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7 Best Hot Drinks at Sapporo Snow Festivals 2026

January 3, 2026
By Editor
7 Best Hot Drinks at Sapporo Snow Festivals 2026

Top Warm Beverages at Sapporo Snow Festivals 2026

Exploring the snowy streets of Hokkaido requires staying warm and cozy. You will find the Best hot drinks at Sapporo snow festivals in 2026. These festivals offer a wide variety of steaming beverages for every traveler. Many visitors enjoy these drinks while viewing the massive ice sculptures nearby.

Traditional Sake: Best Hot Drinks at Sapporo Snow Festivals

For official information, visit Lonely Planet - Sapporo Guide.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with City of Sapporo Official Website.

Amazake is a sweet, fermented rice drink loved by locals. It is often non-alcoholic and very thick. You can buy a cup for about 300 yen. It provides a quick energy boost in the cold.

Hot sake is another popular choice for adults visiting the sites. Many food stalls at the Sapporo Snow Festival serve premium local brands. A small serving usually costs around 500 yen. The warmth spreads through your body instantly.

You can find these drinks at the Odori Park site. Look for the steaming wooden barrels near the large sculptures. Most stalls open from 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM. Bring cash as some small vendors do not take cards.

Sake brewed in Hokkaido has a very clean taste. It pairs perfectly with the fresh, crisp winter air. Ask for "atsukan" to receive your sake served hot. This is a classic Japanese way to enjoy winter.

Creamy Hokkaido Milk Hot Chocolate and Cocoa

Hokkaido is famous for its high-quality dairy products and rich milk. This makes the local hot chocolate incredibly creamy and smooth. Each cup feels like a decadent dessert in your hands. It is a favorite for families traveling with children.

Most cafes near the festival sites offer special winter versions. Some include whipped cream or local lavender syrup for flavor. You can expect to pay between 400 and 600 yen. Check the Sapporo Winter Food Festivals 2026 listings for specific vendor locations.

Drink your cocoa while watching the evening light shows. The warmth helps you stay outside longer to enjoy the view. Many stalls use eco-friendly paper cups for their beverages. Dispose of your trash in the marked bins provided.

Look for vendors using 100% Hokkaido milk for the best taste. These stalls often have long lines because they are popular. The wait is worth it for the rich flavor. It is the ultimate comfort drink for a snowy day.

Warm Mulled Wine at the German Christmas Market

The German Christmas Market area offers a unique European vibe. Here, you can find spiced mulled wine known as Glühwein. It features notes of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus fruits. It is the perfect way to celebrate the winter season.

Non-alcoholic fruit punches are also available for younger visitors. These drinks often feature warm apple or grape juices. They cost approximately 600 yen per serving at most stalls. You can even buy a souvenir mug for a small fee.

This area is located in the Odori 2-chome section. It is a great place to find warm street food in Sapporo winter too. The festive atmosphere makes every sip feel special and bright. Visit after sunset to see the beautiful holiday lights.

The market also serves hot cider during the peak festival dates. This drink is very refreshing and not too sweet. It provides a nice alternative to the heavier chocolate drinks. Enjoy the festive music while you sip your wine.

Savory Hot Corn Soup and Hot Vegetable Broths

Corn soup is a staple winter comfort food in Hokkaido. It is served hot in cups or even from vending machines. The local corn is naturally sweet and very flavorful. It acts as both a drink and a light snack.

Many festival vendors sell freshly made corn potage at their stalls. A hot cup typically costs around 400 yen at the event. It is thick enough to keep you full while exploring. This is a must-try item for any food lover.

You will find these stalls scattered throughout the main festival grounds. They are easy to spot by the yellow signs and corn imagery. Use our Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 guide to navigate the park. Stay warm while you discover the incredible ice art.

Some stalls also offer hot onion soup or miso broth. These savory options are great if you want something less sweet. They help maintain your body temperature during the evening hours. Most servings are small enough to carry easily.

Roasted Japanese Teas for Winter Warmth

Japanese tea is a healthy way to stay warm outdoors. Roasted Hojicha has a nutty flavor that pairs well with snow. Genmaicha includes toasted rice for a unique and savory aroma. Both are widely available at the festival beverage stands.

A hot cup of tea usually costs about 200 to 300 yen. It is the most affordable way to heat up quickly. Many vendors offer free refills if you buy a meal. Look for the green tea banners near the seating areas.

Tea is also sold in hot bottles at nearby convenience stores. These are perfect for keeping your hands warm in your pockets. The heat lasts for about thirty minutes in the freezing air. Grab one before you start your long walk through Odori.

Try the local kelp tea for a very traditional experience. It has a salty flavor that is quite unique to Japan. It is often served at small rest stations in the park. This drink is very high in minerals and vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hot drinks at Sapporo snow festivals for kids?

The best options for children include Hokkaido milk hot chocolate and warm corn soup. These drinks are sweet, creamy, and non-alcoholic. Most stalls serve them in easy-to-hold paper cups. You can also find warm apple juice at the German Christmas Market section.

How much do drinks cost at the Sapporo Snow Festival 2026?

Most hot beverages cost between 300 and 700 yen per cup. Tea is usually the cheapest option at 200 yen. Specialty drinks like mulled wine or premium cocoa are more expensive. It is helpful to carry small coins for faster transactions at the stalls.

Can I find hot drinks in vending machines in Sapporo?

Yes, Japanese vending machines serve many hot drinks during the winter. Look for machines with red labels under the drink icons. You can find hot coffee, tea, and even corn soup. These are located on almost every street corner near the festival.

Finding the Best hot drinks at Sapporo snow festivals makes your winter trip much better. From sweet amazake to creamy cocoa, there is a warm sip for everyone. Plan your visit to the Sapporo Travel official sites to see the full schedule. Stay warm and enjoy the magical snow sculptures in 2026!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.