2025 Sapporo Makomanai Fireworks Festival – A Must-See Summer Event in Sapporo with Food and Culture

27/06/202511/07/2025

1. Introduction: What is the Makomanai Fireworks Festival?

1-1. A Brief History and Overview

The Makomanai Fireworks Festival is one of the biggest summer events in Sapporo, Hokkaido.Every year, over 22,000 fireworks light up the night sky, attracting thousands of visitors from across Japan and abroad 🎇

Originally started as a local celebration, this festival has grown into a must-see spectacle that combines traditional Japanese summer culture with modern entertainment.

📌 Tip: If you’ve never experienced a Japanese fireworks festival (hanabi taikai), Makomanai is the perfect place to start.

1-2. Why This Event is Special in Hokkaido

Makomanai Fireworks Festival is unique for several reasons:

✅ Massive Scale:The event features one of the largest fireworks displays in Hokkaido.

✅ Live Music & Light Shows:Not just fireworks—live performances, synchronized music, and colorful lighting create an unforgettable experience.

✅ Local Food Culture:Over 100 food stalls (yatai) line the festival grounds, serving classic Japanese street food.

✅ Family-Friendly Atmosphere:Many families bring picnic blankets and spend the evening together.

🌿 Surrounded by the greenery of Makomanai Park, this festival offers a relaxed and spacious setting compared to city-center events.

1-3. 2025 Highlights and What to Expect

For 2025, the event promises several exciting features:

🎆 22,000 fireworks launched over 60 minutes🎵 Special music performances before and during the show🍢 New food stalls offering Hokkaido-only local dishes🪑 More reserved seating options for families and groups♿ Improved accessibility with additional multi-purpose toilets

This year, the festival will be held on:

📅 Date: July 12, 2025 (Saturday)🕔 Gates open: 17:00🎇 Fireworks show: 19:50–20:50

💡 It’s recommended to arrive early, especially if you plan to secure a good viewing spot or explore the food stalls.

2. How to Get There: Transportation and Access

2-1. From Sapporo Station: Subway and Bus Options

Makomanai Fireworks Festival is held at Makomanai Sekisui Heim Stadium, about 30 minutes from central Sapporo.

✅ Subway (Recommended):

Take the Namboku Line (Green Line) from Sapporo Station.
Get off at Makomanai Station (last stop).
Travel time: approx. 20 minutes
Fare: about 290 yen one way.

From Makomanai Station, it’s a 15–20 minute walk to the venue.

Makomanai Station to Sekisui Heim Stadium

✅ Bus Option:

During the festival, special shuttle buses may operate from Makomanai Station to the venue.
These buses help avoid the walking distance, but expect lines before and after the event.

🚌 Tip: If you plan to use the bus, bring small coins or a prepaid IC card like Kitaca or Suica.

2-2. From New Chitose Airport: The Easiest Routes

New Chitose Airport to Makomanai Station

If you are traveling directly from New Chitose Airport, here are two main options:

✅ By Train:

Take the JR Rapid Airport train to Sapporo Station (about 40 minutes).
Transfer to the Namboku Subway Line and ride to Makomanai Station.
Walk or take a shuttle bus to the venue.

✅ By Airport Bus:

Some airport limousine buses stop at major hotels in Sapporo.
From your hotel, use the subway to reach Makomanai Station.

✈️ Travel time: Approximately 90 minutes from the airport to the venue.

💡 Pro tip: Avoid the last-minute rush by arriving in Sapporo earlier in the day.

2-3. Parking Tips and Taxi Information

If you plan to drive, please note:

No official parking lot is available at the venue.
Nearby private parking lots may be open, but they fill up quickly.
Some parking may cost 1,000–2,000 yen for the evening.

✅ Taxi:

Taxis are available from Sapporo Station or hotels.
A one-way trip from central Sapporo costs about 3,000–4,000 yen.
After the event, expect long wait times for taxis.

🚗 Tip for Drivers: If you must park, consider using parking lots farther away and walking to the venue.

