Spring in Hokkaido brings a fresh breath of the season as the snow melts away, and various events are held across the region. Plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, tulips, and other flowers bloom in full splendor, with many festivals celebrating the arrival of spring. Here, we’ve carefully selected some of the best events taking place from April to May.
※Please check the official website or other sources for the latest event information in advance.
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What Are the Average Temperatures in Hokkaido (Sapporo) in March, April, and May? What Kind of Clothing Is Recommended for Spring?
| March | April | May | |
| 2022 | 2.6°C. | 9.1°C. | 14.9°C. |
| 2023 | 4.9°C. | 9.2°C. | 13.8°C. |
| 2024 | 0.8°C. | 10.4°C. | 14.2°C. |
*Source: Japan Meteorological Agency "Sapporo (Ishikari region) Monthly average of daily average temperature (°C)"
Spring in Sapporo, Hokkaido, sees a gradual rise in temperatures from March to May, marking the transition of seasons. However, compared to other regions, temperatures remain lower, and the temperature fluctuation can be significant, making appropriate clothing choices essential.
In March, traces of winter still linger in Sapporo, with average temperatures sometimes falling below 1°C, and on many days, the minimum temperature drops below freezing. As snow melts and refreezes, road conditions can worsen, so it’s best to wear warm inner layers, a thick coat, boots, gloves, and a scarf to stay protected.
By April, temperatures slowly rise, with more days exceeding 10°C. However, mornings and evenings remain cold, and occasional snowfall can still occur. Layering with a light coat or cardigan is recommended to adjust to temperature changes. Additionally, nighttime temperatures can cause icy roads, so wearing slip-resistant shoes is a good precaution.
May finally brings true spring warmth, with some days nearing 20°C. While daytime temperatures are comfortable, mornings and evenings can still dip below 10°C. Long-sleeve shirts, light knitwear, and a thin jacket or coat are ideal for layering. Summer shoes are fine, but sandals may still be too early—pumps or sneakers are better suited for the season.
【April–May】Hiraoka Plum Festival
Hiraoka Plum Garden is the largest plum grove in Hokkaido, with approximately 1,200 plum trees. The stunning scenery of red and white plum blossoms interwoven together captivates visitors. During the Plum Festival, you can admire the blossoms while shopping for local specialties, and at the special stalls, you can enjoy seasonal treats like plum-flavored soft serve and plum cream puffs. Another highlight is the guided plum grove tour, where you can learn about the care of plum trees and their history, making it an educational and visually delightful experience.
- Access: About 30 minutes by bus from JR Shin-Sapporo Station
- Hours: 10:00–17:00
- Closed: Open daily during the festival period
- Typical Festival Period: Late April to mid-May (April 27–May 12, 2024)
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【April-May】Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival
Matsumae Town, known as the "northernmost castle town in Japan," is a picturesque place rich in history and culture. Every spring, the Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival is held, featuring over 10,000 cherry trees around Matsumae Castle. With both early and late-blooming varieties, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms over an extended period, making it a popular event. Inside the castle, historical exhibits offer insight into the town's heritage. The nighttime illumination of the cherry blossoms is particularly breathtaking, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Additionally, local specialties and food stalls add to the experience, making it a perfect combination of scenic beauty and delicious flavors.
Address: 144 Matsushiro, Matsumae-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido
- Access: About 1 hour by bus from JR Kikonai Station
- Hours: 9:00–21:00 (Illumination starts at sunset)
- Closed: Open daily during the festival period
- Typical Festival Period: Late April to mid-May (April 20–May 6, 2024)
【April-May】Goryokaku Park Nighttime Cherry Blossom Illumination
Goryokaku Park, a historic landmark in Hakodate, is home to approximately 1,600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees that burst into bloom each spring. The park is bathed in soft pink hues during the day, but at night, the illuminated cherry blossoms reflected in the water alongside the star-shaped fortress create a truly magical sight. Visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the cherry blossoms from Goryokaku Tower and explore the food stalls selling local delicacies. The park is a popular photography spot, especially in the evening, drawing many visitors eager to capture its enchanting beauty.
Address: 44 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from the "Goryokaku Koen-mae" tram stop
- Illumination Hours: 19:00–21:00 (Scheduled)
- Closed: Open daily during the festival period
- Typical Festival Period: Late April to early May (April 20–May 6, 2024)
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【May】Sapporo Lilac Festival
The "Sapporo Lilac Festival," held annually in Sapporo, is a cherished early summer event when lilacs bloom in full glory. The main venue is Odori Park, where around 400 lilac trees create a breathtaking landscape. The festival features numerous food stalls offering local delicacies and sweets, as well as events such as free lilac sapling distribution, live music performances, and tea ceremonies. Both locals and tourists alike enjoy the relaxing atmosphere surrounded by the fragrant lilac blossoms.
