Hokkaido Girls Volleyball Team Requests Submissions For Official Mascot’s Name
29.January.2021 | SPOT
Artemis Hokkaido, an girls volleyball team for Hokkaido, has opened submissions for its official mascot, a cute female Yezo sika deer with a bow and arrow, scarf, and tiara.
If you’ve got a name in mind for this adorable deer, then submit to the team at the link below! The deadline is February 20, 2021.
Information
Submission Deadline: February 20, 2021
Submit here
Name Announcements: February 27, 2021 on the team’s official website
*Please note that there is no prize for winning submissions
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Snow Miku Collaborates with Sanrio’s Kuromi to Promote Hokkaido Tourism
21.December.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Snow Miku has teamed up with Sanrio’s popular character Kuromi to promote the beautiful prefecture of Hokkaido! A new collection of goods went on sale starting December 14, 2022.
Goods
Clear Folder
Pen with Clip
Mini Sign Board
Mini Towel (Set of 2)
Pin
Framed Magnet with Stand
Sticker
T-Shirt
Tapestry
Acrylic Stand
Acrylic Keychain
Rubber Keychain
Silver Foil 2-Layer Magnet
Snow Miku debuted during the Sapporo Snow Festival in 2010 when an incredible snow sculpture of Hatsune Miku was unveiled. Ever since then, Snow Miku festivals have popped up in Hokkaido each winter, and the character dons costumes designed by popular internet creators.
Kuromi is back this year, with Miku’s outfit dyed black and tons of adorable art featuring the rock ‘n roll character. The life-size version of Miku was designed by illustrator PiPi, and the chibi character was designed by illustrator Yoi. Between Miku’s cute idol energy and Kuromi’s edginess, this is the perfect collab for all audiences!
The items are available in two versions: Day, featuring Hokkaido’s beautiful landscapes covered in snow, and Night, featuring twinkling winter lights.
Don’t miss out on these exclusive items!
Information
Hokkaido Exclusive – Snow Miku x Kuromi Hokkaido
Available: December 14, 2022
Official Site: https://snowmiku.com/
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Hirosaki and Hakodate to Begin Winter Tourism Campaign with Snow Miku Starting December 2022
26.November.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
The cities of Hirosaki and Hakodate in Hokkaido have announced that they will team up with Hatsune Miku’s popular iteration Snow Miku to promote tourism in the area this winter. A number of activities will begin in December 2022.
[Snow Miku x Hirohako] Collaboration Project
■Hirohako Winter Tourism Campaign Poster Featuring Snow Miku
・Period: Mid-November~February 28, 2023
・Locations: Facilities in both cities, tourist facilities, hotels, shopping areas
■Snow Miku Illustration Contest Exhibition Event
Over 50 illustrations have been submitted under the theme of Snow Miku and Hakodate / Snow Miku and Hirosaki. These will be on display through the winter!
・Running: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Venues: Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center (Hirosaki)
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse (Hakodate)■Snow Miku Photo Spot
Snow Miku panels featuring shamisen and apples from Hirosaki will be on display, while the Hakodate version will include references to squid fishing and footbaths.
・On Display: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Locations: JR Hirosaki Station, Chuohirosaki Station (Hirosaki)
JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate Airport (Hakodate)■Digital Stamp Rally Using the Mikunavi App
A number of panels will be installed at five checkpoints in Hirosaki and Hakodate. A total of 1,000 people–500 in each city–will win original merch including a Snow Miku mask case and decorated masking tape. All you need to do is check in!
・Available: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Locations: (Hirosaki) Hirosaki Municipal Tourist Center, Hirosaki City Machinaka Information Center,
Hirosaki Tourist Information Center, Hirosaki Castle Information Center, Tsugaru-han Neputa Village
(Hakodate) Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, Yunokawa Hot Spring Footbath, Goryōkaku Tower,
Hakodate Green Plaza C Block (Hakodate Lumi-Pop), Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward
■Hirohako Winter Tourism Campaign Theme Song and Music Video
The tourism theme song will get a new music video that will be broadcast on YouTube, at local tourist facilities, and on TV and radio!
・On Air: December 1, 2022~
・Theme Song: Mahou no Keshiki (Lyrics/Composition: ryuryu)
■Snow Miku Welcome Announcements to be Broadcast at Tourism Facilities, etc.
A one-minute welcome announcement by Snow Miku will air at tourist facilities!
