Sapporo - Japan's fifth largest city Map of the Hokkaido region Sapporo is Japan's fifth largest city. With a population of 1.85 million it is Hokkaido's political, economic, cultural and transportation center. During the Meiji period, the Japanese government, eager to fortify its northern defenses, established the Kaitakushi (Development Commission) to aid in developing the region. The result was a beautiful town with streets crossing at 90 degrees that less than 130 years later finds itself a major Japanese metropolis. Today, Sapporo is the jewel of Northern Japan with tourists particularly interested in landmark buildings from the pioneering age; the Clock Tower, the old red brick buildings as well as the charm of nature found lining the streets in the shape of famous poplar, elm and acacia trees. Combined with the region's pure air, abundant greenery and culinary treasures, Sapporo is a truly unique city.

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Wakasagi (surf smelt) fishing at Lake Abashiri - Lake Abashiri, Yobito, and other places in Abashiri City, Hokkaido - Late December, 2009-March, 2010 In winter, many locals and tourists enjoy smelt fishing, cutting holes in the ice that is more than 50 cm thick, at Lake Abashiri. Rental tackle and bait are available and anyone can easily try their hand. This is one of the most popular leisure activities around Abashiri in wintertime. http://www.abakanko.jp/seen/event.html

The 29th Sapporo White Illumination - Sapporo City, Hokkaido - November 27th (Fri), 2009-February 11th (Thur), 2010 The Sapporo White Illumination event was initially held in 1981, and it was the first illumination event anywhere in Japan. Roadside trees and artworks in Odori Park are highlighted with illuminations to enthrall people. The German Christmas Market in Sapporo is also held until December 24th, surrounding the city in a bright and colorful atmosphere. http://www.sweb.co.jp/kanko/white/ (Japanese version only)

Otaru Long Christmas - Otaru City, Hokkaido - November 11th (Wed)-December 25th (Fri), 2009 A 4-meter tall white message tree is placed in Unga Plaza. Last year, an additional message tree was placed for the first time at the top of Mount Tengu, a famous place for the nice night view, and is to be set up there again this year. A stamp rally in which participants have the chance to win a gorgeous gift is held and various services related to Christmas season and Otaru are offered in collaboration with hotels, restaurants and tourist facilities in the city. In early winter, Otaru is enlivened with the colors and feel of Christmas. http://www.city.otaru.hokkaido.jp/sangyokowan/kanko/longxmas/longxmas.htm (Japanese version only)

The Winter Opening of Asahiyama Zoo - Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido - November 3rd (Tue & holiday), 2009-April 7th (Wed), 2010 Asahiyama Zoo, the northernmost zoo in Japan, has been a popular attraction with its cute animals and exciting exhibits that allow visitors to experience the animals moving, swimming, and flying up close. After a thick layer of snow blankets the ground in Asahikawa, its most famous event, the "Penguin Walk," begins, and takes place twice daily. http://www5.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/

Ajimeguri Yumeguri in Shiretoko (delicious food and onsen in Shiretoko) - Special venue at Utoro fishing port, Shari Town, Hokkaido - October 20th (Tue)-November 22th (Sun), 2009 You can choose one place for dining among hotels, ryokan, minshuku (guest houses) and restaurants which participate in this event in the Utoro Onsen area, and also enjoy soaking in your favorite onsen spas. A free shuttle bus is available. At Shiretoko-banya, one of the dining places, delicious local food from the sea and land of Shiretoko, such as splendid Shiretoko grilled chicken, scallops, crab and snails, are served. When you take part in this event, please request coupon tickets "Shiretoko Meguri" which are sold at Shiretoko Shari-cho Tourist Association and hotels in Shiretoko Shari Town. http://www.shiretoko.asia/ (Japanese version only)

Iomante no Himatsuri (Fire Ceremony) - Special site at Lake Akan Ainu Kotan, Kushiro City, Hokkaido - September 1st (Tue)-November 30th (Mon), 2009 Visitors will be attracted by the mysterious atmosphere incorporating roaring fire and traditional dancing of the Ainu tribe, under the night sky. http://www.lake-akan.com/

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