This autumn foliage illumination event divides Nakajima Park into several distinct areas. In 2026, the red and yellow leaves in the park have already reached their peak viewing season, which is expected to last until early November. Visitors can stroll through the interplay of light and shadows, experiencing a unique Japanese autumn atmosphere.

Ginkgo Avenue and Shobu Pond (Free Area): Entering the park, you are first greeted by the ginkgo avenue bathed in warm light. Walk along the "Promenade of Light" beside Shobu Pond or linger at the "Autumn Foliage Terrace" to admire stunning water reflections of colorful leaves and lights.

Hohei-kan (Free Area): Illuminated at night, this historic Western-style building exudes an even more charming classical ambience.

Japanese Garden – Sapporo Autumn Walk – (Paid Area): The highlight of the event. The garden features light and sound displays as well as an expanded Japanese paper umbrella ("wagasa") area. Admission is 600 yen (free for elementary school students and younger) to immerse yourself in the beauty of a traditional garden illuminated by lights.

For visitors eager to experience local culture, the limited-time "Sapporo Geigi Cafe" is an absolute must-visit. Here you can enjoy a sampling of Sapporo's geigi culture—traditional Japanese female performing artists skilled in arts like dance, music, and traditional entertainment—while savoring autumn-themed original cakes from local confectioneries, as well as the popular soft warabimochi drinks by Kasho Kikutaro, making their Hokkaido debut.

Additionally, food trucks will gather at the venue, allowing you to enjoy piping-hot local specialties while taking in the night views in the crisp autumn air.

To help visitors create unforgettable trip memories, several unique interactive photo spots have been added to this year's event:

Wagasa Love Fortune (Wagasa Koi Omikuji): For 300 yen, draw a beautifully crafted Japanese paper umbrella love fortune—perfect for couples or visitors who love traditional crafts.

Nine-Color Wagasa and Heart Monument: Find your favorite color umbrella inside the Japanese garden, or take a commemorative photo with your travel companions in front of the glowing heart monument.

Boat Dock Professional Photography (Paid): Professional photography services are available at the shore-based boat setup, capturing dreamlike photos as if you were floating on the water (digital and print packages from 1,500 yen).

Plush Toy Photo Corner: Travelers visiting with plush companions can take adorable photos against autumn leaf backdrops in dedicated plushie photography zones.

Event Dates: October 23, 2026 (Fri) – November 3, 2026 (Tue)

Illumination Hours: 17:00 – 21:00 (Japanese Garden area: 17:15 – 21:00, last entry at 20:45)

Location: Nakajima Park (1 Nakajimapark, Chuo-ku, Sapporo)

Access: Easily accessible via the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line at Nakajima-Koen Station.

Japanese Garden Admission: Same-day ticket 600 yen/person, advance ticket 500 yen/person (free for elementary school students and younger).

Nakajima Park is located right in central Sapporo with convenient transport access, making it ideal for a post-dinner evening excursion. If you are visiting Sapporo in late autumn, be sure to dress warmly and join this romantic date with autumn night lights.