・Running: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
・Locations: Tourist areas in both cities
■Snow Miku Filters Using AR
When each barcode is scanned with a smartphone, Snow Miku will appear on the screen! Visitors can take pictures with Snow Miku to commemorate their winter trip to Hirosaki and Hakodate.
・Available: December 1, 2022 – February 28, 2022
Information
Hirosaki x Hakodate x Snow Miku Tourism Campaign
Beginning December 2022
Details: https://www.hirosaki-kanko.or.jp/edit.html?id=hirohako
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60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii to Open at Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art in February 2023
The word ‘kawaii’ is now commonly used around the world. Sanrio is largely to thank for this, and the beloved company has announced that the 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition will open at the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art from February 11 until April 2, 2023. Advance tickets will include a discount and will be available until November 14 online.
“Sanrio celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2020, and the company continues to share Japan’s character culture with fans around the world,” Sanrio said in a comment. “Kawaii is now a universal language, and this is very much thanks to the over 450 characters that are part of Sanrio’s history, from Hello Kitty to My Melody.
This exhibition traces the history of Sanrio and guests can enjoy seeing rare materials including merchandise, publications, and early designs from the company’s founding. We want to continue to grow and develop our characters while valuing communication with our fans, ensuring that our adorable characters are loved by generations to come.”
The Sanrio exhibition is something that generations of fans can enjoy, so come immerse yourself in this kawaii world! For more details, visit the official website.
Information
60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii
Running: February 11 – April 2, 2023
Hours: 9:30 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
Venue: Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art (17-chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)
Official Site: https://stv.jp/event/sanrio
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Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022 Announces Second Round of Performers, Additional Details
New performers and events have been announced ahead of the start of Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022 in Tomakomai, Hokkaido on September 17 and 18. The event will be held in one of the most gorgeous towns on the island and excitement is building!
The purpose of this event is to promote the appeal of the Tomakomai region, not only to those living in Japan but to those living abroad. In addition to music, the event will also feature art, food, technology, and more content that can be enjoyed by kids, families, and people of all ages and genders.
Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall
Incredible live performances will be held in a futuristic setting. Along with Awesome City Club, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and Little Glee Monster, guests can look forward to seeing HY, Wednesday Campanella, Taichi Mukai, and Atarashii Gakko!
Tomakomai Civic Hall, Parking Lot
DJ performances and food trucks will welcome guests to the futuristic area, and the illuminations are sure to impress!
Kirakira Park
An AR system accessible by smartphone will allow guests to take pictures of the Tomakomai Mirai Fest logo for a surprise. During the daytime, a food truck area will provide visitors with different types of gourmet offerings and a stage will showcase local dancers and musicians from Tomakomai. A family-friendly picnic area will allow guests to relax and enjoy good food and live music.
At night, in addition to impressive illuminations and a live stage showcasing Hokkaido’s best talent, an island bar will amplify the mood.
O-machi/Nishiki-machi
During the daytime, a gourmet area will feature Tomakomai’s famous curry ramen, local craft beer, craft spices, and more. At night, visitors can enjoy restaurants in the O-machi and Nishiki-machi areas while still enjoying the vibe of the event.
And More!
A stamp rally will be held during the event, and guests finding stamps at each location will be eligible to win fantastic prizes. A bus service is also planned.
More performers and details will be announced soon, so stay tuned!
Information
Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022
Dates: September 17 and 18, 2022
Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall (Admission Fee Required)
September 17 / Doors Open 16:30, Event Starts 17:30
September 18 / Doors Open 14:30, Event Starts 15:30
Tomakomai Civic Hall, Parking Lot / Kirakira Park / O-machi, Nishiki-machi (Free Entry)
September 17: Open at 12:00
September 18: Open at 11:00
*May be earlier or later depending on the venue. Detailed event times will be announced at a later date.
Locations: Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall / Parking Lot / Kirakira Park / Around Omachi, Nishikimachi
Ticket Agency: Ticket Pia
[1-day or 2-day Tickets Available]
Official 2nd Advance Ticket Lottery: July 28, 12:00 – August 7, 23:59https://w.pia.jp/t/tomakomaimiraifest22/
Official Site: http://miraifest-tomakomai.jp/
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Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022 to be Held in September
On September 17 and September 18, the Tomakomai Urban Renewal Project Committee will hold Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022, inviting guests to celebrate the area around Tomakomai in Hokkaido.
