Timed to coincide with Sapporo’s giant winter festival, Otaru’s Light Snow Path (otaruyukiakarinomichi—the awkward name is a direct translation) event is on a much more intimate scale.

The streets and canals of this seaside city to the northwest of Sapporo will be illuminated by candlelit snow lanterns.

Otaru can be reached via Japan Rail from Sapporo Station in 32 minutes.