I happened to learn online that the Sapporo White Illumination is held in downtown Sapporo every Christmas season. Last year marked its 45th edition, so during my winter trip, I followed the map and visited several of the main venues.
Each venue featured works with a different theme. The dazzling lights decorated Sapporo's winter nights, and together with the blanket of white snow, they added even more of a northern charm. Despite the frigid air, the sparkling lights gave the whole city a sense of warmth and romance.
People walked along the streets in twos and threes. Undeterred by the cold wind and bundled up in thick coats, they stopped with friends and family to admire the beautiful scenery before them. Some quietly took in the atmosphere of the winter night, while others picked up their cameras and kept pressing the shutter, trying to preserve this rare and beautiful sight forever. I also spent an unforgettable Christmas here.
Sapporo White Illumination | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Dogo Park (Yuzuki Castle Ruins)
Covering approximately 8.6 hectares, Dogo Park is a spacious urban park developed on the nationally designated Yuzuki Castle Ruins. The entire park occupies the former site of a castle that stood from the early 14th to the late 16th century, and remnants such as earthen ramparts and moats can still be seen today. The site is protected as a National Historic Site under the name Yuzuki Castle Ruins. The park has an almost tortoiseshell-shaped layout about 350 meters in diameter, with a central hill rising roughly 30 meters. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views over the Matsuyama Plain, making it a popular scenic viewpoint.
Dogo Park is close to the Dogo Onsen shopping street. You can usually see many local residents walking and chatting here, giving it a relaxed atmosphere. We visited in early spring this time, before the cherry blossoms were in full bloom.
There are also many cute little shops around the park. That day, we casually stopped by Yukemuri Cafe to take a break and escape the heat. The cafe's seating area is on the second floor, and the interior has a retro style. Sitting by the window and looking through the gridded window frame, we could see the street and the hot spring district. As we enjoyed our food and quietly gazed outside, the fatigue that had built up during the trip seemed to slowly fade away. -
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IYOTETSU Tram
This tram system operates mainly in central Matsuyama City in Ehime and is operated by IYOTETSU. Its predecessor began operations in 1888, and it has developed into one of Japan’s longest-running urban transportation systems. Today’s tram system is centered on Matsuyama City Station and consists of six routes. Multiple lines support travel around the city, including a loop line that circles major downtown areas and routes heading toward Dogo Onsen.
When sightseeing in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, don't miss the retro Botchan Train. Full of Meiji-era charm, this train is famous because of Natsume Soseki's classic novel Botchan. It travels slowly around Dogo Onsen, Okaido, and Matsuyama City Station, accompanied by the gentle sound of its whistle, making you feel as though you've traveled back a hundred years. You're more likely to see it on weekends and holidays, and its retro design has also become a popular sight for locals and tourists eager to take photos〜
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Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi)
Cat Alley, or Neko no Hosomichi, is the 200-meter narrow road that stretches from Ushitora Shrine in Nagae, an area of Onomichi City (Hiroshima). The road was started in 1998 when artist Shunji Sonoyama painted the “fukuishineko” lucky stone cats found along the road.
Cat lovers should definitely take a stroll along Cat Alley and enjoy looking for cats along the way!
Most of the cats here are friendly and aren't camera-shy, but remember to tread lightly, keep your voice down, and avoid sudden movements that might scare them.
As you slowly follow the winding path, keep a close eye on your surroundings and you'll discover many cat-themed creations, such as cute little cat stones and stone paintings, scattered throughout the alleys and tucked into corners. You may find a new surprise every few steps that brings a smile to your face. -