The purpose of this event is to promote the appeal of the Tomakomai region, not only to those living in Japan but to those living abroad. In addition to music, the event will also feature art, food, technology, and more content that can be enjoyed by kids, families, and people of all ages and genders.
The main venue of the event will be the Tomakomai Civic Hall. Musical acts announced so far include Awesome City Club, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and Little Glee Monster.
In the Tomakomai Civic Hall parking lot and the nearby Kirakira Park, guests can enjoy free DJ performances, mini-concerts, art and technology installations, food trucks, picnic areas, and more. In addition, the Nishikimachi and Omachi areas will be decorated with digital art, and food and beverages will be available.
Advanced 2-Day tickets are available now on Ticket Pia by lottery. More performers and additional content will be announced soon, so keep an eye on social media and the official website.
Information
Tomakomai Mirai Fest 2022
Dates: September 17 and 18, 2022
Venue: Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall
Hours:
September 17 / Doors Open 16:30, Event Starts 17:30
September 18 / Doors Open 14:30, Event Starts 15:30
*More detailed event times and locations will be announced at a later date.
Locations: Tomakomai Civic Hall, Large Hall / Parking Lot / Kirakira Park / Around Omachi, NishikimachiTickets: https://w.pia.jp/t/tomakomaimiraifest22/
Official Site: http://miraifest-tomakomai.jp/
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Hokkaido Information Base the Lodge to Open in 2023, Invites Guests to Learn More about the Area’s Unique Attractions
20.June.2022 | SPOT
Hokkaido Ballpark F Village, a commercial space coming in 2023 and located on the south side of ES CON Field Hokkaido, will feature a unique attraction. Visitors to Hokkaido won’t want to miss checking out THE LODGE, an information center focusing on unique experiences and attractions that can only be found on Japan’s northernmost island.
THE LODGE will be located in the center of F Village, connecting the ES CON Field to the waterfront area. Guests will be able to get valuable tips about local attractions and one-of-a-kind experiences.
In addition to a showroom where visitors can discover the charms of neighboring areas, the building will also serve as a tourism hub where tenants can enjoy outdoor activities and workshops. The location hopes to create a larger sense of community, and guests are encouraged to learn more about each unique and distinct area of Hokkaido.
Materials unique to Hokkaido (Hokkaido larch, local cedar wood, Ebetsu bricks) were used to create the space, and the roof was made to reflect the local mountain range. The creators are excited to welcome guests to this warm and inviting space next year!
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NAKED’s Popular Night Walk Returns to Illuminate Jozankei Onsen in Hokkaido
30.May.2022 | SPOT
The JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE -WATER LIGHT VALLEY- event is coming back in 2022! The event, which shows off the natural beauty of Jozankei’s rivers, valleys, and forests, from June to October. Guests can enjoy an illuminated walk along the Toyohira River in the Jozankei area of Hokkaido and wander across the picturesque Futami Suspension Bridge.
This year, the park area at the entrance to the event has been redesigned with new lights. A 2.5-meter-high blue dome will welcome guests with an image of water, and the trees and wisteria trellises will be decorated with twinkling golden lights.
Welcome Light Lake *Image from 2021
River Road
Forest Water Ripple
Nature Projection
Futami Valley
Visitors will encounter a variety of unique light art as they stroll through the rich nature of Jozankei guided by the elusive kappa, known to be the guardian Gods of the region. As visitors approach, the river begins to glow while flowers bloom in this interactive art experience. By using projection mapping across the Futami Suspension Bridge and an all-encompassing light show within the canyon, the event hopes to remind visitors that nature is important and worth preserving.
How would you like to spend your summer deep in the illuminated nature of Hokkaido?
Information
JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE – WATER LIGHT VALLEY
Address: Jozankei Futami Park – Futami Suspension Bridge
(Jozankei Onsen Nishi 4-chome, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)Running: June 1 – October 23, 2022
Hours:
June – August: 19:00-21:00
September – October: 18:00-21:00
*Tickets available for guests of Jozankei Onsen only
Official Site: https://jozankei.jp/jozankei-nature-luminarie -
Rilakkuma 20th Anniversary Tour to Visit Hokkaido
Everyone’s favorite lazy bear Rilakkuma is turning 20! To commemorate this big event, Sanrio is holding a special tour that will travel around Japan. From July 13 until August 31, events will pop up in three cities in Hokkaido–Sapporo, Obihiro, and Hakodate.
