Are you ready to dive into the vibrant spring vibe of Hokkaido this May 2024? Buckle up, ’cause I’m about to spill the beans on 8 must-visit events that’ll make your trip to Japan’s northern gem unforgettable. Let’s get the party started!
Goryokaku Park Night Cherry Blossom Light-up
When: Late April to Early May
Where: Goryokaku Park, Hakodate City
Entry Fee: Free (Tower entry separate)
Imagine walking through a star-shaped fortress, surrounded by a sea of pink cherry blossoms, all lit up against the night sky. That’s what you get at Goryokaku Park! The light-up event runs from 5 PM to 9 PM, so plan an evening stroll and maybe even pop up the tower for a breathtaking view.
Hiraoka Plum Festival
When: Late April to Early May
Where: Hiraoka Park, Sapporo City
Entry Fee: Free
Plum and cherry blossoms together? Yes, please! Hiraoka Park is throwing a plum-tastic festival with around 1,200 trees showing off their blooms. Grab a plum soft-serve and enjoy the floral display that’s two months behind Honshu’s schedule.
Golden Week Event at Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
When: April 27th – May 6th
Where: Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, Sapporo
Entry Fee: ¥600
Golden Week is a blast at Hitsujigaoka Hill. Catch panoramic views, snap some cool pics with the famous Dr. Clark statue, and soak in the festive atmosphere. It’s a week-long party, so you’ve got plenty of time to join in!
Otaru Umeshu Festival
When: April 12th – May 6th
Where: Tanaka Sake Brewing Kikkogura, Otaru
Entry Fee: Free
Umeshu lovers, unite! Otaru’s brewing up something special with their Umeshu Festival. Sip on some plum wine, explore the brewery, and celebrate this beloved Japanese drink.
Dogtooth Violets at Totsushozan
When: Mid April – Early May
Where: Totsushozan (突哨山), Various Locations
Entry Fee: Free
The hills are alive with the sight of dogtooth violets! These delicate flowers are a spring staple, and Totsushozan offers some of the best spots to see them in full bloom.
Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival
When: Early – Mid May
Where: Shizunai Nijukken Road, Shizunai
Entry Fee: Free
Cherry blossoms lining a road for miles? That’s the Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival for you. It’s a sakura spectacle you don’t want to miss, with the trees creating a tunnel of blooms.
Takikawa Nanohana Festival
When: Late May
Where: Takikawa Nanohana Fields
Entry Fee: Free
Yellow as far as the eye can see! The Nanohana Festival is a celebration of vibrant yellow flowers, and with crowds of around 100,000, it’s the city’s largest annual event. Get your cameras ready!
Sapporo Ramen Show
When: Mid – Late May
Where: Sapporo (Specific location TBA)
Entry Fee: Varies per stall
Ramen aficionados, this one’s for you. The Sapporo Ramen Show is a slurp-worthy event where you can taste different regional flavors of Japan’s favorite noodle soup. It’s a feast for the senses and the stomach!
There you have it, folks! Eight fantastic events to add to your Hokkaido itinerary this May. Whether you’re a flower fanatic, a foodie, or just in for some cultural fun, Hokkaido’s got you covered. Pack your bags, charge your cameras, and get ready for an adventure that’s as fresh as Hokkaido’s spring air2
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