3. Ticket Types and Seating Options

3-1. Free Viewing Areas vs. Paid Reserved Seats

The Makomanai Fireworks Festival offers both free areas and paid reserved seating.

✅ Free Viewing Areas:

Located in the open spaces around Makomanai Park and the riverside.
First-come, first-served.
You can bring your own picnic sheet or chairs.
Crowded during peak hours, so arrive early if you want a good spot.

✅ Paid Reserved Seats:

Located closer to the stadium and have the best view of the fireworks.
Options include:
- Arena Seats (closer to the launch site)
- Stand Seats (elevated view)
- Pair or Group Seats (for families and friends)
Tickets guarantee a spot, reducing stress and saving time.

🎟️ Tip: If you are traveling with children or want guaranteed space, reserved seating is highly recommended.

3-2. How to Buy Tickets (Online and In-Person)

There are several ways to purchase tickets:

✅ Online:

Tickets are sold via major Japanese platforms like Lawson Ticket and Ticket Pia.
These websites are usually Japanese-only, so using Google Translate or booking through a travel agent may help.

✅ Convenience Stores:

You can buy tickets at Lawson, FamilyMart, and Seven-Eleven ticket machines.
Machines are in Japanese—ask staff for help if needed.

✅ On the Day:

Limited tickets may be available at the venue, but they often sell out early.
It’s safer to book in advance.

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a printout or digital copy of your ticket, as reception staff may not speak English.

3-3. Accessibility and Family-Friendly Zones

The festival offers some facilities to support families and visitors with special needs:

♿ Accessibility:

Some reserved areas are wheelchair accessible.
Multi-purpose toilets are available around the stadium.
Flat areas make it easier to move with strollers or wheelchairs.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Zones:

Reserved seats with more space are recommended for families with children.
Free areas can also be family-friendly if you arrive early.

🧸 Tip: Bring a picnic blanket, cushions, and plenty of water, especially if you choose free seating.

4. Best Viewing Spots for the Fireworks

4-1. Popular Areas with Great Views

Here are some of the most popular spots to enjoy the fireworks:

✅ Stadium Area:

Reserved seats inside or around the stadium offer the most dynamic view.
You’ll feel the power of the fireworks as they launch almost directly overhead.

✅ Makomanai Park:

Free seating areas are scattered throughout the park.
This area fills up quickly, so arrive early (around 4–5 PM) if you want space for your blanket.

✅ Riverside Zone:

Along the river near the stadium, many people set up chairs and mats.
The view is slightly farther away but more relaxed compared to the main stadium.

💡 Tip: If you prefer a lively atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds, these popular areas are ideal.

4-2. Hidden Spots to Avoid the Crowds

If you want a quieter experience, consider these less crowded alternatives:

🌿 Makomanai River Greenway (Makomanai-gawa Ryokudo):

A walking path along the river with open spaces.
Great for relaxed viewing with fewer people.

🌳 Edwin Dun Memorial Park:

A park behind the main event area.
Offers partial views through the trees, but is much less crowded.

🏔️ Small Hills and Slopes around Makomanai:

Some locals find small grassy slopes with a clear sightline to the sky.
Bring a cushion or small chair for comfort.

📸 Tip for Photographers: These spots allow you to set up a tripod with less risk of people walking in front of your camera.

4-3. Tips for Photographers

Capturing fireworks can be tricky but rewarding. Here are some quick tips:

✅ Bring a sturdy tripod:

Long exposures require stability to avoid blur.

✅ Use Manual Settings:

Shutter speed: 2–5 seconds
Aperture: f/8–f/11
ISO: 100–200

✅ Arrive Early:

The best spots for photography fill up fast.

✅ Watch for Obstructions:

Make sure there are no trees, poles, or signs in your frame.

✅ Consider the Background:

Including the stadium or river in your shot creates a more dramatic composition.

