Winter Event - Otaru Snow Light Path

The "Otaru Snow Light Path," now a famous winter event representing Hokkaido, is a beautiful ice candle event held in Otaru.

The sight of countless lights illuminating the streets of Otaru in a magical display captivates many tourists each year.

◆What is "Otaru Snow Light Path”？

The "Otaru Snow Light Path" began in 1999, making it a historic event.

It was named after the work Yukiakari no Michi ("Snow Light Path") by Otaru-related writer Sei Ito.

Held every February, it has now become one of Hokkaido's signature events, not just for Otaru.

The Charm of Soft Candlelight

The "Otaru Snow Light Path" is a heartfelt event where each candle is lit by hand, emphasizing the "warmth of human touch."

The soft glow of the candles creates a warmth and atmosphere that cannot be expressed with bright electric lights.

The Event Takes Place Throughout Otaru City!

During the event period, candles are lit throughout Otaru city.

The main venues are usually the Canal and Temiya Line areas, which are within walking distance from JR Otaru Station.

Various venues of different scales are spread throughout the city.

Since the event takes place across the entire town, you can enjoy a fantastical view wherever you walk!

＊Please note that event details may vary by year. For more information, check the official "Otaru Snow Light Path" website.

◆ Check out the event details for the "Otaru Snow Light Path"！

The Snow Light Path is a wonderful event showcasing all the charm of Otaru.

Once you learn about the event's highlights, you might just feel like experiencing it for yourself!

Here, we’ll introduce the latest event dates and access information to help you plan your visit.

Otaru Snow Light Path - Event Information

【Event Period】
8 February – 15 February, 2025

【Venues】

〇 Main Venues(３venues)

Canal Venue: (Between Asakusa Bridge and Chuo Bridge)
Temiyasen Venue: (Old Temiyasen Railway Line Site)
Otaru Art Base Venue: (Otaru Art Base Courtyard)

〇 Secondary Venue (１venue)

Mt. Tenguyama Venue: (Tenguyama Summit)

〇 Path of Lights Venues

Approximately 30 locations across neighborhoods in the city

【Access】

This year’s main venue is relatively close, making it easy to visit. We recommend enjoying it together with the other venues.

If you have more time, consider heading to Mt. Tengu. There, you can indulge in both the candlelight illumination and the breathtaking night view of Otaru—a truly luxurious way to enjoy your evening!

The Canal Venue is about a 10-minute walk from JR Otaru Station.

【Illumination Hours】
5:00pm – 9:00pm

For the latest updates, please check the official "Otaru Snow Light Path" website!

◆ What are the Highlights of the Snow Light Path?

The Snow Light Path is a multi-venue event.

Among the many venues, we’re highlighting the Canal Venue, a must-visit location, and will share its charm with you!

Highlights of the event

With venues spread across the city (approximately 30 locations), the Otaru Snow Light Path offers numerous sights to see.

The main venue that you shouldn’t miss is the Canal Venue.

Canal Venue (Asakusa Bridge to Chuo Bridge)　

The Canal Venue is about a 10-minute walk from JR Otaru Station.

The area surrounding Otaru Canal is beautifully illuminated with candles.

Floating spheres lit with candles drift on the canal's surface, offering a romantic scene that contrasts with the canal’s daytime appearance.

This year, all three main venues are relatively close to each other, making it easy to explore them all. We recommend enjoying them together for the best experience.