Merchandise
Rilakkuma & Todok Collaboration Cotton Gloves
The environmentally-friendly event will offer locally designed products made from recycled materials. A special Hokkaido Ocean Cleanup will also be held with a group in Sapporo, and those participating in the event will receive a limited edition pair of cotton gloves.
Prior to the start of the event, the official Twitter account of the Rilakkuma tour (@rk_ensembletour) is running a limited-time campaign until May 29. 10 lucky people will win a magnet sticker not available for sale! To enter, just follow the account and retweet the tagged Tweet.Information
Anniversary Tour ~Let’s Share the Leisurely SDGs Together~
Sapporo Venue
Running: July 13 – July 25, 2022
Venue: Daimaru Sapporo 7F
Address: 4-Chome-7, Kita 5-Jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
Obihiro Venue
Running: July 29 – August 9, 2022
Venue: FUJIMARU 6F Event Space
Address: 8-Chome-1 Nishi 2 Jominami, Obihiro
Hakodate VenueRunning: August 13 – August 31, 2022
Venue: Kanemori Yobutsu Red Brick Warehouse Event Space
Address: 14-12 Suehirocho, Hakodate
Contact/Details:Cut-off Date: June 5, 2022
https://mybottle-eco.com/action/cleanup/Hokkaido Ocean Cleanup
Date: June 15, June 18 / 10:00-11:00 (Reception open at 9:30~)
Location: 51 seashores around HokkaidoParticipation Fee: Free
Event: https://www.san-x.co.jp/rilakkuma/ensembletour/
Hokkaido Special Site: https://www.san-x.co.jp/rilakkuma/ensembletour/hokkaido.html -
Extensive Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Exhibition to Open at Sapporo Factory in Hokkaido
15.May.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
An exhibition focusing on the Mugen Train and Entertainment District Arcs of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba will open at Sapporo Factory in Hokkaido from July 15 until August 7, 2022.
Fans of the series won’t want to miss this huge showing of Demon Slayer materials, including a video exhibit showing off some of the best fight scenes from the film and anime series on a massive screen.
Stay tuned for more details!
©吾峠呼世晴/集英社・アニプレックス・ufotable
Information
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Train Arc / Entertainment District Arc
Running: July 15 – August 7, 2022
Hours: 10:00-19:30 *Closing at 17:00 on August 7
*Admission permitted until one hour before closing time.Venue: Sapporo Factory 3-jo 3F
Official Site: http://www.stv.jp/
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Booking.com Reveals 4 Best Lodgings with Outdoor Baths for Snow Viewing
16.March.2022 | SPOT
Booking.com Japan has revealed its top four picks for the Japanese accommodations with the best outdoor baths and snow views!
Zao Kokusai Hotel (Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture)
Located 900 meters above sea level and surrounded by the gorgeous natural beauty of the Zao mountains, this resort has long been renowned for its spectacular view of seasonal scenery. During winter, guests can enjoy a fully spring-fed open-air bath while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. The milky white waters of the Zao Hot Springs have high sulfur content which will improve the texture of your skin. The resort also has a bath large enough to accommodate up to seven people at a time and a private bath for families or lovers.
Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa (Date, Hokkaido)
The Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa is surrounded by nature and contains one of the largest open-air baths in Japan, along with 20 unique fragrant baths for guests to enjoy. In winter, the surrounding trees seem to glisten with snow, and visitors are sure to find plenty of peace and relaxation while lounging beneath the grey skies.
Akakura Kanko Hotel (Myoko, Niigata Prefecture)
This highland resort sits on a 1,000-meter peak, offering unmatched views of Niigata Prefecture. The natural hot spring flows from the inside of Mt. Myoko, with healing waters perfect for soaking in during the cold winter months. The large baths are also equipped with a sauna and deck, and those wanting to view the scenery from their room can enjoy guest accommodations with private baths as well!
Satoyama Jujo (Minamiuonuma, Niigata Prefecture)
Winning a design award for its facilities, Satoyama Jujo has a different feel when compared to most hotels and ryokan. Booking.com recommends it for travelers looking for new experiences! In the open-air bath, visitors can relax while enjoying a panoramic view of Mt. Makihata, one of Japan’s 100 most famous peaks. Guests can also enjoy the starry skies at night. This is a perfect location for couples!
