The winter festival in Otaru is unique but at the same time similar to the Sapporo Snow Festival in which it is held at the same time and is an annual event. The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, however, is 10 days long and gives a fantastic festive atmosphere to the city.
Wall Street of the North
Otaru is a city in Hokkaido which is called the Wall Street of the North as well as Town of Glass and Town of Hills. It is a beautiful city in its architecture and its people. It is home to some of the most luxurious Hokkaido accommodation as well, with beautiful and cosy hotels such as Grand Park Otaru being situated in town.
About the Festival
If you are planning to head to Otaru to experience the festival in 2021, you might as well start planning now. The winter festival will be as romantic and magical as you would expect with lanterns, illuminated ice sculptures, snow statues and plenty of music and warm food.
The UngaKaijo
Of the two main festival areas, the UngaKaijo is home to illuminated ice sculptures that nestle along the banks of the Otaru canal. It is not only photogenic but utterly breath-taking.
The TemiyasenKaijo
The TemiyasenKaijo is located between the canal and the railway station. It features lanterns and sculptures as well as massive snow statues. The ice lanterns will be lit from 5 pm until 9 pm.
