What is the Sairinka Festival?
The "Sairinka Festival," held every winter in the Tokachigawa Onsen area of Hokkaido, is a magical event where light and sound blend across a vast snowfield to create an enchanting atmosphere.
On frigid nights, hundreds of illuminated objects shine in time with music, inviting visitors into a dreamlike world.
Even in Hokkaido's severe winters, Tokachi often has many clear days, and the snowfields are beautifully lit under a crisp night sky.
The Sairinka Festival is the perfect place to enjoy such a fantastical landscape.
Highlights of the Sairinka Festival
1. A fantastical world created by about 600 illuminated objects
About 600 LED lamps installed on the snowfield light up in sync with music, putting on a colorful light show.
The lights change with the rhythm, creating a scene as magical as an aurora over the snow.
2. Beautiful natural phenomena unique to extreme cold
Winters in Tokachi can see temperatures drop close to -20°C.
Because of this cold, you can sometimes witness mysterious natural phenomena such as diamond dust and rime ice.
If you're lucky, you may see these beautiful sights at the Sairinka Festival site.
3. Snow activities you can enjoy
The festival site offers a variety of snow activities suitable for both children and adults.
You can try snowmobile experiences and mini snow rafting—winter activities unique to Hokkaido.
4. Warm drinks and Hokkaido gourmet food
There are food stalls at the venue serving hot cocoa and warm dishes made with local specialties.
Especially popular are "jaga-butter" (buttered local Tokachi potatoes) and hot, fluffy croquettes.
Warm up while enjoying the tastes of winter.
5. Synchronized illumination and music shows
Every night at set times, a special show synchronized with music and light takes place.
The enchanting melodies drifting across the silent snowfield and the lights changing in time with them create a truly dreamlike world.
The romantic atmosphere makes this a popular spot for dates.
Event Information
- Event period: Late January to mid-February
- Hours: 19:00–21:00 (last entry 20:30)
- Venue: Tokachigaoka Park (Tokachigawa Onsen Kita 14-chome, Otofuke Town, Kato District, Hokkaido)
- Admission:
- 500 yen per person for junior high school students and older
- Free for guests staying at accommodations affiliated with the Tokachigawa Onsen Tourism Association and for elementary school children and younger
- Access:
- About 30 minutes by car from JR Obihiro Station
- Some accommodations operate their own shuttle buses. Please check each facility or the official website for the latest information.
- Parking available (free)
Useful information for travelers
1. What to bring and what to wear
Winters in Tokachi are extremely cold, and nighttime temperatures can drop below -10°C.
Make sure you are well prepared for the cold.
We especially recommend bringing the following items:
- Down jacket or ski wear
- Warm gloves, scarf, and knit hat
- Thermal innerwear such as Heattech
- Non-slip insulated boots
2. Nearby sightseeing spots
1. Tokachigawa Onsen: After the Sairinka Festival, it's recommended to warm up at Tokachigawa Onsen.
Its rare "moss" (moor) hot spring water is said to have skin-beautifying effects.
2. Kōfuku Station: A popular sightseeing spot because the name "Kōfuku" (happiness) is considered auspicious.
The photogenic station building is perfect for souvenir photos.
3. Obihiro specialty: Butadon (pork rice bowl): One of Hokkaido's famous dishes, featuring pork soaked in a sweet and savory sauce.
There are many well-known butadon restaurants in Obihiro city.
Summary
The Sairinka Festival is a special winter event where Tokachi's great outdoors and light come together.
Colorful lights illuminate the snowfields, creating a fantastical world.
Be sure to dress warmly and experience this beautiful winter night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
A: No advance reservation is required, but weekends can be crowded, so we recommend arriving early.
Q: Is the event held in rain or snow?
A: Yes, the festival is held in light snow or cloudy conditions. However, it may be canceled in severe weather, so please check the official website for the latest information.
Q: Can I eat at the venue?
A: Yes, there are food stalls serving local specialties. Hot drinks and warm food are available.
Q: What time is best to go?
A: Right after the 19:00 opening is relatively quiet and good for photos, but the light-and-music show starts around 20:00, so the time around 20:00 is the best.
The Sairinka Festival is a chance to fully enjoy the charms of Hokkaido's winter. Visit to experience the magical lights and snowy world!
