Sapporo Private Walking Christmas Market and Illumination Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the heart of Sapporo during the festive season on this private Christmas walking tour. Begin at Odori Park, where a European-style German Christmas Market fills the air with warm scents of seasonal treats and the sound of cheerful chatter. Your guide shares stories of local holiday traditions as you browse stalls offering handmade ornaments and festive decorations. Travelers can browse stalls offering handmade ornaments and festive decorations while enjoying a warming holiday drink. Continue past the Sapporo TV Tower and the historic Clock Tower, pausing to take in their illuminated beauty. The tour culminates at Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza, where the White Illumination lights create a sparkling winter wonderland. This walk balances lively market energy with serene illuminated scenes, leaving you with lasting holiday memories.
Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.
Available options
Sapporo Private Walking Christmas Market and Illumination Tour
What's included
Entry to illuminations and public holiday decorations (all free)
Professional local tour guide
A warm holiday drink
Access to Christmas market stalls
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The park transforms into a cozy European-style Christmas village with wooden stalls, seasonal décor, and twinkling lights. Travelers can explore ornaments, crafts, and festive decorations while soaking up the holiday ambiance. Food and drinks are available to purchase.
2
Stop 2
View the iconic TV Tower as it glows in the evening light. Travelers can admire the cityscape and seasonal illumination from the surrounding park area, perfect for festive photos.
3
Historic Sapporo landmark adorned with holiday lights. Travelers can stroll around the exterior, enjoy the soft glow reflecting on the snow, and appreciate one of the city’s most photographed buildings.
4
The plaza features an extensive display of sparkling lights across trees and pathways. Travelers experience a magical winter scene as the White Illumination casts a festive glow over the streets and surrounding architecture.
What's not included
Consumables (food, drinks, purchased gifts) – pay as you go
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will meet at the entrance of Odori Park. The tour will start from the christmas market and end towards the illumination show.
About Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.
Top Attractions
Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free entry, beer tasting costs vary
Odori Park
A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.
Nature
1-3 hours depending on the season
Free
Sapporo TV Tower
A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.
Architecture
1 hour
¥790 for adults
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sapporo Ramen
A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.
Soup Curry
A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Genghis Khan
Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.
Dinner
Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Skiing in Niseko
Snowboarding in Rusutsu
Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park
Onsen (hot spring) bathing
Strolling through Odori Park
Shopping in Tanukikoji
Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum
Exploring Otaru's historic district
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Winter) and July to August (Summer)
Winter is ideal for snow festivals and skiing, while summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals.
Winter: -5°C to 0°C, Summer: 18°C to 25°C
Winter: 23°F to 32°F, Summer: 64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Sapporo is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares.
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.
Getting there
By air
- New Chitose Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Sapporo Station
By bus
Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Namboku, Tozai, and Tohoku-Johetsu.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Susukino
Odori
Tanukikoji
Day trips
Niseko
110 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
A popular ski resort known for its powder snow, Niseko offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, and outdoor activities in summer.
Otaru
30 km from Sapporo • Half day or full day
A charming port city known for its historic buildings, canals, and fresh seafood. Otaru offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Furano
140 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
Known for its lavender fields in summer and skiing in winter, Furano offers a mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February
Sapporo Beer Festival • Late July to early August
Yosakoi Soran Festival • Early June
Pro tips
- Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a unique beer tasting experience.
- Try Sapporo's famous ramen at Ramen Republic or other local ramen shops.
- Explore the historic Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade for souvenirs and street food.
- Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival if visiting in February.
- Take a day trip to Otaru for its charming canals and fresh seafood.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
