapporo. It has all the necessities you’d need if you’re staying here and had a little less tourist (that say overnight) in the city. I think there is a saying though, maybe recently that Otaru is Sapporos bedroom, meaning people come to Sapporo but stay in Otaru.

In any case, I highly recommend visiting the festival here if possible.