Every season in Hokkaido brings a new wave of flavours, and there’s no better place to savour these gourmet creations than its food festivals. With a charming aura and delightful company, the experience draws you in and takes you beyond just delicious food; it immerses you in its rich culture and history. Stick with us as we go through each season and its best food festival.
Spring
As the cherry blossoms start to bloom, so do the flavours of Hokkaido, ushering in a whole year of entertaining food festivals filled with culinary treasures at every corner.
Spring Crab Battle in Abashiri
This festival is in late May in Abashiri City at the Roadside Station Ryuhyo-Kaido Abashiri Special Venue.
As the drifting ice over the Sea of Okhotsk melts in April, Kegani (horsehair crabs) of the highest quality are caught during this period. Due to the nutritious plankton in the water, these crabs have red shells, a rich texture, a sweet flavour and a very creamy crab tomalley. They are either boiled, grilled, or sashimi. If you're a crab lover or have been wondering what they taste like, this event is perfect for you.
Summer
In summer, the sun shines radiantly, and it’s time for outdoor excitement and adventures—Hokkaido’s summer food festival fits this theme flawlessly.
Odaitou Shrimp Festival
This event is held in July in Betsukai Town, Odaitou Fishing Port Special site.
While the event's highlight is the famous Hokkai Shima Shrimp, the festival also serves other delicious seafood delights, including exquisitely prepared clams. Beyond the food, the event is filled with excitement, as different games are available, from the All Japan Hokkai Shimaebi dance and fast-eating competition to the lottery game, where participants race against the clock to grab as many shrimp and clams as possible.
Live music performances also add to the vibrant atmosphere. The shows captivate audiences and attract more people to the festival every year.
Autumn
Crimson leaves and perfect weather—fall in Japan is the perfect combination of natural beauty and mouthwatering food festivals.
Sapporo Autumn Festival
The Sapporo festival is held in September in Sapporo City at Odori Park. This event brings all the flavours of Hokkaido together! It is arguably one of the most famous, with over 2 million people attending yearly.
During the last three weeks of September, stalls filled with delicious crabs, delectable meat dishes, and tasty ramen line the streets to serve festival attendees the best meals possible. That’s not all! Bars are also set up for excited customers to try sake, local wine, and beers. Several roofed dining tents around the park allow everyone to savour their selected fare and drinks regardless of the weather. This is truly an unparalleled Hokkaido festival experience.
Winter
The landscape transforms into an icy wonderland, setting the stage for the irresistible wonders of Hokkaido’s winter food festival.
Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo
The Christmas spirit comes alive in Sapporo at the Christmas market, perfectly mirroring the charm of its sister city, Munich, Germany. The event takes place in November in Sapporo city at the Odori Park. Santa Claus appears in the market every year to elevate the Christmas vibes. Ho Ho Ho! Stalls sell classic Christmas dishes alongside other delicious German food, including German sausages.
Hokkaido: A Sensational Culinary Paradise
Hokkaido captivates hearts with its seasonal food festivals. One bite at a time, the bursts of flavours immerse you into the island’s fascinating culture. Enjoy fresh seafood, local wine, and sake prepared passionately by seasoned individuals eager to share their heritage. The events bring people together worldwide to experience not only its food but also a fragment of its soul.