💡 Bonus Tip: If you’re using a smartphone, try Night Mode or a long-exposure app and keep your phone perfectly still.

5. Food and Drinks: Enjoy the Festival Flavors

5-1. Must-Try Festival Foods and Local Specialties

One of the best parts of any Japanese festival is the food!

Makomanai Fireworks Festival offers dozens of yatai (food stalls) with a wide variety of dishes:

🍢 Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or sweet soy sauce.

🍟 Long French Fries: Crispy and extra-long—fun to share!

🍧 Kakigori: Shaved ice topped with syrup (strawberry, melon, lemon).

🍜 Hokkaido Ramen: Rich miso or shoyu broth with local noodles.

🍿 Popcorn and Cotton Candy: Classic festival snacks for kids.

🌟 Tip: Try local specialties like Jingisukan (grilled lamb) skewers and Hokkaido corn.

5-2. How to Pay (Cash, Cards, Mobile Payments)

Most food stalls only accept cash (Japanese yen).

✅ Cash:

Bring enough small bills and coins (100 and 500 yen coins are most convenient).
ATMs are available at convenience stores near Makomanai Station.

✅ Mobile Payments:

Some larger stalls accept PayPay or Line Pay, but this is not guaranteed.
Foreign credit cards are rarely accepted at stalls.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want to avoid problems, prepare cash in advance.

5-3. Vegetarian and Allergy-Friendly Options

While many stalls serve meat-based dishes, you can still find options if you have dietary restrictions:

✅ Vegetarian Choices:

Grilled corn
French fries
Shaved ice
Some noodle dishes without meat (ask the vendor)

✅ Food Allergies:

Ingredients are not always labeled in English.
If you have serious allergies, it’s safer to bring your own food or snacks.

📌 Tip: If you have any concerns, consider carrying an allergy card written in Japanese to show vendors.

6. Essential Tips for a Comfortable Experience

6-1. Toilets and Facilities

Public toilets are available around the stadium and park, but they can get crowded during the event.

✅ Toilets:

Portable toilets are set up in several areas.
Some multi-purpose (accessible) toilets are available.
Bring pocket tissues and hand sanitizer, as supplies can run out.

✅ Changing Facilities:

There are no dedicated changing rooms.
If you plan to wear a yukata (summer kimono), change before arriving.

🚻 Tip: Use the toilet before the fireworks start to avoid long lines.

6-2. What to Bring and Wear

To have a stress-free experience, prepare the following items:

🧺 Must-Bring Items:

Picnic sheet or blanket
Small foldable chairs (optional)
Cash in small denominations
Trash bags (carry your garbage home)
Extra layers or a jacket (nights can be chilly)
Umbrella or raincoat (in case of rain)

👚 What to Wear:

Comfortable shoes (you may need to walk a lot)
Light, breathable clothing
A hat and sunscreen for the afternoon

🌙 Tip: Even in July, nights in Hokkaido can feel cool, so bring something warm.

6-3. Safety and Local Etiquette

✅ Safety:

Keep an eye on children in the crowds.
Do not block pathways with chairs or tripods.
Be aware of your surroundings in the dark.

✅ Local Etiquette:

No loud music or disruptive behavior.
Keep your area clean and take all trash with you.
Avoid smoking in crowded spaces.

✅ Emergency:

If you feel unwell or need help, look for event staff or security (often wearing uniforms or armbands).

🤝 Tip: A little courtesy goes a long way—respecting local customs will make your experience even better.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

7-1. Can I Bring My Own Drinks or Food?

✅ Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks.

However:

Alcohol is allowed, but please drink responsibly.
Large coolers and glass bottles are discouraged.
Be sure to clean up all your trash.

🧃 Tip: Bringing your own snacks is a great way to save money and avoid long lines.

7-2. What If It Rains?

The festival is usually held rain or shine, unless there is dangerous weather (like strong winds or storms).

Bring a raincoat or poncho, as umbrellas can block other people’s views.
If the event is canceled, announcements will be posted on the official website and social media.