HOKKAIDO SUMMER ESCAPADES
If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido this summer, or just looking for some fun ways to enjoy the season locally, there’s no shortage of exciting events happening across the region. From epic bike races to riverside festivals and fireworks under the stars, here are some of the highlights to check out in summer 2025.
Niseko Classic 2025
June 12–15 | Niseko, Hokkaido
Cycling fans, this one’s for you. The Niseko Classic is back from June 13 to 15, and it’s more than just a race — it’s a full-blown celebration of Niseko’s natural beauty and cycling culture. This year’s event also serves as a warm-up for the 2026 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, which will be held right here in Niseko next year.
Expect stunning mountain roads, coastal views, and lush forests along the course. There’s something for everyone, from serious racers to casual riders who just want to take in the scenery.
Events include:
- Road Race
- Time Trial
- Japan’s first-ever Team Relay
- A Fun Ride that welcomes all levels
Registration opens: February 21, 2025
Details at: nisekoclassic.com
Niseko Jazz Festival
July 18-20 | Niseko, Hokkaido
A true summer highlight, the Niseko Jazz Festival showcases top-tier talent from Japan and around the world. Set against the majestic mountain backdrop, this years event will feature unforgettable performances by Keiko Lee, Orquesta De La Luz, Andrea Motis, and more.
Enjoy world-class live jazz, delectable local cuisine, and an electric atmosphere—an ideal way to unwind, move to the music, and embrace the laid-back summer spirit of Niseko.
Event includes:
- 3 days of live music featuring 12 incredible acts and over 50 talented musicians
- Local food and drink stalls
Details and tickets available at: www.nisekojazzfestival.com.
Rankoshi Seseragi Festival
July 20 | Rankoshi Town, Hokkaido
If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, the Rankoshi Seseragi Festival is a great way to spend a summer day. Set along the beautiful Shiribetsu River (known as one of Japan’s cleanest), this festival blends outdoor fun, cultural performances, and plenty of good food.
What’s happening:
- Try stand-up paddleboarding or rafting on the river
- Enjoy live taiko drumming and traditional kagura dancing
- Listen to live music performances
- Explore local food stalls
Location: Lanlan Park, Rankoshi
Access: 7-minute walk from JR Rankoshi Station
Parking: Available for around 300 cars, plus bike parking
This family-friendly festival has a little something for everyone.
Image Source: Rankoshi Tourism
Kutchan Jaga Matsuri (Potato Festival)
Early August | Kutchan, Hokkaido
Potatoes might sound like a quirky thing to celebrate, but in Kutchan, they take it seriously — and it’s a lot of fun. The Jaga Matsuri is one of the liveliest festivals of the summer, with two days of parades, performances, games, and all things potato.
Festival highlights:
- Colorful parades and the “Jaga Odori” group dance
- Potato-themed contests (like peeling and rolling)
- Kids’ activities such as jumping castles and climbing walls
- Fireworks on Sunday night
- The Hanazono Hill Climb, a scenic uphill cycling race
It’s a high-energy event with great food and a true community vibe.
Niseko Tanabata Fireworks Festival
August 2 | Niseko Town Sports Park
Cap off your summer with a magical night at the Tanabata Fireworks Festival. Held every year in early August, it’s one of Niseko’s most loved summer events. There’s something special about watching fireworks surrounded by mountains and summer air.
What to expect:
- Local food stalls and games from 2 PM
- Hand-held fireworks and kids’ activities
- Around 1,500 fireworks lighting up the sky
- Experience traditional Tanabata stories and Japanese summer customs
Location: Niseko Town Sports Park
Entry: Free
Access: Easily reachable by public transport (parking fills up quickly)
The 44th Lake Toyako Long Run Fireworks Display
April 28 – October 31, 2025 | Toyako Onsen, Hokkaido
Nothing says summer quite like fireworks, and Toyako offers a show that lasts all season. From late April to the end of October, visitors can enjoy a stunning 20-minute display every night from 8:45 PM to 9:05 PM.
The fireworks are launched from a boat that slowly cruises across Lake Toya, offering ever-changing views from all around the lake. You can even board a night cruise to enjoy the show from the water.
Admission: Free
Note: The show runs rain or shine (except in strong wind)
Otaru Ushio Festival
July 26–28, 2024 | Around Otaru Port No. 3 Wharf
Otaru’s most important summer event, the Ushio Festival, celebrates the city’s gratitude to the sea. Held for over 50 years, the festival welcomes over a million visitors annually.
Festival highlights:
- Opening and closing fireworks displays over the ocean
- Ushio Nerikomi, a massive dance parade featuring nearly 10,000 participants
Address: 港町, Otaru, Hokkaido
Admission: Free
Parking: None available
YOSAKOI Soran Festival
June 4–8, 2025 | Sapporo, Hokkaido
This vibrant festival blends traditional folk music with modern dance, bringing together around 270 dance teams from across Japan and abroad.
Festival highlights:
- Opening ceremony at Odori Park
- Team performances at about 20 venues
- Soran Night (special performances by past champions)
- Kita No Food Park offering Hokkaido delicacies
Main venue: Odori Park
Access: 5-minute walk from Odori Subway Station
Admission: Free, with some ticketed premium viewing areas
More info: yosakoi-soran.jp
Image Source: Yosakoi Soran Webiste.
Sapporo Beer Festival (Fukushi-kyosan Sapporo Odori Beer Garden)
July 18 – August 16, 2025 | Odori Park, Sapporo
This massive beer garden features about 13,000 seats across a 1-kilometer stretch from Odori-nishi 5-chome to 11-chome.
Festival highlights:
- Beers from Japan’s four major breweries, plus craft and international options
- German Village section
- Food pairings featuring local Hokkaido specialties
- Open-air and shaded seating options, with some reservable areas
Admission: Free (vouchers required for food/drinks)
Access: Located near Odori Subway Station
More info: sapporo.travel/summerfes
RISING SUN ROCK FESTIVAL 2025 in EZO
August 15–16, 2025 | Ishikari Bay New Port, Hokkaido
This iconic outdoor rock festival features all-night performances and a sunrise finale.
Event details:
- August 15: Gates open at 10:00 AM, music from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- August 16: Music continues overnight until 5:00 AM on August 17
- On-site camping available
- Rain or shine
2025 lineup includes:
Shiina Ringo, Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, 10-FEET, SUPER BEAVER, Porno Graffitti, and more.
Tickets:
- 2-Day Pass: ¥31,000
- 1-Day Pass: ¥15,000–¥20,000
- Tent site and parking pass options available
- Children under elementary school age: Free (with guardian)
- No pets allowed
More info and tickets: rsr.wess.co.jp
TOYAKO Manga Anime Festa 2025
June 28–29, 2025 | Toyako Onsen, Hokkaido
For two days, Toyako becomes a dream destination for anime and manga fans, with thousands of cosplayers and enthusiasts bringing the streets to life.
Event highlights:
- Cosplay throughout the town
- Itasha Car Display (anime-decorated cars)
- Doujinshi Market (self-published manga and fan goods)
- Voice Actor Talk Shows
- Evening fireworks show
Admission: Free
Cosplayer Perks: ¥1,500 pamphlet includes access to changing rooms and shuttle service
Access: 20-minute bus ride from JR Toya Station.
Whether you’re into sports, culture, food, or just want to spend more time outdoors, Hokkaido’s summer festivals offer something worth exploring. Pack a picnic blanket, bring some sunscreen, and make the most of this beautiful season.
