Written by Alexandra Ziminski
For a magical Christmas event that all the family can enjoy, head over to Hakodate Christmas Fantasy.
What happens?
The star of the show is a giant Christmas tree floating on the water of Hakodate’s harbor, right in front of the red-brick warehouses. The 2026 edition runs every day from Tuesday, December 1 to Friday, December 25.
In previous years, the tree was lit from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. and again from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and we expect the same this year — the organizers haven’t published the 2026 times yet.
In previous years, a premium red tree also lit up for 15 minutes, three times a night, at 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 8:30 p.m., and we expect the same this year.
Fireworks are planned every day at 6 p.m., when the main tree is lit, as long as the weather and wind allow.
In 2025, a soup bar along the main street served hearty Hokkaido-style soups for ¥700 a cup from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. — 2026 details haven’t been announced yet.
How to get there
For those already in the area, it is recommended that you use public transport such as the tram or bus, as parking nearby is limited. The venue is about a 5-minute walk from Jujigai tram stop, or a 2-minute walk from the Meijikan-mae bus stop.
If you are coming from Tokyo, the best and cheapest way to get to Hakodate is by plane. However, if you have a JR pass, you could consider taking the Hokkaidō Shinkansen.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
