Best Winter Sports Events in Sapporo to Watch in 2026
Sapporo is a premier destination for snow lovers who want to visit Japan in 2026. Many exciting Winter Sports Events in Sapporo happen during the cold months of the year. You can watch elite athletes compete in stunning mountain settings across this famous snowy city. This guide covers the best competitions for your winter itinerary in the beautiful Hokkaido region.
World-Class Ski Jumping at Okurayama
Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium is a famous sports venue located in the city of Sapporo. It hosted the 1972 Winter Olympic Games and remains a top spot for international competitions. You can watch athletes soar through the cold winter air with incredible skill and bravery.
The FIS Ski Jumping World Cup often visits this site for many exciting world-class competitions. Watching these professional events offers a truly thrilling experience for every visitor to the Hokkaido region. Check the guide to watching ski jumping for more details on these specific events.
Tickets for these major events usually cost around 1,000 yen for adults during the season. You can buy your tickets at the main gate or through official online booking sites. The stadium is located just twenty minutes away from the busy center of the city.
Alpine Racing at Sapporo Teine
Sapporo Teine is famous for its steep and challenging runs for expert skiers and racers. It hosts several skiing competitions near Sapporo throughout the cold winter months. You can see local and national racers testing their speed on the icy mountain slopes.
The Highland Zone at Teine is the main hub for most of the competitive events. It offers incredible views of Ishikari Bay and the city skyline for all the spectators. Most races take place between the months of January and March in the year 2026.
Check the Sapporo Teine event schedule before you travel to the resort for the day. Some days feature youth races while other days host professional heats for the top athletes. It is a great place to see the future stars of Japanese winter sports compete.
The Sapporo International Ski Marathon
The Sapporo International Ski Marathon takes place every February in the beautiful city of Sapporo. It is one of the largest and most popular cross-country races in all of Japan. Thousands of skiers gather at the Sapporo Dome to start this massive and exciting event.
Participants can choose between several different race distances based on their own skill and fitness. There are 50km and 25km options along with several shorter fun-run events for the public. The 2026 race promises a very festive atmosphere for everyone who decides to visit.
Many people use this event as part of their winter trip planning for their 2026 holiday. Spectators can cheer for the racers at the start and finish lines near the dome. It is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the snowy Hokkaido landscape.
Snowboarding Events at Kokusai Resort
Sapporo Kokusai is a favorite mountain for local snowboarders and freestyle skiers in the region. It receives huge amounts of high-quality powder snow during every winter season in northern Japan. The resort often hosts local snowboarding festivals and technical competitions for fans to enjoy.
Most events at Kokusai are free for spectators to watch from the base area. You might want to try the slopes yourself after watching the professionals show their skills. Look into resorts for beginners if you are new to these winter sports.
Kokusai is located about ninety minutes away from the downtown area of the city. Direct buses run daily from the main Sapporo Station area during the peak winter months. The ride is very scenic and goes through the beautiful mountains of the Jozankei area.
Practical Tips for Event Spectators
Winter in Hokkaido is very cold and often quite windy for most of the season. Temperatures in January and February often stay well below freezing during the day and night. You must wear several layers of warm and waterproof clothing to stay safe and comfortable.
Many sports venues are outdoors and require walking on deep snow or very icy paths. Wear sturdy boots with good grip to avoid slipping while you move between the viewing areas. You can find rental gear in Sapporo if you need extra equipment for your trip.
Public transport is the best way to reach most of the sports events in 2026. Sapporo has an excellent subway and bus system for all international and local visitors to use. You can use a prepaid IC card for easy travel on all the city lines.
Winter Sports Events in Sapporo for Kids
Many Winter Sports Events in Sapporo are perfect for families traveling with young children. Local parks host small sledding and tubing competitions that are very easy for kids to join. These events are usually very casual and provide a great way for families to play.
Moerenuma Park is a fantastic place for winter family fun and outdoor sports activities. It has wide open spaces and a large man-made hill for sledding and skiing. The winter events calendar lists specific dates for these fun family gatherings.
Most family events are located within the city limits and are easy to reach quickly. You do not need expensive equipment to enjoy these days in the fresh winter air. Just bring a warm coat and a sense of adventure for your snowy family holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do winter sports events start in Sapporo?
Most events begin in early January and continue through the end of March each year. The peak season for major international competitions is usually during the month of February in 2026. You should check specific event calendars for exact dates and times before you start your trip.
Can I watch ski jumping events for free?
Some local ski jumping events are free to watch at the smaller Miyanomori Hill venue nearby. However, major competitions at Okurayama usually require a paid ticket for entry to the viewing areas. Tickets are affordable and often cost around 1,000 yen for adults during the winter season.
How do I get to the winter sports venues?
Most venues are accessible via the city's subway system and connecting buses from the main stations. You can use a prepaid IC card to pay for all your transport across the city. The official travel website provides detailed maps and schedules for all international visitors.
Is it easy to find Winter Sports Events in Sapporo?
Yes, the city publishes a full schedule of events for the 2026 season on their website. You can also find brochures at the tourist information center located inside the main Sapporo Station. Many hotels will also have posters and flyers for upcoming local races and winter festivals.
Sapporo is the perfect place to experience the thrill of professional winter sports in 2026. From ski jumping to marathons, there is something for every sports fan to enjoy here. Plan your trip early to secure the best views of these amazing athletic competitions. Start your adventure today by booking your travel to the snowy heart of Hokkaido.