- Odori Venue
- Address: Odori Park, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station
- Kawahigashi Venue
- Address: Address: 2651-3 Kawashimo, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Access: ake the Chuo Bus from JR Sapporo Station, get off at "Shiroishi High School-mae," and walk about 5 minutes
Typical Festival Period: Mid-May
- 2025 Event Dates: Wednesday, May 14 - Sunday, May 25, 2025
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【May-June】Takino Suzuran Hillside Park Tulip & Lily of the Valley Festival
Takino Suzuran Hillside Park hosts the "Tulip & Lily of the Valley Festival" each spring, offering a stunning view of vast tulip fields that captivate visitors. At the same time, lily of the valley flowers also reach their peak bloom, creating a fresh and vibrant scene. During the festival, guided flower tours and seasonal workshops allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of the blossoms on a deeper level. In 2024, the park's Country House Restaurant will serve a special "Tulip Lunch."
Access: About a 30-minute direct bus ride from Makomanai Subway Station
- Address: 247 Takino, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Typical Festival Period: Late May to Early June (2024 Dates: May 18 - June 2)
【May】Takikawa Canola Flower Festival
Held annually in spring, the "Takikawa Canola Flower Festival" showcases breathtaking fields of bright yellow canola flowers, making it one of Hokkaido's most iconic spring events. A viewing platform at the center of the field offers a panoramic view that looks like an endless yellow carpet stretching into the horizon. During the festival, visitors can also enjoy local specialty dishes, live music performances by local artists, and fun activities for children.
Address: 11-13-3 Ebetsu-cho Higashi, Takikawa, Hokkaido
- Access: About a 20-minute shuttle bus ride from JR Takikawa Station
- Typical Festival Period: Mid-May (2024 Dates: May 18 - 26)
【April-May】Jozankei Onsen Town Koinobori Stream
Located in Sapporo's Minami Ward, Jozankei Onsen Town hosts the "Koinobori Stream" event every spring. During this festival, approximately 400 colorful carp streamers are strung across the Toyohira River, creating a mesmerizing sight as they flutter in the wind. These koinobori streamers are donated by residents from all over Hokkaido. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank and capture stunning photos with the vibrant streamers as a backdrop, experiencing the refreshing essence of spring.
- Access: About a 1-hour direct ride on the Jotetsu Bus "Kappa Liner" from JR Sapporo Station
- Typical Festival Period: Early April to Mid-May
- 2025 Event Dates: Thursday, April 10 - Sunday, May 11, 2025
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【May】Higashimokoto Shibazakura Festival
Located in Ozora Town, Hokkaido, "Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park" hosts the Shibazakura Festival every spring. The vast carpet of pink moss phlox covering the entire area is breathtaking, enchanting visitors with its beauty. As you stroll through the expansive park, you can take in the delightful scent and stunning scenery of the shibazakura. During the festival, local specialty products are available for purchase, and live performances are held, allowing visitors to experience the region's culture while enjoying a fun and relaxing time.
Access: From JR Abashiri Station, take a local bus to the Higashimokoto (in front of the bus company) stop, then take a taxi for about 6 minutes.
- A free shuttle service is available during the shibazakura blooming season. 👉 More details here
- Address: 393 Suehiro, Higashimokoto, Ozora Town, Abashiri District, Hokkaido
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Typical Blooming Period: Early to late May (In 2024, from May 3 to May 31)
【May】Rusutsu Resort GW Special Fireworks Festival
Located in Rusutsu Village, close to Niseko, "Rusutsu Resort" hosts the "Rusutsu Resort GW Special Fireworks Festival" during Golden Week. This grand event features approximately 1,200 fireworks per night, lighting up the night sky with dazzling colors that shine even brighter in Hokkaido’s crisp, clear air. The resort also offers various attractions, including the "Rusutsu Resort Amusement Park," making it a great place to spend the entire day with family and friends.
Access: From JR Sapporo Station, take a direct bus (Rusutsu-go) for about 2 hours.
- Address: 13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu Village, Abuta District, Hokkaido
- Event Time: 7:45 PM - 7:55 PM
- Typical Event Period: Golden Week (In 2024, April 27-28 and May 3-5)
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