Since 2002, Sapporo Has Welcomed a German Christmas Market!

Sapporo’s German Christmas Market has been part of the city since 2002, when Sapporo marked 30 years of sister-city ties with Munich. For about a month, stalls at Odori Park offer Christmas items, German food and hot wine. That’s a lot of festive browsing to fit in—what catches your eye first? 🎁

The commemorative mug gets a fresh design every year, so take a look before choosing your keepsake. Food stalls have nearby tents with seats, a handy place to pause and eat while staying sheltered from the snow ☕

If you’ve only got time for one thing, make it a stroll through the stalls and a stop for the year’s mug. The market also has satellite venues at Sapporo Television Tower, the underground walking area in front of Sapporo Station and Sapporo Factory.

Outdoor concerts and indoor workshops add more ways to spend time around the market, and Santa Claus may even hand out a gift if you’re lucky 🎶 The Sapporo White Illumination also begins at Odori Park during the market’s run, bringing another set of lights to the same park.

Check which activities suit your plans before setting off, and leave room to browse between them. The market’s German food and Christmas goods are an easy place to start, while a workshop or concert can shape the rest of your visit 🙂

Make Odori Park your first stop, then check out the satellite venues if you’re keen to keep exploring. And keep an eye out for Santa as you go!