Each season in Japan offers uniquely beautiful scenery. How would you like to enjoy winter in one of these luxurious baths?
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Three Japanese Tourism Instagram Accounts to Follow for Travel Inspiration
07.March.2022 | SPOT
The pandemic has changed our lives forever. People have spent the last two years missing travel as they spend more and more time at home, and while many are ready to travel again, it can be difficult to know if it’s the right time to return to normalcy. To make the situation a little easier, many local tourism associations in Japan are posting images on Instagram to inspire people to give traveling another try. These three Instagram accounts are our personal favorites, and once Japan opens to tourists again, you won’t want to miss visiting these areas!
[Official Kumamoto Tourism Association] Motto, motto, Kumamoto!
Discover the charms of Kumamoto on this local Instagram account featuring photos from four unique local photographers. Many will know the area as the home of the character Kumamon. The images capture the daily lives of Kumamoto residents and include local food and gorgeous scenery. The postings also include the location of the photo and comments from the photographers, making things feel more personal.
[Official Hokkaido Tourism Association] GoodDay Hokkaido
Hokkaido is an area rich in gourmet seafood and dairy, but its spectacular landscapes are reason enough to visit. GoodDay Hokkaido shows off both the common and uncommon elements of Hokkaido life, often introducing little-known areas. Each photo is vividly colored, and followers can see different seasons at every time of day as they scroll through the feed. See the best images from Japan’s northernmost island each and every day on your smartphone!
[Ome / Okutama] Umetama
Umetama is an account that introduces places of interest in Ome and Okutama, two of Tokyo’s most scenic towns. Each can be reached in about an hour by train from Shinjuku Station. Visitors can enjoy a gorgeous day trip from the Tokyo center, with the area featuring plenty of campsites and hiking trails. There are tons of stargazing spots, and visitors are often surprised that such incredible nature is so close to Japan’s hectic capital. Those with kids will find plenty to do here, so start taking notes while you scroll through the Umetama page!
More and more young people are finding the appeal of Ome and Okutama, and the area has become the perfect relaxation spot for those seeking refuge from their busy lives. In addition, the craft beer bar Ome Beer, located near Ome Station, sells local alcohol, including Okutama’s popular craft beer ‘Vertere.’ See the lesser-known side of Tokyo on this picturesque account.
Remember how wonderful it is to travel? Hopefully, Japan opens for tourism again soon, and you can visit all of these gorgeous locales.
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Hotel Made Entirely of Ice Opens in Tomamu, Hokkaido
19.January.2022 | SPOT
Hoshino Resort Tomamu, one of the largest stay-and-go snow resorts in Hokkaido, will open a hotel made entirely of ice from January 20 until February 28, 2022. The ceiling, walls, and furniture will all be made of ice, and guests can also enjoy an outdoor ice bath! In addition, a new Ice Dinner will be on offer, where visitors can enjoy a beautiful table surrounded by ice overlooking a forest of white birches while staring up at the starry winter sky.
The seamless dome-shaped ice structure is about 8.5 meters in diameter and 3.5 meters high. Sleeping bags will be provided to guests to keep them warm and comfortable until morning.
Visitors can enjoy a hot spring in the open winter air in Shimukappu Village’s Scan Portopia Yunosawa Onsen.
The aforementioned Ice Dinner features three ice-themed dishes and welcomes guests to sit at a table made entirely of ice surrounded by majestic nature.
The appetizer includes iced vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and cauliflower. Each is dipped in a warm garlic sauce, balancing the sweetness of the veggies, which become more sugary when cold.
The main course, Iceberg Bouillabaisse, is covered with ice. This begins to melt as the soup pot is slowly heated in front of the guests, revealing gorgeous seafood like cod and shrimp. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds!
The frozen fruit dessert mixes strawberries and kiwis with hot wine and a touch of cinnamon. Sweet and sour flavors come together to end the night on a high note.
Information
Ice Hotel
Running: January 20 – February 28, 2022
Price: ¥28,000 per person, per night (Includes tax, service charge)
Check-in: 21:40-22:00 / Check-out: 8:00
Capacity: 1 group per day (Minimum 1 guest, maximum 2 guests)
Eligibility: Must be elementary school age or older and staying at Tomamu The Tower or Hoshino Resort RISONARE Tomamu
Reservations: https://www.snowtomamu.jp/summer/
*Must be made at least 1 week in advance.
Official Site:https://www.snowtomamu.jp