亮点

  • [2027 dates] The next edition runs 6–13 February 2027 (Otaru Tourism Association, announced 9 June 2026). See the Otaru Snow Light Path 2027 page for dates and access
  • Candles flickering in snow along the canal
  • Floating glass-buoy lights on the water
  • Romantic, hand-made winter atmosphere

由来与背景

Started in 1999, the Snow Light Path is run largely by volunteers who hand-place thousands of candles each evening, giving the port town a gentle winter glow.

Good to know for visitors

Getting there
Walk from JR Otaru Stn (about 40 min by train from Sapporo) Open directions in Google Maps ↗
Booking & entry
Free to attend — details on the official page (button above).
Language
Mostly in Japanese — a translation app on your phone helps.
Good for
date night, families

温馨提示

Held in mid-February, it often overlaps the Sapporo Snow Festival — easy to combine on a short Hokkaido trip. Dress for deep cold.

常见问题

When is the next Otaru Snow Light Path (2027)?
6–13 February 2027, eight nights. The Otaru Tourism Association announced the dates on 9 June 2026 (as of 2026-09-18). Venues and lighting hours have not been published yet.

交通

Otaru Canal & old town, Hokkaido — Minatomachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido

Japan-Event Editorial
  • Japan-based editorial team
  • Primary sources, cited
  • Variable facts dated

The Japan-Event editorial desk. We work from primary sources and date every claim that can change.