2024.10.2
Otaru Snow Light Path
The Otaru Snow Light Path, held every February, is a major winter event where Otaru is filled with beautiful snow candles. The Otaru Snow Light Path has been handmade by local residents since 1999. In recent years, it has become a part of Hokkaido’s winter scenery, welcoming not only Otaru residents, but also many overseas volunteers and tourists from Korea, Taiwan, and other countries.
The main venues for Snowlight Path are the Otaru Canal Venue and the Temiya Line Venue, but a wide variety of experiences can be had all over town, so if you remember the characteristics of each venue, your stroll on the day will be more enjoyable.
■ Otaru Canal
The canal with floating candle floats is a very popular romantic photo spot. Otaru was once a port town that prospered from herring fishing. It is said that the floats used in the fishing industry are the origin of Otaru’s glass crafts. The light illuminates the light-colored glass that is characteristic of Otaru glass, creating a magical night. Food stalls are also set up on the North Canal, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes that will warm you to the core on cold nights.
■ Temiya Line Venue
The Temiya Line venue is about a 5-minute walk from Otaru Station. You can see it as you walk down Bank of Japan Street.
This area is lined with wax balls and ice candles decorated with pressed flowers and fallen leaves. The venue has a cute atmosphere and is a great photo spot.
■ Otaru Art Village Venue
At the Otaru Art Village Venue, surrounded by historical and tasteful buildings such as the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, the Stained Glass Museum, and the Nitori Museum, snow sculptures and athletic facilities are made. There are also events such as music shows, so please check the schedule on the website.
■ Tenguyama Venue
The Otaru Tenguyama Venue was recently added. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, at the top of Tenguyama you can enjoy the collaboration of the night view of Otaru and the flickering candlelight.
★Recommended information
You can also experience making the snow candles and wax balls that decorate the event. Why not join the event not just as a tourist, but as a participant, and help decorate the city of Otaru with your homemade candles? Enjoy this romantic and beautiful event that can only be experienced in Otaru.
■ Information
Event period
Early February (about one week)
venue
Various locations in Otaru city