Otaru Snow Light Path

Otaru Snow Light Path began in 1999 and is one of Hokkaido's famous winter seasonal festivals, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. During the festival in February, the entire Otaru is lit up with more than 120,000 twinkling ice lanterns, and those lanterns and sculptures of various styles can be seen everywhere. Even the Otaru Canal is adorned with floating candles, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. In the midst of freezing temperatures, the warm glow of the candles makes the atmosphere passionate and romantic.

Otaru in winter

In the summer and autumn, petals and maple leaves are collected by skilled craftsmen with care, then pieced together to form unexpected shapes. Ordinary ice lanterns become collages of snipped images. It seems that the fading autumn has not yet departed, as the Otaru Snow Light Path has collected the entire autumn's colors.

The Otaru Snow Light Path Wishes for a Bright Future

We all live in a time of constant change, but we can cherish the “warmth” that never changes. At the venue of the Snow Light Path, you will see some candles blown out by the wind, but the staff and residents will take care of them and light them up again immediately. The light will guide our way and bring us hope, and this “warmth” will give more strength to everyone who is striving to live a better life.

Where to Visit the Otaru Snow Light Path

1. Otaru Canal

Otaru Canal is a famous tourist attraction that represents Otaru and one of the most popular and lively venues. During the event, various ice lanterns will be displayed along the walkways on both sides of the canal, and hundreds of ice balls will float on the river, illuminating the entire canal and creating a romantic and dreamlike atmosphere.

2. Temiya Line - Former Japanese National Railways

The Temiya Line used to be the first railway line in Hokkaido to be put into operation. Ice lanterns are lined up along the railway, and walking along the light path feels like traveling back in time to the era when trains ran. Additionally, this venue features musical performances and ice slides for visitors to enjoy.

3. Mount Tenguyama

Mountain Tenguyama in winter

Mount Tenguyama has been the new venue since the 20th event. The lights of the Tengu Shrine on the top of the mountain, along the road leading to the observatory, and in the forest create a dreamy atmosphere. From the observatory, you can see the panoramic view of Otaru city illuminated by lights, which are dotted like a starry sky.

4. Asarigawa Onsen Village

Asarigawa Onsen Village is a lesser-known venue with fewer visitors. The lantern festival is held along the riverbank, blending seamlessly with nature. If you prefer a quiet atmosphere, this is a good place to enjoy hot springs and the festive atmosphere.

5. Throughout the city

In approximately 30 locations throughout the city, including community centers, shopping streets, schools, and hospitals, people spontaneously decorate the streets with snow lanterns, so the entire Otaru is lit up. Each venue also organizes small events, free hot drinks, and other activities to welcome visitors.

Best Things to Do during the Otaru Snow Light Path

1. Make a wish

At the Otaru Canal venue, each visitor will be given a free paper cup and a pen to write their wishes on. They will then place a candle inside the cup, hold it in their hand, and walk around the canal, placing it in their favorite spot. In this way, their wishes will come true.

2. Listen to the volunteer's explanation

A few hours before the start of the Otaru Snow Light Path, volunteer guides will take you on a tour of the main venues, surrounding streets, and historical buildings. Visitors can listen to the story behind the birth of the Snow Light Path while watching volunteers create snow sculptures and light candles, and experience making snow lanterns.

Time: Approximately 1 hour
*Depart in groups at any time.

3. Make your own candle bowls

If you are interested, you can make your own candle bowl and take it home. Each bowl costs 1,000 yen.

Time: 16:00 - 19:00 during the festival.

When is the Otaru Snow Light Path held?

The Otaru Snow Light Path is held from early to mid-February every year, and is scheduled to take place from February 8 to 15 in 2025.

How to Get to Venues of Otaru Snow Light Path

1. Otaru Canal

From Otaru Station, take the 9 Tenguyama Ropeway Sen bus bound for Tenguyama and get off at Ironai 1 Chome. Walk north for about 60 meters (65 yards), turn right, and walk about 100 meters (110 yards) to the Otaru Canal Venue. It takes about 10 minutes.

2. Temiya Line

From the Otaru Station exit, walk about 50 meters (55 yards) north, turn right, walk about 50 meters (55 yards), turn right again, walk about 50 meters (55 yards), cross the road, walk about 400 meters (440 yards) west, turn right, and walk about 50 meters (55 yards) to reach the Temiya Line, which takes about 8 minutes.

3. Mount Tenguyama

From Otaru Station, take bus No. 9 bound for Mount Tenguyama at platform 4. It takes 20 minutes to reach Mount Tenguyama.

4. Asarigawa Onsen Village

From Otaru Station, take the 13 Asarigawa Onsen Sen bus bound for Asarigawa Onsen and get off at Onsen Sakaue in 35 minutes.

Lighting time:	17:00 - 21:00
Tickets:	All venues are free to visit.
Recommended tour time:	2 - 3 hours